Putting Students First: Are Associate Degrees Preparing Graduates for Successful Careers? The ACCT 2016 Invitational Symposium: Getting in the Fast Lane--Ensuring Economic Security and Meeting the Workforce Needs of the Nation. Discussion Paper

Senior Economist Jonathan Rothwell of Gallup, presents data on employment outcomes for college graduates from different types of colleges. He also provides findings from the Gallup-USA Funds Associate Degree Graduates Survey which shows there are a number of student experiences that are highly predictive of overall life-evaluation. He cites the factors that contribute to a positive high life evaluation, noting that approximately 46 percent of Associate degree earners reported their college education was worth the cost. He concludes that with rising college costs students need to be better informed about the potential outcomes of their investment.