Federal Education Department Implements New College Program Accountability Metric

The U.S. Department of Education has introduced a new accountability measure for college programs, requiring them to demonstrate that graduates achieve specific earnings thresholds. Programs failing this 'do no harm' test risk losing eligibility for federal student loans, with implementation occurring over the next few years. While most bachelor's programs are expected to pass, critics express concern that this earnings-focused approach could disadvantage creative arts and certain vocational programs, potentially leading to their reduction. The policy currently does not account for student loan debt in its assessment.