Gig work could be the secret to expanding access to college

A W. P. Carey economist breaks down how a university partnership, which provides students the flexibility to 'earn while they learn' through ASU Online, is reshaping the relationship between education and employment.

In this story published Aug. 15, 2025, in Fast Company:

The results were dramatic. Unlike in traditional jobs, participating students could take on more work hours with almost no impact on their grades (and vice versa). When students increased their study time by 10%, their work hours dropped by just 1% and their income, tips, and performance ratings barely changed. They passed their classes at about the same rate as a matched group of similar students attending classes in-person.

Even more remarkable was who these students were. The initiative opened up ASU's online courses to a whole new population. Nearly half of participants were not in college before enrolling in the program. Their average age was 39, a full 14 years older than the typical ASU online student. They were more racially diverse, had higher financial need, and were more likely to be first-generation college students. Yet they harbored the same high expectations for their degrees and the resulting career and financial benefits.

— Esteban Aucejo, professor of economics, Provost Fellow, and Dean's Council Distinguished Scholar