June 10, 2010 — vol. 45, no 44
Is college worth the cost
Many independent colleges now cost $50,000 or more per year for room, board and tuition.
Unfortunately, many students believe that the cost of college is beyond the family budget.
The median income for a family of four in 2009 was $70,354 per year. Half the families in the U.S. earned less and half earned more.
However, the $50,000 plus college tab is for those families that earn much more than the median income.
All major colleges provide substantial student aid for deserving students whose families cannot afford the full price.
A college degree provides an opportunity for more interesting and better paying employment.
The average salary in 2006 for adults working full time was $31,071 for high school graduates and $82,320 for those with advanced college degrees.
As factory jobs decline, the growing employment sectors require higher education.
In 1979 there were 19.5 million manufacturing jobs. This dropped to 14.3 million by 2004 and the trajectory continues downward.
The answer is decidedly "yes"
