Back to preview
  • % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years (Line chart)
  • % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years (Bar chart)
  • % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years (Map)
  • % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years (Boxplot chart)
Data set notes
European Health for All database

Indicators: 565
Updated: 18 October 2024

The following abbreviations are used in the indicator titles:
•    SDR: age-standardized death rates (see HFA-DB user manual/Technical notes, page 13, for details)
•    FTE: full-time equivalent
•    PP: physical persons
•    PPP$: purchasing power parities expressed in US $, an internationally comparable scale reflecting the relative domestic purchasing powers of currencies.

Indicator notes
% of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years
Indicator code: E150506.T

Highest level of education attained corresponding to post-secondary education.

Main data source: UNESCO Institute for Statistics.

For some countries, data received directly from national counterparts.

Country/Area notes
No information
General notes

What is the % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years?

Understanding the percentage of the population with postsecondary education aged 25 and older is crucial for assessing the educational attainment within a society. This indicator reflects the proportion of adults who have completed education beyond the high school level, including vocational training, college, and university degrees. It provides insights into the level of advanced knowledge and skills in the workforce, which can influence economic development, innovation, and societal progress. By analyzing this data, policymakers and educational institutions can better align their strategies to enhance educational opportunities and meet the evolving needs of their economies.

How to calculate the % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years?

The calculation of the percentage of the population with postsecondary education aged 25 years and older involves several steps. It starts by identifying the total number of individuals within this age group who have successfully completed any form of postsecondary education. This figure is then divided by the total population of the same age group, and the result is expressed as a percentage. Accurate data collection from educational institutions and census surveys is essential to ensure the reliability of this statistic. This metric helps in understanding the educational structure of the population and planning for future educational needs.

Importance of the % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years

The percentage of the population with postsecondary education aged 25 years and older is a significant indicator of a country's educational advancement and economic potential. Higher education levels generally correlate with greater employment opportunities, higher earnings, and improved quality of life. This statistic is also vital for governments and educational planners to forecast and enhance the educational infrastructure, including colleges, universities, and vocational training centers. It aids in the formulation of policies that strive towards an educated and skilled workforce capable of adapting to technological advancements and competitive global markets.

Strengths and limitations of the % of population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years

While the percentage of the population with postsecondary education aged 25+ years is a valuable metric, it comes with its own set of strengths and limitations.

Strengths

This indicator is instrumental in providing a clear picture of the educational landscape of a population. It allows for effective comparison across different regions and time periods, offering insights into the trends in educational attainment. This data is crucial for government and educational authorities to allocate resources effectively, ensuring that educational facilities and opportunities are aligned with the needs of the population. Furthermore, it serves as a benchmark for international educational standards, helping to elevate local education systems on a global scale.

Limitations

However, there are several limitations to this indicator. The accuracy of this percentage heavily relies on the comprehensiveness and reliability of data collection methods. In regions where record-keeping or survey methodologies are flawed or outdated, the data may not truly reflect the actual educational achievements of the population. Additionally, this indicator does not account for the quality of education received, which can vary widely between institutions and countries. It also overlooks informal and non-traditional forms of education, which can be particularly relevant in certain industries or cultural contexts. Lastly, this metric does not capture the continuous education or professional development that individuals might pursue beyond the age threshold of 25 years.