Why College?

  • Whether you are uncertain about going to college or you just need some reassurance you're on the right track, here are a few reasons to go to college:

    • Every bit of education you get after high school increases the chances you'll earn good pay. Most college graduates earn a lot more money during their working years than people who stop their education at high school.
    • The more education you get the more likely it is you will always have a job. According to one estimate, by the year 2028 there will be 19 million more jobs for educated workers than there are qualified people to fill them.
    • Continuing education after high school is much more important for your generation than it was for your parents' generation. Today most good jobs require more than a high school diploma. Businesses want to hire people who know how to think and solve problems.
    • Education beyond high school gives you a lot of other benefits, including meeting new people, taking part in new opportunities to explore your interests, and experiencing success.

    Expected lifetime earnings

    Professional degree

    $4.4 million

    Doctoral degree

    $3.4 million

    Master's degree

    $2.5 million

    Bachelor's degree

    $2.1 million

    Associate's degree

    $1.6 million

    Some college

    $1.5 million

    High school graduate

    $1.2 million

    Non-high school graduate

    $1 million

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau