Final answer:
The unemployment rate from 1990 to 2012 has been consistently higher for individuals with lower education levels. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for January 2017 and 2012 show college graduates encountering significantly lower unemployment rates compared to those without a high school diploma.
Step-by-step explanation:
The unemployment rate by level of education from 1990 to 2012 showcases a clear pattern: individuals with higher levels of education tend to have lower unemployment rates. For instance, in January 2017, the unemployment rate for those with a college degree was 2.5%; much lower than the 7.7% for those without a high school diploma. This trend is attributed to the fact that additional education typically provides better labor market opportunities, higher demand for skills, and subsequently, better connections that aid in job searches. It is also notable that during financial downturns, such as the crisis in 2009, unemployment rates tend to spike across all education levels, but the recovery path often sees the rates for more educated individuals dropping more quickly.
Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates that in 2012, the national average unemployment rate was 6.8%, with the median average weekly income sitting at $815. These numbers reinforce the relationship between education level and economic stability, where higher education correlates with both lower unemployment rates and higher earnings.