Early College and Work-Based Learning Programs

This report is intended for schools, school districts, and administrators looking to expand or deepen their work-based learning programs. Download the report or read on to learn more about the current state of these programs and how to expand them. Then, explore work-based learning and early college district profiles.

The current state of early college and work-based learning programs

The demand for early college and work-based learning programs

Colleges and employers have expressed a need for student readiness…

High school students across the country are facing a college and career readiness crisis, with both employers and colleges reporting that students are less prepared than ever. A 2019 survey found that 73% of employers believed that it was difficult to find prepared candidates for jobs, with 34% reporting that they believed schools had not adequately prepared students for employment. Surveys have found that colleges and universities report similar issues with incoming students, with a significant majority of faculty reporting that students are less prepared in critical thinking, problem-solving, and close reading and analysis skills.