In the first part of “Single Moms Going Back to School”, we talked a little about the importance and convenience offered with online education. As mentioned, I made the decision after my divorce to take advantage of the online opportunity, doing something for me and for my kids. While it took me a little longer to earn my degree than most people attending traditional school, I finally achieved my goal!
As a part of this article, I wanted to discuss if a college degree is really, beneficial, especially for single moms. Although some people will work toward a degree just to have a degree and some for “something to do”, most people go back to college so they can move up in the business world. The bottom line is that the higher the education the more money-earning potential you have.
To give you an idea of just how significant a college degree could be to you and your new start in life as a single mom, studies now show that the median income for individuals with a high school diploma is around $27,000. However, individuals who have gone to college to earn a bachelor’s degree earn on average of $51,000. Of course, going for a master’s degree or PhD will push that income even higher. Therefore, if you want to make more money so you and you family can have a more comfortable lifestyle, investing in school is an excellent way to start.
Many top companies around the country focus first on people with a college degree, even if the degree is not directly related to the job being applied for, simply because it shows determination, discipline, hard work, and a goal of achievement. To an employer, these traits in an employee are what they want. Even companies not requiring a college degree typically pay more for those who have one. Rather than settle for an “okay paying” job, a college degree can shoot you into a completely new income level! Now, you could also benefit from completing a certificate or vocational training but I suggest you go for the degree – it will pay off.