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Why More Students Are Forgoing Four-Year College
Posted
January 16, 2026
Views
73,197
Likes
1,545
Comments
424
Engagement
2.69%
January 16, 2026
73,197
1,545
424
2.69%
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Students are shifting away from four-year degrees toward certificate and associate degree programs. A new study by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center finds that enrollment in bachelor’s degree programs increased by just 0.9% in fall 2025. By comparison, enrollment in undergraduate certificate and associate degree programs rose by 1.9% and 2.2%, respectively. CNBC’s Jessica Dickler breaks down the reasons behind this trend.
Produced and Edited by: Jeff Huang
Reporting by: Jessica Dickler
Managing Producer: Anuz Thapa
Senior Director of Video: Lindsey Jacobson
Additional Footage: Getty Images
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Why More Students Are Forgoing Four-Year College
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