It is the age-old question faced by recent high school graduates and prospective students each day. “Does getting a degree matter? Will my degree make a difference after I am finished with my education?” Students questioning the necessity and value of the bachelor’s degree must read the following information. Here are the reasons why a bachelor’s degree still matters today:
- It’s Necessary for a Number of Jobs
Believe it or not, many consider the master’s degree to be the new bachelor’s degree. Accordingly, that means that the bachelor’s degree can almost be considered the new high school diploma. In other words, a bachelor’s is, in many industries, essential.
In a number of careers and fields, even further education is needed to acquire an entry-level position in the field. Many fields require a master’s degree—such as social work—to attain an entry-level career. Education is in high demand in today’s society—especially in the world’s most prominent countries, such as the United States.
- A Bachelor’s is a Stepping Stone
As stated, many require a master’s or even above for positions in their company. Therefore, a bachelor’s degree is the necessary foundation for further education in a number of fields.
Students who know they will need to earn their master’s degree should not hesitate to get started. Obtaining higher-level education is a commitment that takes several years, so students who are aware they are going to take this path should get started as early as possible in order to pursue a career sooner.
- A More Impressive Pay Day
For those who are entering fields that do not require a master’s degree, or even a bachelor’s degree, there is still a benefit to obtaining this degree.
Earning a bachelor’s degree can often lock in a higher salary. In fact, according to the U.S. government’s National Center for Education Statistics, “in 2012 the median of earnings for young adults with a bachelor’s degree was $46,900, while the median was $22,900 for those without a high school credential and $30,000 for those with a high school credential.
In other words, young adults with a bachelor’s degree earned more than twice as much as those without a high school credential (105 percent more) and 57 percent more than young adult high school completers” (NCES). These numbers are not surprising, as most people obtain an education in hopes to make an impact on their future—often, in the form of job stability and financial security.
- Learn More
Students who earn their bachelor’s degree are individuals who take the time to invest in themselves. They are not afraid to delve into their interests and their future. Those who enroll in higher education understand the value of it: it helps better oneself by enabling an individual to follow their path of interest. And, as stated before, taking this path and investing in oneself with education might even pay off in the long run.
- Earn Pay-Raises and Promotions
While an associate’s degree is the minimum requirement for some jobs — i.e. nursing — a bachelor’s can offer professionals a deeper understanding of the subject. When employers see this new level of education, this might result in a pay increase or promotion.
Obtaining a degree in one’s current field also leads to more advantages, such as building professional credibility, the ability to implement elevated performance on the job, and personal satisfaction.
- Avoid Over-Education with a Bachelor’s
For some career paths, a bachelor’s degree is the right level of education. Any less would deem the graduate unfit for the position, while any more could potentially threaten managers or others in the field that are at a higher level in the company than the hiring position. Indeed, it might be hard to believe, but there can be too much of a good thing in some fields. Over-education is an interesting dilemma faced by young students today. How much is too much?
According to the career professionals at CareerBuilder, “Hiring managers often see a red flag when an overeducated job seeker applies for a position. While the job seeker sees this as an advantage — surely he or she is more qualified than most applicants — hiring managers see him or her as a flight risk, or somebody who won’t stay at the company long before finding a better opportunity” (CB). Sometimes, a bachelor’s is the correct level of education for a field. Before moving forward in education, always consider the value of that education.
Bear in mind, however, that there are some fields in which this phenomenon does not apply. Students who are entering fields in which a master’s degree can help credibility — such as business or health services — will benefit from a higher degree.
- Sense of Accomplishment
Bachelor’s degrees can offer graduates a sense of pride and accomplishment. It takes time and effort to earn a degree. Therefore, completing the job is an accomplishment in itself. Then, using this degree toward an individual’s future only strengthens that sense of pride and contentment.
Florida National University (FNU) Opens Doors
If you are ready to get your career started with a bachelor’s degree, don’t delay. Review FNU’s programs — both online and on campus — and apply today!
