The United States is built on the principle that higher education is attainable by anyone with the passion and work ethic to succeed. But does this still really ring true today? Hosted by Martin Smith, this hour-long entry in the award-winning Frontline investigative series puts modern education to the test, examining the world of university education and asking if a higher degree is truly necessary even though it often brings about massive student debt.

The business of higher education is booming — it’s a $400 billion industry, fueled in part by taxpayer money. But against the backdrop of faltering American test scores and a global economy, College, Inc. takes a somewhat provocative premise, arguing skeptically that most students are not getting their money’s worth out of the deal. Critics say too many college diplomas are a worthless degree that leave attendees awash in a mountain of debt. Investors insist they’re innovators, widening access to education. Smith and his producers follow the money to uncover how Wall Street and a new breed of for-profit universities are transforming the way some folks think about college in America. While certainly interesting on the surface level, and full of ample data to back up some of its assertions about educational trends, College, Inc. also infers writ-large conclusions where there are really none. Back to the drawing board and/or editing room, one wants to say to its makers.

Housed in a regular plastic Amaray case, College, Inc. comes to DVD presented in 1.78:1 widescreen, with an English language 2.0 stereo track. There are unfortunately no supplemental bonus features. To purchase the DVD via PBS, and/or purchase a copy with public performance rights, click here. Or, to purchase the DVD via Amazon, click here. C (Movie) C- (Disc)