Arrow
Community College Degrees Still Hold Value

Community College Degrees Still Hold Value

Community College Degrees Still Hold Value

Mar 29, 2023

Students with community college degrees

It would be disingenuous to ignore the issues facing higher education: enrollment declines, soaring tuition, and doubts about the usefulness of college degrees. However, despite these challenges, community college degrees still hold value.

College enrollment has been in decline since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting both community colleges and four-year universities.

While the decline began with the pandemic, it is reflective of Americans’ doubts about higher education. These doubts have grown as tuition prices at four-year institutions have increased. These increases require many students to take on loans or pay out of pocket.  

Some Americans find that getting a bachelor’s degree out of high school is simply not worth the cost. These sentiments have increased as many households have been dealing with the rising costs of basic foods and goods. However, instead of abandoning higher education as a lost cause, many may find their answers with a community college degree.

Community colleges offer many of the same benefits of a four-year university without many of the complications.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, all workers earned a median annual wage of $39,810. Most occupations that pay above the median salary range require an associate’s degree or postsecondary certification. Workers with associate degrees earn $2 million more in their lifetime than people with a high school diploma.

Even if someone finds a job without one of these qualifications, the potential for job growth and upward mobility is limited. Higher-level jobs typically require higher education degrees. However, attending community college and completing a degree offers more opportunities for high-earning jobs and upward mobility without having to incur the costs of a bachelor’s degree. The shorter timeline for associate degrees and certificate programs also allow people to return to work or enter the workforce quickly.

Moreover, if someone does wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree later on, they can save money on their degree by having earned their associate’s degree.

Students who start at a four-year university spend, on average, $10,000 more than community college students.

Community college degrees offer cost-effective savings to students and the benefits afforded by higher education.

Related Articles

Community college student preparing for transfer

Jan 31 2024

5 Things to Do Now to Make Your Transfer from Community College a Success

Preparing for transfer once you start at community college is a great way to ensure a smooth and simple transfer to a four-year college. Here are some tips on how to get started.
Laurel Behrend, workforce student

Sep 7 2023

Community College Workforce Program Inspires Student

Laurel Behrend expected her education pathway to be four-year college, but instead, she found inspiration in a community college workforce program.
Resources spelled in blocks on puzzle pieces.

Aug 11 2023

Take Advantage of Your College Resources

Life is hard at times, but, luckily, your college already knows this. To help students manage hard times, many colleges offer resources. If you are struggling, make sure to take advantage of your college resources.
arrow2
arrow3
arrow1