Big state universities are defying the notion of a higher education bubble, even as smaller colleges struggle to stay open.

Students are increasingly behind on their loan payments. Financial literacy initiatives at colleges can help close the gap.

Private colleges today are sharing their academics and operations with other institutions more intimately than once imagined.

The University of Alabama enrolled 42,360 students for fall 2025, a 3.7% increase from last year. Recruiting in-state students has become a priority over the last several years, according to Matthew McLendon, UA’s associate vice president and executive director of enrollment management.