The Importance of a Four-Year College Degree and Economic Outcomes for Young Adults
Pew Research Center study explores public views on the importance of a four-year college degree and economic outcomes of young adults with and without a college degree. The study shows improvements in economic outcomes for young adults without a degree in recent years.
Key Points
- Economic outcomes for young adults without a college degree have improved in recent years.
- Gap in earnings between young adults with and without a college degree has not narrowed.
- Rising tuition costs and student debt contribute to doubts about the value of college education.
Pros
- Earnings and overall wealth of young adults without a bachelor's degree have increased over the past 10 years.
- Fewer young adults without a degree are living in poverty today.
- Improvements in economic outcomes for both young college graduates and noncollege individuals.
Cons
- Public has mixed views on the importance of a college degree.
- Many doubt whether the cost of college is worth it.