College Graduation Statistics

Report Highlights. College graduation statistics indicate that bachelor’s degrees are the most sought-after, with 2.02 million conferred in 2022.

  • 49.1% of all college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 22.3% of bachelor’s degree-earners take more than four (4) years to complete their program.
  • 24.5% of college graduates earn associate’s degrees.
  • The total number of graduates has increased at an annual rate of 1.0% over the last 10 years.
  • 4.11 million or 22.1% of all college students graduated in 2022.

Related research includes Education Attainment Statistics | College Dropout Rates | Financial Aid Statistics | Student Loan Refinancing

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U.S. College Graduates & Graduation Rates

Bachelor’s degree seekers are statistically more likely to graduate than associate’s degree seekers.

  • 1,008,290 college graduates earned associate’s degrees in 2022, down 2.72% year-over-year (YoY) from 2021.
  • 2,015,040 graduates earned bachelor’s degrees in 2022, down 2.49% YoY.
  • 880,250 or 21.4% of all graduates earned master’s degrees.
  • 203,880 or 5.0% of all graduates earned doctorates or professional degrees.
  • The number of master’s degrees conferred in 2022 was up 1.54% YoY.
  • 5.06% more doctorate or professional degrees were conferred in 2022 compared to 2021.
  • 12.4% more bachelor’s degrees were conferred in 2022 than in 2012.
  • There were 56.0% more bachelor’s degrees conferred in 2022 than there were in 2002.
  • 2-year institutions average a 30.3% graduation rate.
  • Among students at 4-year institutions, the graduation rate is 52.0%.
  • College graduation rates at public institutions have increased by 9.2% since 2013.

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Historical Graduation Statistics

College graduation statistics suggest today’s national population is the most educated in United States history. The rate of college graduates among citizenry is on the rise. The college graduation rate among students is also trending upward.

  • In 1900, college graduates nationwide earned 27,410 bachelor’s degrees.
  • In 1910, 2.7% of adults over 25 years of age had a postsecondary degree.
  • In the subsequent 30 years, the number of college graduates increased by an estimated 70%.
  • By 1940, 3.4 million or 4.6% of U.S. adults over 25 years of age were 4-year college graduates.
  • The rate of 4-year college graduates among the adult population increased by 715.2% in the subsequent 80 years or by a factor of 8.9% per year.
  • From 2000 to 2023, the rate of college graduates with associate’s degrees or higher in the U.S. increased by 31.8%.
  • The number of 4-year college graduates from 2000 to 2022 over the age of 25 in the U.S. increased by 40 million or 90%.
  • In 1971, 176,310 or 30% of bachelor’s program graduates majored in education; 115,400 or 13.7% graduated with degrees in business.
  • Over 50 years later, in 2022, 375,420 or 18.6% of bachelor’s program graduates earn degrees in business; 89,410 or 4.4% graduate with degrees in education.
  • In 1971, 87,670 or 37.2% of master’s program graduates majored in education; 26,490 or 11.2% graduated with degrees in business.
  • Over 50 years later, 205,750 or 23.4% of master’s program graduates earn degrees in business; 151,710 or 17.2% graduate with degrees in education.
  • In 1971, 17,440 or 26.8% of doctorate and professional degree holding graduates majored in legal studies; 14,690 or 22.6% graduated with degrees in healthcare.
  • In 2022, 87,750 or 43.0% of doctorate and professional program graduates hold degrees in healthcare; 34,400 or 17.9% hold degrees in legal studies.

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College Graduates by Major

College graduation statistics indicate a shift in the popularity of certain major disciplines. A majority of college students graduate with degrees with business degrees, and most business graduates are bachelor’s degree earners. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and healthcare degrees are also common among graduates.

  • 692,630 or 16.9% of college graduates earn degrees in STEM fields.
    • 84,860 or 12.3% of STEM graduates earn associate’s degrees.
    • 435,510 or 62.9% of STEM graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
    • 139,940 or 20.2% of STEM graduates earn master’s degrees.
    • 32,320 or 4.7% of STEM graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 698,720 or 17.0% of graduates earn business degrees.
    • 113,070 or 16.2% of business graduates earn associate’s degrees.
    • 375,420 or 53.7% of graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
    • 205,750 or 29.5% earn master’s degrees.
    • 4,490 or 0.64% earn doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 675,960 or 16.5% of graduates earn degrees in healthcare.
    • 177,410 or 26.2% of healthcare graduates earn associate’s degrees.
    • 263,770 or 39.0% of healthcare graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
    • 147,040 or 21.8% of graduates earn master’s degrees.
    • 87,750 or 13.0% earn doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 423,140 or 10.3% of graduates earn degrees in liberal arts and sciences.
    • 383,290 or 90.6% earn associate’s degrees.
    • 37,890 or 9.0% earn bachelor’s degrees.
    • 1,860 or 0.44% earn master’s degrees.
    • 110 or 0.03% earn doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 274,450 or 6.7% of graduates earn education degrees.
    • 18,500 or 6.7% of education graduates earn associate’s degrees.
    • 89,410 or 32.6% of education graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
    • 151,710 or 55.3% earn master’s degrees.
    • 14,840 or 5.4% earn doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 38.0% of graduates earning associate’s degrees major in liberal arts and sciences, general studies, and humanities; 17.6% major in health professions and related programs while 11.2% major in business.
  • 18.6% of college graduates earning bachelor’s degrees major in business; 13.1% major in healthcare and related programs while 7.5% major in social sciences and history.
  • 23.4% of graduates earning master’s degrees major in business; 17.2% major in education while 16.7% major in healthcare. 
  • 43.0% of graduates earning doctorate degrees major in healthcare; 17.9% major in law and legal studies while 7.3% major in education.

