The bar for college has sunk too low

Let me preface this by saying I’m not a “college is a scam” type guy at all, I’m enrolled myself and think that most people should pursue a college education. That being said, the bar to pass is too low. I’ve seen students’ writings where they don’t know how to spell, punctuate, or use grammar correctly. I’m not talking about a negligible assignment either, I’m talking research papers and essays. I’ve seen students do the bare minimum, skip assignments, and get coddled through courses they have no business passing because ultimately university is a business and they want to keep people enrolled because more people = more money. These students plan on becoming teachers, nurses, and scientists but can’t even complete a 100 level course without coddling from the heads of their departments.

I suppose the reason this frustrates me is that these people will earn degrees and water down what a degree means, thus hurting those who work hard and do the right thing. Normally I would assume this is just something at my school, but friends at several other universities agreed that their schools also pass people that don’t deserve it because they need to keep their money and graduation rates from sinking. Has anyone else seen this in your time at college? Should universities maintain stricter requirements for graduation?

Edit: It seems I’ve struck a nerve with those who maybe didn’t put their best foot forward during their years at college. I wasn’t trying to ruffle feathers. I was curious what others thought of this issue and how common/harmful it can be. Hell, maybe I’m the sucker for applying myself. That being said, I’ve found an interesting article that correlates those who don’t try hard in their studies with people who are easily impressionable and manipulatable. If my post offended you, please accept my apology and consider reading this study.

Final edit: Wow this got more traction than I thought it would! This whole thread has been interesting whether anecdotally or objectively. It’s interesting to see how divided people are on this issue. People from all different walks of life having different, nuanced opinions is what makes this subreddit great. For those who agreed with me, thank you for sharing your own stories and views. For those who disagreed with me, thank you for allowing me to challenge my beliefs and gain a new perspective!