In the past, high-paying jobs were attainable without a college degree. In the 21st century, however, a college degree is crucial not only for career advancement, but simply to open initial doors to employment. Many employers hire only college graduates. Fortunately, for Midcoast Maine residents, there are many higher education opportunities available locally at a very competitive price, so there is no reason not to obtain a college degree.

Why does a college degree matter?

A college degree opens the door to career options and opportunities and gives you an edge in the marketplace. The job market is tight and many positions require a bachelor’s degree at the minimum. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and Georgetown University, within five years, 63% of jobs will require a college degree, as opposed to 28% in 1973. To assist students, colleges have career centers, which offer workshops on choosing careers and finding internships, host career fairs, and offer advice on writing resumes and cover letters. Many connect current students with the college’s graduates through career networking events.

A college degree boosts your income. College graduates typically earn more money than someone who didn’t graduate. No investment offers as great a financial return as going to college. The money invested in going to college will come back in multiples with a higher paying job.

A college degree introduces you to great minds. College courses encourage you to think, ask questions, and explore new ideas; this is a priceless investment in personal development. Going to college gives you the opportunity to learn more about something that interests you and introduces you to academic fields you’ve never before explored. College can help you see connections among academic disciplines, giving you an appreciation for the arts, literature, politics, history, science, mathematics, social sciences, English, and other languages.

A college degree encourages confident self-expression and self-confidence. College teaches you to think and write clearly, which are skills that will serve you well in any endeavor. Employers also recognize that obtaining a college degree shows intellectual drive, time management skills, perseverance, and determination, all qualities which are valuable in any career. Attaining a college degree helps you realize you can manage challenging situations and achieve your goals.

Degrees available in this area

Midcoast Maine offers a wealth of opportunities at every level of higher education. From Associate’s degrees in medical laboratory technology to Bachelor’s degrees in small business management to Master’s programs in electrical engineering, there is a program for all interests and educational levels. Central Maine Community in Damariscotta, Southern Maine Community College in Bath and Brunswick, Southern New Hampshire University in Brunswick, and University College at Bath/Brunswick offer almost one hundred majors among the four institutions.

For a list of all the degrees available in Midcoast Maine and contact information for the colleges above, request the brochure “Why College Matters” from Wiscasset Adult and Community Education: 207-882-9710 or wendy@myadulted.org/.