Also known as tertiary education, higher education is the third level of education after the primary and secondary levels. While the social returns to primary education are often the largest globally speaking, returns to higher education play a critical role in social and economic mobility for most individuals. One can acquire higher education credentials at universities, colleges, polytechnics, and community colleges by earning a degree, diploma, or certificates. Acquiring higher educational training, whether at the associate level, graduate-level or post-graduate level, usually procures significant benefits on an individual and to society as a whole, so its importance can't be minimized.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who attain higher educational training tend to earn more and are less likely to be unemployed. Individuals who possess some Higher education credentials also tend to have reduced stress associated with unemployment and financial insecurity. By instilling discipline, building character, and providing skills and knowledge to individuals, higher education prepares them for the professional world and for democracy at large. In addition to these, higher education helps individuals gain meaningful networks and connections and develop a growth and learning mindset that fosters adaptability and agility, which helps them in their professional endeavors in a complex and changing world.
