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higher education

Definition of higher education

Examples of higher education in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'higher education.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1834, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near higher education

higher degree

higher functional calculus

Cite this Entry

“Higher education.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/higher%20education. Accessed 5 Sep. 2024.

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Kids definition of higher education, more from merriam-webster on higher education.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about higher education

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higher education

• education beyond high school, specifically that provided by colleges and graduate schools, and professional schools.
• education and training at colleges, universities, polytechnics, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of higher education 1

Example Sentences

The custodial accounts can’t be invested in individual stocks and are UGMA and UTMA accounts, meaning they can be used for expenses like higher education and turned over to the minor when they reach the appropriate age.

Still, higher education experts caution that an uptick in applications at some four-year institutions, while a good sign, is only a part of the story.

Liberal Democrats and Republicans in Congress recognized that a growing number of Americans needed and wanted higher education in the Cold War’s early years.

They are among the most economically vulnerable students in higher education and have very few protections.

These are but a few examples among many of the profound and continuing havoc that the coronavirus crisis has wreaked in higher education.

Harvard calls itself “the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.”

Emory is also one of dozens of higher education institutions with open Title IX sexual violence investigations.

The politicization of public higher education in Texas is hardly new.

“Economic diversity,” by contrast, brings economic difference into higher education in order to liquidate the difference.

“Economic diversity” has entered the language as a standard way to talk about inequality in higher education.

It has continued to be an outstanding institution for higher education in the United States.

These four great centres of learning constitute the system of Higher Education in Scotland.

She had not liked this quotation from Mrs. Owen's utterances on this vexed question of higher education.

Similar arguments are frequently urged against the desire to raise the standard and widen the avenues of the "higher education."

Who's this rival who has made the higher education seem necessary for Morton Bassett's daughter?

Related Words

Higher education

There are around 254 million students enrolled in universities around the world. Yet despite the boom in demand, the overall enrollment ratio is 42% with large differences between countries and regions. UNESCO is the only United Nations agency with a mandate in higher education and works with countries to ensure high quality higher education opportunities are available to everyone. It places a special focus on inclusion, the recognition of qualifications and quality assurance, particularly in developing countries. 

UNESCO works to increase students’ opportunities and mobility through the  Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education  and the  UNESCO Qualifications Passport for Refugees and Vulnerable Migrants  among other instruments. It helps countries develop their own quality assurance agencies and networks.     

What you need to know about higher education  

Higher Education Policy Observatory

The Observatory developed by UNESCO International Institute for Higher Education in Latin America and the Caribbean enables access to information on higher education systems and policies implemented around the world, and comparison between countries. It contains 45 indicators covering a diversity of topics, from governance structures to quality assurance schemes and social justice programs.

Watch what happens when we #UnleashTheTalent of every learner

The number of students in universities has more than doubled globally in the last two decades to 235 million. And it’s expected to double again in the next decade, along with international student mobility.

A call for transformation ran through UNESCO World Higher Education Conference

Higher education conversations

UNESCO’s Higher Education Conversation series is back, with a second round of conversations in the leadup to the entry into force of the  Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education .

Building bridges between universities globally

Matching skills with the labour market

Key figures

up from 100 million in 2000

a figure that has tripled in the last 20 years

have access to higher education

devote less than 1% of GDP to research and development

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Meaning, Purpose & Objectives of of Higher Education

Introduction:  Higher education, often regarded as the pinnacle of academic pursuit, represents a transformative phase in the educational journey of individuals. Beyond elementary and secondary schooling, higher education encompasses specialized and advanced learning, nurturing intellect, critical thinking, and personal growth. Through a diverse array of disciplines and fields, higher education is a gateway to knowledge, expertise, and innovation, empowering students to become specialists in their chosen areas. As an integral part of societal progress, it fosters a culture of research and intellectual curiosity, shaping well-rounded individuals poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. At its core, higher education embodies the pursuit of excellence and self-discovery, preparing learners for future challenges while enriching their lives with the transformative power of education.

1.1 What is Higher Education ?

Higher education refers to the advanced level beyond the primary and secondary levels. It typically includes education provided by universities, colleges, professional schools, and other institutions that offer specialized academic and vocational programs. Higher education focuses on in-depth learning in specific fields of study, enabling individuals to develop expertise and advanced knowledge in their chosen areas.

