Average Student Age on the Rise
The average student age in the U.S. has been climbing steadily in recent years. At both Harvard and Notre Dame the average age is now 27. The University of Phoenix, which offers both online and traditional degree programs, has an average student age of 35-37. On a larger scale thirty-eight percent of all college students are now 25 or older, according to a recent U.S Census Bureau report. So why has the average age been trending upward? There are several factors that have contributed to a more mature scholar.
Cost of Education: It’s no secret the cost of education has soared in recent years at a rate far greater than inflation. Tuition and fees at private four-year colleges have increased nearly tenfold in the past three decades. As a result many would-be students are electing to enter the workforce or military beforehand to help pay for their education.
Longer life expectancy: Fifty years ago the average life expectancy in the U.S. was 69.9. Today that figure is 78.1 (Japan is at 82.1). Longer life means more time in the workforce, and thus, more education needed to adapt to the changing environment.
Online Option: Online education provides the flexibility needed to make learning possible for adult students who would otherwise be unable to further their education. Of the University of Phoenix’s 400,000 students enrolled, 300,000 are online degree seekers.
More Grads: A graduate degree today is equivalent to a bachelors degree yesterday. The growing need for an MBA to help career advancement has led many back to the classroom. And when you consider the U.S. population is over 300 million that’s a whole lot of students knocking on that graduate door.
Baby Boomer Effect: With 401K plans devalued and social security only paying a fraction of the cost of living many baby boomers are in need of an educational overhaul. Versatility is the name of the game these days, and having a broad set of skill sets is required to secure and maintain employment.
Unemployment Benefits: With the unemployment rate at 9.4%, the highest it’s been in twenty-six years, more people are taking refuge in the classroom. The Workforce Investment Act, which is a government-funded program with the goal of providing adults with the money needed for the education, skills, and training they need to get and retain jobs, is being utilized more than ever before.
So if you’re feeling like you’re too old to go back to school, think again, the numbers are actually in your favor. So put down those oatmeal cookies and join me. I’ll even save a seat for ya.
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thx for the informations!
its a win win situation
Good opportunity for older people to turn to
Its great that you can go to college at any age!
I think its awsome that older people want to further their education!
i have noticed that lately but my grandmother went back to school and alot of my family is going for their back to grad sschool.
im happy that schools are allowing anyone to attend if they want to further their education. They dont have to be coming right out of high school to go college. Its a good thing that colleges are doing this.
Iam 19 and am a college freshman but there’s this guy in one of my classes who is like 85, he’s looks older that the teacher too. And he’s a college freshman too, talk about weird. But this article is so very true.
Thats so true at my sister school theres like a 60 year old man there. But if you have the money then they going to let you in. Its good that people still want to learn new things and stay up to date.
I, too have noticed a fair amount of adult students at my college. Most, though, are still young.
I think it is wonderful that more people are reaching out to get a better education by whatever means available. I am looking forward to the traditional college experience–tiny dorm rooms, meeting lots of friends, and growing up away from the parents.
This is good information to know.
I believe online classes are flexible. I’m not working yet but I have friends and lots of cousins who take online classes. They say its convenient especially when they get back from work in the early hours of dawn.
Always good to get that education especially with the requirements there are to get a good paying job these days
In this day and age it is hard to change from or get promoted in one’s line of work without a degree or even a second degree. Education is the new way out of the current financial difficulties of the times and it is sure is a difficult and expensive venture.
great information
wow super interesting
i think this is interesting for the fact that without a college degree of any kind it is difficult to get any kind of job and be successful.
This information is so true. And the more school you go through, the more successful you may become and the more likely you are to land a better job and have a better standard of living.
I’m 57 and just finishing up my first semester. Nothing like going back to school to wipe away all the cobwebs that have collected over the years.Not to mention the great shape I’m getting into chasing all the younglings around. It’s great….probably having the best time of my life and keeping my grades up too.
I am grateful that the education stay available for anybody who needs a second or third chance in life
it’s good to see older folks going to school.
It’s never to late I’m 49.
education is important through out our entire lives
Higher education leads to better lifestyle and standard of living.
I’m falling right into this category, I’m still very nervous about finding scholarships for Graduate school
I totally understand why the average age is increasing. People are having more opportunities to go back to college and earn degrees. Some people simply want to go back and learn, and since a lot of older people have extra time, they find it’s the best time to go back to school.
it’ll be tough to move in life without an education
interesting indeed,however its sad that we are sheltering from unemployment in the classroom!!
u know i already knew most of those points but to actually think that the average college aged person is that high is surprisingly shocking to me. I guess im just used to all the stereotipical movies…
My grandma (53) has recently enrolled and next year we’ll be attending the same college! So I guess there aint no party like my grandmas tea party! ha
I agree with the rises in the cost of education. Inflation has really taken a toll on people lately. Especially with school. There are so many people out there that deserve, and need a college education, but can’t afford it. Education should be a privledge, not a luxury.
I’m surprised that the author didn’t mention how having a college degree is becoming mandatory in most fields. Another point about the rise of age is that as a result of the economy many people have to reevaluate their lives and careers. People are being force to change careers therefore they need to go back to school to learn a new trade.
No matter if you are 18 or 68 everyone deserves a chance to get the education needed to pursue the career of their dreams or choice. But, you have to be willing to get your education that you need.
I thought it was too late to go school in your mid 30′s, I was wrong; it’s never too late.
Agreed!
education is for everyone and anyone willing to take the time and effort. My hand goes to those older and going back to school. go guys
education is good no matter what age its accomplished!
I hope to be a lifelong learner. It only makes sense to keep learning, making things fresh.
INTERESTING. IT IS IMPORTANT TO WORK HARD IN LICE
I want to go to college right away so that I can get into the field of education. I will need help financially, but it will be well worth it when I can be responsible for my own students.
I have noticed more and more older people in my classes…
With the unemployment rate so high. I don’t alot of people have any other choice. I think it is wonderful everyone can benefit from more education.
I don’t think age matters in fact i think its better to wait a little bit because nobody has it all figured out when they graduate high school. i think waiting a year or two will help give you a better understanding of yourself and what you will be happy doing for the rest of your life.
wow!!thats deep and sounds a little like my situation also….
I would encourage anyone to to back to school. Yes, the cost is crazy and unemployment is high but if you are going to pursue your passion then I think it it worth it. I am about to graduate and I am going to pursue a certificate in Public Health as well as obtaining my MPH. I know my passion is to help people, especially our youth and I belive that me pursing my passion will all be worth it in the end.
THE AGE DOESNT MATTER WHAT MATTERS IS THE EFFORT MADE.
It doesnt matter the age of the student as long as they are commited to their education.
It might be harder now because of our economic situation, but if ur serious … there is no limit to your education.
It is hard to go back to college when you get older. Lots of peolpe go back to get a better job OR finish up there degree.
I’m one of those babyboomers heading back to school. Love the experience of learning and contributing to our society.
Thanks for the writeup.