1976 - 1993


 * Consolidation Era
 * This era was characterized by a systematic shift toward more diversity in the student body, reflecting the broader impact of the affirmative action and equal opportunity movements.
 * Private Sector


 * In the mid 1970s, many predicted the demise of private education.  In the 1980s, tuition at private institutions doubled, but students were not driven away by the increased costs.
 * 54% of full time students in private institutions graduated within six years, compared to 43% in public institutions graduated in six year.
 * Private liberal arts colleges thrived as they attracted many full-paying students who prefered to avoid large public institutions.  Because of their allure, the large endowments they received, and elasticity in tuition, these institutions were able to maintain their selectivity.
 * Overall, fewer institutions opened in this era, but hundreds of branch campuses were opened.
 * The average time to completion of a doctoral degree increased in all fields of study.