What's The Purpose Of College? (2024)

FAQs

What is the primary purpose of college? ›

3. College can teach you how to think critically and solve problems. Many people believe the primary purpose of college is to prepare students for a specific career. While it is true that colleges do offer many programs that can lead to a successful career, there is more to a college education than just getting a job.

Generally, the purpose of college (and high school, for that matter) can include any of the following: Satisfying intellectual interests and heeding raw curiosity. Preparing for a career. Learning how to navigate the world.

With more and more careers requiring advanced education, a college degree can be critical to your success in today's workforce. Research indicates that earning a degree can have a significant and expansive impact on your life. It also has the potential to help you positively impact your family — and the world.

Bottom line. In general, going to college can increase your earning potential, employment prospects, job benefits and professional network. You can also learn about different careers, gain skills and learn independence.

Starting in the Middle Ages, Europe's colleges and universities were meant to train the sons of wealthy men for careers in law, medicine, and the church. Higher education had little to offer the sons of cobblers and farmers, who learned the crafts from their fathers.

So many people find success in life without a college degree. Many are actively pursuing careers they love and are passionate about, with other types of education under their belts. Although you may feel pressure to get a college degree, it's important to remember that it is not necessary for success.

While there are certainly many fields that require a college degree, it is important to recognize that higher education is not always necessary for every career. In some cases, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational programs may provide more direct pathways to success.

Whether going to college is worth it really depends on your situation. Some career aspirations require a four-year degree, while plenty of others don't. Certain academic interests make more sense to pursue in a formal campus environment. Others lend themselves to self-study.

College is unlike high school, where your identity and reputation has remained the same for a while. You choose your classes and can study anything and you are treated as an adult in those classes. So say goodbye to cliques, set schedules, and mandatory classes, and say hello to choice and independence.

Most Americans still agree that a college education is worthwhile when it comes to career goals and advancement.

Why is college is so expensive? ›

Increased demand for a college education, less funding from state governments and increases in administrative and operating costs have contributed to a higher cost. Students can afford college by seeking funding sources such as scholarships, student loans and work-study to help foot the bill.

Good grades, a challenging high school curriculum, standardized test scores, extracurriculars, and a strong essay are a few key factors admissions officers assess. Each university may emphasize different elements of the application process.

For those who forgo college, it usually means lower lifetime earnings — 75 percent less compared with those who get bachelor's degrees, according to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce. And when the economy sours, those without degrees are more likely to lose jobs.

College students drop out for a number of reasons, including financial pressure, academic pressure, and struggling to find their feet socially.

If you skip college, you'll not only save money and avoid debt, but you'll also have four years to earn money instead. Whether you get a job, start a business, learn a trade, or monetize your hobby, you'll have a four-year headstart on your peers that took the college route.

Admissions officers use college admissions essays to evaluate your character, writing skills, and ability to self-reflect. The essay is your chance to show what you will add to the academic community.

College enhances personal development. As a wide variety of competencies and abilities are developed, individuals are better prepared to overcome challenges and more effectively contribute in all settings. A college education leads to greater independence and feelings of control.