The Effects of the introduction of Bachelor Degrees on College Enrollment and Drop-out Rates

We estimate the short-run effects of the introduction of the Bachelor degree system in Germany, a change in degree regulations such that students need less time to earn a first degree, on college enrollment and drop-out rates. We use variation in the timing of the reform at the university department level to identify the effects of the reform based on longitudinal administrative student data. Results differ between subjects, but for most subjects we find no significant effects on college enrollment or drop-out rates.

Horstschräer, Julia and Maresa Sprietsma (2015), The Effects of the introduction of Bachelor Degrees on College Enrollment and Drop-out Rates, Education Economics 23(3) , 296-317