The Value of Continued Education

Advantages of Continued Education  The higher the educational level, the lower the risk of unemployment.  College education leads to higher earnings.  Median weekly earnings for those with bachelor’s degree = $1,038

Education and Training Programs  Search for an education program that is right for you.   Options for postsecondary education:  Community college  Technical college  Traditional (4-year) college  Online courses

Community Colleges  Fewer requirements for admission  Less costly than traditional universities  Offer both 2-year and 4-year degree programs  Can live in current home or with relative to reduce cost of room and board  Career services

Advantages of a More Educated Workforce  Lower crime rates  Improved health and quality of life  Stronger decision-making skills

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Pros and Cons: Continued Education Pro  Earn more money  Can be a more competitive job candidate  Have a more fulfilling career  Increased personal pride Con  Must spend money to enroll  Possibility of student debt  May have to change work schedule to accommodate classes

Where should I get job training?  Four-year college/universities  Best for those eventually getting a Masters degree or Ph.D.  Can transfer from community college (usually after two years)  Community colleges  Good option if degree is needed to advance at work  Ideal for those who want a degree but have limited resources  Technical/vocational schools  For those who simply need training to get a specific skilled job  For example: electrician, plumber or HVAC repair

Costs and Benefits  Weigh the cost of your education against expected starting salary.  Avoid private or traditional colleges (which are often expensive) if the expected salary is low.  Explore the financial aid offered at each educational institution you are considering.  Scholarships and grants can put an expensive educational option within reach.

Funding your education  Scholarships  KEES Scholarship  Available to Kentucky residents  Minimum 2.5 GPA, SAT score 710 or ACT score 15  Grants  May have requirements to maintain funding  Federal Pell Grants  TEACH Grants

Other ways to fund an education  529 Accounts  Allow funds for education to grow with fewer taxes or other incentives  In Kentucky, known as Kentucky Education Savings Plan Trusts  Tuition waivers  Tuition waivers available for:  Military/veteran families  Fostered/adopted children  Public service employees and family  Employment  Tuition Reimbursement Programs

References  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Division of Labor Force Statistics. (2011). College enrollment and work activity of 2011 high school graduates (USDL ). Washington. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Division of Labor Force Statistics. (2011). Education Pays. Washington. Retrieved September 01, 2011, from  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections. (2010). Employment projections: Occupations with the largest job growth. Washington. Retrieved May 02, 2011, from

Photos: Microsoft Word Robert H. Flashman, Ph.D. Extension Specialist for Family Resource Management R. Renee Setari, M.S. Graduate Student, Family Sciences Megan Hempfling, B.S., Family Sciences April 2014 Copyright © 2014 for materials developed by University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension. This publication may be reproduced in portions or its entirety for educational or nonprofit purposes only. Permitted users shall give credit to the author(s) and include this copyright notice. Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability, or national origin.