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College Graduate Demographics

College graduation statistics indicate graduation among minority groups has become more attainable over time, but disparities still remain in terms of attainment.

This report uses labels and terminology that conform to source material. Some data categories have fallen out of use in many institutions. Asian and Pacific Islander, for example, are commonly considered separate racial or ethnic groups; some official sources, however, still combine these groups for statistical purposes.

  • American Indian/Alaska Native males are the least likely to graduate with a degree of any kind.
  • White females are the most likely to graduate with a degree of any kind.
  • 77.7% of computer and information sciences and support services associate’s program graduates are male.
  • 88.5% of engineering bachelor’s program graduates are male.
  • Asians are most likely to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in one or more STEM fields.
  • College graduation statistics indicate a decline in graduation rates among older students while students who enroll as teenagers are most likely to graduate within 5 years.

College Graduates by Race or Ethnicity

Longstanding racial and ethnic disparities in graduation statistics are in decline, meaning a larger proportion of students are People of Color. 

  • American Indian/Alaska Native students in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 43.4%.
  • 21,530 or 0.5% of college graduates are American Indian/Alaska Native
    • 8,170 or 38.0% of American Indian/Alaska Native graduates earn 0.8% of associate’s degrees.
    • 8,910 or 41.4% of American Indian/Alaska Native graduates earn 0.4% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 3,720 or 17.3% of American Indian/Alaska Native graduates earn 0.4% of master’s degrees.
    • 720 or 3.4% of American Indian/Alaska Native graduates earn 0.4% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • Asian/Pacific Islander students in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 74.8%.
  • 329,170 or 8.0% of college graduates are Asian/Pacific Islander.
    • 67,580 or 20.5% Asian/Pacific Islander graduates earn 6.7% of associate’s degrees.
    • 174,600 or 53.0% Asian/Pacific Islander graduates earn 8.7% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 64,140 or 19.5% Asian/Pacific Islander graduates earn 7.3% of master’s degrees.
    • 22,850 or 6.9% Asian/Pacific Islander graduates earn 11.2% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • Black or African American students in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 42.6%.
  • 439,130 or 10.7% of college graduates are Black or African American.
    • 121,610 or 27.7% of Black or African American graduates earn 12.1% of associate’s degrees.
    • 199,960 or 45.5% of Black or African American graduates earn 9.9% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 99,070 or 22.6% of Black or African American graduates earn 11.3% of master’s degrees.
    • 18,490 or 4.2% of Black or African American graduates earn 9.1% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • Hispanic or Latino students in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 55.4%.
  • 709,240 or 17.3% of college graduates are Hispanic or Latino.
    • 264,300 or 37.3% of Hispanic or Latino graduates earn 26.2% of associate’s degrees.
    • 325,930 or 46.0% of Hispanic or Latino graduates earn 16.2% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 101,340 or 14.3% of Hispanic or Latino graduates earn 11.5% of master’s degrees.
    • 17,660 or 2.5% of Hispanic or Latino graduates earn 8.7% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • White or Caucasian students in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 65.6%.
  • 2,201,020 or 53.6% of college graduates are White or Caucasian.
    • 488,070 or 22.2% of White or Caucasian graduates earn 48.4% of associate’s degrees.
    • 1.13 million or 51.3% of White or Caucasian graduates earn 56.1% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 470,780 or 21.4% of White or Caucasian graduates earn 53.5%  of master’s degrees.
    • 112,600 or 5.1% of White or Caucasian graduates earn 55.2% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • Students of two or more races enrolled in bachelor’s programs have a 5-year graduation rate of 57.4%.
  • 152,890 or 3.7% of college graduates are of two or more races.
    • 40,040 or 26.2% of multiracial graduates earn 4.0% of associate’s degrees.
    • 81,660 or 53.4% of multiracial graduates earn 4.1% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 24,970 or 16.3% of multiracial graduates earn 2.8% of master’s degrees.
    • 6,220 or 4.1% of multiracial graduates earn 3.1% of doctorate or professional degrees.
  • 254,490 or 6.2% of college graduates are nonresidents.
    • 18,520 or 7.3% of nonresident graduates earn 1.8% of associate’s degrees.
    • 94,400 or 37.1% of nonresident graduates earn 4.7% of bachelor’s degrees.
    • 116,220 or 45.7% of nonresident graduates earn 13.2% of master’s degrees.
    • 25,340 or 10.0% of nonresident graduates earn 12.4% of doctorate or professional degrees.

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College Graduates by Sex or Gender

Postsecondary students are more likely to be female. There are few statistics regarding nonbinary genders available from official sources. In most source material, the terms “sex” and “gender” are interchangeable.

  • In the 2021-2022 academic year, 632,790 women earned associate’s degrees, which is 62.8% of all associate’s degrees conferred that year.
  • 1,179,720 women earned bachelor’s degrees, which is equivalent to 58.6% of all bachelor’s degrees conferred.
  • 551,360 women earned master’s degrees, which is equivalent to 58.6% of all master’s degrees conferred.
  • 116,110 women earned doctorates or professional degrees, which is equivalent to 57.0% of all doctorates & professional degrees conferred.
  • In 1900, 22,173 or 80.9% of graduates who earned bachelor’s degrees were male; 5,237 or 19.1% of graduates in 1900 were women.
  • Among bachelor’s degree holders, female graduates have outnumbered male graduates since 2015.
  • Male students are more likely to drop out of school with a 61.1% completion rate (within 6 years); female students have a 67.6% college graduation rate.
  • Women at public institutions have a 66.2% college graduation rate while 71.9% of women at private, nonprofit institutions graduate.
  • Men at public institutions have a 60.2% college graduation rate while 64.6% of men at private, nonprofit institutions graduate.
  • 34.5% of men and 32.8% of women at private, for-profit institutions graduate.

