Every June, thousands of high school graduates in North Carolina embark on new journeys. A recent analysis examined data from over 950,000 students who graduated from North Carolina public schools between 2014 and 2023. The NC TOWER system tracks employment and higher education outcomes for about 92% of these graduates, offering insights into their paths.
Within a year of graduation, 74% of students found employment in North Carolina. Meanwhile, 31% enrolled in community colleges or universities for Certificates, Diplomas, or Associate’s degrees. Additionally, 38% pursued bachelor’s degrees at four-year institutions either within the state or elsewhere in the country. Many students are involved in multiple pursuits simultaneously, such as working while attending school or participating in internships.
A chart accompanying the study illustrates the diverse paths taken by these young adults. It highlights that there is no single path after high school but rather a variety of choices available to graduates. More detailed data and insights can be accessed through NC TOWER.
