Impact

Undergrad math, science degrees increasing

The proportion of bachelor's degrees in mathematics and science rose to 41 percent of all degrees in 1994, from 39 percent in 1991, according to a National Education Goals Panel report profiled in the Chronicle of Higher Education Nov. 29.

More women are receiving math and science degrees, accounting for 38 percent in 1994, compared with 35 percent in 1991. The proportion of black and Hispanic students graduating with math and science degrees (39 percent) remained unchanged during this period.

Bah! Humbug! Life is unkind

Forty-eight prominent intellectuals, journalists, historians and sociologists met at the University of Pennsylvania last month to discuss "the explosion of incivility" in American society and the world.

The Penn Commission on Society, Culture and Community will meet twice a year for the next three years to discuss the rising tide of rudeness, meanness and ill will that many perceive to be blocking social reform.

Among committee members are author E.L. Doctorow, former Sen. Bill Bradley, humorist Calvin Trillin, Derek Bok, former president of Harvard, and William Hudnut III, former mayor of Indianapolis and senior resident fellow at the Urban Land Institute, Washington, D.C.

College study abroad increases 11 percent

The Institute of International Education released its annual report on foreign college students in the United States and U.S. students studying abroad last month.

U.S. students studying abroad increased 11 percent over the previous year, reaching a new record of 84,403. The report also shows a definite trend toward more variety in the selection of destinations.

"Open Doors 1995-96" may be viewed on the Web.
Open Doors

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