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Mr.education study

iModerate
iModerate

The document summarizes research from interviews with recent graduates of both 4-year degree programs and 2-year/vocational programs as well as their parents about their perceptions of the value of higher education. Some key findings include: - While higher education is still seen as valuable, 4-year graduates want universities to better prepare students for careers through more hands-on learning and career guidance. - 2-year/vocational program graduates appreciate their more focused education but have uncertainty about career advancement long-term without additional degrees. - Graduates who are satisfied in their careers see the most value from their education while those struggling wish they had received more career support or chosen a different major. - Both

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Marketplace Insights Exploring the Value of Higher Ed with Grads and Parents
The Ultimate Question: Is Higher Education Still Worth It? We explored: We discovered: Are the costs for school worth the value students get from their degree? Higher education is still worth it, but changes to expectations must be made. With so much uncertainty and instability, even amid economic recovery, perceptions of the value of higher education warrant a closer look. This study captures a glimpse into the hopes, aspirations, experiences, and regrets of todays traditional four-year, two-year, vocational graduates and their parents. Despite the high cost and relatively low short-term payoff, most feel that the pursuit of higher education is even more valuable today than in the past. Graduates and parents expect higher education to lead to better job opportunities and provide students with a well-rounded experience. We explored: 牟 The opportunities grads expect from different types of institutions 牟 Their degree selections and subsequent career alignment 牟 Post-graduation reflections of the value of higher education 牟 Grads advice for other prospective students and parents about to embark on the journey With very clear expectations two-year graduates find success and happiness early on, however those with a four-year degree were more divided in how they perceived their success due to less clearly defined expectations. In the end, both graduates and parents alike advise others to be more deliberate in their decision of what the path after high school looks like. Specifically addressing the failure some four-year graduates felt in the real world, they suggested that in order to extract full value from a four-year degree, both students and institutions should take a page from the pragmatic approach of the two-year student/institution. 2
Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Defining Value Graduates measure the value of higher education by what they gain mentally, emotionally, professionally, financially, and even spiritually. Success means forming new relationships, becoming a responsible adult, finding a fulfilling career, and making enough money to live comfortably. Skill building: Self-Fulfillment: Educational learning Forming new relationships Career success: Finding a fulfilling career Economic Comfort: Making enough money to live comfortably I think value in higher education comes in the form of what you learn and the life experiences you gain while you are there. Learning, meeting new people, discovering life (living on your own, paying bills), etc. Value to me is being able to do a job that I enjoy, something I look forward to everyday, something that allows me to provide for my family. Recent four-year grad, female, 30-34 Recent four-year grad, female, 30-34 3
Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Goal Is a Well-Rounded College Experience With a four-year degree, graduates (and parents) expect a more well-rounded, richer experience. Diversity Independence Organizations/Clubs Self Discovery Networking Studying Abroad [I expected] the opportunity to live on my own, so to speak. Right out of high school, I wanted to live the college life (have a roommate, live on my own away from home). I wanted a quality education and a chance to cut the cord from childhood and become an adult. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 4
Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Richer Experience, De-emphasized Career Goals Four-year grads employment expectations are as broadly defined as their expectations of the entire college experience. They are uncertain about their specific career path, but they consider future employment when selecting a degree/program. four-year graduates view degrees in business and finance as having a high likelihood of employmenteven if they dont exactly know what they want to do. While in school, they might pair these degrees with a second majorsometimes in liberal arts to either hone in on a specific interest, or broaden their occupational horizons. I always liked math and stuff like that, and I got involved in a mock stock market program at my high school that really made me interested in financial investment. I knew a finance degree would lead to a job easier than maybe a humanities degree. Recent four-year grad, male, 25-29 5
Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate A Degree Will Do They expect their diploma alone will get them a job. Some graduates overestimate the power of a degree in and of itself. They assume that a degree alone is the only preparation required for an entry-level position in their respective fields. In fact, many recent four-year grads went through college assuming that classes alone were enough to make them employable, seemingly oblivious to the vitality of practical application as one piece to a well-rounded, traditional college experience. I graduated with a communications and political science double major. I looked for a job intensely, was obviously unable to find one in my fields. [] I felt that [the education itself] was enough for me to get the job I wanted. If I had it to do over again, I would focus on an education and training program (vocational school). Recent four-year grad, male, 30-34 6
