Get the Facts on the True Value of a College Degree

It might sound overly simplified, but it’s true – the more you learn, the more you earn. Your professional prospects are much brighter if you have a college degree. With an advanced degree, your earning power skyrockets. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2017, those with master’s degrees earned a median weekly income of about $1,400. Those with only a high school diploma earned just over $700.

The U.S Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) took things a step further. They reported that in the past 20 years, we’ve seen both an increase in wages for the college-educated and a similar decrease in wages for those with only a high school diploma. In other words, the earning gap seems to be growing as time goes on. It would be hard to imagine a stronger argument in favor of completing a degree program.

The BLS also provided some revealing statistics on the top growing occupations for 2016-2026. Most of the fastest growing jobs required some type of postsecondary education. A bachelor’s degree is still the most common requirement for entry-level jobs in fields such as business, healthcare, and education. However, more and more of the most in-demand occupations require master’s degrees. 

Many of the most valuable career skills are sharpened through the course of a degree program. Vital leadership attributes such as communication skills and critical thinking are points of emphasis during the general education portion of bachelor’s degree curricula. You’ll likely find that the unique talents you bring to the table will be enhanced by your college studies, which will make you a more attractive candidate both for getting hired and for earning promotions down the line.

Maybe the best news for those who want to earn a college degree is how much easier it’s becoming to do so. There are so many online options for just about every major or concentration. Whether you want to stop at the associate’s level or plow right on through to a doctorate or professional degree, there is likely a convenient way for you to earn credits on your own schedule.

Paying for college is a challenge every student faces, but there are many financing options available. Private loans and federal aid programs come with unique benefits and potential drawbacks, so you need to do plenty of homework if you’re interested in earning your degree.

There’s never been a better time to earn your degree and accelerate your professional prospects. Start researching the best programs and financial assistance options for your needs today.