At the higher education level, students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees, depending on their academic and career aspirations. The curriculum is more specialized and research-oriented than earlier education stages, encouraging critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research.

Higher education serves various purposes, including:

• Specialization: It allows students to focus on their areas of interest and expertise, preparing them for careers in specific industries or professions.
• Research and Innovation: Higher education institutions are centers of research and development, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new technologies, ideas, and solutions.
• Personal Growth: Beyond academic knowledge, higher education fosters personal development, character building, and a sense of social responsibility.
• Career Advancement: Higher education equips individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue higher-level positions and leadership roles in their fields.
• Lifelong Learning: It instills a love for learning beyond graduation, encouraging continuous education and personal growth.

Higher education is a key driver of societal progress and economic development. Nations with well-developed higher education systems tend to have a more skilled and innovative workforce, contributing to overall prosperity and competitiveness in the global market. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and society, empowering learners to become responsible and contributing members of their communities.

1.2 The Objectives of Higher Education

The objectives of higher education encompass a profound and multi-faceted purpose, elevating the pursuit of knowledge beyond mere academic instruction. At the heart of this noble endeavor lies the mission to equip learners with the tools to thrive in their chosen professions and as responsible and compassionate members of society. Higher education is a bastion of academic excellence, fostering critical thinking, innovation, and research that push the boundaries of human knowledge. Beyond specialization and career preparation, it seeks to nurture holistic personal development, cultivating ethical values, leadership qualities, and a global perspective. Higher education empowers individuals to adapt to evolving challenges, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and champion progress in a rapidly changing world by instilling a love for lifelong learning.

The objectives of higher education encompass a wide range of goals that aim to fulfill various roles in individuals’ personal, academic, and societal development. These objectives include:

• Academic Excellence: One of the primary objectives of higher education is to provide rigorous and comprehensive academic programs that promote excellence in learning. Institutions strive to maintain high education standards and ensure that students understand their chosen disciplines deeply.
• Specialization: Higher education allows students to specialize in specific fields of study, enabling them to acquire advanced knowledge and expertise in their areas of interest. The specialization prepares individuals for specialized careers and positions in their respective industries.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Higher education fosters critical thinking skills, encouraging students to analyze and evaluate information critically. It cultivates problem-solving abilities that empower graduates to address complex challenges in their professional and personal lives.
• Research and Innovation: Higher education institutions are hubs of research and innovation. Encouraging students and faculty to engage in research contributes to advancing knowledge, technological breakthroughs, and developing solutions to real-world problems.
• Personal Development: Higher education aims to nurture holistic personal growth in students. It focuses on character building, ethical values, leadership qualities, and a sense of social responsibility, preparing individuals to be responsible and compassionate citizens.
• Global Awareness and Cultural Understanding: Higher education encourages exposure to diverse perspectives, cultures, and ideas. Promoting global awareness and cultural understanding helps students develop a more inclusive and open-minded worldview.
• Lifelong Learning: Instilling a love for learning that extends beyond graduation is an essential objective of higher education. Graduates are encouraged to embrace lifelong learning to adapt to changing circumstances, pursue professional development, and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving world.
• Employment and Career Preparation: Higher education equips students with the skills and qualifications to enter the workforce and pursue successful careers. It provides internships, practical experiences, and networking opportunities, enhancing graduates’ employability.
• Social and Economic Mobility: Higher education has the potential to uplift individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing opportunities for social and economic mobility. It can break barriers and open doors to better opportunities and improved quality of life.
• Contribution to Society: A significant objective of higher education is to foster a sense of civic responsibility and encourage graduates to contribute positively to their communities. Higher education is crucial in producing responsible and active citizens committed to making a difference in society.

Higher education institutions aim to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to lead fulfilling lives, positively impact society, and advance knowledge and human progress by pursuing these objectives.

The Radhakrishnan Commission 3 presented a comprehensive set of objectives and purposes for higher education, acknowledging the evolving political, social, and economic landscape. These aims are as follows:

• The Commission emphasized the development of an intellectual attitude among university students, fostering a thirst for knowledge and critical thinking.
• Higher education was seen as a means to create visionary and courageous leaders who would champion social reform, addressing societal challenges with intelligence and insight.
• The universities were encouraged to assume a pivotal role as cultural organs and intellectual leaders, guiding civilization’s progress and promoting scholarly pursuits.
• Higher education was envisioned as a catalyst for the success of democracy, nurturing informed and engaged citizens who actively participate in the democratic process.
• The Commission advocated for discovering and enhancing individuals’ innate qualities through suitable training, empowering them to realize their potential.
• Higher education aims to instill sentiments of national discipline, international awareness, justice, freedom, equality, and brotherhood, nurturing global citizens committed to ethical values and unity.