College Graduates by Age

While most college students are between the ages of 18 and 24, enrollment among older adults is on the rise.

  • 66.9% of college students who enroll in bachelor’s programs at age 18 years or younger graduate within 5 years.
  • 62.2% of those who enroll in bachelor’s programs at age 19 years graduate within 5 years.
  • 22.0% of 20- to 23-year-olds who enroll in bachelor’s programs graduate within 5 years.
  • 8.4% of 24- to 29-year-olds who enroll graduate within 5 years.
  • Students 30 years and older have a college graduation rate of 14.2%. 
  • 76.2% of college students enroll as teenagers.
  • 63.9% of 18- and 19-year-olds are enrolled as college students.
  • Enrollment among this age group has increased 43.3% since 1980, when 46.4% of 18- and 19-year-olds were students.
  • 51.4% of 20- and 21-year-olds are enrolled as college students.
  • Enrollment in this age group has increased 65.8% since 1980, when 31.0% of 20- and 21-year-olds were students.
  • Enrollment among 22- to 24-year-olds increased 68.1% in 40 years, from 16.3% to 27.4%.
  • Enrollment among adults aged 25 to 29 years increased 15.1%, from 9.3% to 10.7%.
  • Enrollment among adults aged 30 to 34 years decreased 25.5%, from 6.4% to 5.1%.

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Graduation Statistics by State

In most states, the majority of annual graduates are bachelor’s degree holders. College graduation statistics suggest business degrees are increasing in importance; degrees in this field are common among bachelor’s and master’s program graduates throughout the nation.

  • 13.1% of all annual graduates earn their college degrees in California.
  • District of Columbia graduates are the most likely to have advanced degrees.
  • In Wyoming and New Mexico, associate’s degree earners make up the majority of graduates.
  • Northeastern states produce the highest rate of master’s degree holders among graduates.
  • Midwestern states have the highest rate of doctorate and professional degree holders among graduates.
  • College graduation statistics indicate that western states may attract more graduates than students; 3 of the top 5 metro areas in the United States with the highest percentage of college graduates are in western states.
    • 64.8% of Boulder, Colorado residents are college graduates.
    • 57.9% of Corvallis, Oregon residents are college graduates.
    • 56.9% of Ithaca, New York residents are graduates.
    • 55.9% of Ann Arbor, Michigan residents are graduates.
    • 52.7% of San Jose/Sunnyvale/Santa Clara, California residents are graduates.

Statistical Map of the Annual Number of College Graduates by State

Alabama College Graduation Statistics

65,240 college students graduate annually in Alabama; 26.9% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 12,900 or 19.8% of annual college graduates in Alabama earn associate’s degrees.
  • 34,820 or 53.4% of Alabama graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 80.2% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, bachelor’s and master’s program graduates in Alabama are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 14,720 or 22.6% of all annual graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,800 or 4.3% of Alabama graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Alaska College Graduation Statistics

3,490 college students graduate annually in Alaska; 17.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 1,070 or 30.6% of annual college graduates in Alaska earn associate’s degrees.
  • 1,810 or 51.9% of Alaska graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 96.9% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, bachelor’s program graduates receive degrees in business more often than any other subject.
  • 560 or 16.2% of all annual graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • Master’s graduates most likely hold degrees in education.
  • 49 or 1.4% of Alaska graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Arizona College Graduation Statistics

132,930 college students graduate annually in Arizona; 30.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 24,330 or 18.3% of annual college graduates in Arizona earn associate’s degrees.
  • 68,100 or 51.2% of Arizona graduates have bachelor’s degrees.
  • 52.6% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Arizona graduates with bachelor’s degrees are most likely to have earned them in business.
  • 36,060 or 27.1% of all annual graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average master’s program graduate in Arizona most likely has a degree in education.
  • 4,450 or 3.3% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Arkansas College Graduation Statistics

33,920 college students graduate annually in Arkansas; 21.1% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 9,670 or 28.5% of annual college graduates in Arkansas earn associate’s degrees.
  • 17,100 or 50.4% of Arkansas college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 84.8% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, bachelor’s program graduates in Arkansas are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 5,790 or 17.1% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average master’s program graduate in Arkansas is most likely has a degree in education.
  • 1,350 or 4.0% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

California College Graduation Statistics

545,670 college students graduate annually in California; 19.2% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 207,460 or 38.0% of all annual college graduates in California earn associate’s degrees.
  • 233,470 or 42.8% of California annual college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 76.3% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average bachelor’s or master’s program graduate in California most likely has a degree in business.
  • 84,000 or 15.4% of annual graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 20,740 or 3.8% of California graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Colorado College Graduation Statistics

67,590 college students graduate annually in Colorado; 27.7% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 13,050 or 19.3% of all annual college graduates in Colorado earn associate’s degrees.
  • 35,820 or 53.0% of Colorado college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 79.1% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average bachelor’s or master’s program graduate in Colorado most likely has a degree in business.
  • 15,770 or 23.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,960 or 4.4% of Colorado graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Connecticut College Graduation Statistics

42,540 college students graduate annually in Connecticut; 31.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 6,000 or 14.1% of all annual college graduates in Connecticut earn associate’s degrees.
  • 23,110 or 53.3% of Connecticut college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 50.5% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Connecticut bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 11,100 or 26.1% of college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,330 or 5.5% of Connecticut graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees

Delaware College Graduation Statistics

13,080 college students graduate annually in Delaware; 28.4% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,140 or 16.3% of all annual college graduates in Delaware earn associate’s degrees.
  • 7,220 or 55.2% of Delaware college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 68.7% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Delaware bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 3,260 or 24.9% of Delaware college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 460 or 3.5% of Delaware graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

District of Columbia College Graduation Statistics

28,040 college students graduate annually in DC; 59.4% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 710 or 2.5% of all annual college graduates in DC earn associate’s degrees.
  • 10,680 or 38.1% of DC college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 3.5% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, DC bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in social sciences and history.
  • 13,100 or 46.7% of DC college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 3,550 or 12.6% of DC graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Florida College Graduation Statistics

256,590 college students graduate annually in Florida; 17.7% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 97,000 or 37.8% of all annual college graduates in Florida earn associate’s degrees.
  • 114,200 or 44.5% of Florida college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 74.1% of bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Florida bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 36,430 or 14.2% of Florida college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 8,960 or 3.5% of Florida graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Georgia College Graduation Statistics

102,630 college students graduate annually in Georgia; 25.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 20,000 or 19.5% of all annual college graduates in Georgia earn associate’s degrees.
  • 56,510 or 55.1% of Georgia college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 76.8% of Georgia bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average bachelor’s or master’s program graduate in Georgia most likely has a degree in business.
  • 21,240 or 20.7% of college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 4,900 or 4.8% of Georgia graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

National Map of Associate's Degree Holders Among Annual Graduates by State

Hawaii College Graduation Statistics

11,750 college students graduate annually in Hawaii; 15.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 3,840 or 32.6% of all annual college graduates in Hawaii earn associate’s degrees.
  • 6,080 or 51.7% of Hawaii college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 75.0% of Hawaii bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Hawaii bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 1,380 or 11.7% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 460 or 3.9% of Hawaii graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Idaho College Graduation Statistics

22,020 college students graduate annually in Idaho; 12.2% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 5,520 or 25.1% of all annual college graduates in Idaho earn associate’s degrees.
  • 13,810 or 62.7% of Idaho college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 52.8% of Idaho bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Idaho bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 2,220 or 10.1% of all annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Idaho master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 480 or 2.2% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Illinois College Graduation Statistics

158,190 college students graduate annually in Illinois; 33.2% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 34,520 or 21.8% of all annual college graduates in Illinois earn associate’s degrees.
  • 71,120 or 45.0% of Illinois college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 44.3% of Illinois bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Illinois bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in healthcare.
  • 43,210 or 27.3% graduate with master’s degrees.
  • The average Illinois master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 9,340 or 5.9% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Indiana College Graduation Statistics

90,560 college students graduate annually in Indiana; 26.7% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 14,070 or 15.5% of Indiana all annual college graduates in Indiana earn associate’s degrees.
  • 52,270 or 57.7% of Indiana college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 73.5% of Indiana bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Indiana bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 20,160 or 22.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 4,050 or 4.5% of Indiana graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Iowa College Graduation Statistics

42,740 college students graduate annually in Iowa; 20.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 10,760 or 25.2% of all annual college graduates in Iowa earn associate’s degrees.
  • 23,180 or 54.2% of Iowa college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 61.2% of Iowa bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Iowa bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 6,100 or 14.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,710 or 6.3% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees

Kansas College Graduation Statistics

40,520 college students graduate annually in Kansas; 23.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 10,270 or 25.3% of all annual college graduates in Kansas have associate’s degrees.
  • 20,710 or 51.1% of Kansas college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 79.4% of Kansas bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Kansas bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 7,830 or 19.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Kansas master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 1,700 or 4.2% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Kentucky College Graduation Statistics

53,430 college students graduate annually in Kentucky; 31.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 12,170 or 22.8% of all annual college graduates in Kentucky earn associate’s degrees.
  • 24,250 or 45.4% of Kentucky college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 75.7% of Kentucky bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Kentucky bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 14,270 or 26.7% of annual college graduates master’s degrees.
  • The average Kentucky master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in computer and information sciences and support services.
  • 2,740 or 5.1% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Louisiana College Graduation Statistics

43,070 college students graduate annually in Louisiana; 30.2% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 6,570 or 15.3% of all annual college graduates in Louisiana earn associate’s degrees.
  • 23,480 or 54.5% of Louisiana college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 82.8% of Louisiana bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Louisiana bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 10,440 or 24.2% of annual college graduates in Louisiana earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,580 or 6.0% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Maine College Graduation Statistics

12,630 college students graduate annually in Maine; 20.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,370 or 18.7% of all annual graduates in Maine earn associate’s degrees.
  • 7,680 or 60.8% of Maine college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 57.5% of Maine bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Maine bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in healthcare.
  • 1,940 or 15.3% graduate with master’s degrees.
  • 650 or 5.1% of annual graduates in Maine earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Maryland College Graduation Statistics

77,550 college students graduate annually in Maryland; 30.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 17,760 or 22.9% of all annual college graduates in Maryland earn associate’s degrees.
  • 35,910 or 46.3% of Maryland college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 83.1% of Maryland bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Maryland bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 20,950 or 27.0% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,940 or 3.8% of annual graduates in Maryland earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Massachusetts College Graduation Statistics

122,630 college students graduate annually in Massachusetts; 41.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 10,900 or 8.9% of all annual college graduates in Massachusetts earn associate’s degrees.
  • 60,800 or 49.6% of Massachusetts college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 35.2% of Massachusetts bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Massachusetts bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 42,780 or 34.9% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 8,150 or 6.6% of graduates in Massachusetts earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Michigan College Graduation Statistics

108,580 college students graduate annually in Michigan; 24.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 21,840 or 20.1% of all annual graduates in Michigan have associate’s degrees.
  • 60,010 or 55.3% of Michigan college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 81.1% of Michigan bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Michigan bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 20,910 or 19.3% graduate with master’s degrees.
  • 5,820 or 5.4% of annual graduates in Michigan earn doctorate or professional degrees.