Mindset of the Associates/Vocational Graduate: Defining Value Two-year/vocational grads and their parents have defining factors that determine their choice in educational institutions. The value for them is related to their circumstances. Age Life circumstances typically dictate the decision to pursue a degree from a two-year or vocational school. Particularly for those 25 years and older, it makes sense to choose a shorter, less expensive program that fits around their work/ family schedule. Financial Situation Students with family, outside obligations or those who cant afford the high tuition of traditional four- year programs, need an education that doesnt break the bank. Learning Style Parents of two-year and vocational graduates want to accommodate children who dont thrive in a traditional classroom environment. These students need a hands-on, expeditious experience that successfully prepares them for a specific career. Focus They have a specific career in mind and want to enter the workforce quickly. Grads see a very tangible opportunity to make money doing something they enjoy. Parents echo the sentiment that the twoyear/vocational approach naturally leads to career success. I chose the quickest way to get a degree from the best school I could because I am a working dad. Timing and proximity greatly impacted my decision. [My son got] a more enjoyable learning experience as he would not be in a traditional classroom setting for extended periods of time. It was a quick program with the promise of job placement assistance and they sure delivered. Recent assoc/vocational grad, male, 35-39 Parent of recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 35-39 7
Mindset of the Associates/Vocational Graduate: Nice Start, Uncertain Future Recent graduates believe that initially they can earn just as much (if not more) with their degree than their counterparts with bachelors degrees. However, their future potential is uncertain. Among this group, there is still concern that employers will not appreciate or accept these two-year degrees and certificates. And regardless of the opportunities afforded them, graduates of community colleges and vocational schools still equate higher degrees with higher pay. In fact, many of them plan to continue on for a bachelors in the near future. A smart decision, as CNN Money reports that earnings potential shifts back to four-year degree holders over the span of a career. I wanted to go for my bachelors, but decided that I should start off with my associate degree. Now I am thinking of pursuing my bachelors. I would like to get a better job position, make more money and, overall, advance my knowledge. Recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 18-24 8
Measuring Success: Satisfaction with Higher Education Both vocational, associates and four-year graduates who are happy with their job situations express the most satisfaction with their education Many recent four-year grads are happy with their decision to attend school and improve their prospects. A degree means increased pay and endless opportunities. The two-year and vocational grads and their parents echo that satisfaction and optimism. They, too, report increased pay, as well as a desire to seek out other professional (or educational) opportunities in the future. Job satisfaction Education satisfaction My current job with the degree requires less physical work and allows me to have more energy when I get home. My future for myself and my family will be far better. I will be able to provide more and help save for retirement and college savings. Studying Philosophy allowed me to really sharpen my critical thinking and inductive reasoning skills. I also learned multi-dimensional problem solving. Also, studying Philosophy really heightened my reading and writing skills. I learned how to communicate effectively, as well as form original, creative solutions to problems. Recent assoc/vocational grad, male, 35-39 Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 9
Measuring Success: Satisfaction with Higher Education Four-year graduates who have struggled post-college are happy with the skills they have gained, but are often dissatisfied with their schools involvement and regret their choice of major. Schools could have done more Choosing wrong major Looking back on their experiences, some four-year graduates feel that their respective schools could have done much more to prepare them to enter the workforce. Broadly, they recall having to be self-motivated to get ahead in networking, internships, and post-grad employment. Pursuing a richer experience deemphasizes career goals. Though in the minority, some graduates dont prioritize future employment at all when selecting a major or program of study. Instead, they simply choose something that interests themtypically, within the realm of liberal arts. What they make of the degree is up to them, of course. Instead, they wish that a more formal structure had been in place to expose them to employment opportunities and networking, as well as instruct them on how to proceed professionally post-graduation. I chose philosophy because I thought it was interesting, and I still maintain that feeling. But if I thought about jobs when I was choosing a major, then I wouldve chosen this as a minor. Recent four-year grad, male, 18-24 Additionally, parents question less practical degrees, even if they dont vocalize this opposition to their children. Overall, parents just want their kids to be happy, but wish they wouldnt waste money on unused degrees in the process. . I graduated from New York University with a BFA in Film & TV Production. I had an okay experience at NYU, but I feel like the school did very little as far as preparing us (at least the people in my major) for actually being employed after we graduated. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 10
