The first in a series of a Strada and Lumina partnership to explore the experiences of adults without degrees
Introduction
While research has long demonstrated the economic value of college degrees, these pathways are not the only on-ramps available to individuals considering education beyond high school. This is especially true for working adults who don’t have the time or resources to pursue a degree, or those who need to quickly reskill and move up in the workforce.
As this study demonstrates, non-degree credentials, typically completed in less than a year, can be highly beneficial. Expanding the reach of non-degree credentials could raise the income and well-being of millions of adults and their families.
This report is the first in a series to explore questions about the educational and workplace experiences of adults without degrees.
Findings
Among 330,000 people surveyed, we examined a subset of nearly 50,000 workers ages 25-64 who lack degrees and are not enrolled in college. We found that those who hold a certificate or certification:
- Perceive their education path as more valuable because of the credential and are more likely to recommend it to others.
- Have higher full-time employment rates than peers with no post-high school credential (85% versus 78%).
- Have a median annual income of $45,000, versus $30,000 among those who lack such a credential.
However:
- Wage premiums depend on occupation. In some occupations, the annual income premium from a certificate or certification is as high as $25,000. In others, a certificate or certification confers minimal advantage.
- Significant gender gaps exist. The income premium conferred by a certificate or certification is considerably larger for men than for women, across all occupations.
These findings indicate that certificates and certifications can be beneficial stand-alone credentials. However, the variations by occupation and gender demand serious attention as we deliver education beyond high school.
Related:
How Strada Education Network Is Promoting Pathways To Good Jobs | Forbes | May 20, 2019