20 reasons to go back to school to pursue your degree
Have you been thinking about leveling up your career but aren't sure where to start? Maybe you've hit a point where you need additional knowledge or skills to advance. Going back to school for your bachelor's or master's might be the answer. Here are 20 reasons why earning a degree could be the right decision for you, personally and professionally.
Take the first step toward advancing your career, and your life, with a degree from Central Michigan University.
Apply now1. Boost your earning potential
Earning a college degree can lead to higher salary potential. Individuals who have a bachelor's or master's degree have higher median weekly earnings than those with a high school diploma.
Median weekly earnings by educational obtainment according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- High school diploma: $899
- Bachelor's degree: $1,493
- Master's degree: $1,737
Over a lifetime, this can add up to over a million dollars in extra earnings.
2. Stay competitive in the job market
The employment market can be highly competitive. Additional education on your résumé can qualify you for a wider range of roles and give you a competitive edge in the application process.
Adding graduate school to your educational obtainment can help even further. Around 16 million people have master’s degrees, or about just 8 percent of the population. Depending on your field, going back to school to earn your advanced degree could increase your chances of getting hired.
3. Improve your job security
Earning your degree can also improve your job security. Unemployment rates are lower for individuals with a bachelor's or master's degree compared to high school graduates.
Unemployment rate by educational obtainment according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- High school diploma: 3.9%
- Bachelor's degree: 2.2%
- Master's degree: 2%
Adding a degree to your résumé can help you keep your job more secure. It can also help you find a new position quickly because you have the right qualifications for the role.
4. Expand your understanding of your field
Going back to school will teach you advanced theories, tools and skills to help you succeed in the workplace. You might even have the chance to participate in academic research, which can help you dive into a specific issue of your industry.
5. Stay current with skills and technologies
Technology is constantly evolving, and things have likely changed since your last formal technology training. Pursuing a degree gives you access to the latest tools and software in your industry. These additional skills will position you for success in your current role and as you look for career advancement.
6. Position yourself for advancement
Earning a degree could position you to move up within your existing organization. You'll graduate with a degree, enhanced skills and leadership training. You’ll also show your boss that you're ready to take on bigger challenges.
7. Allow for a career change
Sometimes the reason to go back to school is not for advancement in your current career but to make a field change. If you are no longer interested in continuing in your current line of work, earning an undergraduate or graduate degree in a new field can help you shift without starting over in entry-level positions.
8. Network with other professionals
The university scene is an excellent place to network in your field. You'll have the chance to study alongside other dedicated professionals and learn from industry leaders. You can tap into those connections to learn about new jobs and opportunities.
To make the most of this benefit, keep up with your connections even after you graduate. While you are in your program, get to know your professors and the other students in the school. Those connections will prove valuable in the future when you need references or recommendations.
9. Achieve personal fulfillment
Going back to school is not just about professional growth – it can also bring a deep sense of personal accomplishment. Earning your degree while after balancing work, family and life responsibilities is a major milestone. That feeling of crossing the stage to receive your diploma is a testament to your hard work and perseverance.
10. Enhance your communication skills
Going back to school can improve your communication skills, which you can put to work in job interviews, presentations and more. No matter your area of study, you’ll need to write papers and prepare presentations. Those communication skills will translate into better communication on the job.
11. Improve critical thinking skills
Today’s college experience is less about throwing facts at students and more about teaching students how to think. Critical thinking will help you navigate the challenges that come up in the workplace, resulting in greater professional success regardless of your field.
12. Make a bigger impact
With all the benefits of a college education, you’ll be able to make a bigger impact at work and at home. Your enhanced skills will help you find new solutions and build better teams.
13. Build better time management skills
Students must learn time management and organizational skills to complete assignments on time, on top of their work and family obligations. These are skills you can keep in practice long after graduation to balance work and home responsibilities.
14. Improve personal skills
Back in school, you’ll meet students from all walks of life. Working with diverse perspectives builds teamwork, self-motivation and empathy - all skills that benefit both your career and personal relationships.
15. Develop leadership skills
If you’re interested in leading a team or taking on more responsibility at work, going back to school can provide the leadership training you need. Courses in management, strategic thinking and communication can prepare you to step confidently into leadership roles.
16. Foster a lifelong habit of learning
Going back to school can also reignite your curiosity and love for learning. From mastering new skills to navigating academic challenges, the experience can instill a lifelong habit of growth and motivation.
17. Become a problem-solver
Higher education programs challenge you to think critically. Your classes will ask you to analyze information and make informed decisions in complex scenarios. Learning these skills will benefit you not only on the job but in virtually every area of life, from personal dilemmas to community initiatives.
18. Build a professional portfolio
Going back to school could give you a chance to create tangible evidence of your skills and accomplishments. By completing projects, presentations and even research, you’ll build a professional portfolio that demonstrates your expertise to employers.
19. Enhance public speaking skills
Many degree programs require you to present your ideas in front of peers and professors. Over time, these experiences help you build confidence and refine your public speaking skills. Whether you’re pitching ideas, giving talks at conferences or leading team meetings, strong presenting skills are a major career advantage.
20. Boost self-confidence
Achieving academic success can also boost your self-esteem. Every time you complete a class or develop a skill, you'll reaffirm your capabilities. That sense of accomplishment isn’t just personal—it translates into greater confidence at work and in life, empowering you to pursue ambitious goals with determination.
Get started on your degree with Central Michigan University
If you are ready to explore career growth and boost your earning potential, Central Michigan University offers a wide range of online and in-person programs. With competitive tuition and career-focused degree programs, Central Michigan University prepares students for work in the real world.
Balancing school with work and family responsibilities is possible when you choose the right program. Learn more about online options, graduate programs and undergraduate degrees, to see which program might be the right fit for you.