What best describes why the return on investment for higher education is high even though cost of college increasing?

The high return on investment (ROI) for higher education, despite rising costs, is best described by the persistent gap between the earnings of college graduates and those with only a high school diploma. While tuition and fees are increasing, so too are the lifetime earnings and career opportunities available to college graduates. This difference in earning potential generally outweighs the increased cost of college over a person's working life.

It's crucial to note that this is a *generalization*, and the ROI varies significantly depending on:

* Major: Graduates in certain fields (e.g., STEM, medicine, law) tend to have substantially higher earnings than those in others (e.g., humanities, arts).

* Institution: The prestige and reputation of the college attended significantly impact post-graduation employment and earning potential.

* Individual factors: Hard work, networking, and other personal characteristics influence career success regardless of educational attainment.

Therefore, while the increasing cost of college is a legitimate concern, the higher earning potential for the average college graduate continues to justify the investment for many, though not all, individuals. The claim of a high ROI is based on the *overall* trend, not a guarantee for every individual.