A Comparative Study on Returns to Higher Education in China and the United States from the Perspective of Gender Equality

Abstract

With the changes in social culture, the role of women in higher education worldwide has gradually strengthened. Although women have made significant progress in higher education, they still face inequality after graduation in the workplace. This article explores the similarities and differences between China and the United States in terms of higher education returns from a gender equality perspective and offers suggestions. The study finds that China and the United States have gender disparities in employment opportunities, levels of employment, and compensation. Some American women face more challenging employment situations than Chinese women. While women in the United States are gradually taking important positions in certain fields, there isnt a prominent phenomenon like this in China. The returns on higher education for Chinese women are more influenced by family factors and traditional views, while in the United States, the impact of these factors is smaller. To address these issues, relevant measures should be implemented. Firstly, it is essential to strengthen anti-gender discrimination laws and regulations to reduce the unfair treatment women face in the workplace. Secondly, promoting women to leadership positions and encouraging them to enter non-traditional fields after graduation are effective ways to reduce occupational gender discrimination. Additionally, employers should offer parental leave, flexible working hours, and remote work options to help women better balance their professional and family responsibilities. Lastly, the state can use social media and cultural events to disseminate the concept of gender equality and encourage women to engage more freely in their career development.