Summary: The Pursuit of Higher Education Remains Valuable Neither graduates nor parents feel a continued education should be passed over in todays world. Perhaps the most important and all-encompassing takeaway of the study is that despite a severe economic downturn and the pessimism that has emerged from it, graduates of higher education continue to feel that knowledge is power. Not only do they see its value in their own lives, but they want their children one day to pursue it as well and avoid the limitations of a life sans a degree. Parents of recent grads believe that the value of a degree continues to grow compared to when they were young, and that its incredibly important for all kids to have access to higher education. Their only concern is that college is becoming too cost prohibitive. Additionally, advanced degrees are becoming more expectedwhich also equates to more costs. I think it is important to keep reaching for more knowledge and learn as much as possible. Higher education is so important today and will continue to be that way I believe for years to come. An education pays in the end. If your kid is not up to a traditional college, find something that fits. The payback is huge. There are almost ZERO jobs that will hire without education now at a decent pay rate!!! Back in my day, you could work yourself up. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 Parent of recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 35-39 11
Recommendations From Parents & Grads Four-year institutions face the challenge of providing a traditional experience with the same pragmatism boasted by two-year and vocational schools to better equip tomorrows workforce for an ever-changing economic landscape. Higher Institution Guidance Student Responsibility Parental Obligation Four-year graduates and parents recommend institutions emphasize a more practical career application similar to what is interwoven into vocational and two-year programs. Graduates recommend that prospective students take the time to research options and ensure that they will be employable and happy. Parents recommend exploring all options, researching, and finding a balance between supporting a childs choices and pushing them to succeed. 牟 Recommend internships 牟 Provide networking opportunities/ suggestions 牟 Offer career counseling that aligns interests with realistic career goals 牟 Put time, thought and research Into their decision 牟 Work hard 牟 Choose a path that is both enjoyable and lucrativebut also realistic 牟 Respect childs choices and interests, but give practical advice 牟 Explore all optionseven the two-year and vocational schoolsto find the best and most affordable route 牟 Stress importance of internships and job placement 12
ThoughtPath Project Specifics iModerate conducted 82 conversations with a mix of four-year graduates and associate/vocational graduates who had obtained a college degree between 2010-2013. We also spoke to parents. All participants were 18 years or older. Our qualitative research is based on a cognitive approach called ThoughtPath. Drawing on three select cognitive theories, ThoughtPath enables our skilled moderators to get into each consumers head and discover whats most important to them, whats not, and why. Lets Talk: 303-333-7880 720 S. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 500N Denver, CO 80246 imoderate.com CONFIDENTIAL 13

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Mr.education study

  • 1. Marketplace Insights Exploring the Value of Higher Ed with Grads and Parents
  • 2. The Ultimate Question: Is Higher Education Still Worth It? We explored: We discovered: Are the costs for school worth the value students get from their degree? Higher education is still worth it, but changes to expectations must be made. With so much uncertainty and instability, even amid economic recovery, perceptions of the value of higher education warrant a closer look. This study captures a glimpse into the hopes, aspirations, experiences, and regrets of todays traditional four-year, two-year, vocational graduates and their parents. Despite the high cost and relatively low short-term payoff, most feel that the pursuit of higher education is even more valuable today than in the past. Graduates and parents expect higher education to lead to better job opportunities and provide students with a well-rounded experience. We explored: 牟 The opportunities grads expect from different types of institutions 牟 Their degree selections and subsequent career alignment 牟 Post-graduation reflections of the value of higher education 牟 Grads advice for other prospective students and parents about to embark on the journey With very clear expectations two-year graduates find success and happiness early on, however those with a four-year degree were more divided in how they perceived their success due to less clearly defined expectations. In the end, both graduates and parents alike advise others to be more deliberate in their decision of what the path after high school looks like. Specifically addressing the failure some four-year graduates felt in the real world, they suggested that in order to extract full value from a four-year degree, both students and institutions should take a page from the pragmatic approach of the two-year student/institution. 2
  • 3. Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Defining Value Graduates measure the value of higher education by what they gain mentally, emotionally, professionally, financially, and even spiritually. Success means forming new relationships, becoming a responsible adult, finding a fulfilling career, and making enough money to live comfortably. Skill building: Self-Fulfillment: Educational learning Forming new relationships Career success: Finding a fulfilling career Economic Comfort: Making enough money to live comfortably I think value in higher education comes in the form of what you learn and the life experiences you gain while you are there. Learning, meeting new people, discovering life (living on your own, paying bills), etc. Value to me is being able to do a job that I enjoy, something I look forward to everyday, something that allows me to provide for my family. Recent four-year grad, female, 30-34 Recent four-year grad, female, 30-34 3
