Is College Worth It? Measuring the Returns to Higher Education
May 14, 2024
auto_awesome
Economist Jack Mountjoy from the University of Chicago discusses the returns of higher education. He examines the impact of college choices on student trajectories, cost-benefit analysis of enrolling academically marginal students, and the value of college education for these students, highlighting earnings, dropout rates, and societal benefits.
Admitting academically marginal students to public universities leads to higher earnings and educational attainment.
Public perception of college value has shifted due to concerns about affordability and student loan debt.
Deep dives
College Attendance and Student Outcomes
Research suggests that even academically marginal students who barely get admitted to public universities experience positive outcomes. Compared to similar students who barely miss the cutoff, those admitted are more likely to earn a bachelor's degree, complete additional education, and earn 5% to 10% more income 10 to 15 years later.
Changing Perceptions of College Worth
Public perception regarding the value of a college education has shifted over time. Recent surveys show increased skepticism about the benefits of college due to factors such as rising student loan debt and concerns about college affordability. This shift highlights a growing questioning of whether the returns from college education justify the costs incurred.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of College Attendance
Analyzing the costs and benefits of enrolling academically marginal students at public universities reveals varied perspectives. From the student's view, the investment pays off as they receive significant earnings gains and minimal additional tuition costs. Society benefits, with a 10 to 12% return on investment, while taxpayers see returns over time, with a break-even point in approximately 25 years. These findings suggest that admitting such students could be a beneficial investment for both individuals and society.
College graduates earn more than those who didn’t attend college. Does this mean higher education boosts your income? Or, does college simply attract students who would’ve earned more anyway? Jack Mountjoy, an economist at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, discusses his research on the returns to higher education.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode