Are Students Finishing College?

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - College retention rates have always been lower than one should expect and there's much talk recently about the value of a college degree. Having fewer financial resources and poor job prospects for the past few years, many have questioned completing school.

Still, the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, tracking students of any age entering college for the first time in 2007 and earning degrees or certificates within 6 years, suggests the numbers remain unchanged. The students were followed even if they transferred to another college, sector or state.

Only 22% of part-timers earned credentials, and 4-year private colleges had the highest completion rates, as you might expect.

Working students, parents and others who could attend part time only were the least likely to graduate in six years. More than 10% of students are women.

While there are many reasons why college students stop, drop out or transfer but it's important to consider data when selecting a school.