Restoring dignity, personal agency, and economic opportunity through higher education
Why we're here
The Michigan Consortium for Higher Education in Prison (MiCHEP) advocates for the power of higher education to improve the lives of incarcerated students and their communities, thereby benefiting corrections staff and Michigan taxpayers. MiCHEP believes that college-in-prison can restore personal agency, dignity, and economic opportunity for incarcerated students. A college education can help ensure successful reentry into society as informed and capable citizens committed to the common good.
Identify
Identify best practices for delivering the highest quality education with the goal of bringing a "main campus" college experience to the prison campus.
Share
Share information about college-in-prison between member institutions, the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), other partners, and the public
Encourage
Encourage member colleges to provide a range of educational offerings consistent with student interests and workforce needs
Advocate
Advise
Collaborate
Advocate for policies that support the flourishing of incarcerated college students and graduates
Advise the MDOC on ways to best integrate higher education strategies into its Offender Success framework
Collaborate on data sharing and other strategies to encourage more integrated approaches to higher education in prison
"This program has not only changed my life, but also the lives of my family. It has given me vision, drive, and passion to change the culture and conditions here in prison, while helping me motivate my kids to further their education."
MiCHEP Student
The Case for Higher Education in Prison
Higher education in prison is a proven strategy for reducing recidivism, promoting rehabilitation, and benefiting society. Incarcerated individuals who earn college degrees are far less likely to return to prison, leading to safer communities and lower correctional costs. Education provides critical thinking skills, self-discipline, and job readiness, helping break cycles of poverty and incarceration. It also improves prison environments by fostering respect and reducing violence. Financially, it’s highly effective — every dollar spent can save multiple dollars in future incarceration costs.
More than that, it affirms the humanity and potential of incarcerated people, offering a path to meaningful reintegration. Expanding access to college in prison is a practical, moral step toward a more just criminal justice system.
Prison education programs contribute to safer, more positive environments within correctional facilities.
A $1 investment in prison education can save an estimated $4 to $5 in reincarceration costs over three years.
Studies indicate a 13% increase in post-release employment for parolees who participate in prison education programs.
Michigan can save thousands of dollars per year for each incarcerated college student.
2023-2025 Annual Report
