College & Workforce Readiness
Undergraduate certificate program enrollments rose 10% from 2022 to 2023, while bachelor’s program enrollments increased by 0.9%. 52% of high school students considered four-year college in 2023, a 14% drop since pre-pandemic. 63% were open to alternatives like community college, on-the-job training, and technical education. Rising college costs, student loan debt, and skepticism about degree value deter some students. Three recent graduates pursued careers without bachelor’s degrees. Experts suggest postsecondary education’s future is changing, and the traditional college path isn’t for everyone. They emphasize the need for personalized support for first-generation students and career aptitude tests.