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Adult learners surge as career-focused education reshapes job prospects

From unfinished degrees to fast-track credentials, over a million adults are betting on education to secure their next career move. The numbers reveal a clear trend: skills over tradition.

In this picture I can see photos, words, logo, signature and numbers on the brochure.
In this picture I can see photos, words, logo, signature and numbers on the brochure.

Adult learners surge as career-focused education reshapes job prospects

More adults are returning to education, with a noticeable shift towards job-focused qualifications. New figures show a 10% rise in learners aged 25 and over from 2023 to 2024. Short-term credentials and non-degree certificates also saw a 3% increase in the same period.

The latest enrollment trends highlight a growing preference for practical, career-driven jobs. Health care, technology, and business programs recorded the strongest growth last year. Meanwhile, traditional fields like social sciences and humanities saw declines of 3% and 8%, respectively.

The rise in adult learners and short-term credentials suggests a stronger focus on employability. With job growth anticipated in health care, technology, and business, educational choices appear to be adapting to market demands. Over a million returning students further signals a shift towards completing unfinished qualifications.

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