Evaluate the jobs you can get with your degree. One of the most telling signs of whether or not your degree is worth the cost is to determine how many employers hire people with your degree. If your degree is only useful in one or two jobs, this may be a factor in determining how valuable your degree is. Or, if you do not go into the field you got your degree in, then you may not find your degree to be particularly valuable.
However, studies show that college graduates were less likely to be unemployed during the recession. As such, this population may have greater job security overall. To determine the types of jobs you can attain with your degree, speak with your campus career center. You can also perform an Internet search of the types of jobs associated with your degree.
Consider your earning potential. According to a recent newspaper article, people with college degrees earned over $21,000 more per year than those who had only graduated high school. Research the average salary for people in your field and degree. You can do so by using websites like Salary, Salarydom, and Payscale. These sites allow you to browse careers and average salaries. Additionally, you can determine the salary you will likely earn during job interviews once you have graduated.
Examine your lifestyle. College graduates are likely to lead healthier lifestyles and give back to society at a greater rate. Additionally, college graduates may develop an interest in a subject that they find greatly broadens their intellectual curiosity. While these things may not be measurable in dollars, they may provide personal value to college graduates.