Why Obtaining a College Degree is a Smart Investment

Thursday, November 14, 2013

 

View Larger +

In today’s world, education is one of the most important and valuable things that you can invest in. Whether you are right out of high school, looking to finish what you’ve started, interested in furthering your current career, or looking to change your path altogether, obtaining a college degree is a smart choice to make for yourself, your family, and your future. Now is the time to consider a degree for these reasons and more:

  • Make more money- a degree opens up doors to a higher income. The United States Department of Labor reports that unemployment is lower and earned wages are higher among employees with college degrees.
  • Sharpen your skills and discover more opportunities- whether you are looking to advance within the job you have, or are looking to start a new career, a degree will qualify you for more and better work.
  • Improve your professional and personal social networks- going back to school not only is a great way meet people in various professions, but it’s a great place to make new friends and create a supportive community for yourself.
  • Expand your horizons- not only will you learn things to further your new or current career path, but you will learn things you didn’t even know about yourself.
  • Be a role model- a degree shows others your persistence, eagerness, and ability to challenge yourself. All of these are great qualities to show to the world.
  • Improve your quality of life- a degree not only builds confidence, but it instills a sense of pride in yourself, your life, and your future.

If you are looking for a total change, or personal and professional growth, a college degree has value. When it comes to a degree it is important to consider the school that will be worth the time and investment, and in New England there are many options. The best investments are based on results, and The University of Rhode Island was ranked #1 by SmartMoney magazine for the best tuition and graduate earning ratio in the area. If you are looking for flexibility and affordability in an exciting urban environment, then the URI Feinstein Providence Campus can set you on the path towards a better future. URI Providence offers evening classes and financial aid for most students. With an array of undergraduate, graduate, professional and certificate programs available, there is no better time for you to realize your dream!

The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus is located at 80 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903. Visit www.uri.edu/prov or call today to meet with an advisor at (401)-277-5162.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

This article was written By Michael Gravison; Graduate Student in Communication Studies at the University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus. This column is part of an ongoing sponsored content series with The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus.

 

Related Slideshow: College Board Reports - New England States by the Data

Reports released by the College Board, "Trends in College Pricing 2013," and "Trends in Student Aid", included a number of national data points regarding college affordability.  Here, see how the New Engand states stacked up agains each other.

View Larger +
Prev Next

Students enrolling

Percentage of all youths entering postsecondary education

Connecticut: 56%

New Hampshire: 53%

Rhode Island 52%

Massachusetts: 51%

Maine: 45%

Vermont: 43%

US average 48%

View Larger +
Prev Next

In-State Tuitions

Average 2013-14 in-state tuition and fees at public four-year institutions

New Hampshire: $14,665  

Vermont: $13,958  

Rhode Island: $10,992  

Massachusetts: $10,792  

Connecticut: $10,206  

Maine: $3,391

US Average: $8,893

View Larger +
Prev Next

Out-of-State Tuitions

Average 2013-14 out-of-state tuition and fees at public four-year institutions

Vermont: $34,055

Rhode Island: $26,646

Connecticut: $26,365  

New Hamprshire: $24,987  

Massachusetts: $23,516  

Maine: $23,007

US average: $22,203

View Larger +
Prev Next

State Appropriations

State Appropriations for Higher Education per Full-Time Equivalent Student 

Connecticut: $10,475  

Maine: $7,183  

Massachusetts: $6,410  

Rhode Island $5,162  

Vermont: $4,131  

New Hampshire: $2,482

US Average: $6,646

View Larger +
Prev Next

Increase in Enrollment

Percentage increases in total full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment in public degree-granting institutions between 2001 and 2011

Vermont: 35%

Connecticut: 29%
 
New Hampshire 26%
 
Massachusetts 26%  
 
Maine 20%
 
Rhode Island: 16%  

US average: 27%

View Larger +
Prev Next

Student Grant Aid

In 2011-12, state grant aid per full-time equivalent (FTE) undergraduate student ranged from under $200 (in 2012 dollars) in 12 states to over $1,000 in 10 states.

Vermont: $580  

Connecticut: $380  

Maine $320  

Massachusetts: $280

Rhode Island $200

New Hampshire: 0

US average $670

 
 

Enjoy this post? Share it with others.

 
 

Sign Up for the Daily Eblast

I want to follow on Twitter

I want to Like on Facebook