National Map of Bachelor's Degree Holders Among Annual Graduates by State

Minnesota College Graduation Statistics

87,950 college students graduate annually in Minnesota; 36.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 16,280 or 18.5% of all annual college graduates in Minnesota earn associate’s degrees.
  • 39,290 or 44.7% of Minnesota college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 54.5% of Minnesota bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, the average Minnesota bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in healthcare.
  • 26,130 or 29.7% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 6,240 or 7.1% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Mississippi College Graduation Statistics

37,870 college students graduate annually in Mississippi; 18.9% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 13,370 or 35.3% of all annual college graduates in Mississippi earn associate’s degrees.
  • 17,320 or 45.7% of Mississippi college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 85.5% of Mississippi bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Mississippi bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 5,620 or 14.8% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Mississippi master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 1,560 or 4.1% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Missouri College Graduation Statistics

77,670 college students graduate annually in Missouri; 32.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 14,430 or 18.6% of all annual college graduates in Missouri earn associate’s degrees.
  • 37,900 or 48.8% of Missouri college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 56.7% of Missouri bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average bachelor’s or master’s program graduate in Missouri most likely has a degree in business.
  • 19,810 or 25.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 5,520 or 7.1% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Montana College Graduation Statistics

9,530 college students graduate annually in Montana; 19.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,020 or 21.2% of all annual college graduates in Montana earn associate’s degrees.
  • 5,650 or 59.3% of Montana college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 88.9% of Montana bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Montana bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 1,190 or 12.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Montana master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 670 or 7.0% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Nebraska College Graduation Statistics

28,000 college students graduate annually in Nebraska; 29.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 4,680 or 16.7% of all annual college graduates in Nebraska earn associate’s degrees.
  • 15,130 or 54.0% of Nebraska college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 62.4% of Nebraska bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Nebraska bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 6,380 or 22.8% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Nebraska master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 1,810 or 6.5% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Nevada College Graduation Statistics

20,410 college students graduate annually in Nevada; 17.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 6,400 or 31.4% of all annual college graduates in Nevada earn associate’s degrees.
  • 10,430 or 51.1% of Nevada college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 93.6% of Nevada bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Nevada bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 2,370 or 11.6% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Nevada master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 1,210 or 5.9% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

New Hampshire College Graduation Statistics

39,280 college students graduate annually in New Hampshire; 27.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 5,090 or 12.9% of all annual college graduates in New Hampshire earn associate’s degrees.
  • 23,340 or 59.4% of New Hampshire college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 21.3% of New Hampshire bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average New Hampshire bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 10,330 or 26.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 540 or 1.4% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

New Jersey College Graduation Statistics

89,710 college students graduate annually in New Jersey; 22.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 22,940 or 25.6% of all annual college graduates in New Jersey earn associate’s degrees.
  • 46,480 or 51.8% of New Jersey college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 75.9% of New Jersey bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average New Jersey bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 16,920 or 18.9% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 3,370 or 3.8% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

New Mexico College Graduation Statistics

20,500 college students graduate annually in New Mexico; 18.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 8,430 or 41.1% of all annual college graduates in New Mexico have associate’s degrees.
  • 8,330 or 40.6% of New Mexico college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 97.1% of New Mexico bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, New Mexico bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in humanities.
  • 3,030 or 14.8% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average New Mexico master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 730 or 3.5% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

New York College Graduation Statistics

297,130 college students graduate annually in New York; 31.2% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 59,500 or 20.0% of all annual graduates in New York have associate’s degrees.
  • 144,820 or 48.7% of New York college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 49.0% of New York bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, New York bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in humanities.
  • 77,680 or 26.1% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average New York master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 15,140 or 5.1% of New York graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

North Carolina College Graduation Statistics

118,700 college students graduate annually in North Carolina; 21.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 33,950 or 28.6% of all annual college graduates in North Carolina earn associate’s degrees.
  • 58,890 or 49.6% of North Carolina college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 75.3% of North Carolina bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, North Carolina bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 20,560 or 17.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average North Carolina master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 5,300 or 4.5% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

North Dakota College Graduation Statistics

11,200 college students graduate annually in North Dakota; 21.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,190 or 19.6% of all annual college graduates in North Dakota earn associate’s degrees.
  • 6,580 or 58.8% of North Dakota college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 88.1% of North Dakota bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, North Dakota bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 1,870 or 16.7% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average North Dakota master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 560 or 5.0% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Ohio College Graduation Statistics

132,810 college students graduate annually in Ohio; 22.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 31,740 or 23.9% of annual college graduates in Ohio earn associate’s degrees.
  • 71,020 or 53.5% of Ohio graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 71.1% of Ohio bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Ohio bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 23,690 or 17.8% of all annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 6,360 or 4.8% of annual graduates in Ohio earn doctorate or professional degrees.

