New data from the Lumina Foundation’s “A Stronger Nation 2016” report indicate that the percentage of working age Americans (ages 25-64) who hold high-quality credentials beyond high school reached 45.3% nationally in 2014. That is an increase of 5.3% from 2013. Nearly all of the increase resulted from the inclusion, for the first time, of certificates – often awarded by community and technical colleges – in the base calculation. According to Lumina, nearly 5% of Americans hold high-quality postsecondary certificates. Despite the sharp increase, these rates remain short of Lumina’s “Goal 2025” that 60% of Americans obtain a high-quality postsecondary degree or credential by 2025.
The report also lists Washington as ranking among the top five states in attainment of a postsecondary credential (51.6%) – up from 42% in 2008. The inclusion of certificates added 7% to Washington’s overall attainment rate. Washington ranks behind only Massachusetts, Colorado, Connecticut, and Minnesota.
Council of Presidents 