What you need to know
Fall enrollment numbers in US higher learning institutions increased steadily from 1976 to its peak in 2010 at 20.3 million. Over the next 10 years (2015-24), enrollment is projected to increase 14%. A college degree is still largely viewed as a necessity for a successful career and as a source of greater job security. However, the cost, lack of flexibility, and lengthy time commitment have some adults looking for alternatives to a traditional education.
Definition
For the purposes of this Report, Mintel has used the following definitions:
Students: those who are either currently working toward a degree or plan to pursue a degree at a campus-based or online college or university;
Parents: those who have at least one child either in school or who plans to go to school; or a child who has earned a degree from a campus-based or online university.
