Higher Ed Trends to Watch in 2026

The landscape of higher education is transforming at an unprecedented pace. As we move into 2026, institutions across the country are grappling with changing student demographics, emerging technologies and evolving workforce demands. For universities committed to innovation and student success, understanding these shifts is essential to staying relevant and delivering meaningful outcomes.

The Rise of the New Majority

Traditional undergraduate students—those who enroll full-time immediately after high school—no longer represent the typical college experience. Today's higher education landscape is increasingly defined by what experts call the "New Majority": adult students, part-time learners and those returning to education after time in the workforce.

This demographic shift reflects broader changes in how Americans approach career development and lifelong learning. Today's students include:

• Working professionals seeking career advancement
• Adult learners returning to complete degrees
• Part-time students balancing education with family responsibilities
• Nearly 10% of first-year students who are non-native English speakers

At Herzing, this focus on adult learners has been central to our mission for decades. Our programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible scheduling and accelerated pathways that respect the time constraints and financial realities these students face.

Technology and Artificial Intelligence Transform Learning

Artificial intelligence is no longer an experimental add-on in higher education. It's becoming core infrastructure that shapes everything from student advising to predictive analytics. Online and hybrid learning formats, already accelerated by recent global events, continue to expand.

Key technology trends reshaping education include:

• AI-powered advising: 15% of institutions now use AI for academic guidance
• Predictive analytics: 26% apply generative AI for student success metrics
• Online and hybrid models: Flexible formats that appeal to working adults
• Virtual reality: Immersive learning experiences for clinical and technical training

Herzing’s investment in technology-enabled learning reflects our commitment to accessibility and innovation. We've embraced hybrid models that combine the convenience of online coursework with hands-on clinical and laboratory experiences essential for healthcare and technical careers.

Bridging the Skills Gap

One of the most pressing challenges facing both higher education and employers is the skills gap. Industries struggle to find workers with the specific technical competencies and soft skills needed in today's economy. In response, institutions are redesigning curricula to align more closely with employer needs.

Modern students increasingly seek:

• Programs that lead directly to specific careers
• Stackable credentials and micro-credentials
• Competency-based education models
• Measurable employment outcomes and salary trajectories

Career-focused education has always been Herzing’s foundation. Our programs in nursing, healthcare, technology and business are built in collaboration with industry partners to ensure graduates enter the workforce with relevant, employer-valued skills.

Financial Pressures and Value Perception

Despite high satisfaction among current students—approximately 80% rate their education quality as good or excellent—public skepticism about the value of a four-year degree persists. About two-thirds of Americans believe a traditional bachelor's degree isn't worth the cost, driven largely by concerns about student debt and uncertain job prospects.

We address these concerns through focused, accelerated programs that minimize time to degree completion and reduce overall costs. Our emphasis on career-ready education means students can enter the workforce sooner, begin earning and start building their careers without prolonged financial strain.

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Community Impact

The future of higher education depends on institutions' ability to collaborate with employers, community partners and students themselves. Universities must contribute meaningfully to regional economic development and national priorities while nurturing positive institutional cultures built on respect and genuine support for student well-being.

At Herzing University, we see these trends not as distant predictions but as present realities shaping how we serve our students. By staying focused on career outcomes, embracing technology thoughtfully and maintaining our commitment to accessibility and diversity, we're preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of continued learning.