Attainment Levels

About this Indicator

This indicator measures the percentage of adults in selected age groups who have attained a postsecondary credential. Postsecondary attainment is based on the highest credential completed beyond high school, including an industry-recognized certification, a sub-baccalaureate certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree or higher. “Any credential” includes all certifications (2018 and after), certificates, and degrees. The indicator also shows the percentage of adults who have completed some college coursework or credit but not a credential. Postsecondary attainment levels are presented for adults ages 25 to 34, 25 to 44, and 25 to 64.

Data Source

Associate degree and higher attainment: U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey one-year estimates: Sex by age by educational attainment for the population 18 years and over.

Certificate/certification attainment rate: Lumina Foundation. A stronger nation: Learning beyond high school builds American talent.

Note. The estimate for 2020 is not reported due to data collection problems that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry-recognized certification attainment rate is measured for 2018 and after.