National Map of Master's Degree Holders Among Annual Graduates by State

Oklahoma College Graduation Statistics

41,250 college students graduate annually in Oklahoma; 21.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 10,920 or 26.5% of all annual college graduates in Oklahoma earn associate’s degrees.
  • 21,530 or 52.2% of Oklahoma college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 83.7% of Oklahoma bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Oklahoma bachelor’s master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 7,100 or 17.2% of college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 1,700 or 4.1% of Oklahoma graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Oregon College Graduation Statistics

44,400 college students graduate annually in Oregon; 20.1% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 12,590 or 28.3% of all annual college graduates in Oregon earn associate’s degrees.
  • 22,900 or 51.5% of Oregon college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 80.7% of Oregon bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Oregon bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 6,750 or 15.2% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Oregon master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 2,200 or 4.9% of graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Pennsylvania College Graduation Statistics

159,600 college students graduate annually in Pennsylvania; 31.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 21,180 or 13.3% of all annual college graduates in Pennsylvania earn associate’s degrees.
  • 88,510 or 55.5% of Pennsylvania college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 53.0% of Pennsylvania bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Pennsylvania bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 38,800 or 24.3% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 11,110 or 7.0% of Pennsylvania graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Puerto Rico College Graduation Statistics

31,910 college students graduate annually in Puerto Rico; 21.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 5,610 or 17.6% of all annual college graduates in Puerto Rico earn associate’s degrees.
  • 19,450 or 60.9% of Puerto Rico college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 38.0% of Puerto Rico bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Puerto Rico bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in healthcare.
  • 5,600 or 17.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Puerto Rico master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 1,250 or 3.9% of graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Rhode Island College Graduation Statistics

19,100 college students graduate annually in Rhode Island; 20.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 3,180 or 16.7% of all annual college graduates in Rhode Island earn associate’s degrees.
  • 11,940 or 62.5% of Rhode Island college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 42.3% of Rhode Island bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Rhode Island bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 3,260 or 17.1% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 710 or 3.7% of Rhode Island graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

South Carolina College Graduation Statistics

46,420 college students graduate annually in South Carolina; 19.6% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 10,160 or 21.9% of all annual college graduates in South Carolina earn associate’s degrees.
  • 27,180 or 58.5% of South Carolina college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 77.3% of South Carolina bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average South Carolina bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 7,030 or 15.1% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,060 or 4.4% of South Carolina graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

South Dakota College Graduation Statistics

10,410 college students graduate annually in South Dakota; 21.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,200 or 21.2% of all annual college graduates in South Dakota earn associate’s degrees.
  • 5,970 or 57.4% of South Dakota college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 76.6% of South Dakota bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, South Dakota bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in healthcare.
  • 1,750 or 16.8% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average South Dakota master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 490 or 4.7% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Tennessee College Graduation Statistics

68,620 college students graduate annually in Tennessee; 24.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 16,310 or 23.8% of all annual college graduates in Tennessee earn associate’s degrees.
  • 35,530 or 51.8% of Tennessee college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 65.1% of Tennessee bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Tennessee bachelor’s program graduate most likely has a degree in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 12,240 or 17.8% of all annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Tennessee master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 4,550 or 6.6% of Tennessee graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

National Map of Doctorate and Professional Degree Holders Among Annual Graduates by State

Texas College Graduation Statistics

316,840 college students graduate annually in Texas; 21.5% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 100,390 or 31.7% of all annual college graduates in Texas earn associate’s degrees.
  • 148,200 or 46.8% of Texas college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 84.7% of Texas bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Texas bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 56,060 or 17.7% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 12,200 or 3.8% of Texas graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Utah College Graduation Statistics

100,070 college students graduate annually in Utah; 29.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 16,980 or 17.0% of all annual college graduates in Utah earn associate’s degrees.
  • 53,310 or 53.3% of Utah college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 35.5% of Utah bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Utah bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in healthcare.
  • 28,430 or 28.4% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Utah master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 1,360 or 1.4% of graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Vermont College Graduation Statistics

9,450 college students graduate annually in Vermont; 24.8% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 850 or 9.0% of all annual college graduates in Vermont earn associate’s degrees.
  • 6,260 or 66.2% of Vermont college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 57.0% of Vermont bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Vermont bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 1,930 or 20.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Vermont master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in humanities.
  • 410 or 4.3% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Virginia College Graduation Statistics

118,660 college students graduate annually in Virginia; 28.1% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 23,750 or 20.0% of all annual college graduates in Virginia earn associate’s degrees.
  • 61,610 or 51.9% of Virginia college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 65.4% of Virginia bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Virginia bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 26,610 or 22.4% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 6,690 or 5.6% of Virginia graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Washington College Graduation Statistics

79,710 college students graduate annually in Washington; 17.1% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 29,710 or 37.3% of all annual college graduates in Washington earn associate’s degrees.
  • 36,340 or 45.6% of Washington college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 80.6% of Washington bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Washington bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in business.
  • 10,540 or 13.2% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average Washington master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 3,110 or 3.9% of Washington graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

West Virginia College Graduation Statistics

32,340 college students graduate annually in West Virginia; 22.0% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 7,570 or 23.4% of all annual college graduates in West Virginia earn associate’s degrees.
  • 17,660 or 54.6% of West Virginia college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 51.8% of West Virginia bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, West Virginia bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 5,980 or 18.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • The average West Virginia master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 1,130 or 3.5% of annual graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Map of States and Public Institution College Graduation Rates Among Bachelor's Degree Holders

Wisconsin College Graduation Statistics

61,740 college students graduate annually in Wisconsin; 21.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 12,170 or 19.7% of all annual college graduates in Wisconsin earn associate’s degrees.
  • 36,390 or 58.9% of Wisconsin college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 75.4% of Wisconsin bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • The average Wisconsin bachelor’s or master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in business.
  • 10,220 or 16.5% of annual college graduates earn master’s degrees.
  • 2,970 or 4.8% of Wisconsin graduates earn doctorate or professional degrees.

Wyoming College Graduation Statistics

5,460 college students graduate annually in Wyoming; 12.3% of them earn advanced degrees.

