Students are forgoing four-year degrees in favor of community college, certificate programs, new research shows

Government

For years, concerns over rising college costs and student loan debt have been driving some high schoolers away from a four-year degree in favor of shorter, less expensive alternatives. Now it's clear that students are putting more emphasis on career training and post-college employment, as more opt for a two-year degree or even shorter-term credentials. The overall rate of high school graduates choosing to enroll in community college and short-term credentialing programs is rising, according to