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Differences in the College Enrollment Decision across Race

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  • Kathlyn E. Lucia
  • Robert W. Baumann

Abstract

We find the determinants of the college enrollment decision differ greatly between whites and blacks. Within race, differences exist between black males and females, and to a lesser extent between white males and females. The largest differences are in the effects of parents' education, school quality, and family income. Of the four race-gender groups, black males are the most sensitive likely to their mother's education attainment and to changes in school quality. Unlike whites, we find almost no effect of income on the black college enrollment decision, particularly for black females. We conclude that policies that increase affordability do not expand the pool of college-bound blacks.

Suggested Citation

  • Kathlyn E. Lucia & Robert W. Baumann, 2009. "Differences in the College Enrollment Decision across Race," The American Economist, Sage Publications, vol. 53(1), pages 60-74, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:amerec:v:53:y:2009:i:1:p:60-74
    DOI: 10.1177/056943450905300108
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Kane, Thomas J, 1994. "College Entry by Blacks since 1970: The Role of College Costs, Family Background, and the Returns to Education," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 102(5), pages 878-911, October.
    3. Michael S. McPherson & Morton Owen Schapiro & Lori G. Kletzer & Jere R. Behrman, 1992. "The College Investment Decision: Direct and Indirect Effects of Family Background on Choice of Postsecondary Enrollment and Quality," Williams Project on the Economics of Higher Education DP-18, Department of Economics, Williams College.
    4. Audrey Light & Wayne Strayer, 2000. "Determinants of College Completion: School Quality or Student Ability?," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 35(2), pages 299-332.
    5. Tobias, Justin L., 2002. "Model uncertainty and race and gender heterogeneity in the college entry decision," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 21(3), pages 211-219, June.
    6. Gary S. Becker, 1962. "Investment in Human Capital: A Theoretical Analysis," NBER Chapters, in: Investment in Human Beings, pages 9-49, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
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