In previous generations, there were many jobs that did not require a college degree or even a high school diploma. As more and more people are getting college degrees, the jobs available are getting more and more competitive. Many jobs that used to be in the United States are now being sent offshore to India and other countries.

Companies' workforces are getting smaller due to the fact computer technology is getting more and more efficient. Even though there are not as many assembly line jobs, there are still many jobs that need to be filled in engineering, management and business administration in which a college education is an advantage.

The advantages of a college degree in areas such as manufacturing, scientific, and engineering are very strong. College students are now able to study highly specialized science related degrees and programs that apply directly to business settings.

One of the advantages of going to college is that students become aware of many fields and subjects that they never would have considered without going to college. It may even spark your own idea of how to become an entrepreneur in an niche you never thought of before. A lot of employers just look to see if you have a bachelor's degree - even if it's not related to the job description!

Simply put, a college degree equals higher pay. According to the Winter 2004-2005 Occupational Outlook Quarterly, The US Department of Labor reported that "In 2003, workers who had a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $900, compared with $554 a week for high school graduates—that’s a difference of $346 per week, or a 62 percent jump in median earnings." These figures illustrate the advantage of a college degree is its earning power.

Attending and graduating from a college or University is the best way to prepare for a career that pays well and provides a productive and secure future. Even if you have to take out student loans, your education is a financial investment. On top of that, student loan interest is tax deductible.

College isn't for everyone. But if you're a hard-working, self-motivated individual, you should have no problem handling the ups and downs of college life. Almost all colleges and universities offer online courses - imagine earning a degree without ever setting foot on a college campus! If you'd like to learn more about what programs fit you best - click here to find your ideal school!