How many people have a Ph.D.?

The U.S. Census Bureau published that, in 2013, 1.68 percent of Americans over the age of 25 have doctorate degrees. Of these, 63 percent are male, and 37 percent are female.

Within the pool of those holding a Ph.D., 76 percent were employed in 2013. Of the American population 25 and older, 1.48 percent holds a professional degree, and 8.41 percent holds a master's degree.

A person's economic background is one of the major indicators of his future educational attainment. For example, in the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans, Ivy League degrees and extensive graduate work are common. Among the middle and lower classes, however, a bachelor's degree from a midlevel university is most common.