Shifting Trends in College Enrollment: The Rise of Women and Its Implications

The number of women’s colleges in the US has drastically declined from over 250 to about 30, reflecting broader social changes since the civil rights era and the Vietnam War. More women are entering the workforce, with availability of birth control and increased college attendance playing significant roles. Historically, male college enrollment outpaced female enrollment, particularly post-World War II. However, enrollment trends indicate that women may soon earn college degrees at twice the rate of men. Economically, the decision for women to pursue higher education appears more beneficial than for men, as women often occupy lower-paying jobs without a degree, while men can access better-paying blue-collar jobs. Research suggests that attending more selective colleges yields greater financial benefits for women, particularly in terms of labor force participation. Moreover, women who graduate from elite institutions experience a notable increase in earnings by transitioning from part-time to full-time work. Conversely, these advancements in women's careers are associated with a decreased likelihood of marriage later in life, indicating a complex interplay between career success and family formation, where women may marry men of equal or higher educational status.