Third-level graduates more likely to find employment

THE value of a third-level education has been highlighted by data showing that someone without a qualification higher than Leaving Certificate is twice as likely to be out of work than a graduate.

But since the collapse of construction and related industries, unemployment rates are running even higher among those with post-Leaving Cert qualifications, including apprenticeships.

As uncertainty remains over the Government’s policy on student fees, the figures may strengthen arguments for third-level undergraduates to pay more toward their education.

However, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) remains opposed to the latest increase in the student contribution charge, which almost 60% of undergraduates must pay.

Despite pre-election promises, Education Minister Ruairi Quinn announced last week that the annual charge paid by those who do not receive grants will rise from €2,000 to €2,250 next autumn. A further 3% cut is being imposed on the rates of grants, leading to claims that more students will drop out of college, a risk Department of Education officials warned of in their submission to the Government’s comprehensive spending review in September.

The latest educational attainment report from the CSO also shows that the proportion of people aged 25 to 34 who have a third-level qualification rose by over 70% to almost two in five in the decade to the second quarter of 2011. But while the age group with the highest qualifications are 25 to 34-year-olds, with almost half holding at least a level 6 higher certificate, there have also been significant educational gains among older adults.

Between 2001 and 2011, the rate of third-level qualifications has almost doubled for 45 to 54-year-olds and those aged between 55 and 65 (31% and 23%, respectively), now hold a level 6 award or higher.