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On the cyclicality of schooling: Theory and evidence

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  • Dellas, Harris

    (UNIVERSITE CATHOLIQUE DE LOUVAIN, Institut de Recherches Economiques et Sociales (IRES))

  • Sakellaris, Plutarchos

    (University of Maryland)

Abstract

Economic theory indicates that opportunity-cost considerations tend to make schooling countercyclical whereas ability-to-pay considerations have the opposite effect. We examine the college enrollment decisions of individuals using the Current Population Survey and find that their propensity to enroll is countercyclical. There seems to be significant substitution during the business cycle between human capital investment and competing economic activities. The decision to enroll in college is related strongly to labor market conditions (measured by the state-level unemployment rate and earnings) and to the real interest rate. Furthermore, there are significant differences across demographic groups.

Suggested Citation

  • Dellas, Harris & Sakellaris, Plutarchos, 1996. "On the cyclicality of schooling: Theory and evidence," LIDAM Discussion Papers IRES 1997002, Université catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherches Economiques et Sociales (IRES).
    • Handle: RePEc:ctl:louvir:1997002
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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