The Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering survey is an annual census of all U.S. academic institutions granting research-based master's degrees or doctorates in science, engineering, and selected health fields as of fall of the survey year. The survey, sponsored by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics within the National Science Foundation and by the National Institutes of Health, collects the total number of master's and doctoral students, postdoctoral appointees, and doctorate-level nonfaculty researchers by demographic and other characteristics such as source of financial support. Results are used to assess shifts in graduate enrollment and postdoc appointments and trends in financial support.

There were 342,875 international students studying at the undergraduate level in the United States in the 2023/24 academic year. In that same year, there were 502,291 international graduate students studying in the country and a further 38,742 non-degree-seeking international students.

The Colleges and Universities feature class/shapefile is composed of all Post Secondary Education facilities as defined by the Integrated Post Secondary Education System (IPEDS, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/), National Center for Education Statistics (NCES, https://nces.ed.gov/), US Department of Education for the 2018-2019 school year. Included are Doctoral/Research Universities, Masters Colleges and Universities, Baccalaureate Colleges, Associates Colleges, Theological seminaries, Medical Schools and other health care professions, Schools of engineering and technology, business and management, art, music, design, Law schools, Teachers colleges, Tribal colleges, and other specialized institutions. Overall, this data layer covers all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and other assorted U.S. territories. This feature class contains all MEDS/MEDS+ as approved by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Homeland Security Infrastructure Program (HSIP) Team. Complete field and attribute information is available in the ”Entities and Attributes” metadata section. Geographical coverage is depicted in the thumbnail above and detailed in the "Place Keyword" section of the metadata. This feature class does not have a relationship class but is related to Supplemental Colleges. Colleges and Universities that are not included in the NCES IPEDS data are added to the Supplemental Colleges feature class when found. This release includes the addition of 175 new records, the removal of 468 no longer reported by NCES, and modifications to the spatial location and/or attribution of 6682 records.

U.S. Higher Education Market size was valued at USD 101165.92 USD Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 176174.98 USD Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.18% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

U.S. Higher Education Market Drivers

The market drivers for the U.S. Higher Education Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Demographics: Shifts in the population's composition and size of the college-age population have an impact on the demand for higher education.

Economic Conditions: A person's desire to pursue higher education and their capacity to pay for it are influenced by a number of economic factors, such as income levels, unemployment rates, and the general health of the economy.

Technological Innovations: These include online learning environments, virtual classrooms, and adaptive learning technologies, which have an impact on how higher education is delivered.

Government Funding and Policies: The higher education industry is greatly impacted by changes to government funding and policy, including financial aid programs and rules pertaining to student loans and accreditation.

Globalization: As more students from outside pursue higher education in the United States and American universities broaden their global reach, there is a corresponding increase in the demand for higher education.

job Market Trends: Higher education institutions' program offerings and enrollment trends are influenced by the job market's need for particular skills and credentials.

Competitive Landscape: Innovation and advancements in higher education offerings are fueled by competition among schools and universities, which includes rivalry for students, faculty, research funds, and rankings.

Social and Cultural Factors: The higher education market is shaped by shifting societal attitudes regarding education, cultural views of the value of higher education, and changing preferences for various educational experiences.

In the academic year 2023/24, there were 331,602 international students from India studying in the United States. International students The majority of international students studying in the United States are originally from India and China, totaling 331,602 students and 277,398 students respectively in the 2023/24 school year. In 2022/23, there were 467,027 international graduate students , which accounted for over one third of the international students in the country. Typically, engineering and math & computer science programs were among the most common fields of study for these students. The United States is home to many world-renowned schools, most notably, the Ivy League Colleges which provide education that is sought after by both foreign and local students. International students and college Foreign students in the United States pay some of the highest fees in the United States, with an average of 24,914 U.S. dollars. American students attending a college in New England paid an average of 14,900 U.S. dollars for tuition alone and there were about 79,751 international students in Massachusetts . Among high-income families, U.S. students paid an average of 34,700 U.S. dollars for college, whereas the average for all U.S. families reached only 28,026 U.S. dollars. Typically, 40 percent of families paid for college tuition through parent income and savings, while 29 percent relied on grants and scholarships.

