SIO526: Why Is College So Expensive?

**David O'Brien**, higher education policy scholar with the California Community Colleges System, is back to answer the question Thomas posed last time: why is college so expensive? They get into tuition vs. total cost of attendance, the dirty little secret of private university pricing, administrative bloat, the amenities arms race, and why the people loudest about college costs are likely well-off, but getting very little financial aid. **Mentioned:** - The Daily: College, Student Loans, and Trump - Sara Goldrick-Rab's research on college costs and student basic needs - Cal Grant program (California) - Pell Grant - Americans with Disabilities Act **Are you an expert in something and want to be on the show?** Apply here! **Please support the show on Patreon! You get ad-free episodes, early episodes, and other bonus content!** https://www.patreon.com/seriouspod