College Enrollment Statistics: 2025 Data by State, Race, Gender & Age

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Recent college enrollment statistics reveal that fewer students are pursuing higher education. In many cases, this is due to financial difficulties or the need to immediately earn a living, among many others. Plus, with so many successful college dropouts, many have also gone on to pursue passions that do not require a degree. And this may affect how many college students are there in the US that do plan to graduate.

The National Clearinghouse Research Center echoes this when they showed that the average college enrollment in the country is continually on a downward trajectory (Nietzel, 2021). In fact, the number of enrolled college students in 2021, alone, decreased by 600,000 compared to 2020. This is also evident in the recent college dropout rate and is alarming when you take into consideration the college demographics by race.

To help you further understand this concern, this guide will provide you with statistical data on college enrollment per degree and per state. Moreover, this report will highlight college student demographics, with emphasis on student ethnicity, gender, and age. It is hoped that policymakers, school directors, teachers, and students will find this guide helpful in their undertaking to increase college attendance rates.

College Enrollment Statistics for 2025 Table of Contents

College Enrollment by Degree for 2025
College Enrollment by State for 2025
College Enrollment via Online Education for 2025
Are certificate programs a strategic pathway for rapid career advancement?
College Student Demographics for 2025
Emerging Role of Accelerated Programs in College Enrollment
How can accelerated associate degree programs boost enrollment amid economic challenges?
How does institutional quality influence enrollment decisions?
Are vocational and trade programs a viable alternative to traditional college pathways?
How can financial support initiatives impact college enrollment trends?
What role do advanced degree options play in shaping enrollment outcomes?
How are digital innovations and industry alliances shaping student enrollment?

College Enrollment by Degree for 2025

The overall college enrollment this spring is only 16.9 million students, which is a 3.5% decrease from 2020. Data shows that among the types of college degrees, enrollment at the undergraduate level is at 727,000, which is a 4.9% decrease from last year.

Associate Degree

There are 4.25 million students seeking an associate degree across all institutions.
Associate degree enrollments dropped by 10.9%.
There is a 9.5% decrease in the enrollment rate in community colleges. This is equivalent to 476,000 fewer students.
Community colleges lost 65% of their total undergraduate enrollment.
The largest decrease in college enrollment is in the field of visual and performing arts, which is at 18.1%.
A 16.7% decrease in college enrollment is reported in the field of security services.
A 14.1% decrease in college enrollment is reported in the field of interdisciplinary studies.
A 4.8% increase in college enrollment rate is reported in the field of legal professions.
A 0.8% increase in college enrollment is reported in the field of psychology.

Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor’s degree enrollment dropped by 2.2%.
Most majors declined in college enrollment by 5%.
The largest decrease in college enrollment per major is in English, which is at 10.2%.
An 8.7% decrease in college enrollment was reported in the field of communications and journalism.
College enrollment rates in physical sciences dropped by 7.6%.
A 7.4% decrease in college enrollment rate is reported in liberal arts and humanities majors.
The largest increase in college enrollment per major, which is at 4.8%, is in the field of psychology, followed by a 3% increase in the field of computer sciences. The rising popularity of these fields of study may have much to do with the careers available. For instance, what can you do with a psychology degree? The answer is a lot as it can provide entry into corporate settings, healthcare organizations, and positions in education.

Graduate Degrees

Master’s degree enrollment increased by 5.2%.
Doctoral degree enrollment increased by 3.6%.
124,000 more students, equivalent to a 4.6% increase, enrolled in the graduate level.
An 8.2% increase in enrollment rates is reported in education doctoral degree programs.
A 3.7% increase in enrollment rates is reported in education master’s programs.

What role does student mental health play in college enrollment trends?

Student mental health has become a growing factor influencing college enrollment patterns. The increasing awareness of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, has significantly impacted students’ decisions regarding higher education.

Mental health services availability: Colleges with robust mental health support services may attract more students who prioritize well-being alongside academics.
Impact on dropout rates: Mental health struggles are a leading cause of college dropout rates, with many students choosing to pause or leave their studies due to overwhelming stress.
Flexible learning options: The rise of online education offers flexibility, allowing students to manage mental health while pursuing their degrees. This has contributed to an increase in online enrollment.
Stigma reduction efforts: Schools that actively address mental health stigma and provide counseling and wellness programs may see higher retention and enrollment rates.

College Enrollment by State 2025

Most states had a decline in college enrolment both at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The steepest decline in college enrollment was reported in the West, with a 7.3% drop. This is followed by a 6.9% decrease in how many people go to college in the Northeast and a 6.2% decrease in the Midwest.

