Indicator: 37 - Bachelor's Degree Attainment

Why This Is Important

The level of educational attainment of Maine citizens is critically important to the State's quality of life and economic well-being. The long-term economic competitiveness of Maine is directly linked to the skill and education level of its workforce.

Where We Stand

In 2000, an estimated 24% of Maine people over the age of 25 had at least a Bachelor's Degree, compared with a national rate of 26%. The trend over time for this indicator shows some improvement, although the state has continued to lag behind the national rate. Maine also has consistently ranked last among the six New England states on this measure since 1996.

Data Sources and Context

The data source for this indicator is the U.S. Census Bureau's Current Population Survey, which is published annually in March. The indicator is defined as the percent of population over 25 years of age with at least a Bachelor's Degree. Educational attainment estimates are available on-line at http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/educ-attn.html.