Advanced Degree Attainment Among Marginalized Youth

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 58
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating Graduate Education

Abstract

The current study expands the existing literature base and explores individual and undergraduate institutional factors that promote advanced degree attainment–including masters and doctorates–among three groups that are consistently underrepresented in higher education. Specifically, we included two racial/ethnic minority groups–Black and Latino/a–and a group of White individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. We use life course theory (Elder, 1998) to frame the present study, as it emphasizes how individuals enter into and navigate life transitions. Based on our findings, we conclude that these marginalized individuals should select undergraduate institutions that grant advanced degrees, focus on grades and academic honors while completing the bachelors degree, and set high expectations for advanced education at the end of the undergraduate program.

Authors

• Kelly A. Minor, Winston-Salem State University

• Aprile Benner, The University of Texas - Austin

• Kevin O'Neal Cokley, The University of Texas - Austin