Employers Still Believe in College. A New National Survey Shows Why.

Public conversation can make it sound like college is losing its value. You may hear people say that a degree is no longer needed, that employers do not care about higher education, or that college has become disconnected from the modern workplace. But a new national survey of more than one thousand employers shows a very different view.

The people who make hiring decisions continue to express strong confidence in higher education and believe a degree can play an important role in preparing individuals for today’s workforce. These insights come from The Agility Imperative, a national employer survey released by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). You can review the full findings at https://www.aacu.org/research/the-agility-imperative. National American University (NAU) is sharing this research for general informational purposes.

The study highlights a growing contrast. While public sentiment has declined in recent years, employer confidence remains consistently high. This is important context for anyone considering going back to school or exploring new career pathways.

“Employer confidence in higher education remains strong, and that should reassure adults who are considering their next step. 188比分直播_足球比分|直播 continues to provide a meaningful way to build skills, expand perspectives, and prepare for a changing world.”
— Dr. Cindy Mathena, President, National American University

The disconnect between public debate and employer reality

Public trust in higher education has shifted, yet employers continue to express confidence in the value of a college degree. According to the AAC&U survey:

• Seventy percent of employers report strong confidence in higher education.
• Eighty five percent say colleges and universities are preparing students well for the workforce.
• Seventy three percent agree that a degree is worth the financial investment.

These findings align with nearly twenty years of AAC&U employer surveys, which show similar patterns across industries and regions.

What employers say they need in the modern workforce

The survey shows that employers want more than narrow technical skills. They place high value on graduates who can communicate well, think critically, work with diverse teams, and engage constructively when disagreements arise.

The report highlights that:

• Ninety six percent of employers see value in graduates learning how to navigate constructive dialogue.
• Eighty nine percent support environments that encourage open inquiry and diverse viewpoints.
• Employers view higher education as important both for preparing a skilled workforce and for developing informed citizens.

For adult learners, this means that education is not only about specific knowledge. It also supports the development of broader capabilities that many employers consider essential for long term growth and advancement.

Employers increasingly expect preparation for an AI enabled workplace

Artificial intelligence is changing how organizations operate, and employers are paying attention. According to the AAC&U, nine in ten employers believe it is important for graduates to develop AI related skills or foundational competencies while in college. Eighty one percent express confidence that higher education is helping students prepare for AI influenced work environments.

This trend is especially relevant for adults who want to remain competitive or transition into new roles as technology evolves.

Hands on learning and microcredentials are becoming hiring advantages

The survey found that employers increasingly value applied learning experiences. More than three in four say they are more likely to consider candidates who completed internships, leadership roles, community projects, or work that involved collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds.

Short, skills based credentials also matter. Eighty one percent of employers say that microcredentials, such as digital badges or certificates, have a positive influence on hiring decisions. For many adult learners, these credentials can complement a degree and help communicate strengths to potential employers.

What this means for adults deciding whether to pursue a degree

The AAC&U survey offers a reminder that the employer perspective differs from the broader public conversation. While a degree is not the only path forward, many adults find that pursuing higher education can be a strategic step toward their goals. A degree may help strengthen a resume, support career advancement, or expand opportunities depending on individual circumstances and industry expectations.

Choosing a program that offers flexibility, support, and opportunities for applied learning can make a meaningful difference. The new employer data provides clarity rooted in hiring expectations and helps adults make informed decisions about their next steps.

NAU shares these AAC&U findings for informational purposes only and does not guarantee employment outcomes. It is affirming to see that employers value the same abilities we embed throughout our programs, including strong communication, ethical reasoning, critical thinking, problem solving and professionalism. NAU is also expanding the use of AI supported tools in the classroom to help students gain experience with technologies that are increasingly shaping the future of work.