Summary of statistical analysis regarding graduate GPA and time to degree.

Snapshot img

US Community College Market Size 2025-2029

The US community college market size is forecast to increase by USD -7825.8 million, at a CAGR of -2.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The Community College market in the US is experiencing significant shifts driven by the growing emphasis on non-traditional learning and the evolving education marketing process. This trend is fueled by the increasing number of adults returning to education and the need for flexible learning options. However, community colleges face challenges in securing adequate funding, which may hinder their ability to meet the demands of an expanding student population. The education landscape is transforming, with community colleges playing a pivotal role in catering to the needs of non-traditional learners. The marketing process has become increasingly important as institutions compete for students in a crowded market.
Yet, reduced funding poses a significant challenge. Community colleges must navigate this financial obstacle by exploring innovative funding models and cost-effective solutions to maintain their competitiveness and continue providing accessible, affordable education. Adapting to these market dynamics and addressing funding constraints will be crucial for community colleges seeking to capitalize on opportunities and thrive in the evolving educational landscape.

What will be the size of the US Community College Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The community college market in the US is characterized by a shift towards hybrid learning and competency-based education, as resource management and curriculum mapping gain prominence. Student recruitment strategies are increasingly data-driven, with mobile learning and learning analytics playing crucial roles. Institutional advancement efforts include compliance regulations, capital campaigns, and board of trustees engagement. Budget allocation and information technology investments are key areas of focus for administrators, with technology infrastructure and program review shaping the future of education. Faculty governance, endowment management, and professional development are essential components of institutional success.
Skills gap analysis and blended learning are critical in addressing workforce needs, while accreditation standards ensure academic rigor. Personalized learning and alumni relations strengthen student engagement, and faculty recruitment and shared governance foster a collaborative learning environment.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Revenue Stream

  Government funds
  Tuition and fees
  Grants and contracts
  Others


Courses

  Associate degree
  TVET certification
  Continuing education
  Bachelors degree


Student Type

  Traditional
  Non-Traditional
  Online
  Recent High School Graduates
  Adult Learners
  Career Changers


Delivery Mode

  On-Campus
  Online
  Hybrid


Subject Area

  STEM
  Healthcare
  Business
  Liberal Arts


Geography

  North America

    US

By Revenue Stream Insights

The government funds segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Community colleges in the US receive the majority of their revenue from government funds, primarily from state, local, and central sources. These funds support various aspects of college operations, including instructor salaries, staff compensation, and infrastructure improvements. Thirty-two out of the fifty states in the US employ funding formulas to distribute resources to their respective colleges. Some states, such as Washington and Ohio, have adopted performance-based funding models to incentivize enrollment growth and expedite graduation rates. Educational technology plays a significant role in community colleges, with online learning platforms and classroom technology enhancing the learning experience. Dual enrollment programs enable high school students to earn college credits, while GED preparation courses help adults attain their diplomas.

Faculty development and program assessment ensure academic rigor and continuous improvement. International students contribute to campus diversity, with career services and student affairs providing support. Campus safety and accessibility compliance are essential considerations, as are technical skills training, workforce development, certificate programs, and continuing education. Transfer agreements facilitate seamless transitions to four-year institutions, while ESL programs cater to non-native English speakers. Associate degrees and bachelor's

Summary of statistical analysis regarding GRE scores and time to degree.

