What does "for-profit post-secondary education" refer to?

The term "for-profit post-secondary education" specifically refers to educational institutions that are established with the primary goal of generating profit for their owners and shareholders. These institutions operate as businesses, and their revenue is typically derived from tuition fees paid by students. For-profit colleges and universities often emphasize career-oriented programs and may market themselves based on job placement rates and income potential after graduation, distinguishing themselves from non-profit educational entities.

In contrast, publicly funded institutions rely on government financing and are typically not designed to generate profits. Non-profit colleges and universities are established to serve educational purposes without the primary motive of profit-making, focusing instead on affordability and accessibility. Trade schools, while they provide vocational training, do not inherently imply a profit-driven model, as many can be either non-profit or for-profit. Thus, the correct characterization of for-profit post-secondary education aligns with the definition provided in the chosen answer, highlighting the unique financial motivations of these institutions.