#14 Bachelor’s Degree
What?
Key issues visualized by region
Individuals 25+ years of age who have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Bachelor’s degree can be a protective factor. A higher percentage is more desirable.
Data Source: Policy Map. (2017-2021). Individuals 25+ years of age who have a Bachelor’s degree or higher education. [Data warehouse]
So What?
Explanation of the issue
Less education is connected to lower income, which is linked to poorer health. Studies show that people with lower socioeconomic status experience more health problems like obesity, asthma, diabetes, and heart disease than wealthier people. Higher education usually leads to higher income, which positively affects health. High-income families can afford healthier food, better healthcare, and transportation to health services.
Higher education also helps individuals get higher-paying jobs with fewer safety risks. More educated people have better economic resources to afford things like safer housing and top medical care. Health behaviors are also influenced by education. Adults with less education are more likely to smoke, have an unhealthy diet, and not exercise.
A college education is associated with even greater health benefits. Higher levels of college education are linked to lower risks of dying from cancer and cardiovascular disease. College graduates report better health compared to high school graduates.
Higher education is also connected to social and psychological benefits that can lead to better health. Educated individuals have larger social networks, providing emotional and psychological support that can reduce stress and hardship. Lower levels of education are associated with higher rates of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.
Education contributes to better health knowledge, self-advocacy, and healthier lifestyle choices. Studies show that higher educational attainment correlates with decreased mortality rates across all age, gender, and racial subgroups. Deaths related to social and behavioral risk factors are linked to education level.
The relationship between education and health is two-sided. Poor health can cause lower educational attainment and interfere with schooling. Health conditions, disabilities, and unhealthy behaviors can negatively affect educational outcomes.
Types of Health Outcomes & Behaviors Associated with This Condition
The four Health Outcomes and Behaviors domains are (1) Smoking, Drugs, and Alcohol, (2) Safety, (3) Physical and Mental Health, and (4) Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes. Click to see a list of the conditions associated with each domain.
Now What?
Strategies in which either policy, investments, or interventions can impact the issue
These were chosen with an emphasis on the physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being of children from infancy through adolescence. This focus was selected to streamline and narrow the range of strategies. When you click on the links, you’ll be redirected to a third-party site.
