High schoolers in US opt for community colleges and certifications as debt pushes them away from four-year degrees

Rising tuition, mounting student debt, and a shifting job market are prompting high school students to reconsider four-year degrees. Many now prioritize affordability, career readiness, and post-graduation opportunities, turning to community colleges, trade schools, and short-term certifications. Enrollment in certificate and associate programs is rising, while skilled trades offer high-paying alternatives, signaling a shift toward practical, career-focused education.