In terms of college student population, the picture is slightly different. Grawe (2018) reported in JHU: “The college-aged populations in most Northeast and Midwestern states will substantially decline, while the same populations in Mountain, Western North Central, and South Atlantic states will increase." Below are highlights of college enrollment statistics by university research.

Northeast

Maine

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 81%, which is a 6% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage of a four-year degree in a public institution is at 95.1%, which is a 2.1% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage of a two-year degree in a public institution is at 83.7%, which is a 10.2% drop from last year.

Connecticut

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 79.7%, which is a 2.0% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 98.7%, which is a 1.5% drop from last year.

Vermont

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 87.2%, which is a 1.0% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 87.9%, which is a 3.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 92.4%, which is a 4.4% drop from last year.

Massachusetts

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 73.1%, which is a 0.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 96.5%, which is a 3.4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 88.8%, which is a 15.2% drop from last year.

New Hampshire

The largest increase in college enrollment was reported in New Hampshire, which is at 10.8%.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 78.6%, which is a 2.8% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 96.8%, which is a 9.5% drop from last year.

New Jersey

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 83.3%, which is a 4.0% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 83.6%, which is a 1.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 83%, which is a 14.6% drop from last year.

New York

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 86%, which is a 4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 80%, which is a 2.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 89.7%, which is a 15.2% drop from last year.

Pennsylvania

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 79%, which is a 2.4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 88.8%, which is a 14.1% drop from last year.

Rhode Island

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 81.7%, which is a 1.8% drop from last year

Southeast

Alabama

Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 92.8%, which is a 0.1% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 71.3%, which is a 9% drop from last year.

Arkansas

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 89.6%, which is a 1.4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 87.8%, which is a 3.9% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 71.3%, which is a 9% drop from last year.

Arizona

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 89.1%, which is a 3.3% drop from last year
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 98.4%, which is a 3.9% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 87.6%, which is a 15.8% drop from last year

Delaware

A 7.7% decrease in college enrollment is reported in Delaware.

Florida

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 75.9%, which is a 0.4% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 94.9%, which is a 3.4% drop from last year
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 70.4%, which is a 10.6% drop from last year

Georgia

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 75.4%, which is a 2.3% drop from last year
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is 82.4%, which is a 2.5% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 83.9%, which is a 12.6% drop from last year.

Kentucky

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 96.7%, which is a 2.1% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 72.4%, which is a 0.6% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 97.5%, which is a 14.6% drop from last year.

Louisiana

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 94.1%, which is a 0.2% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 71.7%, which is a 3.1% increase from last year.

Maryland

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 78.1%, which is a 6% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 67.3%, which is an 8.5% drop from last year.

Mississippi

Enrollment in graduate programs increased in 41 states. The highest growth rate is in Mississippi, with an 18.8% increase.
Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 86.3%, which is a 3.6% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 81.9%, which is an 11.2 drop from last year.

North Carolina

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 89.8%, which is a 1.1% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 83.3%, which is a 0.3% drop from last year.

South Carolina

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 67.9%, which is a 2.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 98.9%, which is a 0.2% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 69.7%, which is a 7.7% drop from last year.

Tennessee

Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 87.6%, which is a 0.6% increase from last year

Virginia

A 1.3% increase in college enrollment was reported in Virginia.
A 12.6% increase in enrollment in graduate programs was reported in Virginia.
Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 80.4%, which is a 6.1% increase from last year

West Virginia

College enrollment rates increased by 2.8% in West Virginia.
Enrollment in graduate programs increased by 11.7% in West Virginia.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 92%, which is a 2.6% drop from last year
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 97.2%, which is a 13.1% drop from last year

Midwest

Illinois

Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 97.7%, which is a 1.6% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 80.9%, which is a 13% drop from last year.

Indiana

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 69.4%, which is a 2.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 75.7%, which is a 4.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 97.2%, which is a 10.1% drop from last year.

Iowa

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 83.2%, which is a 2.2% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 99.8%, which is a 4.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage of for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 95.4%, which is a 9.3% drop from last year.

Kansas

The college enrollment rate in Kansas decreased by 6.3%.
Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 76.1%, which is a 13.1% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 96.5%, which is a 3.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 91.4%, which is a 10.2% drop from last year

Michigan

The enrollment rate in Michigan declined by 6.4%.

Minnesota

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 92.1%, which is a 2% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 99.3%, which is a 3.7% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 87.5%, which is a 7.9% drop from last year

Missouri

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 76.9%, which is a 4.1% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 97.5%, which is a 2.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 78.9%, which is a 10.7% drop from last year.

