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Can higher education be the key to economic mobility for low and moderate-income learners in California? In our latest episode, we welcome back Michael Itzkowitz from the HEA Group to delve into this pressing question. Uncover the surprising findings of his latest report with the College Futures Foundation, "California Programs that Pay: Measuring Return on Investment Across Majors and Credentials." Discover how an impressive 88% of college programs in California allow students to recoup their educational expenses within just five years, with a significant portion achieving this feat in only one year. Michael shares invaluable insights into how different majors and credentials can shape the financial future of graduates, providing crucial knowledge for learners navigating the complex landscape of higher education.

The conversation takes a critical look at the role of for-profit institutions and shorter-term certificate programs, particularly in serving underserved communities like women and students of color. We tackle the potential risks these programs pose in perpetuating socioeconomic inequality while highlighting the necessity of transparency in educational investments. As education costs soar and student debt burdens grow, understanding the economic mobility metric becomes vital. We also challenge the notion of prestigious institution brands as the sole path to mobility, emphasizing the diverse opportunities available in California's rich educational landscape. Tune in to empower yourself with the insights needed to make informed choices that could shape your economic destiny.

www.CollegeFutures.org