By Mark Richardson
Ohio News Connection

According to research from Lumina Foundation, the rate of U.S. high school seniors seeking higher education is on the upswing.

Although Ohio student rates are improving, the numbers show they still rank behind national figures. The foundation’s Stronger Nation report showed nearly 55% of American adults age 25 to 64 have a college degree or industry-recognized certification. Ohio’s attainment rate is almost 53%, 12 points shy of the 2025 goal for the state.

Teresa Lubbers, a Lumina Foundation board member and president of the Sagamore Institute, a think tank focusing on social impact issues, said the study was done with a sense of urgency.

“I don’t think that the salary alone can be the measure because some important jobs don’t have the pay that we think they should have,” Lubbers said. “But economic mobility is an important way to measure it, and all degrees and credentials should ensure economic mobility and meet workforce needs.”

The report specified a post-high school education as an associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree or an industry-recognized certificate. It noted 60% of adults in the United States will need a post-high school credential in training and a demonstrated competency in an employable skill.

Data classified by race and ethnicity showed progress across the board. The report found 31% of Black students either have an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree, while 45% of White students, 32% of Hispanic students and 66% of Asian students have obtained degrees.

Lubbers stressed it is important to compile the information.

“Whether it’s college readiness, college completion, dual credit, return on investment, the number of credentials and certificates, all of those things roll up to make the case for what we’re doing and what’s working,” Lubbers said.

The report recommended maintaining the current achievement figures and boosting enrollment numbers in credential-based institutions.

Pictured at top: With the inclusion of workforce certificates and certifications, Ohio’s overall rate of educational attainment has increased by 18.1% since 2009. (Adobe Stock)