Nebraska

A 2.4% increase in college enrollment was reported in Nebraska.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 99.1%, which is a 2.2% increase from last year.

North Dakota

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 92.7%, which is a 1.1% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 97.8%, which is a 1.6% drop from last year.

Ohio

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 83.7%, which is a 2.7% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 97.6%, which is a 3.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 90.2%, which is a 9.1% drop from last year.

South Dakota

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 91.1%, which is a 3.7% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 83%, which is a 2.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 95.9%, which is a 2.9% drop from last year.

Wisconsin

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 85.4%, which is a 5.8% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 76.9%, which is a 2.0% drop from last year.

Southwest

New Mexico

The largest decline in college enrollment, which is at 11.4%, is seen in New Mexico.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 85.7%, which is a 7.4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 86.3%, which is a 17.4% drop from last year.

Oklahoma

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 82%, which is a 2.8% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 92.3%, which is a 1.7% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 96.1%, which is a 10.8% drop from last year.

Texas

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 89.6%, which is a 1.4% increase from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 90.5%, which is a 0.9% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 74.6%, which is an 8.2% drop from last year.

West

California

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 66%, which is a 3.8% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 68.6%, which is a 12.3% drop from last year.

Colorado

Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 91.9%, which is a 4.4% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 97.5%, which is a 12.8% drop from last year.

Montana

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 72.1%, which is a 10.9% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 92.3%, which is a 4.5% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 85.7%, which is a 2.9% drop from last year.

Nevada

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 98%, which is a 7.9% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a four-year degree in a public institution is at 95.1%, which is a 4.3% drop from last year.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 97.6%, which is a 10.8% drop from last year.

Oregon

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 74.7%, which is a 9% drop from last year.

Utah

College enrollment rates increased by 4.7% in Utah.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 93.5%, which is a 6.5% drop from last year.

Washington

Enrollment coverage in private, non-profit institutions is at 84.5%, which is a 4.2% drop from last year.

Wyoming

A 6.2% decrease in college enrollment rate was seen in Wyoming.
Enrollment coverage for a two-year degree in a public institution is at 88.8%, which is a 9.7% drop from last year.

College Enrollment via Online Education 2025

Aside from the affordable online colleges popping up nowadays, many prestigious colleges and universities now offer online education as an alternative to traditional schooling. At present, there are more than 275 online universities that are accredited in the country including institutions that offer an online psychology degree in Texas. Here are statistics on how many people are in college online.

Six million students are enrolled in online education.
68% of students enrolled in online education are returning students and working adults.
Only 46% of online students are full-time students.
22% of graduate students pursue their degrees through online education.
30% of college students have enrolled in one or more online courses.
There was a 7% increase in college enrollment in online institutions for various fields of study like online MSW programs.
39% of college freshmen prefer to take their online classes at home, while 30% want to take classes in a hybrid setup
33% of online students completed their coursework using their smartphones and tablets

Are certificate programs a strategic pathway for rapid career advancement?

In response to evolving industry demands, certificate programs have emerged as a focused alternative to traditional degrees by delivering targeted, job-specific skills in a shorter timeframe. These programs enable professionals to quickly acquire competencies that are immediately applicable in competitive job markets, often leading to accelerated career progression. Employers increasingly value specialized training that directly aligns with current sector needs, making concise educational pathways both efficient and cost-effective. For more detailed insights on the potential benefits, consider exploring certificate programs that pay well.

College Student Demographics 2025

Below is a breakdown of the percentage of college students by race, gender, and age. You can use college enrollment by race and gender statistics to gain insights into the inequalities present. Hopefully, you can use the gender and racial demographics of college students to create policies that provide equal opportunities for everyone.

Race

55% of enrolled college students are White, a long-term trend in college attendance by race statistics in the United States.
The enrollment rate of Native Americans dropped by 13%.
The enrollment rate of Black Americans dropped by 8.8%.
The enrollment rate of White Americans dropped by 8.5%.
The enrollment rate of Latin Americans dropped by 7.3%.
The enrollment rate of Asians dropped by 4.8%.

Gender

College enrollment of men aged 18 to 20 years old decreased by 9.8%.
College enrollment of men aged 21 to 24 years old decreased by 7%.
College enrollment of men aged 25 to 29 years old decreased by 9.8%.
College enrollment of men aged 29 years old and above decreased by 9.5%.
Female enrollment decreased by 2% or a decrease of 203,000 female enrollees.
College enrollment of women aged 18 to 20 years old decreased by 5.8%.
College enrollment of women aged 21 to 24 years old decreased by3.4%.
College enrollment of women aged 25 to 29 years old decreased by 2.1%.
College enrollment of women aged 29 years old and above decreased by 2.0%.

