Higher Education Research and Policy Analysis

MHEC’s approach to higher education research and policy analysis informs institutional and state efforts in improving postsecondary policies, practices, and outcomes. MHEC supports the work of commissioners, state legislators and agency staff, institutional and system leaders, and the broader community of higher education administrators and researchers in several ways:

1. Maintaining a national repository of expertise, knowledge and best practices for guiding policy and practice
2. Conducting applied research and analysis on critical topics in higher education
3. Developing innovative approaches to improve educational opportunity and effectiveness
4. Providing public outreach and service to institutions and governments

MHEC produces and provides timely briefs, reports, and technical papers in the most critical areas for facilitating progress towards state educational attainment goals, including College Readiness; Affordability and Finance; Student Success; and Performance, Value, and Accountability as well as other topics of importance to Midwestern states. Particular emphasis is placed on research that evaluates and informs efforts to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. To bridge the gap between research and practice, MHEC’s approach is actively shaped by feedback from diverse stakeholders. Experts across the nation along with members of the Review Panel for State Policy and Performance Data help ensure the validity and integrity of data and research products.