In order to improve educational attainment and economic stability, Kentucky has started the 60x30 program, which aims to increase the number of adults with postsecondary degrees to 60% by 2030. Currently, 55% of the state’s population has a degree or credential. This presents a concern for the job market in the near future, as it is projected that 63% of jobs in Kentucky will require a degree by 2031. Kentucky is already in the top 10 states for job vacancies, and this problem will be exacerbated without increasing educational attainment.
Unfortunately, there have been 16,000 fewer adults in Kentucky enrolled in college between the ages of 26 and 64 in the last ten years. There are several reasons for this trend, including the high cost of college, conflicting obligations such as family and work, and unfamiliarity with an educational environment after many years. All of these factors lead to a 4x decrease in likelihood for adult learners completing their degree, versus their counterparts coming straight from high school.
infographic by: cpe.ky.gov
