* Shifting Curriculum: While religious studies remained important, particularly in the early part of the century, the curriculum broadened to include more secular subjects. The rise of the Enlightenment emphasized reason and empirical observation, leading to increased attention to natural philosophy (science), mathematics, and the classics (though often interpreted through a lens of moral philosophy). Modern languages gained some traction, and practical subjects like surveying or navigation appeared in some institutions, particularly those with a more vocational bent. However, the core curriculum often remained Latin-based and heavily focused on classical literature and rhetoric.
* Increased Secularization (to a degree): While religious affiliation remained central to many colleges’ identities (especially in the case of denominational schools), the growing influence of Enlightenment thought gradually challenged the solely theological focus. This didn't mean a complete abandonment of religion, but a broadening of perspectives and a greater emphasis on reason and human agency. Deism, with its emphasis on a distant creator, gained popularity amongst some academics.
* Growing Student Body (and Diversification, albeit slowly): While the overwhelming majority of students still came from the upper classes, a slow but noticeable expansion of access occurred. More students from the middling classes began to attend, often for professional reasons (law, medicine). The number of students overall increased, though access remained highly restricted by class, gender, and race.
* Rise of New Institutions: New colleges and universities were founded, often reflecting specific regional or religious needs. Some of these were more attuned to practical training than the older, more traditional universities. This reflected a growing demand for educated individuals outside of the traditional clerical professions.
* Emphasis on Moral Philosophy: Alongside the rise of science, ethics and moral philosophy held a prominent place in the curriculum. Education was seen as a means of cultivating virtuous citizens and shaping character, reflecting the social and political anxieties of the time.
* Developing Research: While research wasn't yet the central focus it would become later, the 18th century saw a gradual increase in scholarly activity within universities. Professors were increasingly encouraged to publish their findings, though much of the research remained within the bounds of established religious and philosophical frameworks.
* The Rise of the "Gentleman's Education": The ideal of a well-rounded education for gentlemen, encompassing classical learning, social graces, and preparation for leadership roles in society, became increasingly prominent, shaping the curriculum and the overall ethos of many institutions.
It's crucial to remember that these changes were not uniform across all colleges and universities. Older, established institutions were often slower to adapt than newer ones, and regional variations were significant. The 18th century laid the groundwork for the major transformations in higher education that would occur in the 19th and 20th centuries, but the changes were gradual and often contested.