The American higher education system has always been considered the best in the world. Statistics consistently show that most Nobel Prize winners received their higher education in America and a majority of international students choose America as their dream country to study abroad. The level of higher education in America is unique and unprecedented in many ways. However, it is always difficult to live up to a good reputation. The system suffers from deficits in many respects. For example, some researchers question the effectiveness of teaching and learning as the quality of graduating students is low; in addition, the increase in costs and tuition fees is skyrocketing, placing a huge burden on students and their parents; Therefore, the responsibility of higher education is questioned by various individuals and groups. This research paper will better explore American higher education through the following aspects: History: The higher education system was first created for religious purposes. During the colonial era, the primary function of higher education was to train Puritan ministers and clergy. The increasing emphasis on secular education, as proposed by Thomas Jefferson who believed in educating the public and citizens, is crucial for the sake of democracy and the creation of a skilled workplace. Later, the Morrill Land-Gran Act was enacted and most of the universities we see today have their origins in the Morrill Act. ①Before 1965, higher education institutions were predominantly populated by white men from upper and middle-income families. Blacks and other minorities were barred from attending universities due to the prevailing discriminatory attitude. Unfortunately, women also had limited access to higher education due to their lower social status...... middle of paper......centuries. However, it is worth noting that the system faces some unavoidable problems, as explained in this article above. The government and education authorities should spare no effort to better reform and regulate existing problems: reducing costs and tuition fees of colleges and universities while maintaining high and rigorous standards of teaching and learning; improve enrollment management to maintain the prestigious reputation of universities. On the other hand, instead of doubting higher education, young people should always have confidence in the value of higher education and continue to improve their abilities to contribute to society and higher education. Although society will continue to change in unpredictable ways, the passion and enthusiasm of government and individuals for building a better higher education system will never stop..