Adult + Higher Ed by the Numbers

For any adult learner, the decision to go back to school is never simple. Trying to work full time and balance obligations to children and family, in addition to the intimidation of being out of the classroom for many years, can make this next step overwhelming or daunting. You don’t have to dig deep into the statistics to know that there are many benefits to continuing one’s education, such as career promotions, paycheck increases, and increased job opportunity.

What does the adult and higher education landscape look like today? What kind of payoff can a prospective student hope to receive by returning to the classroom? Here are some of the latest research and numbers (compiled by World Education, eLearning Industry, and COABE) to help provide adult learners and educators with a snapshot.

• In the U.S., over 30 million adults do not have a high school diploma, and 20% of U.S. adults with a high school diploma only have beginning literacy skills
• 63% of adults with low academic skills are employed but earn low wages and lack the preparation to go to college
• Full-time workers with a high school diploma earn almost $10,000 more per year than those without a diploma
• People with bachelor’s degrees working full time earn about $24,000 more a year than high school graduates
• 70% of college students work while enrolled
• 60 million Americans lack the credentials and skills necessary to succeed in postsecondary education (the National Commission on Adult Literacy), and the United States has a larger population of low-skilled adults than most developed countries (OECD)
• Adult education is also an investment in the future of our nation, as research shows that better educated parents raise better-educated, more successful children, who are less likely to end up in poverty or prison (The Return on Investment from Adult Education and Training)

While the employment landscape continues to change and grow across America, it’s important to remember that a continued education will always come with lots of benefit, even if the path to get there is long and challenging.

Interested in learning more about how Edmentum’s online programs, including career and technical education courses, diagnostic assessments, and basic skills development, to see how they could fit into your adult education program? Check out our Adult + Higher Ed Solutions brochure!