The world is filled with stories of those who make it big without a college education. It’s not always necessary for success, but such cases are really few and far between. There are a number of service jobs and blue-collar, entry-level careers that pay well, even without a degree. Even in these industries, however, a college degree can boost one’s earnings. They can also teach one how to move from being a worker in these industries to a business owner and entrepreneur. In other words, a college degree is always applicable, no matter what you do in life.
The Statistical Advantages of Higher Education Degrees
No matter what your first job interview is for, a degree is always impressive on your resume. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the more education you get, the higher your pay is likely to be. The average yearly salary of someone with only a high school diploma sits at $38,792. With just an Associate’s Degree, this number goes up to $46,124. With a Bachelor’s Degree, it climbs all the way up to $64,896. Those with a Master’s Degree come in at around $77,844, while a Doctorate gets you an average of $97,916.
Earning a college degree has benefits above and beyond the increase in pay. Studies show that it’s also better for your health and happiness in the long run.
Overall, having a Bachelor’s degree increases the likeliness of getting employed by up to 57%. There are simply more jobs available to you once you have a degree. Some estimates say that soon, 80% or more of all jobs will actually require a college degree. As time marches on, your education level will be more important to your employability and earning potential than ever before.Those with a Bachelor’s Degree are 47% more likely to have health insurance. Better jobs tend to equal better coverage and options in this area. Even life expectancy goes up the more education one has. And when it comes to times of economic uncertainty, college graduates always maintain a higher rate of employment than people in demographics without a degree.
Benefits of Higher Education Outside of Work
Getting a higher education also expands your circle of friends and contacts. Networking can be very important to a career. The professors, mentors, and colleagues you befriend in school could lead to a lifetime of employment opportunities and chances for career advancement. Connections matter and can help you to succeed. Of course, if you’re just graduating high school and know what you want to do, a specialized career will often require a specific type of degree in order to even get started in your chosen field.
Another issue to take note of is stability. Working in any sector has its own unique set of challenges. Many entry-level jobs are now being outsourced, downsized, or replaced with technology. Getting a degree in your chosen field can allow you to work in a stable environment where employment comes with more guarantees. According to the Pew Research Center, as many as 22% of those without a degree earn wages that fall below the poverty line. A degree can be a ticket to a better job and a more secure future for everyone.
