Educational System Performance

Sources: National Center for Education Statistics (2011); US Census, 2010 American Community Survey (1-year average; 2011); US Census, 2010 American Community Survey (5-year weighted average; 2011)

Key Findings

Seattle post-secondary institutions awarded a total of 18,321 degrees in 2010. From 2009 to 2010, Seattle institutions awarded approximately 6% more Bachelor's and Associate's degrees and 11% more Doctorate degrees in 2010 than in 2009 (Ex. 4-1).

Fifty six percent of Seattle residents 25 years and older have a four year college degree or higher compared to the national average of 28% in 2010 (Ex. 4-2).

Two or More Races, American Indians, African Americans, and Pacific Islanders exceed both citywide and national averages for educational attainment of Associate's degree or some college. All Seattle population groups except Asians exceed the national average for educational attainment of a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. Minority populations trail the citywide average for a four year college degree or higher (Ex. 4-3).