Tertiary education

Tertiary education is the formal stage of learning that follows secondary education.

It is also known as higher education or post-secondary education. This level of study focuses on learning within specialized fields. The World Bank defines this category as including universities, colleges, and vocational schools. While some people seek academic degrees, others pursue nondegree training. This distinction is important for understanding how different people prepare for work. As technology changes the global economy, tertiary education becomes more vital for workers.

There are several ways to classify these educational paths. Higher education typically includes undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Undergraduate studies happen first, followed by masters and doctoral levels. In the United States, vocational training is often called continuing education. In the United Kingdom, it is known as further education. The International Standard Classification of Education provides a specific structure for these levels. In the 2011 version, nondegree tertiary education is level 4. Higher studies like undergraduate and doctoral programs occupy levels 6, 7, and 8.

Learning in specialized fields has roots in many ancient civilizations. In Dynastic Egypt, "houses of life" served as libraries and scriptoriums. These centers taught law, architecture, mathematics, and medicine. In the Greek world, schools like Plato's Academy provided models for others. South Asia saw students travel to the city of Taxila and the monastery of Nalanda. China's Han dynasty established the Grand School to train imperial administrators. In 425 CE, the Byzantine emperor Theodosius II created the Pandidakterion. This school used a faculty of 31 professors to train public servants.

Western Europe saw a unique shift in how schools were organized. During the 7th and 8th centuries, cathedral schools emerged. In the Muslim empire, the first Madrasahs were founded near major mosques. These eventually evolved from primary schools into higher education centers. However, the modern concept of a university began in the 12th century. These were known as Universitas Studiorum. They were unique corporations of students and teachers. They operated independently from both the Church and the State.

Several institutions hold significant historical records. The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, is the oldest existing continually operating institution. Scholars often refer to it as the oldest university. The University of Bologna in Italy was founded in 1088. It is the oldest university in continuous operation. It was also the first to use the term "universitas" for a degree-awarding institute.

Another historic site is the University of Naples Federico II. It was established in 1224 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. These institutions set the standard for higher learning for centuries.

Global participation in tertiary education has changed significantly since World War II. In the past, higher education was often limited to a small elite. Since the war, many countries have moved toward mass participation. In some developed nations, this has reached a level of "open access." This means over half of the relevant age group participates. Globally, the gross enrollment ratio rose from 19% in 2000 to 38% in 2017.

By 2030, middle-income countries are expected to see a huge increase to 52%.

Tertiary education has profound effects on individuals and societies. Graduates often earn a measurable wage premium compared to those with less education. They are also less likely to face unemployment. Beyond money, graduates often hold different worldviews and moral values. They are more likely to embrace cultural diversity and support international openness. On a national level, this education increases human capital and economic growth. It has also been linked to reductions in poverty. However, some experts warn of challenges like grade inflation. They also note that too many graduates in certain fields can lead to underemployment.