Blog: Is College Worth It? Let’s Look at the Numbers
“Is college worth it?”
It’s one of the most common—and most important—questions students and parents ask.
With rising tuition costs, evolving workforce needs, and more educational pathways available than ever before, it’s reasonable to wonder whether earning a college credential is still a worthwhile investment.
The answer isn’t the same for everyone.
However, when we look at the data, one thing becomes clear: education beyond high school continues to create opportunities for higher earnings, lower unemployment, and greater career flexibility. The key is choosing the educational pathway that aligns with your goals—and that’s where community colleges play an increasingly important role.
At Iowa Lakes Community College, we believe students deserve more than opinions about higher education. They deserve facts that help them make informed decisions about their future.
The Numbers Tell an Important Story
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), educational attainment continues to have a direct relationship with both earnings and employment.
While no degree guarantees success, the data consistently shows that individuals with education beyond high school earn more over their careers and experience lower unemployment rates than those with only a high school diploma.
Education Pays
| Education Level | Median Weekly Earnings* | Typical Annual Earnings* | Unemployment Rate* |
| High School Diploma | $953 | $49,556 | 4.2% |
| Associate Degree | $1,170 | $60,840 | 2.7% |
| Bachelor’s Degree | $1,543 | $80,236 | 2.2% |
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Education Pays (latest available data). Earnings and unemployment rates represent national averages and vary by occupation, experience, and geographic location.
The takeaway is simple: education is an investment that continues to provide value over a lifetime. An associate degree can significantly increase earning potential while reducing unemployment risk, making it an attractive option for students seeking a strong return on their educational investment.
College Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
One of the biggest misconceptions about higher education is that every student should follow the same path.
Today’s students have more choices than ever before.
Some pursue a two-year degree and begin working immediately. Others complete their first two years at a community college before transferring to earn a bachelor’s degree. Some earn a short-term certificate that prepares them for a high-demand career in less than two years.
Success isn’t determined by where students begin.
It’s determined by choosing the pathway that best aligns with their goals, interests, and financial situation.
The ROI Equation
When families ask, “Is college worth it?”, the conversation often focuses on tuition.
But tuition is only one part of the equation.
A better question is:
What value will this education provide over the course of a career?
The return on investment includes much more than a starting salary. It also includes:
- Lower overall education costs.
- Reduced student loan debt.
- Higher lifetime earning potential.
- Greater employment stability.
- Career advancement opportunities.
- The flexibility to continue learning as careers evolve.
For many Iowa students, beginning at a community college is one of the smartest financial decisions they can make. Students complete high-quality coursework at a lower cost while keeping future options open through career-ready programs and university transfer pathways.
Iowa’s Workforce Needs Continue to Grow
Across Iowa, employers continue to seek skilled professionals in healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, information technology, business, education, and the skilled trades.
Community colleges play an essential role in preparing students for these careers by working closely with employers to ensure programs reflect today’s workforce needs.
The Iowa Department of Education’s 2025 Annual Condition of Iowa’s Community Colleges highlights the impact of this approach:
- 91% of Iowa community college graduates were employed within one year of completing their program.
- 83% remained in Iowa after graduation, strengthening local communities and regional employers.
- More than 76% of all certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees awarded statewide were in career and technical education fields aligned with Iowa’s workforce needs.
- Industry-recognized credential completions increased by more than 26%, demonstrating growing demand for career-focused education.
These outcomes reinforce the important role community colleges play in preparing students for meaningful careers while supporting Iowa’s economy.
By the Numbers
- Associate degree holders earn approximately 23% more annually than individuals whose highest level of education is a high school diploma.
- Iowa community college graduates have a 91% employment rate within one year of graduation.
- 83% stay in Iowa, helping strengthen local businesses and communities.
- Nearly 58,000 Iowa high school students participate in concurrent enrollment each year, beginning their college journey before graduating from high school.
Why Iowa Lakes Is a Smart Investment
At Iowa Lakes Community College, we believe students shouldn’t have to choose between affordability and quality.
Our more than 60 career and transfer programs and options provide flexible pathways for students pursuing careers in healthcare, agriculture, business, education, public safety, information technology, manufacturing, transportation, aviation, the skilled trades, and many other fields.
Students benefit from:
- Affordable tuition that helps reduce the overall cost of higher education.
- Small class sizes and personalized instruction.
- Faculty with real-world industry experience.
- Hands-on learning in modern labs, shops, and technical training environments.
- Strong partnerships with employers throughout northwest Iowa.
- Internship, clinical, apprenticeship, and work-based learning opportunities.
- Seamless transfer pathways to colleges and universities across Iowa and beyond.
Whether students plan to enter the workforce after earning a credential, complete an associate degree, or transfer to a four-year university, Iowa Lakes provides the education, support, and experiences needed to succeed.
Looking Beyond the Price Tag
Higher education isn’t simply about earning a degree.
It’s about developing the knowledge, technical skills, professional relationships, and confidence needed to build a successful future.
For many students, the best investment isn’t the most expensive option—it’s the one that provides the greatest value.
That’s why thousands of Iowa students begin their journey at a community college each year. They receive a quality education, save money, gain hands-on experience, and keep their options open for whatever comes next.
Making the Investment in Your Future
There is no single path to success.
But the data consistently shows that education beyond high school opens doors to greater opportunity.
At Iowa Lakes Community College, we’re committed to helping students make informed decisions by providing affordable, high-quality education that connects directly to careers, workforce needs, and university transfer opportunities.
Whether you’re preparing for your first career, planning to transfer, or simply exploring your options, Iowa Lakes can help you make an investment that pays dividends for years to come.
Ready to explore your future? Discover Iowa Lakes’ more than 60 career and transfer programs and options, schedule a campus visit, or connect with our Admissions team to learn how your educational investment can lead to lifelong opportunity. Plus, explore financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help make your Iowa Lakes education even more affordable.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Education Pays (latest available data on earnings and unemployment by educational attainment).
- Iowa Department of Education. 2025 Annual Condition of Iowa’s Community Colleges.
- Iowa Department of Education. Career Connected Learning Framework.