The Kothari Commission has articulated its vision for the objectives and ideals of higher education as follows:

• Pursuit of Knowledge and Truth: Higher _ education aims to seek knowledge within the framework of truth, blending tradition with new insights to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Contribution to Society: The commission stresses on producing educated and skilled individuals who can serve society in various domains such as arts, sciences, agriculture, medicine, and industries.
• Leadership Development: Higher _ education strives to nurture leadership qualities in students, empowering them to excel and take charge in every sphere of life.
• Promotion of Social Justice: The commission advocates for higher _ education to encourage social justice, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
• Nurturing Values: Higher _ education seeks to instill the correct values among students and teachers, promoting ethical behavior and a sense of responsibility towards society.
• Reducing Disparities: Addressing social and cultural disparities is an essential objective, ensuring that education becomes a pathway for bridging gaps and promoting equality.
• National Consciousness: Higher _ education is a means to develop a sense of national consciousness, nurturing a deep understanding of one’s cultural identity and contributing to the nation’s growth and unity.
• Adult Education Program: The commission emphasizes the development of programs for adult education, recognizing the importance of learning opportunities for individuals beyond traditional schooling age.

Through these multifaceted objectives, the Kothari Commission envisions higher education as a transformative force that enriches individuals, empowers society, and fosters a better future for the nation.

1.3 The Purpose of Higher Education:

The purpose of higher education is multifaceted and encompasses a broad range of objectives aimed at intellectual, personal, and societal development. While the specific goals and emphasis may vary among institutions, cultures, and individuals, the overarching purposes of higher _ education include:

• Knowledge Acquisition: Higher _ education is fundamentally about acquiring and deepening knowledge in various fields of study. It allows students to delve into subjects of interest, develop critical thinking skills, and gain expertise in specific disciplines.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Higher _ education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encouraging students to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and develop creative solutions to complex problems.
• Personal Growth: College experiences contribute to personal growth and self-discovery. Students often better understand their values, beliefs, and identities, preparing them for a more meaningful and purposeful life.
• Professional Skills: Higher _ education equips students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific careers and professions. This preparation includes internships, hands-on experiences, and exposure to industry-relevant practices.
• Career Advancement: A college degree is often a key factor in career advancement. Higher education provides the qualifications and credentials necessary for entry into many professions and can enhance job opportunities and earning potential.
• Global Citizenship: Higher _ education promotes a sense of global citizenship by fostering an awareness of global issues, cultural diversity, and interconnectedness. It encourages students to engage in social and civic activities to contribute positively to their communities and the world.
• Ethical Decision-Making: Through exposure to ethical theories and discussions, higher _ education helps students develop a strong sense of ethics and integrity, preparing them to make principled decisions in their personal and professional lives.
• Advancement of Knowledge: Higher _ education institutions contribute to advancing knowledge through research and innovation. Faculty and students engage in cutting-edge research that expands the boundaries of human understanding in various fields.
• Technology and Discovery: Colleges and universities drive technological advancements and scientific discoveries. Research conducted in higher education institutions often leads to breakthroughs with broad societal impact.
• Artistic and Cultural Appreciation: Higher _ education encourages an appreciation for the arts, literature, and cultural diversity. Exposure to different perspectives fosters creativity, cultural competence, and a deeper world understanding.
• Intellectual Dialogue: Colleges and universities are hubs for intellectual dialogue and academic discourse. Students engage with diverse ideas, challenge assumptions, and participate in conversations that broaden their intellectual horizons.
• Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Higher _ education instills a commitment to lifelong learning. It equips individuals with the skills to adapt to a rapidly changing world, fostering a mindset of continuous education and personal development.

