One of the biggest, though not always as obvious, advantages of earning an undergraduate degree deals with the return on investment. On average, the earnings of those who obtain an undergraduate degree are significantly higher than for high school graduates, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A high school graduate will earn $1.2 million on average over their working life, while those with bachelor's degrees will bring in $2.1 million.
Studies done by the Institute for Higher Education Policy and the Carnegie Foundation have found that college graduates have a higher social awareness, better consumer decision-making and increased mobility both professionally and personally. College graduates also tend to be more rational, open-minded and cultured, increasing their overall self-worth both to themselves and to society. Because college graduates have an easier time getting the types of jobs they want, they tend to earn more, which then reflects on their own self-image.
Research conducted by Elchanan Cohn and Terry Geske (1992) has proved there is a positive correlation between college graduates and good health. But good health does not end with the student; their research also shows that their offspring also benefit from their achievement. College graduates are more optimistic and have a more positive view of their past and future accomplishments. Highly educated women spend more time with their children and help them prepare for their own futures.
The costs involved with attending and graduating from an undergraduate program have long been the biggest deterrent for prospective students. There are some who simply cannot afford to attend a four-year college, or have parents who would have to sacrifice a great deal to make it happen. According to the Dept. of Education, $8,655 iis the average cost per year for a four-year public in-state undergraduate school, including room and board.