By the 2030s, nearly three-quarters of jobs will require some sort of credential beyond a traditional high school diploma. While a reputable bachelor’s degree continues to be the surest path to the middle class on average, for too many students, a college credential will not provide long-term economic opportunity. Far too many students graduate with credentials for which there is little economic demand, while others pay too much compared to what they get. Still others are seeking a broader set of pathways to economic mobility.
Arnold Ventures advances policies that promote quality, value, and accountability for student outcomes across both traditional higher education and other career pathways from high school to the workforce. That means elevating high-performing institutions and programs, directing taxpayer money toward evidence-based solutions, protecting students from ineffective and predatory programs, and focusing the education and workforce systems on results (e.g., stronger earnings) over inputs (e.g., enrollment).
We work to strengthen institutional practices that improve graduation rates, reduce debt, and lead to better employment and earnings outcomes. We also seek to expand proven career programs – including sectoral training connected to good jobs and high-quality career and technical education – while ensuring policy rewards quality and outcomes, not just quantity of options and participation.