In essence, the purpose of higher _ education extends beyond acquiring degrees and credentials. It seeks to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are intellectually curious, socially responsible, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader global society. Higher education serves as a transformative journey that prepares individuals for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Reference Articles:

• 1. Hijam, R. D. (2012). Management of the higher education in Manipur since 1972.  http://hdl.handle.net/10603/39238
• 2. Rao, M. S., & V, K. V. (2011). Quality management in higher education: A case study of MBA colleges in select districts coastal Andhra Pradesh, India. http://hdl.handle.net/10603/8364
• 3. Barnet.R. 1992 Bernett R. (1992). Learning to Effect. Buckingham: Society for Research into Higher Education and Open University Press.
• 4. Bhatnagar Suresh: Modern Indian Education & its Problems, Surya Publication, Meerut, 1996.p/223

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Definition of higher education noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

higher education

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The system of higher education in the United States

The system of higher education in russia, contemporary issues.

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• UNESCO - What you need to know about higher education
• National Center for Biotechnology Information - Higher Education and the Demands of the Twenty-First Century
• Academia - Understanding the purpose of higher education: An analysis of the economic and social benefits for completing a college degree
• Table Of Contents

The system of higher education in the United States differs from its counterparts in Europe in certain ways. In the United States, there is a nationwide assumption that students who have completed secondary school should have at least two years of university education . Hence, a great number of “ junior colleges ” and “community colleges” have sprung up to provide two years of undergraduate study, in contrast to the traditional universities and colleges, where a majority of students complete four years of study for a degree and where substantial numbers go on for one to three years of postgraduate study in a “graduate school.” Universities that provide four-year study courses are either privately funded foundations or are state or city foundations that depend heavily on the government for financial support. Private universities and colleges depend largely on tuition charges levied on students. The individual state governments fund the nation’s highly developed system of state universities, which ensure the provision of higher education for the vast majority of those willing and academically qualified to receive such education.

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In the American system, the four-year, or “ bachelor’s ,” degree is ordinarily obtained not by passing a “finals” examination but rather by the accumulation of course “credits,” or hours of classroom study. The quality of work done in these courses is assessed by means of a continuous record of marks and grades in a course transcript. The completion of a certain number (and variety) of courses with passing grades leads to the “bachelor’s” degree. The first two years of a student’s studies are generally taken up with prescribed courses in a broad range of subject areas, along with some “elective” courses selected by the student. In the third and fourth years of study, the student specializes in one or perhaps two subject fields. Postgraduate students can pursue either advanced studies or research in one of the many graduate schools, which are usually specialized institutions. At these schools students work toward either a “ master’s ” degree (which involves one to two years of postgraduate study) or a doctoral degree (which involves two to four years of study and other requirements).

A marked feature of American education that derives from the German model is the de-emphasis on lecture and examination. In both of these countries, students are evaluated according to their performance in individual courses where discussion and written essays figure importantly. The American model of higher learning was adopted wholesale by the Philippines and influenced the educational systems of Japan and Taiwan after World War II .

Higher education in Russia is characterized by direct state administration and until 1990/91 was essentially controlled by the Communist Party . The schools of higher learning are divided into universities, where humanities and pure sciences are taught; institutes, where single fields are taught ( e.g., law , medicine , and agriculture); and polytechnical institutes, where subjects similar to those in the institutes are taught but with a broader scientific foundation. Another distinction of the Russian system is that it greatly extends the educational network by offering a broad array of carefully prepared correspondence courses. These courses are supplemented by radio and television broadcasts and are further augmented by regional study centres. Many students are thus able to proceed part-time with their education while holding full- or part-time jobs. Students are admitted to higher-educational institutions on the basis of competitive examinations. The duration of studies for a first degree ranges from four to six years, with five years being the average. The curriculum consists of compulsory, alternative , and optional subjects. Candidates for a degree must take examinations in two or three basic disciplines related to a chosen specialty. At the conclusion of a first-degree course, all students receive the same diploma, but students with the best results are awarded a “distinction.” Most institutions organize graduate schools for postgraduate studies, which are likewise concluded by a set of examinations.

Educational systems outside of the Western Hemisphere have long followed the lead of the most influential countries, although not always to their advantage. The major problem is that many developing countries have a much greater need for technical institutes rather than for academic universities, so that they can produce professionals and scientists able to address their particular problems. In these countries, language is often a problem because much of the technology developed in the West requires a vocabulary that many languages do not have. Reading skills in English are widely cultivated for these purposes.

Modern trends in higher education indicate a willingness worldwide to learn from the strengths of the various systems. Schools in North America frequently suffer from a lack of the uniformity of educational standards that European systems provide through centralized bureaucratic control. Coordinated national accrediting organizations solve much of this problem. European universities have moved toward greater autonomy in curriculum development, and steps have been taken so that broader segments of the population can benefit from higher education.

