Post-Secondary Education

Post-secondary education refers to the stage of education that follows secondary school and precedes higher education, typically at the tertiary level.

History/Background

The concept of post-secondary education has evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal needs, technological advancements, and shifting educational priorities. In the United States, for example, post-secondary education was first introduced in the late 19th century with the establishment of technical schools and vocational training programs.

1. Early 20th century: The establishment of community colleges and junior colleges expanded access to post-secondary education, particularly for working-class individuals and those seeking vocational training.
2. Mid-20th century: The rise of the university system in the United States led to an increase in higher education enrollment, with a focus on liberal arts and sciences.
3. Late 20th century: The introduction of distance learning and online courses expanded access to post-secondary education, particularly for individuals with family or work commitments.

Key Concepts

Post-secondary education is characterized by several key concepts, including:

• Accreditation**: The process of evaluating an institution's educational programs and ensuring they meet certain standards of quality.
• Certification**: The awarding of a credential or license to individuals who have completed specific training or education requirements.
• Competency-based education**: A model of post-secondary education that focuses on measuring students' skills and knowledge rather than credit hours or seat time.

Technical Details

Post-secondary education involves a range of technical details, including:

The following statistics provide insight into the scope and demographics of post-secondary education in the United States:

• In 2020, there were over 20 million students enrolled in post-secondary education institutions.
• The majority of these students (about 60%) were pursuing associate's or bachelor's degrees.
• Women made up about 57% of all students enrolled in post-secondary education, while minorities comprised approximately 25% of the student population.

Applications/Uses

Post-secondary education has a range of applications and uses, including:

• Career training**: Providing specialized skills and knowledge to prepare students for specific careers or industries.
• Graduate studies**: Preparing students for advanced degrees, such as master's or doctoral degrees.
• Research**: Conducting original research in various fields of study.

Impact/Significance

Post-secondary education has a significant impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole:

• Economic benefits**: Post-secondary education can lead to higher earning potential, reduced unemployment rates, and increased economic mobility.
• Social benefits**: Post-secondary education can contribute to greater social mobility, increased civic engagement, and improved community development.

Related Topics

Post-secondary education is related to several other topics, including:

• Higher Education
• Vocational Training
• Distance Learning