6 Trends We’re Seeing in Higher Education: A Look Ahead at 2025/2026

As the semester winds down and we reflect on the past school year, it’s clear that higher education is undergoing significant shifts.

Universities face new challenges and opportunities, from the rise of AI and EdTech to evolving enrollment patterns and workforce needs.

Looking at the trends that have defined the 2024/2025 academic year can help us understand how these shifts will shape the next school year.

In this article, Higher Education Publications will explore some of the most notable trends in higher education and how they will influence how institutions approach education, enrollment, and workforce readiness in the 2025/2026 academic year and beyond.

1. AI and Automation Revolutionizing Higher Education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to make waves across various industries, and higher education is no exception.

Over the past year, AI has moved from a buzzword to an essential tool in the classroom and administrative offices.

Instructors are using AI to deliver more personalized learning experiences, offering students adaptive learning pathways tailored to their needs.

AI is also helping universities streamline administrative tasks, from admissions to grading and scheduling, freeing up time for faculty to engage more directly with students.

As we look to the 2025/2026 school year, AI will only continue to grow in importance, and universities will need to ensure they’re equipped to integrate these tools effectively into their infrastructure.

2. EdTech’s Growth: The Digitalization of Learning

The pandemic accelerated the adoption of educational technology (EdTech), but in 2024/2025, the trend continued to thrive as universities and colleges increasingly invested in digital learning tools.

Hybrid learning models, virtual classrooms, and interactive tools have become commonplace, providing more flexible, accessible, and engaging learning environments.

Institutions are embracing a more flexible approach to education, allowing students to learn remotely, attend hybrid classes, or engage in fully digital courses.

Additionally, we’re seeing universities partner with EdTech companies to create innovative, immersive learning experiences using virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR).

Looking ahead, the continued growth of EdTech will shape the classroom experience and impact how universities reach and serve students globally. The future of education is digital-first, and those who embrace these tools will be positioned to succeed.

3. Enrollment Shifts: Growing Interest in Non-Traditional Programs

As we reflect on this academic year, we see a clear trend toward non-traditional forms of education.

With the rising cost of tuition and growing concern about student debt, many prospective students are questioning the value of a traditional four-year degree.

In response, universities offer more alternative pathways, including accelerated degrees, certificate programs, and vocational training.

These alternatives allow students to acquire specialized skills without committing to a four-year degree. Additionally, the rise of community colleges and online degree programs has made higher education more accessible and affordable for a wider range of students.

We expect this trend to grow as we move into 2025/2026. More students will seek education models that are flexible, cost-effective, and tailored to specific career goals.

4. The “Degree in Three” Trend: Shortening the Path to Graduation

The idea of a traditional four-year degree is being reconsidered as many students seek faster, more affordable ways to graduate.

The “degree in three” trend is gaining momentum, with many universities offering accelerated programs that allow students to earn their degree in just three years.

This trend is driven by students’ desire to enter the workforce sooner and avoid the high costs of a four-year education. By condensing the timeline, universities can provide a cost-effective alternative to the traditional model, making higher education more appealing to cost-conscious students.

We expect that this trend will continue to expand into the 2025/2026 school year, as universities work to adapt to the evolving needs of their student populations.

5. Changing Workforce Demands: The Evolving Role of Degree Programs

As the workforce changes, so do the skills required for success. The rise of the digital economy has changed the types of degrees and certifications that students need to thrive in the modern job market.

Several years ago, software engineering and computer science degrees were in high demand, as the tech boom was in full swing.

While these fields remain important today, there is an increasing interest in interdisciplinary degrees that combine technical skills with business acumen.

Programs in data science, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing are gaining ground as more industries seek professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and business.

Universities are already responding to this demand by offering specialized degrees in emerging fields, such as cybersecurity, blockchain, and digital business.

As we look to the next academic year, we expect more institutions to introduce flexible, cross-disciplinary programs that align with industry trends and workforce needs.

6. The Rise of Remote Learning and Global Collaboration

The rise of remote work has also prompted a shift in higher education. With the ability to learn from anywhere, students are seeking more flexible, global learning opportunities. In the past year, we’ve seen an increase in universities offering global online programs that allow students to collaborate with peers and professors worldwide.

This trend towards remote learning will continue into 2025/2026, as universities seek to make education more accessible and collaborative. Global partnerships and cross-border educational programs are becoming more common, offering students a broader range of opportunities and perspectives.

This shift also helps universities expand their reach, providing education to students who may not have the resources to attend on-campus programs.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Higher Education

As we move into the 2025/2026 school year, higher education is evolving in response to changing technologies, student expectations, and workforce needs. We are seeing significant shifts in how students approach education, how universities deliver learning experiences, and how industries define the skills required for success.

These trends are pushing universities to adapt quickly and embrace innovation.

The thriving institutions will prioritize flexibility, technology, and responsiveness to market demands, while remaining focused on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

In the coming years, we can expect more personalized, accessible, and digital-first educational experiences that help students gain the skills they need to succeed in the future workforce.

The 2025/2026 school year will be an exciting time for higher education, with opportunities for institutions and students to redefine what learning looks like in a modern world.