  • 4. Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Goal Is a Well-Rounded College Experience With a four-year degree, graduates (and parents) expect a more well-rounded, richer experience. Diversity Independence Organizations/Clubs Self Discovery Networking Studying Abroad [I expected] the opportunity to live on my own, so to speak. Right out of high school, I wanted to live the college life (have a roommate, live on my own away from home). I wanted a quality education and a chance to cut the cord from childhood and become an adult. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 4
  • 5. Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate: Richer Experience, De-emphasized Career Goals Four-year grads employment expectations are as broadly defined as their expectations of the entire college experience. They are uncertain about their specific career path, but they consider future employment when selecting a degree/program. four-year graduates view degrees in business and finance as having a high likelihood of employmenteven if they dont exactly know what they want to do. While in school, they might pair these degrees with a second majorsometimes in liberal arts to either hone in on a specific interest, or broaden their occupational horizons. I always liked math and stuff like that, and I got involved in a mock stock market program at my high school that really made me interested in financial investment. I knew a finance degree would lead to a job easier than maybe a humanities degree. Recent four-year grad, male, 25-29 5
  • 6. Mindset of the Four-Year Graduate A Degree Will Do They expect their diploma alone will get them a job. Some graduates overestimate the power of a degree in and of itself. They assume that a degree alone is the only preparation required for an entry-level position in their respective fields. In fact, many recent four-year grads went through college assuming that classes alone were enough to make them employable, seemingly oblivious to the vitality of practical application as one piece to a well-rounded, traditional college experience. I graduated with a communications and political science double major. I looked for a job intensely, was obviously unable to find one in my fields. [] I felt that [the education itself] was enough for me to get the job I wanted. If I had it to do over again, I would focus on an education and training program (vocational school). Recent four-year grad, male, 30-34 6
  • 7. Mindset of the Associates/Vocational Graduate: Defining Value Two-year/vocational grads and their parents have defining factors that determine their choice in educational institutions. The value for them is related to their circumstances. Age Life circumstances typically dictate the decision to pursue a degree from a two-year or vocational school. Particularly for those 25 years and older, it makes sense to choose a shorter, less expensive program that fits around their work/ family schedule. Financial Situation Students with family, outside obligations or those who cant afford the high tuition of traditional four- year programs, need an education that doesnt break the bank. Learning Style Parents of two-year and vocational graduates want to accommodate children who dont thrive in a traditional classroom environment. These students need a hands-on, expeditious experience that successfully prepares them for a specific career. Focus They have a specific career in mind and want to enter the workforce quickly. Grads see a very tangible opportunity to make money doing something they enjoy. Parents echo the sentiment that the twoyear/vocational approach naturally leads to career success. I chose the quickest way to get a degree from the best school I could because I am a working dad. Timing and proximity greatly impacted my decision. [My son got] a more enjoyable learning experience as he would not be in a traditional classroom setting for extended periods of time. It was a quick program with the promise of job placement assistance and they sure delivered. Recent assoc/vocational grad, male, 35-39 Parent of recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 35-39 7
  • 8. Mindset of the Associates/Vocational Graduate: Nice Start, Uncertain Future Recent graduates believe that initially they can earn just as much (if not more) with their degree than their counterparts with bachelors degrees. However, their future potential is uncertain. Among this group, there is still concern that employers will not appreciate or accept these two-year degrees and certificates. And regardless of the opportunities afforded them, graduates of community colleges and vocational schools still equate higher degrees with higher pay. In fact, many of them plan to continue on for a bachelors in the near future. A smart decision, as CNN Money reports that earnings potential shifts back to four-year degree holders over the span of a career. I wanted to go for my bachelors, but decided that I should start off with my associate degree. Now I am thinking of pursuing my bachelors. I would like to get a better job position, make more money and, overall, advance my knowledge. Recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 18-24 8