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Meaning of higher education in English

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• abstinence education
• abstinence program
• abstinence-only
• academically
• adaptive learning
• educationally
• flipped classroom
• Forest school
• mixed-ability
• scholarship
• synchronous
• synchronously
• traineeship
• virtual learning environment

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higher education | Intermediate English

Examples of higher education, translations of higher education.

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to do something or go somewhere very slowly, taking more time than is necessary

Like a bull in a china shop: talking about people who are clumsy

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What is Higher Education?

In General , University by Think Student Editor March 19, 2022 Leave a Comment

Throughout education, students come across many technical terms related to their studies. Many of these can be similar or even sound the same. However, some have completely different meanings and separate uses. Higher education is one of the most confusing, as it is often mixed up with further education. If this is you, look at this article to get a comprehensive overview of what higher education is and other related terms.

Higher education is education undertaken after students leave secondary school and sixth form college, usually at the age of 18, but also by mature students older than this. It usually involves studying at the undergraduate or postgraduate level for a degree at university. It allows students to gain a deeper understanding of a subject they find interesting while also increasing their earning potential.

While this may have given you a surface level answer, you must read on to find out more details about higher education and many other key terms relating to school life.

Table of Contents

What is higher education?

Simply put, higher education is education or training undertaken after you leave school and sixth form college, usually at a university. It most commonly involves undergraduate and postgraduate study . However, it can also include a multitude of other qualifications.

Higher education is often confused with Further Education; however, they are not the same. Further education covers all qualifications lower than a degree that are undertaken after GCSEs, or after 16 th birthday. An example of further education would be A-Levels. However, higher education is undertaken after this .

For more information on what further education is, please check out this article.

There are many types of higher education degrees available, including foundation courses and degree apprenticeships. Whatever qualifications students have, university education should be an option for them.

Students often look to higher education to gain a deeper understanding of a subject they are passionate about, while increasing their earning potential and widening their job opportunities. It is particularly important for medical careers, where extensive higher education study is needed. There is also the option to undertake a doctorate and other postgraduate qualifications such as master’s degrees. These can lead to a teaching or research position at a university. Check out this article to find out more about doctorates.

What age is higher education?

Due to commencing when students complete A-Levels (or equivalent qualifications), higher education most often begins at age 18 . This is also because students are required by law to be in some kind of education until they reach 18; in some parts of the UK, it is 16.

However, not all students attending university begin at the age of 18. It is fairly common for students older than 18 to go to university , for both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. They are referred to as mature students . Sometimes they have separate halls of residence, spaces on courses and facilities dedicated for them. This makes studying a rewarding experience, so if you are over 18 and still considering university, remember that it can be a great option at any age!

It is also not unheard of for students under the age of 18 to attend university . This is usually home-schooled students or students who were put up a year at some point during their education, leading to them being a year ahead of their peers. They usually need to sign various forms, so it is important to check with your chosen universities policies on under-18s for specific information.

If you are considering university, but are not fully decided on whether you should go, this handy article presents a helpful overview of the positives and negatives.

Is higher education compulsory?

Higher education is not a compulsory stage of education. In the UK, as mentioned above, there are 5 stages of education: early years, primary years, secondary education, further education, and higher education. Students enter the school system at the age of 3 and are legally required to attend school for compulsory education up to the age of 16. This means they achieve GCSE or BTEC qualifications, which allow them to then choose to continue to further, then higher education at a later date.

In England, students are then required to remain in some form of education until the age of 18, however, other UK nations do not have this requirement. After this point, any education undertaken is by personal choice. This is why it is known as further or higher education because not all pupils will undertake it. However, it is an option for all students, no matter what qualifications they achieve there is usually some kind of higher education available to them.

Students sometimes wonder what happens if they do not stay in education until the age of 18, so if you are interested please read this article.

Because it is not compulsory, higher education often gives students an advantage when applying for jobs and in other areas of life. This is because it shows dedication and interest in one subject that others may not have. Some jobs may even require education to degree level, meaning that they are only open to those who have studied at university.

What are examples of higher education?

What qualifications count as higher education are set out by the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ). This has descriptions of all the main higher education qualifications, which are in levels 4-8 of the framework.

