Personal Life

Richard Arum is married and has two children. In addition to his academic pursuits, he is actively involved in various educational and sociological organizations. He serves on the editorial boards of several academic journals and is engaged in public discussions about education reform and social policy.

Legacy and Impact

Richard Arum's career is distinguished by his commitment to understanding and improving educational systems. His research provides valuable insights into how educational practices and policies affect students and society at large. Arum’s work continues to influence debates on educational reform, social inequality, and the role of higher education in promoting social mobility.

Through his research and public engagement, Richard Arum remains a significant figure in the field of sociology and education, contributing to ongoing discussions about the future of education and it

Richard Arum

Richard Arum (born January 29, 1964) is an esteemed American sociologist and academic renowned for his research on education, social stratification, and the impacts of education policies. He is a Professor of Sociology and Education at New York University and has made significant contributions to understanding the intersections between education, inequality, and social mobility.

Early Life and Education

Richard Arum was born in New York City, New York. He completed his undergraduate degree in Sociology at the University of California, Berkeley, where he developed a strong foundation in sociological theory and research methods. Arum went on to earn his Ph.D. in Sociology from Stanford University, where his dissertation focused on educational outcomes and social inequality, setting the stage for his future work.

Academic Career

Arum began his academic career as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of California, Irvine. His early research highlighted the effects of educational institutions on social inequality and economic outcomes. His influential book, "Judging School Discipline: The Crisis of Moral Authority" (2003), explored the decline in disciplinary authority in schools and its implications for educational effectiveness.

In 2011, Arum became a Professor of Sociology and Education at New York University. His research has continued to focus on educational policy, social inequality, and the impact of higher education on social mobility. He is known for his rigorous empirical studies and his ability to communicate complex sociological concepts to a broader audience.

Major Works and Contributions

Arum’s work is widely recognized for its impact on educational research and policy. Some of his notable publications include:

• "Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses" (2011): Co-authored with Josipa Roksa, this influential book critically examines the effectiveness of higher education in promoting learning and critical thinking among college students. The book highlights concerns about the limited academic progress of students and sparked a significant debate about the state of higher education.

• "Aspiring Adults Adrift: Tentative Transitions of College Graduates" (2014): This follow-up to "Academically Adrift" explores the post-college experiences of graduates and the challenges they face in achieving stable employment and social integration. It offers insights into the long-term effects of higher education on young adults' lives.

• "Education and the Economy: The Role of Schools and Training Programs in Economic Growth" (2020): Arum’s more recent work examines the relationship between educational systems and economic development, providing a comprehensive analysis of how education policies can influence economic outcomes.

Awards and Honors

Richard Arum has received several accolades for his contributions to sociology and education. His work has been featured in numerous academic journals and has influenced educational policy discussions. Arum's research has garnered attention for its empirical rigor and its capacity to address pressing issues in education and social inequality.