Individuals from disadvantaged populations tend to access higher education through 2-year institutions. Most research on substance misuse in college students focuses on 4-year institutions and not 2-year institutions, thus creating a gap in research. The study aims to understand how different patterns of substance use impact students’ likelihood of completing their college education.
The sample included students from both two-year and four-year colleges, allowing for comparisons between these two educational pathways. The study analyzed data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), which follows a diverse group of students over time. The analysis focused on substance use behaviors, including alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs, and their correlation with college completion rates. High levels of substance use, particularly alcohol and cannabis, were associated with lower college completion rates. Students engaging in frequent substance use were more likely to drop out before completing their degree. The impact of substance use on college completion varied between two-year and four-year institutions.
Results of this study showed that two-year college students with high substance use exhibited a more negative effect on completion rates compared to their four-year counterparts. The study highlights a critical need for targeted interventions to address substance use among students, particularly at two-year colleges where the impact is more severe. The research underscores the detrimental effects of substance use on college completion rates, with significant differences observed between two-year and four-year institutions. Effective prevention and intervention strategies are necessary to support student retention and success.
Takeaway: Addressing substance use through targeted programs is crucial for improving college completion rates, especially at two-year colleges.