Reasons for Getting a 4-Year College Degree
- An individual with a bachelor's degree or higher is less likely to be unemployed than a person with a high school diploma. According to the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, "If current trends continue, the proportion of workers with high school diplomas and college degrees will decrease and the personal income of Americans will decline over the next 15 years." Individuals who attain four-year degrees will be better able to find employment in the growing knowledge-based economy, where educated workers will be in demand. Obtaining a bachelor's degree or higher increases an individual's opportunities for gaining promotions and achieving high ranking positions in the workplace. In the job market, a person without a degree is limited to jobs that don't require a college education.
- A college education increases an individuals earning potential. An average full-time worker with a four-year degree earns 62 percent more than a person with a high school diploma. Wages increase as education levels increase. For instance, a person with a master's degree earns twice as much, and an individual with a professional degree earns three times as much as a person with a high school diploma. A four-year degree also decreases the probability of falling below the poverty line. The poverty rate for people with a bachelor's degree is one-third of that of people with high school diplomas.
- Increasing occupational opportunities and earning potential affects an individual's quality of life. People with college degrees are less likely to live from paycheck to paycheck. Higher wages allow people to save money and make financial investments to prepare for retirement. A degree also increases flexibility in the workplace, and people have greater freedom to seek rewarding positions. College-educated workers enjoy mobility, as more career choices are available. Due to lack of career choices, workers with high school diplomas may have no choice but to remain in low-paying positions or are restricted to specific industries. Higher incomes allow people the financial means to pursue hobbies, recreational activities and other personal interests that enhance the quality of life.
- In addition to being a means for obtaining employment and financial security, pursuing a college degree can be a personally rewarding experience. Education enhances an individual's perspective on society, history, cultural traditions and global issues. Many people gain personal satisfaction from learning and acquiring knowledge. Some people who are unable to pursue college immediately after high school and during prime working years may choose to attend college later in life. Many colleges provide senior citizens opportunities to pursue higher education for personal growth and enrichment.