Over the past five years, for-profit universities have faced mounting headwinds amid regulatory tightening, inflation and negative public perception. While data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that overall postsecondary enrollment grew by just 0.5% from 2020 to 2025, enrollment at for-profit institutions shrank by 4.1%. Ballooning student debt and rising tuition, made worse by inflation in 2022 and 2023, have driven many recent graduates and adult learners to second-guess the value of higher education, especially degrees from for-profit schools with poor graduate earnings. Government regulations added further strain as the Biden administration's 2024 reinstatement of gainful employment rules once again linked access to federal funding to graduate debt-to-income ratios. At the same time, for-profit schools battled declining revenue as affordable nonprofit and vocational programs drew away budget-conscious students. Industry revenue has dropped at a CAGR of 0.5% to an estimated $13.6 billion over the five years through 2025. A faltering reputation has played a major role in the industry's decline. According to Federal Student Aid data, for-profit universities are repeatedly criticized for low graduation rates, weak graduate earnings and high student loan default rates—the highest across any demographic. Allegations of predatory practices remain in the headlines, exemplified by Walden University's $28.5 million lawsuit settlement in 2024. Although these institutions offer flexible scheduling and lower tuition rates that appeal to low-income and nontraditional students, the public remains wary. Studies indicate that most programs with no positive return on investment are at for-profit colleges. Meanwhile, stricter government scrutiny and the widespread availability of earnings and debt data have made poor outcomes highly visible, solidifying the negative perception. Many for-profit universities have shuttered, though some have managed to retain profit by closing physical locations. For-profit universities will continue facing a decline over the next five years. IBISWorld expects for-profit university enrollment to drop at an annualized 1.1% through 2030, outpaced by modest growth at nonprofit and vocational schools, where graduates see better employment outcomes. Uncertainty in regulations, including the possible repeal of the 90/10 rule, adds more volatility, while the lack of broad student loan forgiveness will likely suppress affordability and demand. As students and job seekers prioritize educational outcomes and cost, one in seven for-profit universities is expected to close by 2030. For-profit universities' revenue is set to sink at a CAGR of 0.3% to an estimated $13.4 billion through the next five years.

Summary of statistical analysis regarding GRE percentiles and time to degree.

In the academic year of 2020/21, about 85,370 male and 108,690 female students earned a doctoral degree in the United States. By the academic year of 2031/32, these figures are expected to increase to about 88,110 and 141,500 respectively.

Summary of statistical analysis regarding GPA and GRE scores and candidacy exam passage or failure.

In 2022, there were about 1.57 million white students enrolled in post-baccalaureate courses in the United States. This is compared to 369,200 Black students enrolled in post-baccalaureate courses in that same year.

The American Community Survey (ACS) is designed to estimate the characteristic distribution of populations* and estimated counts should only be used to calculate percentages. They do not represent the actual population counts or totals. Beginning in 2019, the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) has measured educational attainment for the Roadmap Progress Report using one-year American Community Survey (ACS) data from the United States Census Bureau. These public microdata represents the most current data, but it is limited to areas with larger populations leading to some multi-county regions**.

*The American Community Survey is not the official source of population counts. It is designed to show the characteristics of the nation's population and should not be used as actual population counts or housing totals for the nation, states or counties. The official population count — including population by age, sex, race and Hispanic origin — comes from the once-a-decade census, supplemented by annual population estimates (which do not typically contain educational attainment variables) from the following groups and surveys:
-- Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM): https://www.ofm.wa.gov/washington-data-research/population-demographics -- US Census Decennial Census: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html and Population Estimates Program: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest.html

**In prior years, WSAC used both the five-year and three-year (now discontinued) data. While the 5-year estimates provide a larger sample, they are not recommended for year to year trends and also are released later than the one-year files.

Detailed information about the ACS at https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs/guidance.html

Private schools have struggled to maintain enrollment and revenue as the population of children in the K-12 age range evaporates. The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and the International Monetary Fund report that the fertility rate has continued to plunge further below replacement levels, and the National Center for Health Statistics reports a drop of over 100,000 births per year since 2020. This demographic shift has led to fewer children entering the K-12 age range and smaller graduating classes. Immigration helps reduce low birth rates' impact on the US population, but less than a tenth of immigrating students attend private K-12 schools. Ultimately, the National Center for Education Statistics projects a drop in private school enrollment from 6.0 million in 2020 to 5.5 million by 2025. To mitigate these challenges, many private schools have increased tuition fees, which may exclude families unable to afford the higher costs. Revenue has been sinking at a CAGR of 1.5% to an estimated $79.3 billion over the five years through 2025, including an expected 0.3% slump in 2025 alone. Declining birth rates, alongside the rise of charter schools, have reshaped the educational landscape. Charter schools now operate in 45 states, offering specialized education at lower costs than private schools and attracting many parents. This expansion has resulted in only a slight 2.3% slump in public school enrollment since 2020, compared to an 8.2% drop in private schools. However, government assistance is beginning to help private schools become more accessible. School choice programs, especially vouchers and Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), are becoming especially prevalent and have the full support of the Trump administration. Private schools will continue becoming more accessible as parents gain the ability to use public funds for private education. Birth rates will continue dropping, but government assistance and growing incomes will help stave off further dips in revenue. Larger, well-established private schools may better navigate challenges by balancing tuition hikes with financial aid offerings targeted at higher-income families. To stay competitive with charter and public alternatives, private schools might offer more personalized educational experiences. By leveraging potential government support and adjusting their strategies, private schools will buoy enrollment and revenue amid persisting headwinds. Revenue is set to see stagnant growth and will reach $73.4 billion by the end of 2030.

