This issue of "DataPoints" shows that the number of first-time associate and bachelor's degree earners has dropped in almost all age groups since 2012-13, except for the under 25 group, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. The figures are consistent with trends when the economy is hot; that is, many older students tend to return to the workforce before completing a credential as jobs become more readily available. But a growing number of older students with previous credentials (such as associate and bachelor's degrees) are returning to attain another one, which signals that they are upgrading their skills.