The Value of Higher Education: An Unexpected Partisan Agreement

Title: Varying Degrees 2025: Americans Find Common Ground in Higher Education

Authors: Sophie Nguyen, Olivia Sawyer, Olivia Cheche

Source: New America

New America’s ninth annual survey on higher education found that, despite the politicization and polarization of the sector, Americans remain united in recognizing the importance and value of a college degree.

The Varying Degrees 2025 report found more areas of agreement than disagreement between Democrats and Republicans.

Key findings include:

• Colleges’ responsibilities. Nine in ten Americans believe colleges are responsible for preparing students for career success. A strong majority also agree colleges should strengthen students’ writing and communication skills.

• Partisan views on higher education’s impact. About 40 percent of Americans believe the state of higher education is fine as it is. But partisan differences emerge among those who see positive effects: nearly three-fourths (74 percent) of Democrats versus only 39 percent of Republicans.

• Return on investment. Seventy-three percent of Americans believe college is worth the investment and necessary for success in life. However, views vary widely by type of institution. Many hold community colleges in high regard, most view public colleges and universities as worth the cost, and far fewer believe the same of private—especially for-profit—colleges. Regardless of institution type, two-thirds of Americans believe some college education improves the chances of finding a well-paying job.

• Affordability concerns. Half of Americans say college is unaffordable. Both Democrats and Republicans identify cost as a primary reason students do not enroll.

• Government investment. Over 70 percent of Americans believe the government should spend more tax dollars on postsecondary education. While a partisan divide exists—91 percent of Democrats and 58 percent of Republicans—both majorities see a federal role in making college more affordable.

The report concludes that, even amid unprecedented legislation affecting higher education, targeted political attacks from the White House, and increasing media polarization, Americans largely continue to believe in the value of a college education.

Read the full report here.

—Harper Davis