Colleges and universities in the United States are still a popular study destination for Chinese students, with around 277 thousand choosing to take courses there in the 2023/24 academic year. Although numbers were heavily affected by the coronavirus pandemic, China is still the leading source of international students in the U.S. education market, accounting for 24.6 percent of all incoming students. The education exodus Mathematics and computer science courses led the field in terms of what Chinese students were studying in the United States, followed by engineering and business & management programs. The vast majority of Chinese students were self-funded, wth the remainder receiving state-funding to complete their overseas studies. Tuition fees can run into the tens of thousands of U.S. dollars, as foreign students usually pay out-of-state tuition fees. What about the local situation? Although studying abroad attracts many Chinese students, the country itself boasts the largest state-run education system in the world. With modernization of the national tertiary education system being a top priority for the Chinese government, the country has seen a significant increase in the number of local universities over the last decade. Enrolments in these universities exceeded 37 million in 2023, and a record of more than ten million students graduated in the same year, indicating that China's education market is still expanding.

In 2021, there were around 1.24 million male students enrolled in post-baccalaureate courses in U.S. universities, as compared to 1.97 million female students. By 2031, it is forecast that there will be about 1.32 million male and 2.09 million female post-baccalaureate students.

Snapshot img

North America Virtual Schools Market Size 2025-2029

The virtual schools market in North America size is forecast to increase by USD 2.24 billion billion at a CAGR of 14.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the need for cost-effective teaching models and the emergence of E-learning via mobile devices. The increasing popularity of open-source learning content is another key trend fueling market expansion. With budget constraints and the desire for flexible learning options, virtual schools offer an attractive solution for students and educators alike.
This shift towards virtual education is transforming the education landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges.Staying abreast of these market dynamics is essential for stakeholders looking to capitalize on the potential of this rapidly evolving sector.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

Request Free Sample

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of online collaboration tools and educational innovation. Virtual school management systems facilitate online school choice for students, enabling personalized instruction and improved student retention. Educational research highlights the effectiveness of digital accessibility and virtual learning technology integration in enhancing learning outcomes. Student engagement strategies, such as educational video and interactive simulations, are essential components of virtual school design. The future of education lies in the development of digital learning ecosystems, which incorporate online reputation management, equity in education, and learning analytics. Virtual schools require robust online learning infrastructure to support student support systems and ensure digital accessibility for all students.
The integration of learning technology and online learning platforms into virtual schools is crucial for delivering effective instruction and promoting student success. Virtual school governance is a critical aspect of the virtual schools market, ensuring the provision of high-quality education and addressing the digital divide. Online learning platforms must prioritize student engagement and provide effective student support systems to mitigate potential challenges and promote positive learning experiences. The use of virtual schools and online learning infrastructure offers significant benefits, including increased flexibility, accessibility, and personalized instruction. However, challenges remain, including the need for effective online reputation management and ensuring equity in education.The market will continue to evolve, with a focus on developing innovative learning technologies and digital content to enhance the virtual learning experience.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  For-profit EMO
  Non-profit EMO


Application

  Elementary schools
  Middle schools
  High schools
  Adult education


Delivery Mode

  Online Courses
  Learning Management Systems
  Mobile Learning
  Virtual Classrooms


Subject Area

  STEM
  Business & Management
  Healthcare
  Creative Arts


Deployment Type

  Cloud-Based
  On-Premises


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico

By Type Insights

The for-profit emo segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

For-profit Education Management Organizations (EMOs) are private entities that offer administrative and operational support, curriculum development, and teacher training to schools or districts while aiming for profit generation. These organizations have extensive experience and expertise in delivering virtual education programs. They invest in advanced technology infrastructure, learning management systems, and instructional resources to create engaging virtual learning experiences for students. For-profit EMOs prioritize personalized learning, student engagement, and parent involvement through digital textbooks, online curriculum, and interactive digital learning platforms. They also emphasize student success by providing online tutoring, adaptive learning, and data analytics. Virtual classrooms and mobile learning enable students to access education from anywhere, while virtual field trips offer immersive educational experiences.

For-profit EMOs build educational partnerships to expand their offerings, including virtual labs, online libraries, and virtual school networks. They also focus on online marketing, branding, and student recruitment to attract a diverse student population. Higher education institutions collaborate with for-profit

Snapshot img

US Nursing Education Market Size 2025-2029

The US nursing education market size is forecast to increase by USD 161.9 billion at a CAGR of 30% between 2024 and 2029.

US Nursing Education Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for competency-based learning and the integration of advanced technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in nursing education. The shift towards competency-based learning is a response to the evolving healthcare landscape and the need for nurses to possess a higher level of skills and knowledge to provide effective patient care. Furthermore, the use of AR and VR technologies in nursing education offers learning experiences, enabling students to practice complex procedures in a safe and controlled environment. However, the market is not without challenges.
One of the significant challenges is the lack of standardized assessment metrics to measure the effectiveness of nursing education programs. This challenge hampers the ability to evaluate the success of educational initiatives and the readiness of graduates to enter the workforce. To capitalize on the market opportunities and navigate these challenges effectively, companies must focus on developing innovative solutions that address the need for competency-based learning and provide reliable assessment metrics. Additionally, investing in the integration of AR and VR technologies can offer a competitive edge in the market.

What will be the size of the US Nursing Education Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

The nursing education market in the US is experiencing significant growth and innovation, driven by the demand for advanced nursing informatics solutions and continuing education units. This trend is reflected in the development of nurse recruitment strategies that leverage telehealth platforms and nursing curriculum tailored to healthcare technology. Nursing salary trends continue to influence the market, as nursing informatics specialists become increasingly essential for effective healthcare data management. Nursing simulation software and nursing career pathways are key components of nursing education trends, providing clinical experience and patient safety initiatives that align with patient-centered care and improved health outcomes.
Accreditation standards and nursing faculty recruitment are also critical areas of focus, as institutions seek to maintain high educational standards and remain competitive. Patient portals, mobile health apps, and nursing education consultants are essential tools for nursing workforce development, enabling professional growth and leadership training. Nursing ethics committees and clinical data analytics further enhance the quality of nursing education and research, ensuring that the nursing profession remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Graduate courses
  Postgraduate courses


End-user

  Hospitals
  Home healthcare services


Program Type

  Associate Degree
  Bachelor's Degree
  Master's Degree
  Doctoral Programs


Delivery Mode

  On-Campus
  Online
  Hybrid


Institution Types

  Universities
  Community Colleges
  Vocational Schools


Geography

  US

By Type Insights

The graduate courses segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The nursing education market in the US is experiencing significant growth due to the rising enrollment in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. This trend is driven by the increasing demand for specialized nursing professionals in various fields, such as geriatric nursing, mental health nursing, and critical care nursing. The American Nurses Association and other nursing organizations advocate for continued nursing education as a means of addressing health disparities and improving patient care. E-learning platforms, nursing simulation labs, and clinical skills training are essential components of graduate nursing programs, providing students with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge.

Nursing informatics, healthcare reform, and patient safety are key areas of focus, with data analytics and clinical decision support playing crucial roles. The nursing workforce is evolving, with an emphasis on nurse retention, nursing leadership, and nursing professional development. Online nursing programs, mobile health, and wearable technology are transforming nursing education, making it more accessible and flexible. Nursing evaluation, nursing diagnosis, and nursing standards are integral parts of nursing education, ensuring that students are prepared for the nursing l

In the academic year of 2020/2021 in the United States, 85,581 doctoral degrees were earned in health professions and related programs - the most out of any field of study. A further 35,976 doctoral degrees were earned in legal professions and studies.