Approximately 37.7% of Americans are considered well educated, based on the most recent data defining "well educated" as having attained a college degree or more.
Defining "Well Educated"
In the context of educational attainment statistics, the term "well educated" often refers to individuals who have completed higher education, specifically earning a bachelor's degree or an advanced degree. While the definition can vary, official data typically categorizes this group as "College graduate or more." This benchmark signifies a substantial level of academic achievement beyond basic high school completion, often correlating with specialized knowledge and enhanced career opportunities.
Educational Attainment in the U.S.
The landscape of educational attainment in the United States has seen significant shifts over the years. Focusing on college graduates provides a clear measure of the population with higher education. The most recent data, for the year 2022, indicates that over a third of the adult population holds a college degree.
The table below illustrates the trend of educational attainment in the U.S., specifically highlighting the percentage of the population aged 25 and older who have achieved various levels of education:
| Year | High school graduate or more | College graduate or more |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 91.2% | 37.7% |
| 2021 | 91.1% | 37.9% |
| 2020 | 90.9% | 37.5% |
| 2019 | 90.1% | 36.0% |
As of 2022, nearly 38% of Americans have a college degree or higher, demonstrating a steady increase in higher educational attainment over recent years. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on advanced skills and knowledge in the workforce and society.
