9 answers
Andreya
Student
Baldwin, Wisconsin
1
Question
9 answers
Lynda Lydick-Hegarty
Retired, substitute teach once a week for FUSD.
2
Answers
Florence, Arizona
Updated
Lynda’s Answer
Blessed Be Andreya!
Good morning, you asked a very difficult question. Practically there is no "good" reason for college to be so expensive. Yes the cost of energy, land, building maintenance and upkeep have continually risen along with the cost of living. Those facts alone don't explain the insanely high cost of college education. One of the major factors in the USA is how college is payed for and the "Profits" that educational loan companies and banks/credit unions make on lending money to students, plus the insane "Profits" private colleges make on tuition do not encourage a lower cost to education. We all must acknowledge how "Capitalism, Gree3d, & Profit" drives the cost of higher education as well as every other facet of life in the USA.
Now, there are a few things one can do to help pay for higher education. First of all 2 year community colleges offer excellent programs that will prepare students to function in their chosen career. They are usually half the cost of a 4 year degree. 2ndly state colleges are more cost effective than private colleges if you live in that state. Thirdly apply for every scholarship, grant, and any other aide ie work study that you even remotely think you qualify for. The worst that will happen is you will be declined. If it is necessary to apply for student loans through the federal government power ONLY WHAT YOU NEED. The majority of us including me have made the mistake to borrow al we qualified for each term. Yes the money helps, but eventually one must pay it back. The less you borrow the lower the interest amount you will pay back. Apply for paid internships if possible in your chosen area of study. LASTLY and most importantly "the length of time you need to take to finish your education is no one's business. You do what is right for you."
As an additional thought; Trade Schools also offer great educational/training experiences as an alternative to a college education. They aren't necessarily that much cheaper, but for students who don't want to take "extra, unnecessary" courses they are a great alternative.
Lastly there is the route of joining the military to get an education. Millions have done so successfully. It's a big commitment and lifestyle change but many have done so successfully. I can proudly say that my father, husband, brothers, nephews, and 2 sons took this option and are successfully employed now in the private sector.
I don't know if this information helps, I wish you well in your future.
Lynda L Lydick-Hegarty
Good morning, you asked a very difficult question. Practically there is no "good" reason for college to be so expensive. Yes the cost of energy, land, building maintenance and upkeep have continually risen along with the cost of living. Those facts alone don't explain the insanely high cost of college education. One of the major factors in the USA is how college is payed for and the "Profits" that educational loan companies and banks/credit unions make on lending money to students, plus the insane "Profits" private colleges make on tuition do not encourage a lower cost to education. We all must acknowledge how "Capitalism, Gree3d, & Profit" drives the cost of higher education as well as every other facet of life in the USA.
Now, there are a few things one can do to help pay for higher education. First of all 2 year community colleges offer excellent programs that will prepare students to function in their chosen career. They are usually half the cost of a 4 year degree. 2ndly state colleges are more cost effective than private colleges if you live in that state. Thirdly apply for every scholarship, grant, and any other aide ie work study that you even remotely think you qualify for. The worst that will happen is you will be declined. If it is necessary to apply for student loans through the federal government power ONLY WHAT YOU NEED. The majority of us including me have made the mistake to borrow al we qualified for each term. Yes the money helps, but eventually one must pay it back. The less you borrow the lower the interest amount you will pay back. Apply for paid internships if possible in your chosen area of study. LASTLY and most importantly "the length of time you need to take to finish your education is no one's business. You do what is right for you."
As an additional thought; Trade Schools also offer great educational/training experiences as an alternative to a college education. They aren't necessarily that much cheaper, but for students who don't want to take "extra, unnecessary" courses they are a great alternative.
Lastly there is the route of joining the military to get an education. Millions have done so successfully. It's a big commitment and lifestyle change but many have done so successfully. I can proudly say that my father, husband, brothers, nephews, and 2 sons took this option and are successfully employed now in the private sector.
I don't know if this information helps, I wish you well in your future.
Lynda L Lydick-Hegarty
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Oh, Andreya, such a good and complex question. Let's start by saying it shouldn't be. College is now what high school used to be, a step up on the educational ladder that is almost essential for most students. So it should be treated as such, as part of a public educational system that pays for it (as should child care on the other end). Without question, at least community colleges should be free, as they prepare students for both higher education and the job market. It's an investment in our future. And the practice of private banks forcing students into predatory loans that they'll have to live with virtually forever has to be stopped as well. There's a clash of ideologies in this country about whether government or "the private sector" (business) manages things better. In my opinion, although neither is anywhere close to ideal, at least government isn't in the business of making huge profits off of its citizenry, whereas the private sector is largely unaccountable to anyone but its CEO's and shareholders. One only has to look at what corporate profit does to health care and prescription drugs. Some want things like Medicare and Social Security, guaranteed safety nets for people who desperately need it, to also be put in the hands of profiteers, and to turn the entire educational system over to them. So, one answer, as it is to most questions regarding our economy, is profit and greed, at least from my perspective.
