A new report from the Lumina Foundation shows Michigan’s postsecondary attainment has grown slightly from 45% to 45.5% in one year.

The data shows that our state’s overall rate of educational attainment has increased by 9.9% since 2008. While we are making progress, we are still behind the national average of 48.4% postsecondary attainment which includes certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and graduate or professional degrees.

The Lumina Foundation’s report, A Stronger Nation, calls for closing the gaps in educational attainment linked to race and ethnicity. “Because educational attainment beyond high school has become the key determinant of economic opportunity and social mobility, closing these gaps is crucial,” the report states.

In a recent press release, Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office shared that Michigan ranks 33rd nationally for education attainment and is below average in the Great Lakes region. The governor noted the progress shown in the report but says more must be done to help move Michigan forward.

“To build an economy that works for everyone, we need to ensure everyone has a path to a good-paying job,” Whitmer said. “While this report shows Michigan is moving in the right direction toward our postsecondary goal, we must do more to help Michiganders get the skills they need to compete. That's why it’s so important for the Michigan Legislature to pass the bipartisan Michigan Reconnect bills, that will help provide tuition-free skills training and degree programs for adults. Let's work together and let's get it done.” 

Whitmer has been focused on increasing postsecondary attainment.

Michigan Reconnect legislation would establish a financial aid program for students over the age of 25 who are seeking an associate degree or industry-recognized certificate.

Last year the governor also established Sixty by 30, a goal for Michigan to increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree from 45% to 60% by 2030.

Recognizing college affordability as a barrier for many, in December, the governor launched the Governor’s FAFSA Challenge. Whitmer asked all Michigan high schools to set a FAFSA completion goal and track data on completion rates. The governor’s office said 90% of high school seniors who complete the FAFSA enroll in postsecondary programs. The challenge ends on March 1 with winners expected to be announced in April.

Want more?

Check out the full report.

Find your county’s postsecondary attainment rate.

Learn more about Sixty by 30.