"In the 2024-25 academic year, students aged 18 to 20 represent the largest share of first-time associate degree earners, surpassing those aged 21 to 24 for the first time."
"Of the 2 million students who earned a bachelor's degree, 532,464 had a prior postsecondary credential, with 419,766 completing the bachelor's degree pathway from an associate degree."
"The average budget for full-time students at a public two-year institution ranged from $21,320, while the budget for a private nonprofit four-year institution ranged from $65,470."
"The Department of Labor has issued five rounds of Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants to support skill development needs and help students overcome career barriers."
The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center reports a growing trend of students pursuing associate degrees before bachelor's degrees. In the 2024-25 academic year, students aged 18 to 20 became the largest group of first-time associate degree earners. Of the 2 million students earning bachelor's degrees, 419,766 had previously earned an associate degree. Community college enrollment increased by 3% in fall 2025, while private four-year colleges saw declines. The rising cost of college and increased federal funding for community colleges contribute to this trend.
Read at Fast Company
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