WHY GETTING A COLLEGE DEGREE IS SMART:
Note: If links on this page are broken, please let me know via my contact page. I’ll check them and make sure they are removed or changed if needed. Sometimes a different browser or machine (phone vs. computer, for example) will lead to different results. If links really don’t work, try searching for articles you want to read using the reference info here. Links often change but titles and publishers shouldn’t.
This set of articles in my College Search Resources hierarchy discusses reasons why getting a four-year degree is a good idea. None of these pieces are by me. There certainly is legitimate doubt about whether college is best for many people. I understand this, but in a very large number of cases, college is essential (completing or at least finishing most years is, for example, required to be a candidate for many forms of graduate and professional training).
College usually pays off handsomely, though again, in some cases, a degree may not be the best idea for you. You will need to talk with your mentors, parents, and other advisors about whether college is a good fit for you and your personal goals.
Articles on Why Investing in Going to College is a Good Idea
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“Degrees of Return: Estimating Internal Rates of Return for College Majors Using Quantile Regression ,” American Educational Research Journal Mar 11, 2024. Note: This study argues the ROI on College is still greater than the stock market. The article is summarized in the Forbes piece below.
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“College Offers Better Returns Than The Stock Market, Study Finds,” Forbes: Mar 12, 2024.
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“Is college still worth it? What to consider to make the most of higher education,” USA Today: Nov 18, 2023. Note: discusses the guest’s book. Read the transcript at no cost to see if you think it may be worth investing in.
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“New study looks at return on investment of a UNC System education,” NC Newsline: Nov 16, 2023.
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“What Are Holistic Admissions and Why It Matters to Universities - Grit Daily News: July 25, 2022. Note: A relatively brief but useful explanation of what goes into the holistic admissions process.
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“Skip college? Not if you want to make more money,” ABC News: July 14, 2021.
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“Here’s how delaying college may impact your future earnings,” CNBC: Jan 19, 2021.