Age

Students aged 18 to 20 years old comprise 40% of all college undergraduates.
The enrollment rate of college students aged 18 to 20 years old declined by 7.2%.
The enrollment rate of 18-to-20-year-old college students in community colleges declined by 14.6%.
The enrollment rate of college students aged 18 to 24 years old declined by 5%.
The enrollment rate of college students in community colleges declined by 13.2%.
The enrollment rate of adult college students aged 25 years and up declined by 1.2% or 75,000 students.
The enrollment rate of adult college students in four-year colleges increased by 2%.

How does online education affect enrollment trends?

Online education is playing a pivotal role in reshaping college enrollment trends. Over the past few years, the shift toward digital learning has become increasingly popular, especially among non-traditional students. Many individuals, including working professionals, parents, and those living in remote areas, are turning to online programs to further their education without disrupting their careers or family obligations.

One of the main benefits of online education is flexibility. Students can access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments from virtually anywhere. This flexibility allows students to balance their education with other responsibilities, contributing to the rise in online enrollments. In fact, approximately 68% of students in online programs are returning students or working adults, showcasing the significant role online education plays in enabling lifelong learning.

Additionally, online programs often offer more affordable tuition rates compared to traditional on-campus options. This affordability has become a driving factor for many students, particularly those seeking cost-effective higher education. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, you can explore the most affordable master's degree online to find programs that fit both your budget and academic goals.

As online education continues to evolve, its impact on enrollment trends is undeniable, providing a viable path for students who may have previously considered higher education out of reach.

Emerging Role of Accelerated Programs in College Enrollment

Accelerated degree programs are increasingly influencing college enrollment trends by offering students a faster, more efficient way to earn their degrees compared to traditional timelines. These programs are particularly appealing for individuals seeking to balance education with other commitments, such as full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or rapid career transitions.

One compelling example is the rise in popularity of online accelerated bachelor's degree programs. Unlike traditional four-year programs, these offerings can often be completed in as little as one to two years, depending on the student's prior credits and course load. This accelerated timeline not only reduces the cost of attendance for many students but also allows them to enter or reenter the workforce more quickly with their qualifications in hand.

Additionally, accelerated degree pathways leverage the flexibility of online education to accommodate diverse learners, including adult students and career changers. By condensing learning schedules while maintaining academic rigor, these programs combine efficiency with accessibility, enabling learners to pursue higher education without sacrificing personal or professional responsibilities.

How can accelerated associate degree programs boost enrollment amid economic challenges?

Accelerated associate degree programs offer a streamlined pathway for students who need to balance financial constraints and rapid entry into the workforce. These programs condense coursework into a shorter timeframe, enabling students to quickly attain relevant skills and reenter the labor market. Program structures that emphasize flexibility and condensed learning schedules often lead to increased enrollment among individuals seeking cost-effective and timely educational alternatives. For further details on program acceleration benefits, consider the quickest way to get an associate's degree.

How does institutional quality influence enrollment decisions?

Institutional quality, reflected through accreditation standards, faculty expertise, and research investments, plays a critical role in shaping enrollment decisions. Prospective students often evaluate institutions based on program reputations and documented outcomes, making transparent quality indicators essential. Moreover, targeted programs that combine flexibility with robust academic support—such as one year masters online—provide evidence of a responsive and high-caliber educational framework.

Are vocational and trade programs a viable alternative to traditional college pathways?

Data shows that alternative educational routes, such as vocational training and trade programs, are increasingly recognized for offering efficient pathways into competitive job markets. These programs equip students with focused skills that meet current industry demands and often lead to high earning potential in a shorter time frame. This shift not only addresses the skill gap in several sectors but also reinforces the value of non-traditional education in today’s dynamic workforce. For further insights on career outcomes from these paths, consider exploring trade school jobs that pay well.

How can financial support initiatives impact college enrollment trends?

Targeted financial assistance—including scholarships, grants, and affordable financing options—plays a pivotal role in alleviating economic constraints for prospective students. By ensuring that financial barriers are minimized, institutions are better positioned to attract a diverse range of applicants, ultimately enhancing enrollment figures. In addressing these challenges, some colleges have integrated accelerated online programs to reduce time-to-degree and overall costs, as exemplified by the quickest masters degree. This strategic approach not only streamlines pathways to advanced qualifications but also reinforces the value of sustained financial support in fostering equitable access to higher education.

What role do advanced degree options play in shaping enrollment outcomes?