The main qualifications are:

• Foundation degrees – either extended bachelor’s degrees or short courses designed to give access to higher education to students who may not have achieved the grades required for a full bachelor’s degree. Most degrees and universities offer this type of degree, so if you are unsure, you will have the qualifications required, check this out as an option.
• Undergraduate degrees, also known as bachelor’s degrees – these are usually called BA (Bachelor of Arts), or BSc (Bachelor of Science) based on what course you do. This is the typical first level of degree gained by students in university.
• Master’s degrees – advanced level degrees which are undertaken after an undergraduate degree. These often involve research and require an undergraduate degree in a related field to study. They are often used as a steppingstone to Postgraduate Degrees.
• Doctorates – this is usually regarded as the highest level of higher education and is a mark of academic excellence. It normally involves research and taught elements and can be done in any subject (not just medicine). This is a very challenging qualification, but the career and educational benefits are huge from studying at this level.
• Other academic awards granted by universities and colleges (not including honorary degrees and higher doctorates).

For more information on what courses are counted as higher education, this article is extremely helpful.

Is university higher education?

As already discussed, studying at a university is the most common form of higher education undertaken by students in the UK. It involves many distinct levels of study and many options for subject choice so is usually the first port of call accessed by students considering higher education.

Think student has a full guide to this question, so if you want to know more about whether university is higher education, please check out this helpful article.

Higher Education Glossary: A New Resource for Clarity and Consistency

September 2, 2024.

• Professional Development and Contributions to the Field
• AACRAO Research Resources
• higher education

In the complex world of higher education, the terms and terminology we use are crucial for effective communication and mutual understanding. Recognizing the need for clear and consistent definitions, AACRAO unveils its new Higher Education Glossary —a dynamic, searchable tool designed to clarify the language that shapes our field.

The Higher Education Glossary represents our commitment to defining and standardizing key terms used in higher education. Developed by AACRAO’s U.S. Higher Education Nomenclature Committee , this first iteration of the glossary is a collaborative effort involving a diverse group of AACRAO members, institutional leaders, and peer organizations. The goal is to foster a shared understanding across the U.S. higher education landscape by providing accurate, researched, and agreed-upon definitions.

Why a Glossary?

Higher education encompasses a vast array of specialized terms and concepts that can often lead to confusion or misinterpretation. Whether discussing admissions processes, academic policies, or institutional procedures, our terminology must be clear and consistent to ensure effective communication among stakeholders.

Terminology and definitions evolve, so we designed the AACRAO Glossary as a living document. It will continuously reflect current definitions and adapt to changes in the higher education environment. This iterative approach allows us to provide a resource that remains relevant and useful as the landscape of higher education changes.

A Work in Progress

We want to emphasize that the AACRAO Glossary is a work in progress. While the initial launch provides a robust foundation, it is not yet comprehensive. Our Nomenclature Committee is actively engaged in expanding and refining the glossary. We encourage you to explore the resource and offer your feedback to help us improve its functionality and accuracy.

Fill out our feedback form to provide feedback or report any errors you might encounter. We appreciate your input, as it helps us enhance the glossary and better serve the higher education community. Please note that at this time, we are not accepting suggestions or revisions to glossary definitions. Instead, our focus is on maintaining the accuracy and consistency of the terms currently included.

About the Nomenclature Committee

The AACRAO U.S. Higher Education Nomenclature Committee is central to this initiative. This committee is tasked with the ongoing work of defining and standardizing higher education terminology. Comprised of AACRAO members, institutional leaders, and representatives from peer organizations, the committee brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this essential work.

This committee plays a critical role in continuing the foundational work of defining terms and ensuring that the glossary evolves with emerging trends and changes in higher education.

We invite you to explore the AACRAO Glossary and take advantage of this valuable resource. Your engagement is vital as we work to support transparent and consistent communication in higher education. Visit our glossary page today to start your journey toward a better understanding of the terminology that shapes our field.

Related Content

Join the upcoming webinar "Roundtable Discussion: Enhancing Academic Operations in Higher Education" on October 22 from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. (ET).

Need a little help knowing what to do at professional conferences? Join the upcoming webinar "Overcoming Vendor-phobia: Embracing Connections and Maximizing Opportunities - even when you’re an introvert" on September 11 from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. (ET).

AACRAO's bi-weekly professional development e-newsletter is open to members and non-members alike.

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Higher education.

• noun education provided by a college or university see more see less type of: didactics , education , educational activity , instruction , pedagogy , teaching the activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill

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