College is a major commitment of time and money, but earning a degree or certificate can offer many benefits:
- Higher earning potential. College graduates with a bachelor’s degree earn an average of $1 million dollars more during their lifetime than high school graduates.
- More job security and lower unemployment rates. The demand for college graduates continues to grow. By 2020, nearly two-thirds of the jobs in Missouri will require a two- or four-year degree or professional certificate. In 2016, the unemployment rate for college graduates with a bachelor’s degree was 2.7 percent, compared to 5.2 percent for high school graduates.
- Better work-related benefits. Jobs held by college graduates are more likely to offer health insurance, retirement plans and other benefits.
- Greater job satisfaction. College graduates report a higher level of satisfaction with their jobs than high school graduates.