subject: Benefits of Higher Education [print this page] Benefits of Higher Education Benefits of Higher Education
The message of The College Board's Education Pays 2010 recent report is clearinvesting more money in higher education is beneficial to both individuals and society as a whole. Studies show that college graduates, as opposed to a person with only a high school diploma, are more likely to hold a job, earn a higher yearly income, and to make healthier, less costly social and lifestyle choices. Whether earned in a ground school or online college, the benefits of a college degree are numerous.
A student's level of education has been found to have a direct impact on salary earned. On average, a person with a bachelor's degree makes over two times the yearly income of a person who has only earned a high school diploma. Additionally, education level affects unemployment rates. The rate of unemployment among people who hold a high school diploma or less is much higher than that of college graduates.
Investing in higher education has also been shown to aid state and local governments. Higher education institutions produce tax revenue, and communities with a higher percentage of college graduates save money on government funded social and public assistant programs due to a decreased need for this type of assistance.
Educated people are also more likely to take an active role in their community and to vote in elections. And, studies have shown that they make healthier lifestyle choices regarding eating and exercise, which in turn result in lower health-care costs.
Pursuing a post-secondary degree, then, is not only good for your wallet; it can also be good for your health, well-being, and success.
