It’s never been more important to get a return on the investment you’re about to make in your education.
This path teaches how to reach your education goals in the most cost-effective way.
First, select your goal (either a career-focused goal or self-fulfillment). The interactive process helps you create an action plan with effective steps toward your goal.
Guiding Principle for the Education Path
Avoid debt – and get the most value for your money.
How the Path Works
Learn it.
- Learn how to research costs and calculate ROI for an education.
- Identify the income potential of a given career or career advancement.
- Learn about funding options (scholarships, grants, loans, military service).
Plan it.
- Establish your budget and research costs for trade schools and degree programs at various institutions.
- Use our calculators to compare net income scenarios and prospective ROIs.
Do it!
- Select your educational or training program and submit an application.
- Manage your budget to address costs as needed.
- Repay any debt incurred and be proud of your accomplishment!
TIP: Budget first, then look for a degree and institution that meets the return on your investment.
Topics Covered
The Education Path content addresses the four main reasons people pursue an education. They want to:
- Start a career
- Change careers
- Move up in their career
- Experience self-fulfillment
In each case, the process is designed to help you approach education with a business perspective, i.e., “I’m investing this much in education, and I expect an ROI.”
In most cases, the process covers similar topics such as:
- How to research colleges and universities
- What types of financial aid are available?
- How long should it take to complete my education?
- How to decide on a career change
- When should I apply for college?
- Is a trade school a better option than college?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an award letter?
Some institutions are the major source of funding for students. These universities may use an award letter to communicate the amount of funding that’s available for the student.
How long do most trade schools take?
The time it takes to learn a trade varies; but typically, the training can be anywhere between 8-9 months and two years. Some trades may require several years to complete.
What is lifelong learning about?
Lifelong learning is about pursuing formal (and/or informal) educational opportunities at every age. Lifelong learners are usually self-motivated and focused on personal development.
Avenues for lifelong learning include:
- Travel experiences
- Learning a new language, sport, skill or hobby
- Attending lectures, college or online classes.
What is the average cost of college?
According to Education Data Initiative[1], the average cost of tuition for a public, 4-year college (in-state) is $9,750/year or $39,000 for four years.
On average, out-of-state students pay $28,386/year or $113,544 over four years for tuition.
Sources:
- Average Cost of College & Tuition
Melanie Hanson, Education Data Initiative
05-28-24 | Accessed: 12-05-24
