Although diversity has become a social reality in U.S. higher education, certain issues concerning diversity in classroom settings have not been addressed. Despite increasing multiculturalism and diversity awareness in the U.S. educational system, the literature is still derived primarily from either monocultural assumptions or superficial…

Experiences of 60 women over 30 years old who returned to college after being out of school at least four years were studied. Thirty graduates and 30 undergraduate students were interviewed. Institutional barriers women confront include inadequate student services, limitations on financial aid, and admission practices and screening procedures…