The education gap—disparities in college degree attainment across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups—poses a significant challenge to equitable progress. Many states have set bold goals to ensure 60% of their working-age population holds a college degree or postsecondary credential by 2030, inspired by efforts like the Lumina Foundation’s “Big Goal.” To achieve this, states are rolling out innovative strategies to close the education gap, from supporting adult learners to strengthening community college pathways. Here’s a look at how states are working to make higher education more accessible and inclusive.
Supporting Nontraditional and Adult Learners
A major factor in the education gap is limited access for nontraditional students, such as working adults, parents, or low-income individuals. States like Michigan, through its Sixty by 30 initiative, are addressing this by expanding flexible learning options. Michigan’s Office of Sixty by 30 collaborates with colleges to offer online and hybrid programs, enabling adults to earn degrees or certificates around their schedules. For instance, the state’s Tuition Incentive Program supports low-income students, increasing enrollment in community colleges and four-year schools. These efforts help more adults overcome barriers and contribute to closing the education gap.
Strengthening Community College Transfer Pathways
Community colleges play a vital role in closing the education gap, serving diverse and underserved populations. States like California are improving transfer pathways to four-year institutions to boost bachelor’s degree attainment. A 2015 Public Policy Institute of California report noted that better transfer agreements could help California address its projected 1.1 million graduate shortfall by 2030. Programs like California’s Associate Degree for Transfer guarantee admission to California State University for qualifying students, simplifying the path to a bachelor’s degree. These initiatives make higher education more attainable for low-income and minority students, narrowing the education gap.
Focusing on Equity for Underserved Populations
Racial and ethnic disparities are a core component of the education gap. In 2021, only 27.8% of Latino adults and 34.2% of Black adults held a degree, compared to 50.2% of White adults, according to Lumina Foundation data. States like Texas, through its 60x30TX plan, are prioritizing equity by expanding financial aid and outreach for Black and Hispanic students, who represent a significant portion of the state’s population. Texas aims to award 550,000 credentials by 2030, with programs like the Texas Affordable Baccalaureate offering low-cost degrees. These targeted efforts help reduce the education gap for underrepresented groups.
Aligning Education with Workforce Needs
To close the education gap, states are partnering with employers to ensure education meets job market demands. Tennessee’s Drive to 55 initiative, targeting 55% attainment by 2025, works with businesses to offer apprenticeships and certificate programs that lead to degrees. Tennessee Reconnect, for example, provides free community college for adults, increasing attainment among low-income and rural learners. By aligning credentials with high-demand fields like healthcare and technology, these partnerships encourage more adults to pursue education, helping states move toward their 60% goal while addressing the education gap.
Addressing Challenges to the Education Gap
Despite progress, challenges like rising tuition, declining enrollment, and systemic inequities remain. A 2023 Inside Higher Ed report highlighted a projected 17% drop in college-age populations by 2041, which could widen the education gap if unaddressed. States are responding with policies like free community college, such as New Mexico’s Opportunity Scholarship, and credit for prior learning, which counts work experience toward degrees. Flexible learning options, like those offered by platforms such as SmarterDegree, also support adult learners by fitting education into busy lives, helping more people contribute to state attainment goals.
The Stakes of Closing the Education Gap
Closing the education gap is about more than reaching a 60% attainment target—it’s about fostering stronger economies and communities. States that succeed could see higher wages, lower unemployment, and greater innovation, as projected in a 2015 Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board report for its 60x30TX plan. For individuals, a degree offers better job prospects and social mobility. As states continue their push toward 2030, the focus on equity, access, and workforce alignment will be key to ensuring everyone has a chance to succeed.
Join the Movement with SmarterDegree
The push for 60% degree attainment by 2030 is a collective effort, and you can be part of it. SmarterDegree’s self-paced, online courses make it easy to earn the credentials needed to close the education gap in your state. Whether you’re starting fresh or finishing a degree, our programs fit your life and career goals. Explore our offerings today and take the first step toward a smarter, more equitable future!