But by itself that's an unfair, or at least incomplete answer. Running a college is expensive. The instructors, who have invested many years into their own educations, and many of whom, as I can attest to as a former community college professor, do a lot of work for much less pay than people might think, especially as compared to others in our society who do much less essential and beneficial work, deserve a comfortable salary. Unfortunately, most colleges, like most businesses, are top heavy, with too many administrators taking in too high of a percentage of the salary budget. There are a lot of infrastructure costs, material and technological costs, food, housing, maintenance, etc., although educational institutions are exempt from paying taxes. Many colleges/universities unfortunately pour a lot of money into athletic programs. They spend on advertising and on lawyers. Could money be spent more efficiently, are there waste and mis-priorities and sometimes corruption, sure. But the bottom line, literally, is that the cost of college in this country, as compared to most others, is ridiculous, and something does need to be done.
This is all probably much more than you were looking to read. For you, work hard and get a scholarship. Find any way you can to follow your highest aspirations, rather than settling for paths that won't lead you to them. If you don't want to go to trade school or into the military, don't. Maybe join others of your generation in working to change our society into one that places greater value on people and their health, educational and human needs. And vote for those office seekers who want to make higher education affordable, rather than those who want to cut, sell or demean education.
But by itself that's an unfair, or at least incomplete answer. Running a college is expensive. The instructors, who have invested many years into their own educations, and many of whom, as I can attest to as a former community college professor, do a lot of work for much less pay than people might think, especially as compared to others in our society who do much less essential and beneficial work, deserve a comfortable salary. Unfortunately, most colleges, like most businesses, are top heavy, with too many administrators taking in too high of a percentage of the salary budget. There are a lot of infrastructure costs, material and technological costs, food, housing, maintenance, etc., although educational institutions are exempt from paying taxes. Many colleges/universities unfortunately pour a lot of money into athletic programs. They spend on advertising and on lawyers. Could money be spent more efficiently, are there waste and mis-priorities and sometimes corruption, sure. But the bottom line, literally, is that the cost of college in this country, as compared to most others, is ridiculous, and something does need to be done.
This is all probably much more than you were looking to read. For you, work hard and get a scholarship. Find any way you can to follow your highest aspirations, rather than settling for paths that won't lead you to them. If you don't want to go to trade school or into the military, don't. Maybe join others of your generation in working to change our society into one that places greater value on people and their health, educational and human needs. And vote for those office seekers who want to make higher education affordable, rather than those who want to cut, sell or demean education.
Leonardo Grabau
Fx TD
7
Answers
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Updated
Leonardo’s Answer
Hi Andreya
I could share you some advice if you allow me but from another perspective due that I didn't had to deal with loans or interest in United States. I see other great advices from other colleagues that covers quite well the "why" is expensive.
On my end I could tell you that there is no straight path anymore in terms of which career (if it is conventional or not very conventional, like new professions if in case you would like to jump based in your personality, skills, talents and overall and must important that you are motivated and driven for what you are doing as career). For some careers is MANDATORY that you carry on with a diploma but is not a golden rule carved in stone. After COVID and with the huge technological wave over the last years, youngs like you can achieve your goals no neccesarily based exclusively in colleague (beside prestige, the most important is the tools, the knowledge and the contacts that you are going to build in colleague meanwhile you find your true passion, your true profession and that takes time and a lot or try and error).
So hope these words could help you to release some pressure or stress away from your shoulders :)
Cheers!
L
I could share you some advice if you allow me but from another perspective due that I didn't had to deal with loans or interest in United States. I see other great advices from other colleagues that covers quite well the "why" is expensive.
On my end I could tell you that there is no straight path anymore in terms of which career (if it is conventional or not very conventional, like new professions if in case you would like to jump based in your personality, skills, talents and overall and must important that you are motivated and driven for what you are doing as career). For some careers is MANDATORY that you carry on with a diploma but is not a golden rule carved in stone. After COVID and with the huge technological wave over the last years, youngs like you can achieve your goals no neccesarily based exclusively in colleague (beside prestige, the most important is the tools, the knowledge and the contacts that you are going to build in colleague meanwhile you find your true passion, your true profession and that takes time and a lot or try and error).
So hope these words could help you to release some pressure or stress away from your shoulders :)
Cheers!
L
Enise Agel
144
Answers
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello there,
If you know economics, you may guess why all fees are higher than used to be. If you do not know about tuition fees, you may need to find out how prices are up. I may say why fees are up in many ways, except politics - it can be boring!
