The Value of Continued Education
Advantages of Continued Education
The higher the educational level, the lower the risk of unemployment.
College education leads to higher earnings. Median weekly earnings for those with bachelor’s degree =
$1,038
Education and Training Programs
Search for an education program that is right for you. www.collegeboard.org
Options for postsecondary education: Community college
Technical college
Traditional (4-year) college
Online courses
Community Colleges
Fewer requirements for admission Less costly than traditional universities Offer both 2-year and 4-year degree programs Can live in current home or with relative to reduce
cost of room and board Career services
Advantages of a More Educated Workforce
Lower crime rates Improved health and
quality of life Stronger decision-making
skills
Activity!
Pros and Cons: Continued Education
Pro Earn more money
Can be a more competitive job candidate
Have a more fulfilling career
Increased personal pride
Con Must spend money to enroll
Possibility of student debt
May have to change work schedule to accommodate classes
Where should I get job training?
Four-year college/universities Best for those eventually getting a Masters degree or Ph.D.
Can transfer from community college (usually after two years)
Community colleges Good option if degree is needed to advance at work
Ideal for those who want a degree but have limited resources
Technical/vocational schools For those who simply need training to get a specific skilled
job For example: electrician, plumber or HVAC repair
Costs and Benefits
Weigh the cost of your education against expected starting salary.
Avoid private or traditional colleges (which are often expensive) if the expected salary is low.
Explore the financial aid offered at each educational institution you are considering. Scholarships and grants can put an expensive educational option
within reach.
Funding your education
Scholarships KEES Scholarship
Available to Kentucky residents
Minimum 2.5 GPA, SAT score 710 or ACT score 15
Grants May have requirements to maintain funding
Federal Pell Grants
TEACH Grants
Other ways to fund an education
529 Accounts
Allow funds for education to grow with fewer taxes or other incentives
In Kentucky, known as Kentucky Education Savings Plan Trusts
Tuition waivers
Tuition waivers available for:
Military/veteran families
Fostered/adopted children
Public service employees and family
Employment
Tuition Reimbursement Programs
References U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Division of Labor Force
Statistics. (2011). College enrollment and work activity of 2011 high school graduates (USDL-12-0716). Washington. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from http://www.bls.gov/news.release/hsgec.nr0.htm.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Division of Labor Force Statistics. (2011). Education Pays. Washington. Retrieved September 01, 2011, from http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_chart_001.htm.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections. (2010). Employment projections: Occupations with the largest job growth. Washington. Retrieved May 02, 2011, from http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_ta.
Photos: Microsoft Word
Robert H. Flashman, Ph.D. Extension Specialist for Family Resource Management
R. Renee Setari, M.S.Graduate Student, Family Sciences
Megan Hempfling, B.S., Family Sciences April 2014
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