Michael Burke
Michael covers higher education, including California’s community colleges and the University of California. Since joining EdSource in 2019, he has covered major stories including the steep enrollment declines at community colleges; the elimination of standardized tests in university admissions; efforts to improve California’s community college transfer system; and more. He graduated from Syracuse University in 2018, where he studied journalism and political science. He lives in Los Angeles.
All articles by Michael Burke
Amid faculty objections, UC considers limiting what faculty can say on university websites
Opponents say the policy change aims to limit comment on Israel's war in Gaza. UC wants to keep opinions from UC's main landing pages.
Michael Burke
March 14, 2024
Can Virginia colleges offer a model to California on getting community college students to earn university degrees?
As California tries to improve its dismal transfer results, a dual admission program in Virginia could be a model.
Michael Burke
March 7, 2024
When Latinos pursue community college bachelor’s degrees, most find success
Nearly two-thirds complete upper division courses in two years, but few are enrolling, a new study finds.
Michael Burke
February 13, 2024
Expanding Cal Grants? Tight state budget makes it unlikely this year
A planned reform of California’s main financial aid program, which would expand eligibility to 150,000 additional students, is in jeopardy.
Michael Burke
February 2, 2024
University of California won't allow hiring of undocumented students
Undocumented students at UC sought the right to work campus jobs, but top officials said doing so would be too legally risky.
Michael Burke
January 25, 2024
UC moves to ban political statements on its websites by faculty and others
The University of California's board of regents will consider in March a ban on faculty making political statements on university websites.
Michael Burke
January 25, 2024
University of California enrolled a record number of California residents in the fall
UC enrolled thousands more in-state students this past fall as it tries to meet lawmaker demands that Californians get more of those spots.
Michael Burke
January 19, 2024
How UC is navigating the complicated response to the Israel-Hamas war
UC has been met with criticism from all sides as it has attempted to respond to the Israel-Hamas war's impact on its campuses.
Michael Burke And Mallika Seshadri
November 21, 2023
UC pledges $7 million to address Islamophobia, antisemitism on campuses
University of California President Michael Drake announced steps UC is taking to make sure campuses are safe for Jewish, Arab and Muslim students.
Michael Burke
November 15, 2023
Community college students can take classes in their native language under a new law
By making it easier for non-English speakers to take classes in their native language, community colleges could see enrollment increase.
Michael Burke
November 13, 2023
Newsom signs bill creating new transfer pilot program between UC and community colleges
The governor signed AB 1291, which supporters say will help streamline the transfer process. Students say the bill doesn't go far enough.
Michael Burke
October 11, 2023
Why enrollment is rebounding at California's community colleges
Driven largely by dual enrollment and interest in career training programs, enrollment at many California community colleges is on an upswing after the pandemic.
Michael Burke
September 27, 2023
University of California to offer college classes to low-income high school students
UC is partnering with the National Education Equity Lab to expand access to college courses to students who don't otherwise have that option.
Michael Burke
September 21, 2023
Improve community college transfer with dual admissions, clearer pathways, say college leaders
Representatives from California's public higher education segments discussed ways to smooth the transfer process during a PPIC panel Tuesday.
Michael Burke
September 13, 2023
Lawmakers, Newsom and UC agree on new community college transfer plan, legislative leader says
New compromise creates a pilot program to ease transfers from community colleges to the University of California.