Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Ivory Tower is a well-made documentary that examines the rising cost of college and the growing debate over whether it's worth the hefty price of admission. Mixing interviews featuring students, professors, and administrators with information found through data mining, the film reveals the business side of higher education and posits that customers -- students -- may not be getting what they need. There's one brief scene with swearing ("s--t"); otherwise, the movie is completely appropriate for teens and up and should probably be mandatory viewing for high school students considering college (and their parents, too!).

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

Student protestors take over a building, forcing a heated confrontation with security guards.

Language

One person uses the word "s--t" a few times during an interview.

Social Behavior

As the price of college increases, a growing number of people are questioning whether the cost is worth it. There are valid reasons on both sides of this complicated question.

Consumerism

Many well-known colleges are (not surprisingly, given the topic) mentioned by name and discussed extensively, including Harvard, Cooper Union, Wesleyan, and Stanford. The film also mentions some popular online learning sites, including Coursera.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable