A comparative analysis of higher education funding in Indiana and its surrounding states : is there a relationship between financial capacity and competitiveness? : HONORS 499 senior thesis

Abstract

This investigation entailed a five state study of higher education at state-supported institutions in Indiana and the four surrounding states. The analysis attempted to determine whether or not a relationship exists in state government policy regarding financial capacity and competitiveness in higher education. It evaluated the plausibility of any connection between these two concepts, financial capacity and competitiveness. Ultimately, it was an effort to define further certain variables in order to evidence a relationship between the higher education policies of state government and the results of those policies.It was concluded that no direct correlation exists between those variables of financial capacity and competitiveness that were studied in this investigation. Notwithstanding that, state government policy certainly influences the competitiveness of its institutions; however, other variables outside of state policy must be considered as well.