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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