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Credits that count: High school vocational education from sibling comparisons

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  • Hu, Yue Louise

Abstract

Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997, this paper exploits within-sibling differences in vocational coursework credits taken during high school to estimate their effects on educational and labor market outcomes. I find that additional vocational course-work reduces four-year college attendance without affecting college graduation among those who enroll, and is associated with higher annual earnings that persist into the mid-thirties. This evidence suggests that vocational education helps students realize their comparative advantage and sort into different educational paths, which benefit their labor market outcomes. The findings point to high school vocational education providing sustained economic benefits without compromising overall educational attainment, and benefiting students with diverse educational trajectories.

Suggested Citation

  • Hu, Yue Louise, 2026. "Credits that count: High school vocational education from sibling comparisons," Discussion Papers 2026/9, Free University Berlin, School of Business & Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:fubsbe:340112
    DOI: 10.17169/refubium-52009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J26 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Retirement; Retirement Policies

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