The College Fix, a news publication that examines liberal policies endorsed by universities, has made predictions about what could be a transformative year for higher education. Assistant Editor Gabrielle Temaat outlines five key areas that may see changes in 2025.
1. Shake-up at the Education Department
During the 2024 presidential race, Trump expressed his desire to eliminate the federal Department of Education (DOE). Temaat doubts that this will actually happen but believes some reforms could take place.
“While this pledge will likely fall short, there may be some downsizing or restructuring to return certain powers to the states,” she said. Changes in federal oversight of the DOE could impact programs such as financial aid and student loans for college students, funding for career and vocational education, and regulations that permit male athletes to compete in women’s sports.
2. AI Will Continue to Provide New Opportunities — and Frustrations
Artificial intelligence (AI) is not going away; it is here to stay and will continue to bring both new opportunities and challenges. According to Temaat, higher education must adapt quickly to these changes. While AI can offer valuable advantages, it also raises significant concerns about academic integrity. For instance, students might rely on AI-powered essay generators or problem solvers to complete assignments, which can prevent them from truly engaging with the material.
3. DEI Programs in Jeopardy
What does the future hold for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)? “It will continue to face challenges,” notes Temaat. In 2024, many universities, including the University of Florida, rolled back their DEI initiatives, closed related offices, and introduced policies requiring institutional neutrality. Temaat observes that this trend is unlikely to change anytime soon.
4. Ban on Men in Women’s Sports
Congress is set to address this issue in 2025, as President-elect Trump has vowed to prevent men from competing in women’s sports. According to Temaat, it is likely that this matter will be delegated to state governments, individual institutions, and governing bodies such as the NCAA. These organizations will face increasing pressure to create a clear and consistent policy.
5. Campus Culture Wars Will Continue
In 2024, several college campuses saw protests on the Israel-Palestinian conflicts, hate crime hoaxes, safe spaces, and transgender “rights.” Will this continue in 2025? Yes says Temaat.
“Expect 2025 to bring even more scrutiny to how universities handle these situations. Student groups on both sides of the debate will likely become even more organized and vocal, demanding that administrations either protect protest rights or impose stricter consequences for disruptions. Meanwhile, external stakeholders, including alumni and donors, may exert pressure on schools to take stronger stances,” said Temaat.
