MCSS Publications Graduates tossing hats in air

Reports and Publications

The MCSS creates reports and publications with support from our funders and key partners to support our initiatives and events. Selected reports and publications are available below. In addition, the MCSS maintains several affiliated websites with valuable resources for community college leaders including the Michigan Transfer Network, MiTransfer Pathways, Michigan Guided Pathways, and the Right Math at the Right Time.

transfer report cover image

Postsecondary Transfer and Mobility in Michigan: Exploring Transfer Patterns, Programs, Places, and People

August 2019

This publication includes the results of a research project focused on transfer students in Michigan using data from the Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI) with generous financial support from the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN).

The Right Math at the Right Time for Michigan: “Coalition of the Willing” Strengthens Math Pathways in a Decentralized Higher Education System

March 2019

This publication features Michigan's work with the Charles A. Dana Center's Math Pathways to Completion. This brief describes the ways diverse stakeholders across Michigan have come together as a “coalition of the willing” to implement and strengthen mathematics pathways.

Guided Pathways publication

Guided Pathways: The Scale of Adoption in Michigan

January 2018

This report shares the Michigan Guided Pathways story, describing the progress made by 23 colleges over three years in implementing practices in the four broad areas of Guided Pathways as defined by the Community College Research Center.

Skills builder report

Skills Builders in Michigan Community Colleges

October 2017

This brief and accompanying research paper identifies skills builders at Michigan community colleges. Skills builders are defined as career and technical education (CTE)-focused students who attend community college for a short period of time, succeed in their courses at an exceptionally high rate, frequently experience an earnings boost, but rarely complete a credential or transfer. The brief identifies the prevalence of skills builders, demographic and enrollment characteristics, program areas, and labor market outcomes. The brief shares how colleges can identify skills builders on their own campus and summarizes implications for policy and practice.