Meaning: This quote by Roy Romer, an American politician and former Governor of Colorado, reflects his observation of private and proprietary colleges, specifically mentioning the University of Phoenix, and the market they serve. Romer's statement highlights the unique approach taken by these institutions in delivering education with a focus on accountability and cost. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the context of private and proprietary colleges, the University of Phoenix, and the evolving landscape of higher education.

Private and proprietary colleges encompass a diverse group of educational institutions that operate independently and are typically funded through tuition fees, endowments, and private donations. These colleges are distinct from public institutions in that they are not funded by state or government entities. Proprietary colleges, in particular, are for-profit institutions that operate with a business model focused on generating revenue and delivering educational programs for a fee.

The University of Phoenix, specifically mentioned by Romer, is one of the largest for-profit higher education institutions in the United States. Founded in 1976, the University of Phoenix has gained attention for its non-traditional approach to education, including online and evening classes tailored to working adults. It has been a pioneer in the development of online education, offering degree programs designed to accommodate the schedules of non-traditional students.

Romer's observation of these institutions attempting to "deliver the product, with more accountability, for a price" speaks to the unique characteristics of for-profit colleges and their approach to education. The emphasis on accountability suggests a recognition of the need for these institutions to demonstrate the value of the education they provide in relation to the cost incurred by students. This is particularly relevant in the context of for-profit colleges, where the financial aspect of education is directly tied to the institution's success.

Furthermore, the mention of "a price" underscores the commercial nature of these institutions, where education is treated as a product that is exchanged for a fee. This approach has been both lauded for its innovation and criticized for prioritizing profit over educational quality. The University of Phoenix, in particular, has faced scrutiny regarding its recruitment practices, student outcomes, and the value of its degrees in the job market.

Romer's observation can be interpreted as an acknowledgment of the evolving landscape of higher education, where non-traditional models of delivering education have emerged to cater to the needs of a diverse student population. As the demand for flexible and accessible education continues to grow, for-profit colleges have positioned themselves as alternative providers, offering programs that cater to working professionals and individuals seeking non-traditional paths to higher education.

In conclusion, Roy Romer's quote sheds light on the unique characteristics of private and proprietary colleges, particularly the University of Phoenix, and their approach to delivering education with a focus on accountability and cost. This observation underscores the evolving nature of higher education, where for-profit institutions have carved out a niche in the market by offering non-traditional educational opportunities. However, it also raises important questions about the intersection of education and commerce, and the need to ensure that accountability and quality remain paramount in the pursuit of providing accessible and valuable education to students.