Profitable dropout? Non-monetary returns of multidimensional studying experiences

The interdisciplinary research project is situated in both economic and sociological educational research and is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in the funding line Study Success and Dropout II (Studienerfolg und Studienabbruch II) . Using causal methods, the project investigates non-monetary returns to different dropout experiences and deliberately chooses a multidimensional approach to the topic by looking at dropout and related study experiences at different points in the course of studies. In contrast to research on monetary returns to education, the aim is to look beyond the mere acquisition of educational certificates and human capital to focus on the entire educational process with all effective educational components and mechanisms that can be influenced to a varying extent by a study that ends without a degree. We assume that participation in academic and noncurricular activities in college not only enhance students' competencies but can also change their non-cognitive skills, attitudes, and goals. Analyses will be conducted using systematically connected longitudinal survey data from the DZHW, which we combine with administrative data from the Institute for Employment Research (IAB). The results of the targeted research project promise to provide evidence-based insights into the extent to which investing in tertiary education can be worthwhile for an individual even without earning a certificate.