The traditional path of pursuing a college degree isn’t as traveled as in previous decades. People used to see college as a gateway to success, but these days, that outdated view is increasingly being questioned. High tuition costs, the burden of student debt, and the evolving job market are some of the factors prompting individuals to explore alternatives. Here are 14 compelling reasons people are skipping college degrees and considering different avenues for their career and personal growth.
1. High Cost of Education
The escalating cost of college tuition is the top reason why people are skipping college degrees. Many prospective students are unwilling to accumulate substantial debt that could burden them for decades. Instead, they seek out apprenticeships, certifications, or entry-level jobs that do not require a degree but still offer growth opportunities. This ends up saving them a lot of money down the road.
2. Student Loan Debt
Working in tandem with high tuition costs, student loan debt is another reason why people aren’t interested in going to college. Student loan debt has reached an all-time high, with many graduates feeling the financial strain long after they’ve left school. The fear of this debt is leading some to completely opt out of college. Instead, they enter the workforce debt-free or pursue education through less expensive means.
3. Uncertain Return on Investment
There is growing skepticism about the return on investment that a college degree offers. With some graduates struggling to find employment in their fields, the direct correlation between a degree and a guaranteed good-paying job seems less certain. Ask any person who graduated with a degree in a major like English or business. Chances are, they or someone they know had to take a job in a different field entirely.
4. Rise of Online Learning
After the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning became more popular than ever before. Forbes estimates that around 10 million college students took at least one class online in 2022. The availability of online learning platforms has revolutionized education, and sometimes, these courses are unaffiliated with a major learning institution. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy, provide courses often for free or at a low cost.
5. Success Without a Degree
We’ve all heard stories about entrepreneurs who’ve found success without going to college. Steve Jobs, Rachael Ray, and John D. Rockefeller are just a few notable names who never received a college degree. Their careers have inspired millions of high school graduates to follow in their footsteps and skip college completely. Skills, experience, and determination can be as valuable as a formal education.
6. Skills-Based Hiring
More companies are moving towards skills-based hiring. They want candidates with proven abilities and experience rather than their educational background. This shift has encouraged individuals to build skills through internships, side jobs, and volunteer gigs that make them look more employable. College may not be as important as they’re building their resumes.
7. Entrepreneurial Opportunities
The internet has opened many doors for entrepreneurship that didn’t exist before. It’s easier than ever for people to take their idea and run with it, starting an online business. Many young people are drawn to entrepreneurship as a way to be self-sufficient and innovative without the need for a formal degree. They like the idea of working for themselves and building an idea from scratch.
8. Availability of Apprenticeships
The United States has seen a decline in the number of people entering trades or construction work. Sometimes, these jobs provide in-person training through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are a compelling alternative to college. The new hire will acquire practical skills while gaining experience, often putting them on a pathway to employment without the hefty price tag of a college education.
9. Flexibility
College is a huge time commitment. You need to wake up for classes, cram for tests, and complete endless essays and assignments. Some individuals prefer a learning path that allows more flexibility than these rigid schedules and structures. Self-directed learning and flexible online courses cater to this need, allowing learners to balance education with other life responsibilities.
10. Personal Reasons
There may not always be a clear reason why someone chooses not to go to college. Personal circumstances such as family responsibilities or health issues can make higher learning feel impossible. For these individuals, alternative education paths or immediate entry into the workforce are more feasible options. They need to start making money asap, and don’t want the burden of classes and student loan debt.
11. Fast-Changing World
With the curriculum in college constantly changing, there are some people who don’t believe in the teachings or ideas. The curriculum seems outdated in their eyes, and they feel as though it doesn’t add value. Plus, some argue that by the time students graduate, specific technologies or practices they have learned may no longer be relevant. All these factors make college look less desirable than it used to be.
12. Desire for Immediate Work Experience
Job candidates often hear the dread of “no experience” when it comes to getting hired. The catch is they aren’t finding a place that provides them with a chance to gain that coveted experience. Gaining immediate work experience can be more appealing and beneficial than spending years in academic study. By pursuing these opportunities, one often learns the skills necessary to make them a more prospective job candidate.
13. Overemphasis on Formal Education
Going to college seemed like such an important goal for so many years. However, these days, some critics argue that society places too much emphasis on formal education. Many believe that your degree is a measure of your ability and potential. This perspective paints college in a negative light for people who don’t have the money or means to seek out a degree.
14. Mental Health Considerations
The pressures and stress of college life can take a toll on mental health. For those who find the college environment too stressful or unsupportive, skipping college may be the way to go. Instead, these individuals seek out alternative education or work pathways. Their well-being always comes first.
Diploma Free
There’s no denying that going to college could be a lucrative choice for many people. However, skipping college is also a viable option if you want to seek out other opportunities instead. The point is to do something with your time and energy to put yourself on a path to success. You don’t necessarily need a pile of student loans to make that happen!
Read More:
How to Financially Prepare for Your High Schooler to Go to College
5 Reasons to Spend Time With Your Kids Before They’re Off to College
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.