Many countries, including the US and England, have developed sub-degree institutions within tertiary education--community colleges, further education colleges, and related institutions in other countries. The policy question is whether the differentiation of tertiary education has been a wise development, and whether the benefits--greater access…

Corrects 1972 National Longitudinal Study data used in two earlier papers on education effects in subbaccalaureate labor markets. Corrections confirm most earlier findings. However, for men, the effects of vocational associate degrees are insignificant, whereas the effects of vocational credits earned are significant. Economic benefits may accrue…

Reviews the available evidence on the economic benefits of postsecondary education below the level of the baccalaureate degree, concentrating on the effects of community colleges. Results indicate substantial benefits for many kinds of postsecondary education. However, the economic benefits of small amounts of coursework are often zero and at best…

An analysis of the 1984, 1987, and 1990 Survey of Income and Program Participation shows that the benefits of sub-baccalaureate credentials (associate degrees and certificates) are generally positive and statistically significant. However, the benefits of completing some postsecondary education but failing to earn credentials are much lower,…

Examines the returns to subbaccalaureate credentials and coursework, using the postsecondary transcripts of the National Longitudinal Study of the Class of 1972. Results indicate substantial variety in the returns and suggest clear differences between the subbaccalaureate labor market and that for individuals with baccalaureate degrees. (56…

Disputes critics' claims about the negligible impact of an associate degree on income. Uses data from the National Longitudinal Survey of the High School Class of 1972 to demonstrate how associate degrees have increased wages for members of this group. (DMM)

Investigates enrollment and completion rates in public 2-year colleges, using models to interpret student and legislative demand. Student demand for enrollments and completion rates are not especially sensitive to labor market conditions. These patterns tend to persist over time, suggesting institutional rigidities. (Includes 6 tables, 17 notes,…

Two contrasting hypotheses about the effects of community colleges--the view that these institutions "cool out" those who might attend four-year colleges, and the view that they increase schooling for students who would otherwise have no access to higher education--are presented. A model of educational attainment is discussed. (Author/MLW)

Transfer rates from community colleges to four-year colleges, based on two nationally representative longitudinal studies, reveal transfer has declined substantially for all student groups. Because there are many different explanations for the trend, current efforts to improve articulation between the sectors neglect several important causes of…

Argues that education and workforce development departments in the community college can learn from one another and provide more effective and comprehensive services. (AUTH/NB)

The author examines the ability of high-tech industry to provide jobs for graduates of these programs. He also discusses the historical role of vocational education in national policy and the problems that may result from the attempt to prepare students for specific jobs rather than for careers. (CT)