Higher education productivity
In September 2012, the Education Program streamlined its structure, eliminating the distinction previously made for “High education productivity.” Its grantmaking strategy did not change.
We support efforts to find more efficient and effective ways to teach, advise, evaluate and make the higher education system itself more productive. We are particularly interested in work that leverages technology to improve productivity while retaining or enhancing educational quality and outcomes.
Focus Area Overview
To boost the number of Americans with college degrees and postsecondary certificates, the United States will need additional education capacity.
The Internet – with its apparently limitless opportunities for interactivity and its power to open access to books, lecture notes and libraries at any time of the day, from anywhere in the world – is quickly changing the traditional model of higher education through online courses.
We support networks of colleges and research organizations that use the Internet and other technologies to build efficiencies into new ways of teaching, advising and evaluating.
We are interested in projects that have broad and meaningful impact beyond the boundaries of any one physical campus. Our goal is to fund innovative, sustainable programs that are readily expanded, for example, lower the cost of higher education through:
- Online teaching
- E-counseling
- Back-office consolidation
- Environmental sustainability and energy savings
Application Process
We have a two-step application process that begins with an inquiry, submitted via an online application system.
- Part 1, the preliminary application, contains a data-entry component and several attachments, including a narrative.
- If the activity you describe fits one or more of our strategic priorities and our budget, we then request additional information. This will constitute Part 2 of the application process.
We accept and review inquiries on an ongoing basis.
Eligibility
Who may apply?
- U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations, except private foundations
- International 501(c)(3) equivalents
- Government entities
Who may not apply?
- Individuals
- Organizations that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation or veteran status
- Organizations that require membership in certain religions or advance a particular religious faith (Faith-based organizations may be eligible if they welcome and serve all members of the community regardless of religious belief.)
- Programs operated to benefit for-profit organizations