Higher education is facing two converging pressures: generative AI disrupting early-career labor markets and new federal “earnings test” accountability rules tying program viability to graduate income. In this episode of Unfixed, we examine how AI is thinning entry-level work, why mid-tier public universities may be especially exposed, and how federal accountability metrics could amplify wage suppression caused by automation. Drawing on reporting from Jeffrey Selingo, PBS NewsHour, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and U.S. Department of Education materials, we explore why GenAI and federal regulation are no longer separate stories. We close by asking what university leaders, faculty, and systems—especially in California—should do before signaling effects and enrollment shocks reshape the sector.

Jeffrey Selingo, New York Magazine / Intelligencer, What Is College For in the Age of AI?

PBS NewsHour, How AI may be robbing new college graduates of traditional entry-level jobs

U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education Reaches Consensus on Historic New Accountability Framework

Brian O’Leary, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Colleges Face a New Test on Their Grads’ Earnings. These Programs Fail It. (Note: Paywalled)

California State University, Strategic Planning for the CSU (CSU Forward)

Thoughts and suggestions? Email us at unfixed@meltsintoair.org

You can find the full show notes and our writing at meltsintoair.org

Ep. 23 Under Pressure: AI, Earnings Tests, and the New Squeeze on Higher Ed