Has a Bachelor’s Degree Become the New High School Diploma?
A high school diploma, or a GED (General Education Development) used to go a long way with employers. It was a lot more common for people to enter into the workforce post-high school than it is now. In fact, around one hundred years ago, it was typical to not finish high school at all, which is clearly not the case anymore. Fewer than 10% of students graduated high school in the early 1900’s versus today’s rate which is around 85-90%. According to data recorded in late 2019, the enrollment rate for College or bachelor’s degree today is about 65%.
What does this mean?
Those were a lot of numbers, but to simplify it – it is more common to attend college after high school in today’s day and age. Does this mean that a bachelor’s degree has become the new high school diploma? Yes and no. The professional job market almost definitely requires a degree now. The jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s are the least desirable – like a community health care worker, mail carrier, a power plant operator, etc. These jobs typically make around $15/hour, which can prove very difficult to live on (especially if you are supporting a family).
With all of that being said, college is no easy feat. It is now harder than ever to get into a four-year university right after high school, unless you were an above average student during those four years. It is also ideal for the student to have an idea of what they want to study before they enter the long process of earning that bachelor’s degree. For example, if you are not passionate about a particular subject and you decide to explore your options in college, the return on investment might not be so great for you. On the same note, though, most professional level jobs do require you to have some kind of degree. Meaning, if you study one subject in college, that doesn’t mean you will do it forever – you might actually do something completely different. But, all your employer will likely care about is that you have a degree and the experience you have earned since.
Why are they comparable?
If you do make the choice to go to college and you feel you need a little extra help in your studies, give Miles Smart Tutoring a call (813) 238-3036. We offer nationwide online and in-person one-on-one tutoring services in all subjects. If you’re interested in hearing more or would like to set up a free tutoring consultation, you can visit www.milessmarttutoring.com.
