Even as for-profit schools become more common, critics predict problems. They warn that the private investors who fund the medical schools are not being transparent about where tuition funds go.

The next few years will come straight out of "Game of Thrones" for universities. Many leaders project optimism while a select few recognize a looming, existential threat.

Colleges and universities are boosting outreach efforts, leaning on Department of Education guidance on incomes for professional judgment requests.