Americans continue to hold community colleges in high regard, with 81 percent of respondents to a new national survey saying they are worth the cost.
The second annual higher education survey by New America mirrors much of its findings from last year, mainly that most Americans believe that well-paying jobs require education after high school. However, they still are not satisfied with the current higher education system, citing concerns about affordability and employment outcomes.
Community colleges fared better on the survey than other sectors: 65 percent of those polled agreed public four-year institutions were worth the cost, followed by private colleges and universities (44 percent) and for-profits (40 percent).
More Americans polled (74 percent) felt a public four-year college or university was for them than those who thought a public two-year college was for them (69 percent). The figures were less than half for private higher education institutions (49 percent) and for-profits (44 percent).
The survey also looked at opinions within generations. Those from younger generations were slightly less likely to think that community colleges prepare people to be successful and happy in life (63 percent of Generation Z and 67 percent of Millennials), but they were more likely than some from older generations to believe that community colleges are for people like them (71 percent of Generation Z and 72 percent of Millennials).
Thumbs up for apprenticeships
This year’s survey — which included 1,600 Americans ages 18 and older — also delved in apprenticeships, which Americans perceived very favorably: 90 percent agreed — with more than half strongly agreeing — that apprenticeships and skills training programs prepare students for a good standard of living.
New America cited its previous survey work that emphasized a strong public opinion of apprenticeships: Eight-three percent of respondents believe government funding for apprenticeships should be increased.
The new report also profiles the well-regarded apprenticeship program at Siemens in Charlotte, North Carolina. Apprentices take classes at Central Piedmont Community College as they work toward an associate degree in either machining or engineering technology over three and a half years.
Areas of concern
With only one-quarter of survey participants believing that higher education is “fine the way it is,” New American queried why they thought so. The top three reasons were: college is too expensive and hard to access (38 percent); there is always room for improvement (12 percent); and college should be free for everyone/equal access for all (12 percent).
Participants also had mixed views about the value of classroom time versus experiences outside the classroom. Forty-seven percent said experiences outside the classroom are more valuable, compared to 35 percent who said it’s the education received in the classroom. Sixteen percent say both.
