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Americans believe in the tremendous potential of higher education, but they also feel that higher education is falling short of that promise. New America's inaugural annual poll about perceptions of higher education reveals a gap between what higher education could, and should, be and what higher education currently is. Responses from 1,600 Americans aged 18 and older enable a better understanding of perceptions and knowledge relating to higher education and economic mobility. The survey shows unifying themes as well as differences across age, gender, generation, region, and socioeconomic status when it comes to the value of a college education, who is responsible for student success, the ideal role of government, and the goal of higher education.

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After years of economic growth following the Great Recession, people still feel anxious about the economy and see higher education as essential for improving personal financial circumstances. While New America's second annual survey about perceptions on higher education shows that Americans believe pursuing education beyond high school is important for career growth and economic security, they still feel that higher education is not fine the way it is, and that government should do more to make it affordable.

New America surveyed 1,600 Americans ages 18 and older to better understand their perceptions of higher education, economic mobility, and government funding. Like last year, the survey shows unifying themes, as well as differences across various demographics when it comes to the value of education beyond high school in today's economy and the government's role in funding this education. We pay particular attention to the similarities and differences of opinion among Republicans, Democrats, and Independents in this election year.

Our top findings include: Americans believe well-paying jobs require education after high school; Americans believe education after high school creates opportunities; Americans want change in higher education; Americans believe public colleges and universities are worth the cost but feel mixed about private and for-profit colleges and universities; Regardless of demographics, Americans like their local colleges and universities; Americans support workforce-based programs such as apprenticeship; and Americans believe higher education is a public benefit and that the government should do more to make it affordable.

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