Historical development of academic standards by the NCAA for Division I member institutions from 1905-1987

Abstract

This study conveys to the reader the development of the academic standards of the National Collegiate Athletic Association. The primary purpose of the study was to present the development of the academic standards from 1905-1987. A second purpose was to gain a better understanding of the reasons and justifications of the NCAA in regard to changes that have occurred in the academic standards. A third purpose was to gain knowledge of Proposition 48. The final purpose was to study the controversy surrounding Proposition 48. A chronological approach is used to make record of the eighty-two year history of the academic standards of the NCAA. This study depicts the founding of the NCAA, its initial academic standards and the belief in the importance of academics for the student-athlete, and the many proposals passed over the years, including the 1.600 rule, the 2.000 rule and Proposition 48. A narrative approach is used to describe each change that occurred during the NCAA's history in regards to academic standards. The study reveals the continued significance of academic standards in the NCAA and with Proposition 48, a continued and needed commitment to the "student" in student-athlete.