Keeping Score

2 articles

Three figures of different heights standing on layered platforms, all reaching the same measurement line

A Value-Added Approach to College Outcomes

We updated our value-added earnings metric — the WAR for colleges. The model now separates what students bring in, what a school offers through its program mix and market position, and what remains unexplained. Here is how we built it, and what it shows for five Illinois schools.

Apr 14, 2026

Four paths through higher education converging at a common destination — an illustration for College Azimuth

What the Graduation Rate Doesn't Count — And Why It Matters

The standard graduation rate excludes most students. Federal data shows the real number is 28 points higher at schools like UTRGV. Here's what the metric actually measures — and what it misses.

Feb 26, 2026