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Should you go back to school? I'm not even going to try to pretend that I know the answer that's right for you. There are so many variables to consider. Each individual's situation is unique. Particularly, in today's economy, more and more people are considering pursuing higher education later in life, like earning a master's degree. My general philosophy is that one can never have too much education, but that doesn't mean that I think everyone should go out and enroll in college. There certainly are things to take into consideration.
I read this interesting article the other day on whether there are too many students going to college. There were many thought-provoking considerations brought up. The article seemed to be in reference to students right out of high school and pointed out that many young adults may not be ready for college and that the investment may not be a worthwhile one. I found myself disagreeing with some of the experts quoted in the article, however. Fundamentally, I believe that pursuing a college education is beneficial for the majority of students, young and old, and here's why.
Personal Growth
I've said it before here at Never Too Late For College, and I'll probably say it a million more times. But I think it bears repeating: students gain so much more than an academic education. Even adult students, who've already gained a wealth of life experiences, change and develop personally during their time in college. I've seen so many students enter college with fear and uncertainty, then leave with confidence and purpose.
Increased Earning Potential
Despite the economic recession, it is still likely that increased education will lead to higher income. These figures are about ten years old, but studies have shown that lifetime income does increase relative to advanced degrees. This is something to take into consideration. Research your field of interest. Talk to admissions counselors or your local career center to learn about the income potential of certain jobs. If it seems that a particular career won't get you further ahead economically, you may wish to reconsider.
Personal Satisfaction
On the other hand, we all know that money isn't everything. You'll also want to look into the potential for obtaining jobs in your area. If your career field of interest is already saturated in your region, you may need to relocate. This is a very important point to keep in mind. In my area of western Pennsylvania, there was a growth a number of years ago in the field of computer forensics. No, not CSI kind of biological forensics, but the kind involved in using computers to locate information and evidence involved in crimes.Because of that boom, the job market is rather full at this time. Lots of my students who wanted to remain in the area didn't know that. After doing your research, determine if your level of personal satisfaction and the quality of your life will be improved by pursuing a certain degree. If, despite location and income, you think you'll be happy in that career and will be able to earn a living, then you'll want to continue on to the next step of enrolling in your program of choice.
For more information on the value of higher education, you may want to check out this article by Elson S. Floyd, the president of Washington State University. In it, he gives his views on what's needed to improve institutions of higher education as well as why he thinks the pursuit of a college degree is worth it. What are your thoughts?
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