Americans Are Still Learning, Long After Graduation
October 15, 2026
New international research highlights the continuing importance of adult education, while the University of Lynchburg's Professional Development Institute offers a glimpse into what Americans are interested in learning.
For many Americans, education doesn't end when they receive a diploma. It continues in workplaces, online classrooms, professional certificate programs, and sometimes in subjects they never imagined studying.
New research from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) offers an interesting perspective on just how common that experience is.
According to the OECD's Education at a Glance 2026, 74% of employed Americans ages 25–44 participated in non-formal education or training during the preceding year. Among employed adults ages 45–64, participation was nearly as high, at 68%.
Both figures substantially exceed OECD averages of 52% and 45%, respectively. The United States also ranked first among 30 countries for participation in non-formal learning among employed adults ages 25–64.
The findings challenge the notion that education belongs primarily to the early years of adulthood. For many Americans, learning remains part of their working lives well into their 50s and 60s.
What are adults learning?
The OECD uses the term non-formal education to describe organized learning outside traditional degree programs. It can include professional training, workshops, certificate programs, and other structured educational experiences.
Some adults pursue additional education because their jobs require new skills. Others are preparing for career changes, earning professional credentials, or exploring subjects that have captured their interest.
At the University of Lynchburg's Professional Development Institute (PDI), that variety is evident in the programs people explore and the courses in which they enroll.
Since PDI launched in 2024, learners have registered for programs ranging from leadership development and clinical educator training to cannabis career certificates, end-of-life education, and the study of rum and sugar cane spirits.
One example is PDI's Certified End of Life Specialist program, which has experienced substantial interest. The program addresses a specialized field that can hold both professional and personal significance.
PDI's website activity tells a similarly varied story. Beyond the popular cannabis and spirits programs, visitors have explored subjects including business, healthcare, event planning, technology, and travel and hospitality.
These interests don't always fit neatly into categories of professional development and personal enrichment. A course in event planning might support a career transition or help someone develop an existing interest. Spirits education might appeal to an industry professional or someone fascinated by the history and production of rum.
The subject may be the same. The reason for learning can be quite different.
The OECD findings also raise questions about who participates in continuing education and who has access to it.
Although American adults participate in non-formal learning at relatively high rates, participation differs considerably by educational background. Adults with less formal education are substantially more likely to report never having participated in this type of learning.
That distinction matters for universities and other education providers. Opportunities for adults need to reflect the realities of work, family responsibilities, available time, and different educational backgrounds. Successful continuing and professional education programs meet students where they are.
For some learners, the right opportunity may be a professional certificate completed in a few weeks. For others, it may be a short course, an online program, or an opportunity to pursue a subject simply because they want to know more.
The range of interests expressed by PDI's prospective learners is a reminder that there is no single definition of an adult student.
What would you like to learn next?
The OECD research offers an encouraging picture of adult learning in America. People continue to seek knowledge and develop skills long after their formal schooling ends.
Their reasons are as varied as the subjects they choose.
Perhaps there's a professional skill you've been meaning to develop, a new career direction you've considered, or a subject you've always wanted to explore.
Whatever your interest, the next opportunity to learn may be closer than you think.
Explore learning opportunities at the University of Lynchburg's Professional Development Institute.
Sources
OECD. Education at a Glance 2026, United States country report and Chapter A5, "To What Extent Do Adults Participate in Education and Training?" Participation figures refer to 2023 survey data.
University of Lynchburg Professional Development Institute. Registration records, March 2024–October 2026; website analytics, January 2025–October 2026.