Simba Information’s The State of College Course Materials 2024-2026 delivers an unparalleled analysis of the higher education course materials market, combining rigorous data-driven insights with strategic recommendations.

The report highlights significant shifts in enrollment patterns, including a 3.4% increase in total undergraduate enrollment alongside a 5.5% increase in freshmen enrollment. These trends reflect broader demographic and systemic challenges, including the upcoming “enrollment cliff,” which will create new obstacles for institutions relying on traditional student recruitment models. Additionally, demand for micro-credentials surged by 8.4%, as students and institutions pivot toward workforce-oriented education.

The affordability of instructional materials remains a pressing issue, with the average student spending on course materials dropping to a 16-year low of $342 annually. This decline is driven by the growing adoption of Open Educational Resources (OER) and inclusive access models, which provide cost-effective, digitally integrated solutions. However, affordability remains a barrier, with 70% of students expressing concerns over the high cost of required materials, and 31% considering stopping coursework due to financial constraints. Despite declining material costs, the rising costs of tuition, housing, and other college-related expenses continue to put financial strain on students, making affordability a more complex issue than course materials alone.

The report also explores how AI is reshaping the landscape. While 86% of students use AI tools for academic purposes, faculty adoption lags significantly at 14%, presenting opportunities for professional development and innovation in instructional design. Publishers, including Pearson and McGraw Hill, are investing in AI-driven content delivery and expanding their digital offerings, while competing with emerging digital-first providers offering modular and flexible resources.

Policy changes at the state and federal levels further complicate the landscape. State and local government funding for higher education totaled $132.5 billion in fiscal year 2024, reflecting an 8.1% increase in state contributions and a 6.3% increase in local government contributions. Additionally, enhanced Pell Grant funding and transparency regulations are forcing publishers and institutions to rethink pricing strategies. As institutions grapple with these challenges, the report offers actionable insights for navigating the complexities of an evolving market.

In addition to the market size analysis and segmentation, Simba’s State of College Course Materials 2024-2026 provides insights into various issues, trends, and forces shaping the market. These include:

the type of institutions students are enrolling

the condition and prospects of distance education

federal and state policy and funding

print vs. digital growth in instructional materials

the rise of subscriptions and inclusive access plans

new technology trends

the development of Open Educational Resources (OER)

company mergers and acquisitions

operating performance of key companies: Pearson, Cengage, McGraw Hill, and Wiley