The number of college students with dependent children has been growing, with 4.8 million U.S. undergrads raising children.
Yet, campus-based child care has been declining, according to a new analysis of 2013 U.S. Department of Education data by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research.
This is especially the case at community colleges, where child care is needed the most. Being a student parent is associated with high levels of unmet financial need, low levels of college completion and high levels of debt upon graduation.
According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research:
- 1 in 4 college students have dependent children
- 45% of students with children are enrolled at community colleges
- 53% of community colleges had child care on campus in 2003 (most ever)
- By 2013, less than half, 46%, of two-year colleges were offering child care
