Higher education is fulfilling its mission of cultivating a civilized and workforce-ready society, according to a new employer survey from AAC&U, or the American Association of Colleges and Universities.
At least 70% of executives and hiring managers have a “great deal” or “quite a lot” of confidence in higher education and believe colleges and universities are adequately preparing students for the workforce.
Furthermore, nearly three-quarters of employers (73%) believe a degree is worth the financial investment.
These findings contrast with public and political concerns about the cost of college, said Lynn Pasquerella, president of AAC&U.
“At a time when overall public confidence in higher education has reached historic lows, it is notable—and heartening—that confidence is dramatically higher among those who evaluate graduates’ readiness for today’s evolving workforce.”
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Nearly all employers (94%) believe colleges and universities must develop responsible citizens with workforce-ready skills.
The vast majority (at least 88%) of employers also supported institutions that promote community engagement, foster cross-cultural understanding and provide a platform for diverse ideas.
“This is a great opportunity to position community and civic engagement across disciplines as a ‘must have’ for career success,” Pasquerella said.
Emerging employer demands
With layoffs mounting and hiring slowing in 2025, job seekers face a more selective job market in 2026, which many experts refer to as a “low-hire, low-fire” environment, according to Yahoo Finance.
Employers surveyed by AAC&U identified three key characteristics they desire from graduates that may help them earn a job in a tight market:
- AI: Nine in 10 say it’s important for graduates to know how to use AI.
- Experiential learning: At least three in four were more likely to consider hiring a graduate who completed an internship, apprenticeship or community-based project.
- Microcredentials: More than eight in 10 say a digital badge, certificate or other non-degree microcredential improves a candidate’s chances of getting hired.
