Non-Degree Credentials Deliver Significant Value and are Well Positioned to Increase Economic Mobility

Despite growing national focus among employers and institutions around the impact of sub-baccalaureate certificates and certifications on economic mobility, there has been limited evidence on those credentials’ economic value and their impact on individuals’ lives more broadly. This new study finds that adults with a certificate or certification, but no college degree, report greater marketability, employment rates, incomes, and happiness with their educational paths than adults without credentials. 

The “Certified Value: When do Adults without Degrees Benefit from Earning Certificates and Certifications?” report is the first in a series that will be produced in partnership between Strada Education Network and Lumina Foundation designed to better understand the educational experiences of adults without college degrees. Forthcoming reports will perform a deeper analysis of this population.