It can be hyperinflation or only an inflation, or higher taxes in economics. In terms of locations wherever the school is, most colleges are expensive when they are nearby all houses. If you live in a city where is the most people work in or live in, you should know that there will be higher fees in most schools, and higher prices in stores. Yet if you live in countryside or a town far from the city, you should expect to be less expensive but it will cost you much. The more you save your budget, the more advantages will come to your life.
I hope I answered this question. If not, look at answers here.
Best Wishes
If you know economics, you may guess why all fees are higher than used to be. If you do not know about tuition fees, you may need to find out how prices are up. I may say why fees are up in many ways, except politics - it can be boring!
It can be hyperinflation or only an inflation, or higher taxes in economics. In terms of locations wherever the school is, most colleges are expensive when they are nearby all houses. If you live in a city where is the most people work in or live in, you should know that there will be higher fees in most schools, and higher prices in stores. Yet if you live in countryside or a town far from the city, you should expect to be less expensive but it will cost you much. The more you save your budget, the more advantages will come to your life.
I hope I answered this question. If not, look at answers here.
Best Wishes
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
College tuition costs can be quite high, and there are several factors that contribute to the expense of higher education:
1. **Operational Costs:** Colleges and universities have significant operational costs, including faculty salaries, administrative staff, maintenance of campus facilities, and technology infrastructure. These costs must be covered by tuition.
2. **Faculty Expertise:** Attracting and retaining qualified faculty members often requires competitive salaries and benefits. Institutions strive to hire educators with advanced degrees and research experience, which can be costly.
3. **Research and Facilities:** Many colleges engage in research activities that demand state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and resources. Maintaining and upgrading these facilities can be expensive.
4. **Financial Aid:** To make education accessible to a broader range of students, colleges allocate a portion of their budget to financial aid programs, scholarships, and grants. This cost is often indirectly passed on to other students through tuition.
5. **Administration:** Colleges require a substantial administrative staff to handle admissions, student services, financial aid, and compliance with various regulations. These administrative costs add to the overall expense.
6. **Technology and Resources:** Advancements in technology necessitate investments in digital infrastructure, online learning platforms, and access to research materials and databases, all of which come at a price.
7. **Endowments and Fundraising:** Some colleges rely on fundraising and endowment income to supplement their budgets. However, not all institutions have sizable endowments, and the income generated may not cover all costs.
8. **Government Funding:** Public universities often receive funding from state governments, but this support may not keep pace with the rising costs of education, leading to higher tuition for students.
9. **Competition:** The competitive nature of higher education can drive up costs. Institutions invest in amenities and services to attract students, which can result in higher fees.
10. **Regulations:** Compliance with various federal and state regulations can add administrative and operational expenses to colleges.
While the high cost of college can be challenging, it's important to remember that there are various options for managing expenses, including scholarships, grants, part-time work, community college for lower-division coursework, and online education. Additionally, advocating for more affordable higher education and exploring financial aid opportunities can help ease the financial burden of college. Ultimately, understanding the factors contributing to the cost of education can empower students and their families to make informed decisions about their educational journey.
1. **Operational Costs:** Colleges and universities have significant operational costs, including faculty salaries, administrative staff, maintenance of campus facilities, and technology infrastructure. These costs must be covered by tuition.
2. **Faculty Expertise:** Attracting and retaining qualified faculty members often requires competitive salaries and benefits. Institutions strive to hire educators with advanced degrees and research experience, which can be costly.
3. **Research and Facilities:** Many colleges engage in research activities that demand state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and resources. Maintaining and upgrading these facilities can be expensive.
4. **Financial Aid:** To make education accessible to a broader range of students, colleges allocate a portion of their budget to financial aid programs, scholarships, and grants. This cost is often indirectly passed on to other students through tuition.
5. **Administration:** Colleges require a substantial administrative staff to handle admissions, student services, financial aid, and compliance with various regulations. These administrative costs add to the overall expense.
6. **Technology and Resources:** Advancements in technology necessitate investments in digital infrastructure, online learning platforms, and access to research materials and databases, all of which come at a price.
7. **Endowments and Fundraising:** Some colleges rely on fundraising and endowment income to supplement their budgets. However, not all institutions have sizable endowments, and the income generated may not cover all costs.
8. **Government Funding:** Public universities often receive funding from state governments, but this support may not keep pace with the rising costs of education, leading to higher tuition for students.
9. **Competition:** The competitive nature of higher education can drive up costs. Institutions invest in amenities and services to attract students, which can result in higher fees.
10. **Regulations:** Compliance with various federal and state regulations can add administrative and operational expenses to colleges.
While the high cost of college can be challenging, it's important to remember that there are various options for managing expenses, including scholarships, grants, part-time work, community college for lower-division coursework, and online education. Additionally, advocating for more affordable higher education and exploring financial aid opportunities can help ease the financial burden of college. Ultimately, understanding the factors contributing to the cost of education can empower students and their families to make informed decisions about their educational journey.
