Career Education: Choosing the Right College Program

cbjen | Nov 10, 2008 | Comments 0

The path from applying to an educational program to attaining your degree is long and rocky. Each year, approximately 4 million students will enroll in post-secondary institutions in the United States.[1] Of these 4 million students, about half will attend a 2 year institution, and 44 percent will select a traditional 4 year college, with the remainder attending shorter programs. Three years later, only a little over half of the nation’s students will have completed their program or remain enrolled in any post-secondary school.[1]

According to census data, an individual with a bachelor’s degree can expect to earn nearly $1 million more over his or her lifetime than someone with only a high school diploma. This statistic has been hotly debated in recent years,[2] but it is undeniable that post-secondary education adds monetary value to the average resume.[3]

With tuition increasing at rates far higher than standard inflation, choosing a program that you will be willing and able to complete is now more important than ever.

Choosing Your Program: Considerations

4 Year Colleges vs. Vocational Programs

According to the US Department of Education, students attending 4 year colleges are more likely to remain in their programs and graduate with a degree than students in less traditional programs.[1] Additionally, advanced degrees generally equate to greater earning potential. However, given the cost and degree of difficulty of a four year degree program, a shorter one may be right for you.

In today’s economy, health care and technology jobs are particularly in demand. Many vocational programs graduate students in a few short years with very marketable titles, such as “Licensed Practical Nurse” (LPN) and “network administrator.” If time and money are too tight for a four year school, carefully evaluate your own skills and abilities, as well as the job market in your area, and choose a program that you will complete.

Online Programs vs. Traditional Schooling

In the past decade, online and distance learning programs have increased dramatically. These programs are now offered by a wide variety of “brick and mortar” schools, as well as virtual schools like the well-known University of Phoenix. In some industries, graduates may still face some disadvantages in comparison to their traditionally-schooled co-applicants. However, the time and money saved by learning at home may outweigh the benefit of a degree from a brick and mortar school.

Online students report rates of satisfaction with their educational programs similar to students enrolled in traditional schools,[4] however unlimited internet access and familiarity with online technologies is key. If you lack access to reliable equipment or familiarity with online technologies, you may be better served by traditional in-person schooling. On the other hand, if you are reasonably computer literate, have internet access in your home, and have work or family demands that make in-person schooling impractical, an online program may be just what you need to advance your career.

Public vs. Private Schools

The average tuition of a four year private school is now more than 5 times that of a public one. Private schools may be able to offer significant financial aid packages, however, and cite other benefits such as small class sizes and great reputations. Before you choose a school, seriously consider the volume of debt you will assume, the marketability of your chosen degree, and the value of each school in relation to these factors. With the looming prospect of six-figure educational debt, be wary of biased advice from alumni (including friends and family.) Carefully research the national reputations of all the schools in your area, both public and private, and consider the actual value of the degrees they confer.