Student Perspectives on Noncredit Workforce Education

Why and how do adults enroll in noncredit workforce programs? What do they hope to gain from them?

Learners are increasingly turning to short-term college programs and credentials, such as community college noncredit workforce programs. Estimates suggest that almost half of all community college students are enrolled in such programs, yet data on these students are sparse.

Relying on interviews with almost 90 students enrolled in noncredit workforce programs at three community colleges, we are learning about these students’ goals, decision-making processes, and program experiences. Our community college partners represent a range of policy and funding contexts: LaGuardia Community College (in New York), Mt. San Antonio College (in California), and Northern Virginia Community College.

Focusing on students who do not already have college degrees, we are examining how students’ education, work, and family histories shape their current efforts to earn credentials and achieve upward mobility. Findings from this project will be useful to community college policymakers and practitioners who are working to promote equity and economic growth for needy populations. This research is funded by Lumina Foundation.

The report is expected to be released in the spring of 2026.

 

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