Dr. Joshua Brown

Biography

Joshua Travis Brown is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Writing Clinic at Johns Hopkins University, where he is also a Research Fellow with the Center for Skills, Knowledge and Organizational Performance (SKOPE) at the University of Oxford. His notable work includes the book 'Capitalizing College: Higher Education Went Mission Driven Margin Obsessed,' published by Oxford University Press in 2025. The book is a compelling scholarly novella that integrates rigorous social science with a captivating narrative, examining the financial pressures faced by colleges and the impact of tuition-driven enrollment strategies on marginalized students. Drawing from 150 candid interviews with university leaders, Brown provides an insightful look into the challenges of the higher education sector. His writing is deeply influenced by his first-generation, working-class background, which informs his commitment to addressing policy issues and improving student mental health. His research has appeared in a variety of academic journals, including Scientometrics and the American Journal of Education, and has received media attention from outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and NPR. His work aims to align educational institutions with the needs of students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

Research Interests