I get it, you go from high school graduates to college graduates in the blink of an eye. So, now what? Studying for an undergraduate degree may be the next step, but is it the right decision for you?
If you are studying for a degree, as an ex-student myself, I know that the thought " Is a degree worth it?" Is one that goes through your mind A LOT!
With university fees increasing, competition for jobs is becoming even fiercer. It's no wonder that people are questioning whether going to university is worth it. Especially with the unemployment rate on the rise.
So let's get the mini answer first before we head into some more detail so you can decide for yourself!
Having a degree not only makes you more employable, but it can also increase your earning potential and chances of getting your dream job. It may lead to promotions, and pay rises, helps you stand out from the crowd, and is an investment in your future.
So now we’ve got the brief nailed, let’s start by finding out if a degree is really a good investment.
This post is all about is a university degree worth it or not.
IS A DEGREE WORTH IT?
Is a degree really worth the money?
The cost of a university education has been rising in recent years.
The cost of tuition is expensive leaving many students and their families to question whether it's worth the investment.
While there's no easy answer to this question, there are some important things to think about.
The first is the potential earnings boost that comes with having a degree!
Yet, you need to be aware that not all degrees are equal and some will lead to higher earnings than others!
For example: Doctors and Lawyers have the potential to earn a lot of money compared to a civil servant job.
But even if you don't end up in a high-paying job, there are still many benefits to having a degree.
If you are thinking about taking a degree and not sure where it could lead you afterwards, head over to find out more!
What Can I Do With My Degree? 26 Great Ideas
A university degree shows dedication
For starters, going to university allows you to develop important skills. Such skills will be valuable in any career.
A degree also signals to employers that you're dedicated and capable of competing long-term projects. Qualities that are highly prized in the workplace.
Even if you don't immediately find your first job related to your field foo study, a degree can help you transition into a new career.
Many employers are now looking for candidates with transferable skills. People who can adapt to different roles and industries.
But, studying for an undergraduate degree is harder than your high school education.
It's a great deal more work which requires a lot of independent studies. So, for the most part besides attending lectures and seminars; you'll be on your own most of the time.
Your first step is to become more disciplined and manage your time well. This is already difficult to do in today's world full of many distractions.
The good news is that attending university is not the only way to gain a degree.
They are alternatives to avoid those high university/ college costs. Such as online programs and courses.
Instead of spending thousands on a university/ associate's degree. Or even a master's degree, you can get an online degree instead. Which is the same as a university degree; the only difference is how you get it. I.e. online rather than in a university/ school environment.
Studying at the Open University is a much cheaper and affordable alternative to get a degree. Without incurring much university costs.
Anything to avoid the steep cost of attending private institutions.
Especially, compared with the average cost of attending a regular university. Or even community colleges and public colleges.
They are numerous studies and options with online courses. Many of them like the open university have a certificate program.
There is even a business program where you can get a business degree.
Popular courses to study are:
- Law,
- Computer science,
- Political science,
- Information technology,
- Information security,
- Business Administration.
However, for those who come from a traditional family where academic degrees are the be-all and end-all, you have a tougher choice to make.
Most immigrant families expect their children to attend university, complete a two-year degree to a four-year degree program and get a good-paying job.
These immigrant children are expected to become doctors, lawyers, and dentists not only because these are considered prestigious and respectable fields.
But, also because they require specific skills that provide more job opportunities and the best chance of advancing in their careers.
Striving for the highest educational attainment by putting yourself, your family and your country in debt in the hopes of getting higher-paying jobs in the future, put more pressure on your country's financial institutions.
Such as Student Finance and the Bank of England if you live in the UK, or maybe Federal Financial Aid and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York etc if you like in the U.S.
This leaves many U.S students pondering if the cost of a college degree is worth it.
A university degree gives you the edge
So, while there's no guarantee that a degree will lead to a specific job or salary, it can give you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed in today's competitive job market.
Some people may argue that you can get a good job without a degree, and while this may be true in some cases, the majority of jobs will require at least a bachelor's degree.
A degree will also allow you to earn more money over your lifetime.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median pay for someone with a bachelor's degree is $61,000, while the median salary for someone without a degree is only $32,000. This shows the value of a college degree due to the significant increase in earning potential.
In the UK this figure is similar, with graduates earning an average of £10,000 more per year than those without a degree. Over their lifetime, this amounts to an extra £400,000.
Is University worth it? UK Perspective...
Is College worth it? US Perspective...
