North Carolina

Using North Carolina data, this study analyzed the employment and earnings outcomes for different community college pathways and awards. The outcomes for this project included employment (e.g., industry and occupation), patterns of employment and unemployment, and earnings. For pathways, specific attention was paid to: (1) remedial education, (2) vocational/technical programs, and (3) patterns and timing of student progression through programs of study. For awards, specific attention was paid to: (1) sub-baccalaureate credentials, (2) noncredit programs, (3) adult basic education programs, and (4) bachelor’s degrees. Variation in the benefits of college were examined by student characteristics, including age, gender, prior education, work experience, and specific community college. Data for this work came from the North Carolina Community College System, specifically the Curriculum Registration, Progress, Financial Aid (CRPFA) Report on each student (from 2001–02 to 2011–12), college placement test data, and high school transcript data linked to Unemployment Insurance (UI) data.

Research Findings