Advanced degree options, including doctoral programs, are increasingly examined by prospective students aiming to enhance their professional trajectory. Institutions now offer varied pathways—both traditional and online—that emphasize specialized research and career-focused competencies. Innovative program structures provide flexibility and accelerated progress for candidates who require adaptive learning environments, while also ensuring rigorous academic standards. For instance, some programs promote efficient completion strategies, as seen with the easiest doctoral degree, catering to those pursuing a swift transition into research and leadership roles. Evaluating factors such as accreditation quality, curricular relevance, and faculty expertise remains essential for ensuring these advanced programs effectively contribute to long-term career advancement.

How are digital innovations and industry alliances shaping student enrollment?

Institutions are increasingly integrating digital tools with collaborative industry partnerships to enhance student engagement and streamline learning pathways. Advanced analytics, adaptive learning platforms, and virtual career events are empowering institutions to tailor academic programs toward emerging job market demands. Such initiatives not only optimize enrollment strategies, but also align educational outcomes with real-world skills, as evidenced by partnerships with online tech schools that offer specialized technical training.

Enrolling in College

Enrolling in postsecondary education can result in long-term financial security and job stability. It also gives you the opportunity to enhance your skills and make professional connections with other people. It is never too late to direct your energy towards a postsecondary education. You can start exploring what four-year or two-year degrees in your chosen college or university will best suit your personal and career goals.

Key Insights

Decreasing College Enrollment: College enrollment in the U.S. continues to decline, with a significant drop of 600,000 students in 2021 compared to the previous year.
Undergraduate Enrollment Drops: Enrollment at the undergraduate level decreased by 727,000, representing a 4.9% decline, with associate degree enrollments dropping by 10.9%.
Impact on Specific Fields: Visual and performing arts experienced the largest decrease in enrollment (18.1%), followed by security services (16.7%) and interdisciplinary studies (14.1%). In contrast, legal professions saw a 4.8% increase.
Bachelor’s Degree Enrollment: Enrollment for bachelor's degrees fell by 2.2%, with majors like English and communications experiencing significant declines. Psychology and computer sciences saw increases of 4.8% and 3%, respectively.
Graduate Degrees on the Rise: Master’s degree enrollment increased by 5.2%, while doctoral degree enrollment rose by 3.6%.
Regional Variations: The West saw the steepest decline in college enrollment at 7.3%, followed by the Northeast (6.9%) and the Midwest (6.2%).
Online Education Growth: Six million students are enrolled in online education, with 68% being returning students and working adults. Online enrollment saw a 7% increase across various fields of study.
Demographic Shifts: Enrollment rates have decreased across most racial groups, with Native Americans experiencing the largest drop (13%). Gender-wise, male enrollment decreased more significantly compared to female enrollment.

FAQ

What is the current trend in college enrollment in the U.S.? College enrollment in the U.S. is on a downward trajectory, with a notable decrease of 600,000 students in 2021 compared to 2020.
Which degree levels are experiencing the most significant enrollment declines? Undergraduate enrollment is particularly affected, with associate degree enrollments dropping by 10.9% and bachelor's degree enrollments by 2.2%.
How have specific fields of study been impacted by enrollment changes? Visual and performing arts saw an 18.1% decrease, security services a 16.7% decrease, and interdisciplinary studies a 14.1% decrease. Conversely, legal professions and psychology saw increases of 4.8% and 0.8%, respectively.
Are graduate programs affected by the declining enrollment trend? No, graduate programs have seen increased enrollment, with master's degrees up by 5.2% and doctoral degrees by 3.6%.
Which regions in the U.S. are experiencing the steepest declines in college enrollment? The West experienced the steepest decline at 7.3%, followed by the Northeast at 6.9% and the Midwest at 6.2%.
What is the trend in online education enrollment? Online education enrollment is growing, with six million students enrolled and a 7% increase in various fields of study. Most online students are returning students and working adults.
How are different racial groups affected by changes in college enrollment? Enrollment rates have declined across most racial groups, with Native Americans experiencing the largest drop at 13%, followed by Black Americans at 8.8%, and White Americans at 8.5%.
How has gender affected the enrollment trends? Male enrollment has decreased more significantly than female enrollment, with men aged 18 to 20 experiencing a 9.8% decline. Female enrollment decreased by 2% overall.
What are the age demographics of current college students? Students aged 18 to 20 comprise 40% of all college undergraduates. The enrollment rate for this age group declined by 7.2%, and for adult students aged 25 and up, it declined by 1.2%.
What are the benefits of enrolling in postsecondary education despite the declining trends? Postsecondary education provides long-term financial security, job stability, and opportunities for skill enhancement and professional networking. It's never too late to pursue a college degree that aligns with personal and career goals.