Still, a large percentage of those surveyed, 86 percent, agree that anyone who wants to get a college education can if they are willing to make sacrifices. Completing the first two years of schooling at a community college rather than at a university was favored by nearly three-quarters of Americans — 71 percent.

Another option favored by those polled is obtaining college credit while attending high school and thus avoiding the cost altogether. Other changes, including increasing enrollment capacity and class availability, were also perceived to be ways to make higher education more accessible.

Getting a degree is seen as more important now than ever, which in turn makes college seem less available, the report states. Statewide, the need for post-secondary education is becoming more evident, Kendell said.

"It's almost imperative if you're going to become a self-sustaining adult," he said. "The other options for young people these days just aren't that great."

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com