Should I earn a bachelor’s degree? This question will impact a person throughout their lives and careers. Other career preparation options are available for recent high school graduates, like trade school or on-the-job training. Nonetheless, the vast majority of well-paying jobs require a college degree.
For working adults, earning a degree opens doors to career advancement, higher pay, and increased job satisfaction.
With this in mind, Northern Michigan University continues to expand its affordable online degree programs, offering people in Michigan and outside the state the opportunity to position themselves for a rewarding future.
Should I Get a Bachelor’s Degree?
A college degree exposes students to a deeper understanding of the world around us—its history, language, art, science, and literature. Earning a degree, no matter the specialization, also teaches important life skills applicable in their personal and professional lives.
Among these skills are:
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Communications skills
- Interpersonal skills
In the workplace, these “soft skills” often prove as important as “hard skills.” And when all else is equal among job candidates, soft skills can make one candidate preferable over another.
The benefits of a bachelor’s degree also extend to measurable, practical matters. Statistics often show that college graduates are better off than peers without a degree in these areas.
More Job Opportunities
Higher Salary Potential
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you can look forward to earning around $1,493 per week, which adds up to approximately $77,636 a year. In comparison, those with some college but no degree earn $992 a week, and high school graduates bring in $899 a week. This difference in earnings really highlights the value of completing a bachelor’s degree. Not only does it increase your weekly paycheck, but it also significantly boosts your annual income, making it a smart investment for long-term financial stability and career growth.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Promotion requirements differ across organizations and industries, but a bachelor’s degree usually gives you an edge. It increases your chances of moving up in your current field. Even if a degree isn’t required, the skills you gain from a four-year program can open doors to new opportunities. A degree can help you transition into a field where it’s more highly valued, making it a smart move for long-term career growth.
Economic Stability
The combination of better pay, higher employment levels, and increased promotion opportunities typically provides college graduates with a path to greater economic stability. In 2023, 87% of adults with a bachelor’s degree reported being “at least OK” financially, according to the Federal Reserve. This strong figure underscores the continued value of a college education in securing financial well-being and navigating economic challenges. With a bachelor’s degree, individuals are better positioned to achieve and maintain financial stability in today’s economy
Life Satisfaction
Considering the many benefits of a bachelor’s degree, it’s no surprise that college graduates often enjoy higher job satisfaction. A degree not only opens the door to better job opportunities and higher pay but also equips individuals with the skills and confidence to thrive in their careers, leading to greater satisfaction at work. Moreover, education strongly correlates with overall life happiness. As people age, those with a bachelor’s degree typically experience higher well-being, finding that the stability and opportunities education provides contribute to a more fulfilling and happy life. A bachelor’s degree is not just a career booster; it’s a key to long-term personal and professional fulfillment.
Why Earn a Bachelor’s Degree at NMU?
NMU Global Campus offers various degree program options for those who decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree. The school also provides the advantages of enrolling in an online program. Remote learning allows students the flexibility to study and review lectures at a time and place that works for them.
Additional benefits students enjoy include:
- A ranking as the second most affordable tuition in Michigan
- A policy allowing students to pay in-state tuition no matter where they live
- Fast undergraduate transfer evaluations
- A generous transfer policy that allows up to 90 credits from a community college
- Flexible payment options
- Student advising support
- Career services support
There are significant benefits to earning a bachelor’s degree. With online learning, students now have a better chance than ever to complete a four-year degree program and enjoy those benefits in both their careers and personal lives.