  • 9. Measuring Success: Satisfaction with Higher Education Both vocational, associates and four-year graduates who are happy with their job situations express the most satisfaction with their education Many recent four-year grads are happy with their decision to attend school and improve their prospects. A degree means increased pay and endless opportunities. The two-year and vocational grads and their parents echo that satisfaction and optimism. They, too, report increased pay, as well as a desire to seek out other professional (or educational) opportunities in the future. Job satisfaction Education satisfaction My current job with the degree requires less physical work and allows me to have more energy when I get home. My future for myself and my family will be far better. I will be able to provide more and help save for retirement and college savings. Studying Philosophy allowed me to really sharpen my critical thinking and inductive reasoning skills. I also learned multi-dimensional problem solving. Also, studying Philosophy really heightened my reading and writing skills. I learned how to communicate effectively, as well as form original, creative solutions to problems. Recent assoc/vocational grad, male, 35-39 Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 9
  • 10. Measuring Success: Satisfaction with Higher Education Four-year graduates who have struggled post-college are happy with the skills they have gained, but are often dissatisfied with their schools involvement and regret their choice of major. Schools could have done more Choosing wrong major Looking back on their experiences, some four-year graduates feel that their respective schools could have done much more to prepare them to enter the workforce. Broadly, they recall having to be self-motivated to get ahead in networking, internships, and post-grad employment. Pursuing a richer experience deemphasizes career goals. Though in the minority, some graduates dont prioritize future employment at all when selecting a major or program of study. Instead, they simply choose something that interests themtypically, within the realm of liberal arts. What they make of the degree is up to them, of course. Instead, they wish that a more formal structure had been in place to expose them to employment opportunities and networking, as well as instruct them on how to proceed professionally post-graduation. I chose philosophy because I thought it was interesting, and I still maintain that feeling. But if I thought about jobs when I was choosing a major, then I wouldve chosen this as a minor. Recent four-year grad, male, 18-24 Additionally, parents question less practical degrees, even if they dont vocalize this opposition to their children. Overall, parents just want their kids to be happy, but wish they wouldnt waste money on unused degrees in the process. . I graduated from New York University with a BFA in Film & TV Production. I had an okay experience at NYU, but I feel like the school did very little as far as preparing us (at least the people in my major) for actually being employed after we graduated. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 10
  • 11. Summary: The Pursuit of Higher Education Remains Valuable Neither graduates nor parents feel a continued education should be passed over in todays world. Perhaps the most important and all-encompassing takeaway of the study is that despite a severe economic downturn and the pessimism that has emerged from it, graduates of higher education continue to feel that knowledge is power. Not only do they see its value in their own lives, but they want their children one day to pursue it as well and avoid the limitations of a life sans a degree. Parents of recent grads believe that the value of a degree continues to grow compared to when they were young, and that its incredibly important for all kids to have access to higher education. Their only concern is that college is becoming too cost prohibitive. Additionally, advanced degrees are becoming more expectedwhich also equates to more costs. I think it is important to keep reaching for more knowledge and learn as much as possible. Higher education is so important today and will continue to be that way I believe for years to come. An education pays in the end. If your kid is not up to a traditional college, find something that fits. The payback is huge. There are almost ZERO jobs that will hire without education now at a decent pay rate!!! Back in my day, you could work yourself up. Recent four-year grad, female, 25-29 Parent of recent assoc/vocational grad, female, 35-39 11
  • 12. Recommendations From Parents & Grads Four-year institutions face the challenge of providing a traditional experience with the same pragmatism boasted by two-year and vocational schools to better equip tomorrows workforce for an ever-changing economic landscape. Higher Institution Guidance Student Responsibility Parental Obligation Four-year graduates and parents recommend institutions emphasize a more practical career application similar to what is interwoven into vocational and two-year programs. Graduates recommend that prospective students take the time to research options and ensure that they will be employable and happy. Parents recommend exploring all options, researching, and finding a balance between supporting a childs choices and pushing them to succeed. 牟 Recommend internships 牟 Provide networking opportunities/ suggestions 牟 Offer career counseling that aligns interests with realistic career goals 牟 Put time, thought and research Into their decision 牟 Work hard 牟 Choose a path that is both enjoyable and lucrativebut also realistic 牟 Respect childs choices and interests, but give practical advice 牟 Explore all optionseven the two-year and vocational schoolsto find the best and most affordable route 牟 Stress importance of internships and job placement 12
  • 13. ThoughtPath Project Specifics iModerate conducted 82 conversations with a mix of four-year graduates and associate/vocational graduates who had obtained a college degree between 2010-2013. We also spoke to parents. All participants were 18 years or older. Our qualitative research is based on a cognitive approach called ThoughtPath. Drawing on three select cognitive theories, ThoughtPath enables our skilled moderators to get into each consumers head and discover whats most important to them, whats not, and why. Lets Talk: 303-333-7880 720 S. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 500N Denver, CO 80246 imoderate.com CONFIDENTIAL 13