The documentary explores the rising costs of higher education in the United States and the financial burden it places on students and their families. It delves into the reasons behind skyrocketing tuition fees and accumulating student debt, examining the complex interplay between public funding cuts, private investments, and the commodification of education. Key figures, including educators, economists, and students, offer insights into the systemic issues plaguing American colleges and universities. The narrative traverses various campuses, showcasing both affluent institutions with lavish facilities and struggling schools facing budget constraints, thereby highlighting the disparity in educational experiences.

Amidst these challenges, innovative solutions and alternative models of education are presented as potential pathways to reform. Through interviews and case studies, the film illustrates the impact of these models on students' lives and their prospects for the future. The discussion extends to online learning platforms and cooperative education programs, assessing their viability as cost-effective substitutes for traditional four-year degrees. Throughout, the documentary prompts viewers to contemplate the true value of higher education in contemporary society and urges a reevaluation of its priorities to better serve students across different socioeconomic backgrounds.