Mike Hayes
Singe
6
Answers
The Villages, Florida
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Andreya,
That question is one all of us have asked. College tuition has gone through the roof. But, if you know the career path or types of classes you would like to take to meet your goal, I suggest you do your homework and look for a smaller university that will fulfill your career path. The big schools have made it impossible for kids to attend, too expensive, and too much debt.
I first started at a major university and found it to be way too expensive. I then found a smaller college that actually more adequately met my needs, I paid much less in tuition/books/housing and actually got a more defined education. In checking out this college, I found not only the courses I needed but found they did an excellent job in helping students find mentorships and later jobs.
The smaller college did not have a major football team, or other athletic programs to support. And, all the professors who taught the various courses actually worked in those fields....teaching everyday experiences by example. Check around and I hope you find and educational program that fits your needs and at lesser costs.
That question is one all of us have asked. College tuition has gone through the roof. But, if you know the career path or types of classes you would like to take to meet your goal, I suggest you do your homework and look for a smaller university that will fulfill your career path. The big schools have made it impossible for kids to attend, too expensive, and too much debt.
I first started at a major university and found it to be way too expensive. I then found a smaller college that actually more adequately met my needs, I paid much less in tuition/books/housing and actually got a more defined education. In checking out this college, I found not only the courses I needed but found they did an excellent job in helping students find mentorships and later jobs.
The smaller college did not have a major football team, or other athletic programs to support. And, all the professors who taught the various courses actually worked in those fields....teaching everyday experiences by example. Check around and I hope you find and educational program that fits your needs and at lesser costs.
Emma Verde
Physical Therapist
171
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Emma’s Answer
The cost of college is driven by several factors, including administrative and infrastructure expenses, faculty and staff compensation, investments in research and academic programs, compliance with regulations, technology upkeep, and the need to provide student services and amenities. Financial aid and scholarships are also offered, but these costs persist due to inflation, market demand, and, in the case of public institutions, potential budget cuts from state governments. The expense of higher education varies among institutions, and while the cost is a concern, it's important to explore options like financial aid, scholarships, and community colleges to manage the financial burden for students and their families. Addressing the issue of college affordability involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including government entities, educational institutions, and students.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Andreya,
Once upon a time, about half a century ago, Australian colleges and universities offered free tertiary education. You might wonder why that's not the case anymore.
Well, the trade unions in Australia played a key role in increasing worker's wages. This wasn't a one-time thing, but a continuous effort to improve their economic status. Naturally, these wage hikes meant employers had to shell out more for salaries.
Now, consider those who didn't receive these wage increases. They'd find themselves at a perceived disadvantage when it comes to purchasing power.
When they notice this, they're spurred on to boost their income, either to keep up with their peers or to avoid falling into debt. So, they too start seeking wage hikes. This ripple effect spreads throughout the economy, often stoked by the desire for more money.
In an ideal economic scenario, we could maintain a steady state of zero inflation. But let's be honest, would people be content with that? It's like having sausages for dinner every single night - it would get monotonous pretty quickly, wouldn't it?
That's my perspective on this issue. I hope it provides some clarity.
Best,
Jim
Once upon a time, about half a century ago, Australian colleges and universities offered free tertiary education. You might wonder why that's not the case anymore.
Well, the trade unions in Australia played a key role in increasing worker's wages. This wasn't a one-time thing, but a continuous effort to improve their economic status. Naturally, these wage hikes meant employers had to shell out more for salaries.
Now, consider those who didn't receive these wage increases. They'd find themselves at a perceived disadvantage when it comes to purchasing power.
When they notice this, they're spurred on to boost their income, either to keep up with their peers or to avoid falling into debt. So, they too start seeking wage hikes. This ripple effect spreads throughout the economy, often stoked by the desire for more money.
In an ideal economic scenario, we could maintain a steady state of zero inflation. But let's be honest, would people be content with that? It's like having sausages for dinner every single night - it would get monotonous pretty quickly, wouldn't it?
That's my perspective on this issue. I hope it provides some clarity.
Best,
Jim
MaryHelen Durif
Human Resources Compensation
2
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
MaryHelen’s Answer
Navigating through the expenses of college can be challenging, but don't worry, there are several ways to ease the financial burden. Pell Grants and other similar grants are fantastic options that you should definitely explore and apply for. They can provide a significant boost to your funding. Another smart strategy is to start your journey at a 2-year community college, earn an associate's degree, and then move on to a 4-year college. This approach can make the costs much more manageable. I've walked this path and so has my daughter who recently graduated from the University of Colorado. So, you see, it's entirely possible and within your reach!
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