  • 2,590 or 47.4% of all annual college graduates in Wyoming earn associate’s degrees.
  • 2,210 or 40.4% of Wyoming college graduates earn bachelor’s degrees.
  • 100% of Wyoming bachelor’s degree recipients graduate from public institutions.
  • Among disciplines, Wyoming bachelor’s program graduates are most likely to have degrees in legal studies, communication, agriculture and natural resource science and management, or public works and related fields.
  • 440 or 8.1% graduate with master’s degrees.
  • The average Wyoming master’s program graduate most likely has a degree in education.
  • 230 or 4.2% of annual graduates in Wyoming earn doctorate or professional degrees.

College Graduates in the Military and Territories

  • U.S. Service Academies confer 3,620 bachelor’s degrees and 2 master’s degrees annually.
  • Most bachelor’s program graduates and all master’s graduates have degrees in engineering.
  • After Puerto Rico, Guam confers the most degrees among U.S. territories.
  • Guam confers 260 associate’s degrees, 500 bachelor’s degrees, and 140 master’s degrees annually.
  • Most of Guam’s bachelor’s program graduates earn degrees in business while master’s program graduates earn degrees in education.
  • The U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Marianas confer the third- and fourth-most degrees among territories.
  • 77.7% of graduates in the Virgin Islands receive bachelor’s degrees; 83.3% of graduates in the Northern Marianas receive associate’s degrees. 
  • In American Samoa, 160 associate’s degrees, and 17 bachelor’s degrees are conferred annually.

Global College Graduates

Education levels are not universal, so some countries have graduates from postsecondary programs that have no equivalent in other nations. Program levels also have different labels and equivalencies.

  • Worldwide, the United States of America ranks 10th in college graduation rates.
  • Australia has the most educated population in the world.
  • Luxembourg has the least educated population.
  • Women are most likely to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Iceland. 
  • Women are most likely to graduate with a master’s degree in Iceland.
  • Switzerland has the highest rate of graduates with doctorate and professional degrees.
  • Austria has the highest rate of college educated teenagers.

Australia College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 26.0 million; 2.0% of Australians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 523,930 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 140,300 annual associate program graduates.
  • 252,510 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 122,640 annual master program graduates.
  • 8,470 annual doctoral program graduates.

Austria College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 9.1 million; 1.0% of Austrians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 90,060 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 26,190 annual associate program graduates.
  • 33,770 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 27,990 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,120 annual doctoral program graduates.

Belgium College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 11.6 million; 1.1% of Belgians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 124,600 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 7,170 annual associate program graduates.
  • 68,890 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 44,610 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,930 annual doctoral program graduates.

Brazil College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 214.8 million; 0.7% of Brazillians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 1.4 million students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 140 annual associate program graduates.
  • 1.3 million annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 59,300 annual master program graduates.
  • 20,680 annual doctoral program graduates.

Canada College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 38.9 million; 1.3% of Canadians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 511,900 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 214,190 annual associate program graduates.
  • 219,190 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 71,090 annual master program graduates.
  • 7,390 annual doctoral program graduates.

Chile College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 19.8 million; 1.4% of Chileans graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 269,360 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 84,400 annual associate program graduates.
  • 131,090 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 52,980 annual master program graduates.
  • 890 annual doctoral program graduates.

Colombia College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 51.7 million; 1.0% of Colombians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 524,980 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 151,390 annual associate program graduates.
  • 260,370 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 112,290 annual master program graduates.
  • 940 annual doctoral program graduates.

Costa Rica College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.2 million; 1.0% of Costa Ricans graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 52,140 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 5,960 annual associate program graduates.
  • 41,200 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 4,840 annual master program graduates.
  • 140 annual doctoral program graduates.

Czech Republic College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 10.8 million; 0.6% of Czechs graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 67,370 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 420 annual associate program graduates.
  • 36,620 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 28,200 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,120 annual doctoral program graduates

Denmark College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.9 million; 1.4% of Danes graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 84,650 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 10,940 annual associate program graduates.
  • 46,180 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 25,480 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,050 annual doctoral program graduates.

Estonia College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 1.3 million; 0.7% of Estonians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 9,260 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • No associates programs available.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 5,520 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 3,870 annual master program graduates.
  • 220 annual doctoral program graduates.

Finland College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.6 million; 1.1% of Finns graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 59,900 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • No associates programs available.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 37,920 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 20,340 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,640 annual doctoral program graduates.

France College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 67.7 million; 1.1% of French people graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 772,780 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 212,840 annual associate program graduates.
  • 263,590 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 286,340 annual master program graduates.
  • 13,020 annual doctoral program graduates.

Germany College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 83.8 million; 0.8% of Germans graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 646,790 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 6,210 annual associate program graduates.
  • 388,730 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 223,690 annual master program graduates.
  • 28,150 annual doctoral program graduates.

Greece College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 10.4 million; 0.8% of Greeks graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 81,750 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • No associates programs available.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 56,860 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 22,950 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,940 annual doctoral program graduates.

Hungary College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 9.6 million; 0.7% of Hungarians graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 71,480 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 3,380 annual associate program graduates.
  • 45,020 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 21,570 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,510 annual doctoral program graduates.

Iceland College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 382,000; 1.4% of Icelanders graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 5,240 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 70 annual associate program graduates.
  • 3,300 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 1,780 annual master program graduates.
  • 80 annual doctoral program graduates.

Ireland College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.1 million; 1.9% of people in Ireland graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 97,170 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 16,260 annual associate program graduates.
  • 48,950 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 30,420 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,530 annual doctoral program graduates.

Israel College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 9.5 million; 1.1% of people in Israel graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 100,820 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 16,670 annual associate program graduates.
  • 56,220 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 26,290 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,640 annual doctoral program graduates.

