Episode Details

Rising costs, student debt and shifting workforce needs are putting more pressure on liberal arts colleges to demonstrate their value.

But some proponents say a liberal arts education is about more than just preparing for a first job. It's about building skills for the many careers and changes that come after it.

MPR News guest host Annie Baxter talks with guests about the future of liberal arts and higher education at a recent event sponsored by the Citizens League and Macalester College.

Guests:

• Suzanne M. Rivera is the president of Macalester College. She previously served in academic and leadership roles at Case Western Reserve University, UT Southwestern Medical Center and the University of California–Irvine.
• B Kyle is the president and CEO of the St. Paul Area Chamber.
• Wendy Robinson is the assistant commissioner for Programs, Policies, and Grants at the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.