There was a time when most Americans viewed college as an essential step toward a fruitful career. Previous studies have suggested that adults who obtain degrees will, on average, have higher lifetime earnings than their non-college-educated counterparts. Of course, there are always exceptions and standout cases.

While higher education remains vital for certain occupations - doctors, lawyers, etc., - it's not for everyone. Some people feel their learning styles are more aligned with alternative measures that don't involve sitting in classrooms and listening to professors' lectures.

With the rise of the gig economy and independent contract work, more people are seeking nontraditional pathways to successful careers. According to a new poll, the amount of Americans who see college degrees as critical components to landing high-paying jobs has dwindled.

Understanding the general consensus on higher education

According to the Pew Research Center, just 25% of Americans believe receiving a four-year degree is very necessary to compete for high-end employment opportunities. Meanwhile, 40% of the country disagrees and believes good-paying jobs are available to people without traditional degree(s).

Almost six in ten individuals who've graduated from college believe their studies gave them necessary workforce skills. However, the Pew Research Center also documents that incomes for folks sans degrees have been on the rise for the past decade.

Collectively, Americans hold differing views on the value of higher education and whether or not it's worth it. One force driving this is the significant student loan debts that many folks are taking on in the name of a college education.

Some people believe there are other ways to obtain valuable skillsets, while avoiding debt in the tens of thousands. The horror stories of folks struggling to pay off their loans post college - or being so cash-strapped that their minimal payments are only going towards the interest - are also a factor.

A decline in college enrollments

The rise of people questioning the necessity of college degrees tracks with a notable drop in attendance at higher education establishments.

Earlier this year, the public learned of a roughly 15% decline, which is something of a first for this country. Judging from the Pew Research Center's latest findings, one shouldn't hold their breath waiting for a surge in new college enrollments.