Italy College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 58.9 million; 0.8% of people in Italy graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 458,910 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 6,420 annual associate program graduates.
  • 254,780 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 186,600 annual master program graduates.
  • 8,120 annual doctoral program graduates.

Japan College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 124.9 million; 0.8% of people in Japan graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 997,780 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 298,390 annual associate program graduates.
  • 579,210 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 104,170 annual master program graduates.
  • 16,010 annual doctoral program graduates.

Korea College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 51.6 million; 1.2% of people in South Korea graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 602,980 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 152,410 annual associate program graduates.
  • 355,340 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 78,810 annual master program graduates.
  • 16,420 annual doctoral program graduates.

Latvia College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 1.9 million; 0.8% of people in Latvia graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 14,710 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 3,060 annual associate program graduates.
  • 7,150 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 4,350 annual master program graduates.
  • 150 annual doctoral program graduates.

Lithuania College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 2.8 million; 0.8% of people in Lithuania graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 23,620 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • No associates programs available.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 16,250 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 6,990 annual master program graduates.
  • 380 annual doctoral program graduates.

Luxembourg College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 653,000; 0.3% of people in Luxembourg graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 2,120 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 340 annual associate program graduates.
  • 640 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 990 annual master program graduates.
  • 150 annual doctoral program graduates.

Mexico College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 130.1 million; 0.7% of people in Mexico graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 892,910 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 52,110 annual associate program graduates.
  • 689,240 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 136,980 annual master program graduates.
  • 14,590 annual doctoral program graduates.

Netherlands College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 17.7 million; 1.0% of people in the Netherlands graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 180,050 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 4,550 annual associate program graduates.
  • 114,070 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 56,210 annual master program graduates.
  • 5,220 annual doctoral program graduates.

New Zealand College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.1 million; 1.4% of people in New Zealand graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 71,000 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 18,360 annual associate program graduates.
  • 42,890 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 8,050 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,700 annual doctoral program graduates.

Norway College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.5 million; 1.1% of people in Norway graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 59,180 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 3,510 annual associate program graduates.
  • 35,460 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 18,530 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,680 annual doctoral program graduates

Poland College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 37.8 million; 1.1% of people in Poland graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 403,600 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 580 annual associate program graduates.
  • 268,010 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 132,130 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,880 annual doctoral program graduates.

Portugal College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 10.4 million; 0.9% of people in Portugal graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 90,920 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 5,160 annual associate program graduates.
  • 55,570 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 28,110 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,080 annual doctoral program graduates.

Slovak Republic College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 5.4 million; 0.7% of people in the Slovak Republic graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 39,510 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 910 annual associate program graduates.
  • 18,360 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 18,950 annual master program graduates.
  • 1,290 annual doctoral program graduates.

Slovenia College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 2.1 million; 0.8% of people in Slovenia graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 16,660 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 2,220 annual associate program graduates.
  • 8,980 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 5,060 annual master program graduates.
  • 410 annual doctoral program graduates.

Spain College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 47.6 million; 1.1% of people in Mexico graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 536,830 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 169,890 annual associate program graduates.
  • 197,330 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 158,470 annual master program graduates.
  • 11,140 annual doctoral program graduates.

Sweden College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 10.5 million; 0.8% of people in Sweden graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 84,470 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 12,780 annual associate program graduates.
  • 40,300 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 32,420 annual master program graduates.
  • 2,960 annual doctoral program graduates.

Switzerland College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 8.8 million; 1.1% of people in Switzerland graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 97,220 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 410 annual associate program graduates.
  • 63,950 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 28,340 annual master program graduates.
  • 4,520 annual doctoral program graduates.

Turkey College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 85.0 million; 1.4% of people in Turkey graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 1.17 million students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 512,210 annual associate program graduates.
  • 553,350 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 92,700 annual master program graduates.
  • 8,860 annual doctoral program graduates.

United Kingdom College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 67.3 million; 1.4% of people in the United Kingdom graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 926,200 students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 134,990 annual associate program graduates.
  • 447,790 annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 318,350 annual master program graduates.
  • 25,070 annual doctoral program graduates.

United States College Graduation Statistics

The national population totals 333.3 million; 1.2% of people in the United States graduate from a postsecondary or postgraduate program each year.

  • 4.16 million students graduate from postsecondary and postgraduate programs annually.
  • Among the total number of graduates are 1.04 million annual associate program graduates.
  • 2.07 million annual bachelor program graduates.
  • 988,540 annual master program graduates.
  • 72,420 annual doctoral program graduates.

Analysis: Increasing Dependence on Public Education

U.S. college graduation statistics indicate greater student success among public institution attendees. Further, while postsecondary student enrollment is on a 10-year downward trend, public, 4-year schools are the only academic institutions to see an increase in enrollment during that time.

These data suggest an increased dependence on publicly funded education at the postsecondary level. This does not necessarily indicate greater value placed on public education; as degrees from private institutions become rarer, their perceived value may increase. Additionally, public, 2-year institutions or community colleges have seen a 38% decline in enrollment since 2010, whereas private, 4-year schools have lost 16% of their students in the same period.

Contributing factors may include the ever-rising national student loan debt and demand for an educated labor force. Students may work for a few years before attending college to avoid having to borrow. Others may forgo a college education altogether, especially those who would be less academically inclined and, therefore, more likely to drop out. Correspondingly, students who do attend college may feel greater pressure to graduate on time in order to maximize their investment, reduce debt, and earn a living wage.

Sources

  1. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Digest of Education Statistics
  2. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Historical Population Data
  3. Statista, Leading metropolitan areas with the highest percentage of college graduates in the United States in 2019
  4. United States Census Bureau, Data