List of U.S. states and territories by educational attainment

Americans with a high school education or higher by state

Americans with a bachelor's degree or higher by state

Americans with an advanced degree by state

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US bachelor's degree by county in the United States

List of U.S. states and territories by educational attainment refers to the ranking or categorization of the United States states and territories based on the educational levels achieved by their residents. Educational attainment is a key indicator used to gauge the educational level of an adult population, typically measuring the highest level of education that an individual has completed. This can range from high school diplomas to doctoral degrees. The data for these rankings is primarily sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, particularly from surveys such as the American Community Survey (ACS).

Overview

Educational attainment is an important metric for economists, policymakers, and educators as it correlates with various economic and social outcomes, including employment rates, income levels, and social mobility. States and territories with higher educational attainment levels often have stronger economies and higher quality of life. The rankings can highlight disparities in access to education and the effectiveness of educational systems across different regions.

Methodology

The rankings are typically based on the percentage of the adult population (over the age of 25) that has achieved a specific level of education. Common benchmarks include:

• High school graduation rates
• Associate degrees or some college education
• Bachelor's degrees
• Graduate or professional degrees

Data is collected through household surveys, such as the ACS, which ask respondents to indicate the highest level of education they have completed.

Rankings

The list of U.S. states and territories by educational attainment changes annually based on the latest survey data. States with robust higher education systems, strong K-12 education policies, and significant investments in education often rank higher. Conversely, areas facing economic challenges, lower investment in education, or higher dropout rates may rank lower.

Implications

The educational attainment of a region has profound implications for its economic development, health outcomes, and social progress. Higher educational levels are associated with higher earnings, better health, and increased civic participation. Policymakers use these rankings to identify areas in need of educational reform or investment and to benchmark progress over time.

Challenges and Considerations

While these rankings provide valuable insights, they also face limitations. They may not fully capture the quality of education or lifelong learning opportunities. Additionally, factors such as migration, access to education, and economic disparities can influence these rankings and should be considered when interpreting the data.

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