While the extra earning potential is good for young adults just starting out with their first entry-level jobs, overall the average salary may not be worth it, if you have to spend the rest of your life working for it or paying off your student loans.
The good news is that in certain countries, once you reach a certain age your student debt can be written off completely.
Maybe even quicker with student loan forgiveness. This is available for college students through federal student aid in America.
It will also give you the chance to learn new things and improve your critical thinking skills.
You will be challenged to think creatively and solve problems, which will be valuable skills in any career.
If you want to find out more about the most high-paying jobs with a degree in today's world, check out my other useful article below.
Related: High Paying Jobs With Any Degree
A degree can lead to better job security
Having a degree can also lead to better job security, which you're going to need to pay off the hefty student loan debt that
In the current economic climate, many companies are looking for employees with a higher education level such as bachelor's degree holders. So a degree can put you ahead of the competition on job applications.
So for any wondering ‘Is a degree worth it?’, you will be more likely to find and keep a job.
A university education can also allow you to meet new people and make friends for life.
You will meet people from all across the globe! and this can help build up your lifelong experiences and help you understand more about the world around you.
A degree is a valuable asset
If you're thinking about going to university, the decision can be a bit daunting.
But it's important to remember that a degree is a valuable asset that can open doors for you in the future.
So if you're willing to put in the hard work, a degree can be worth it.
There are many reasons to consider pursuing a degree, regardless of where you study.
Kickstart your dream career!
In addition to increased earning potential, having a degree also gives you the chance to pursue a career you're passionate about.
If you know what you want to do with your life, going to university can help you get there or in my case, it can help you figure it out once you're there. Many careers require a degree, and without one, your options may be limited.
Basically, with so many amazing careers out there, it's worth getting a degree so you can pursue the one you love.
After all, a job is only worth pursuing if it makes you happy. With a degree, you can find a career that does just that!
“But it's important to remember that a degree is a valuable asset that can open doors for you in the future.”
Getting a degree might be the best route for you this academic year.
10 reasons why a degree is worth it
Some people question whether or not a degree is worth the time and money.
But there are several compelling reasons to get a degree!
Read on to find my 10 best reasons WHY a degree is worth it.
1. Improved job prospects
In today's competitive job market, employers are increasingly looking for candidates with a university education.
A degree can give you a leg up on the competition and make you more attractive to potential employers.
2. Higher earning potential
On average, degree-holders earn more than those without a college education.
According to the UK government, the average graduate earns £10,000 per year more than someone who has just completed A-levels.
3. The ability to pursue a career you're passionate about
A degree opens up doors to many different career paths.
It can also help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to pursue your dream job.
4. Improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills
University provides an opportunity to develop and hone your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
These are valuable soft skills that will benefit you throughout your life.
5. The opportunity to meet new people and make lifelong friends
When you are on a degree course, it is a great place to meet new people from many areas of life.
You'll likely make friends that will last a lifetime!
For more help on making friends at u over sort head over to another of my popular articles
Why Connecting With Others Is Important At Uni: 11 Best Tips For Making Friends at Uni
6. A chance to learn more about yourself
Studying at University is a time for self-exploration.
It's time to figure out who you are and what you want in life!
7. An affordable way to get a quality education
University is an affordable way to get the type of education most employers are looking for.
Although the cost can seem high, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available to help make it more affordable.
8. The opportunity to travel and study abroad
Spending time at University provides the opportunity to travel and study abroad.
This is a great way to see the world and learn about new cultures.
9. The chance to pursue your passion
When you embark on a university degree course, it gives you the chance to pursue your passion!
Whether it's studying art, music, or science, you'll be able to find a program that interests you.
10. A way to make new friends and network
A University education is a great way to make new friends and network.
Networking is crucial in getting a ‘leg up' into the world of work.
University is a great place to build important social and employment networks. This will help build relationships that could last many years.
Check out my other helpful article on the benefits of networking
Why Is Student Networking Important? 10 Best Tips For Success
Final thoughts on is a degree worth it...
So, I hope you've found this article helpful in deciding whether a university degree is worth it for you.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you hope to gain from your time at university.
Also, whether you feel that a degree will help you achieve your long-term goals and what you want from your life!
It's a big decision but I hope this has helped.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether a university degree is worth it. It depends on your circumstances and priorities.
I hope the points here will help you make the decision best for you and put you on the right successful career path!
For more helpful articles don't forget to check out the 'Student Support' area of my blog. Where I answer more of your most asked questions!
This post was all about is a degree worth it?
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