Taking college classes means learning about something, whether it's woodworking, philosophy, cooking or math. Effective college courses help students become proficient in a subject area. College courses are available both for credit, to count towards a credential, or non-credit, strictly for learning purposes. Some colleges offer the same classes both for credit and non-credit. Many colleges have developed non-credit courses strictly for the community that are shorter and cheaper than traditional college classes.
Many college courses improve students' critical thinking skills which is essential for intellectual growth. Thinking critically allows students to explore different perspectives, recognize biases and to make informed decisions. Critical thinkers learn to solve problems, a valuable skill in life and in work. Many job advertisements highlight strong problem-solving skills as an asset for a variety of positions.
The United States Department of Labor reports that for the period of February through June 2011, adults with some college courses or an associate degree, participated in the civilian labor force at rates much higher than those with high school or less. For example, in June 2011, the participation rate of workers with less than a high school diploma was 45 percent, while for those with some college or an associate degree, the rate was 69.8 percent. Translation: Taking college courses gives you a better chance of getting a job. IF you're already working, additional college courses can lead to a promotion.
Community-college schooling increases earning potential. In a 2005 study sponsored by the Hudson Center for Employment Policy in Washington state, researchers concluded college retraining programs for displaced workers increases earnings by as much as 7 percent. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2010 the average weekly earnings of a worker with some college courses was $712 as compared to $626 for high school graduates and $444 for non-graduates. Completion of a bachelor's degree bumped the weekly earnings to $1,038, and those with a doctoral degree earned $1,550 weekly.