A poll of 2,000 adults found that over a third of Americans would redo college, often to change careers or earn more. About one-third of employed respondents say the current job market shapes that desire, and roughly 20% of graduates feel their degree isn’t relevant to their work. Respondents rated AI/machine learning, healthcare, cybersecurity, accounting and business/economics as the most useful degrees. CSU Global’s president emphasized reskilling and upskilling to stay competitive.
Over a Third of Americans Would Redo College to Change Careers and Boost Earnings, Survey Finds
A poll of 2,000 adults found that over a third of Americans would redo college, often to change careers or earn more. About one-third of employed respondents say the current job market shapes that desire, and roughly 20% of graduates feel their degree isn’t relevant to their work. Respondents rated AI/machine learning, healthcare, cybersecurity, accounting and business/economics as the most useful degrees. CSU Global’s president emphasized reskilling and upskilling to stay competitive.
23:26, 06.11.2025Economy
Many Americans Would Return to College to Pursue Different Careers and Higher Pay
A new survey shows more than a third of Americans would redo their college experience if given the chance, often to pursue a different career path and increase their earnings. The poll of 2,000 adults was conducted by Talker Research for Colorado State University Global (CSU Global).
Among employed respondents, roughly one-third said today’s labor market influences their desire to revisit college. While a majority of those who attended college believe their degree is relevant to their current work, about one in five say their degree does not match their present role.
Degrees Seen as Most Valuable Today
Survey participants ranked which fields they view as most useful in today’s job market. The top choices were:
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Healthcare
- Cybersecurity
- Accounting
- Business or economics
“As a high-demand skill a few years ago may be different today, it is important to continually refresh your understanding of how different industries and their needs have evolved,” said Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker, president of Colorado State University Global. “Staying current through reskilling or upskilling is key to maintaining a competitive edge.”
The findings underscore growing interest in career-focused education and the importance of aligning college study with workforce needs. Many respondents see additional education — whether a new degree, targeted certificate, or short-term training — as a way to pivot into more in-demand fields and improve long-term earning potential.
Originally reported by National Examiner. Survey conducted by Talker Research for CSU Global (sample size: 2,000 adults).