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Benefits of a Bachelor's Degree

America’s higher education system is a strength that benefits our country as much as our students. Higher education fuels the U.S. economy and keeps America globally competitive with vital scientific research and technological advancements.

With net costs per student declining for years and the return on investment of a bachelor’s degree steadily rising, getting a college education or an advanced degree remains a smart move:

  • Individuals with bachelor’s degrees earn on average $1 million more over a lifetime than those with only a high school diploma. (Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce)

  • The unemployment rate is lower for college graduates than for workers without a bachelor’s degree, and this trend holds steady during economic downturns. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

  • By 2031, nearly three of four jobs are projected to require some postsecondary education; 42% will require a bachelor’s degree or higher. This means more job opportunities for college graduates. (Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce)

  • 87% of bachelor’s degree holders report higher financial well-being as a result of their education, 20 percentage points higher than any other group. (Federal Reserve’s Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2023)

  • Most Americans who hold a bachelor’s degree value their experience, with nearly 80% saying it was “extremely or very useful” in helping them grow personally and intellectually. (Pew Research Center)

  • To further review the financial benefits of a bachelor’s degree, explore this .