About Us

The CECU Research Foundation prioritizes the funding of credible research into school outcomes and comparisons of how proprietary career colleges fare in comparison to peer institutions in other sectors of higher education. The CECU Research Foundation is a 501(c)3 subsidiary of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), the national association representing proprietary career schools. 

In funding this research, we aim to provide unbiased data that can be used to evaluate career education outcomes across all sectors of higher education. This research will offer a counterbalance to the current state of postsecondary education research which disproportionately favors the traditional four-year path of education. We seek research partners interested in considering the benefits of alternative educational paths that may suit the needs and preferences of different students and communities. 

Proposals should focus on postsecondary career education with a specific emphasis on proprietary career colleges and their associated costs, benefits, and relationship to workforce gaps and needs. We plan to support the publication of unbiased and credible research that shows how proprietary career college programs compare to similar programs in other sectors of higher education. This research will help the public and policymakers gain a better understanding of the work being done at various types of career colleges and how that work impacts students, taxpayers, and communities. 

 May 6, 2024

Arlington, VA – Today, the CECU Research Foundation announced a new $1 million initiative to fund credible research into school outcomes and comparisons of how proprietary career colleges fare in comparison to peer institutions in other sectors of higher education. The CECU Research Foundation is a 501(c)3 subsidiary of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), the national association representing proprietary career schools.