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3 Reasons Why Earning a Degree Will Advance Your Career and Improve Your Life

Wes Creel / Abound: Finish College

Stuck at an unfulfilling job? Want to earn more money than you currently do? If so, earning your bachelor’s degree is one of the best steps you can take to change that. Here are three reasons why:

1) A Changing Job Market

More than ever before, the current job market needs an educated workforce. A study by the Lumina Foundation found that four out of five jobs lost during the recession required only a high school education or less. Yet, employers still lack the qualified job applicants. The jobs they offer require the special skills and knowledge a postsecondary education provides. For the 140 million Americans over 25 without bachelor’s degrees, earning one is a sure way to change their career prospects.

2) An Ill-Prepared Labor Force

Part of the problem is that American youth are still entering the job force under prepared. Only 42% of all youth and 40% of all adults are college-educated. That puts the US at 13th in the world for college attainment. In fact, experts expect that by the year 2020, two out of every three jobs will require a bachelor’s degree. Current trends suggest the job market will continue to demand workers with college degrees. In fact, experts expect that by the year 2020, two out of every three jobs will require a bachelor’s degree. Simply having one gives you a leg up on workers with only a high school diploma. Considering the demands of the labor market, earning yours is an excellent investment.

3) The Impact of a College Degree

Most people look to earn their degree so they can make more money. Others go to expand their mind and challenge themselves to grow. But did you know that your education can also improve the lives of your family and the people around you? Studies find that people with degrees are more likely to engage in civic and social issues. They are also more likely to vote and volunteer their time to charitable or social causes. Finally, graduates tend to live healthier lifestyles and depend less on public assistance.

Imagine the impact you could have on your family, friends, children and community. What civic or social issues might you get involved in if you had the time and resources? Who could you help in your community? How would your children benefit from a healthier, more economically independent parent? How would your improved status help give the ones you love a better future? These are all things you should consider when deciding to return to school.

The job market is changing drastically, and the demand for educated workers is likely to increase. If you want to improve your standard of living and career prospects, earning a degree is your best bet. Studies show that postsecondary degrees are the key factor in finding a meaningful and fruitful career. Earning a degree benefits you, your family, and your community. It can potentially improve your salary, your health, and the well-being of those around you. If you can manage it, now is an excellent time to go back to school, earn your degree, and get a better career.

More About Abound: We’re here to help. Abound: Finish College narrows down your options and gets you in touch with schools that we can confirm are Accessible, Affordable, Accelerated, and Advanced. Take a look at the schools we trust and find the program that works for you.

More Helpful Resources:

Why Choose a BSN Over Other Nursing Degrees?

Beating the Confidence Gap and Earning Your Degree

Employer Assisted Tuition: 8 Strategies to Persuade Your Boss

Resources for Working Parents Going Back to School

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