SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH COUNCIL THE RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS OF AMERICAN UNDERGRADUATES Annotated Bibliography Astin, A. W. 1977. Four Critical Years: Effects of College on Beliefs, Attitudes, and Knowledge. San Francisco: Jossey Bass
In his first book and major study of college students, Astin looks at changes in attitudes, beliefs, self concept, behavior, academic achievement, the career path, and college satisfaction. Questions explored about religion include how religious affiliation changes or is weakened during college, how religious attendance is impacted, what aspects of the college experience contribute to these changes, and how student experiences and changes are different at secular, Catholic, and Protestant institutions. Astin notes differences by gender, race, and academic ability. The book concludes with suggestions for policy makers and educational institutions in light of this study's results.