In this report, we examined five kinds of equity-focused metrics in state OBF policies to determine the extent to which states prioritize the enrollment and success of students of color and students from low-income backgrounds:
- Enrollment metrics for students of color
- Success metrics for students of color
- Enrollment metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Success metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Metrics related to campus racial climate
While the inclusion of these metrics in policies is essential, how they are deployed is equally as important. Therefore, we also considered whether the metrics were mandatory, optional, or weighted. Weighted metrics are the most ideal. These are mandatory and are given additional value, so strong institutional performance on a weighted metric would garner greater advantage or funding.
Four-Year Institutions
New Jersey adopted outcomes-based funding in 2019. New Jersey is still in the process of implementing its outcomes-based funding formula, but bonus funds will be allocated annually. The metrics will include:
- The total number of degrees awarded in the most recently available fiscal year,
- The total number of degrees awarded to members of under-represented racial/ethnic minority groups in the most recently available fiscal year, and
- The number of Pell Grant recipients enrolled in the most recently available fiscal year.
The policy does not have a campus climate metric.
The policy is overseen by the New Jersey Department of Higher Education. To learn more, visit https://www.state.nj.us/highereducation/documents/pdf/StateEducationplan.pdf.
Four-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | Mandatory |
| Enrollment of Students from Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students from Low-Income Backgrounds | Mandatory |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
Outcomes-Based Funding Map