Breaking barriers: Reducing inequality in higher education by understanding and addressing diverse student needs

The purpose of this research is to explore the differences in perceived opportunities and potential barriers leading to inequality in our higher education system. To do this, we examine differences in satisfaction and expectations that exist among college students based on three key heterogeneous characteristics – gender identity (male vs. female), major declaration (decided vs. undecided) and generation (first generation vs. non-first generation). Six hundred twenty-five students completed a survey about the level of importance and satisfaction with educational services at their institutions. A mixed method design including analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test differences between students. At a time where universities are working arduously to increase enrolment numbers, adjusting the strategy to cater to the unique needs of students may prove to be part of the solution and more importantly, help remove barriers to lessen the current inequalities and improve access to education for all types of students.