"By 2018, the U.S. will need at least 4.7 million new workers with postsecondary certificates.[i]"
"Employment and earnings success is about more than a student's highest level of education -- field of study is key. As the Georgetown researchers have reported, certificate holders in high-wage, high-demand fields such as computer and information science, electronics, and business and office management earn more than many associate and bachelor's degree holders.[ii] "
According to the report by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, a bachelor or higher degree does not automatically result in higher wagers. 43% of young workers with licenses and certificates earn a higher salary than associate degree holders; 27 % of young workers with licenses and certificates earn more than those with a bachelor's degree; and 31 % of young workers with associate degrees make more than those with bachelor's degrees.[i]
[i] "Help Wanted: Projections of Jobs and Education Requirements Through 2018" - https://cew.georgetown.edu/report/help-wanted/
[ii] "Certificates: Gateway to Gainful Employment and College Degrees" - https://cew.georgetown.edu/report/certificates/