Career Advancement

Having a college degree brings additional credibility in the job market which can result in earning more money and better job security. College graduates are found to be well-rounded individuals with an improved awareness of world affairs.

With the ease and convenience of online degrees, earning a college degree no longer requires quitting your job to complete your education.

An uncommon benefit of earning your college degree is its impact on family values. Studies show that individuals with a college degree take great efforts in preparing their children for life and spend more time with their family. Additionally, studies have shown that children of college graduates experience better quality of life.

Those who have invested in higher education are found to be more aware, more open-minded, and more objective with a strong sense of morals.

For people without a college degree, promotions are harder to come by. While it's still possible to get a good job, those without a degree are less likely to be promoted above those who have college degrees, potentially limiting management positions.

The types of jobs that individuals without college degrees can qualify for are limited to particular fields. For example, there are virtually no jobs available in the medical field without a degree. People without a college degree may lack a certain amount of respect form their peers.

Additionally, according to a recent study from the U.S. Department of Labor, the unemployment rate for people with no college degree is 14%, compared to 7% for college graduates.

Here are the average nationwide earnings for people who have graduated with a degree:

- $109,600 with a professional degree
- $89,400 with a doctoral degree
- $62,300 with a master's degree
- $52,200 with a bachelor's degree
- $38,200 with an associate's degree
- $36,800 with some college
- $30,400 with a high school diploma

Source: The Price and Payoff of a College Degree