Views on the importance of a college degree now versus 20 years ago vary by age | Pew Research Center

May 14, 2024

2. Public views on the value of a college degree

Views on the importance of a college degree now versus 20 years ago vary by age

Views on the importance of a college degree now versus 20 years ago vary by age

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Views on the importance of a college degree now versus 20 years ago vary by age

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2. Public views on the value of a college degree
About half of Americans say having a college degree is less important today than it was 20 years ago
Half of Republicans say a college degree is not too or not at all important in order to get a well-paying job
Views on the importance of a college degree now versus 20 years ago vary by age
34% say it’s extremely or very likely someone without a degree could get a well-paying job today
A majority of Americans with at least a bachelor’s degree say their education was extremely or very useful in preparing them for a well-paying job
Nearly half of Americans say college is worth the cost only if someone doesn’t have to take out loans