Why a Degree Matters

The impact of an education goes so much further than just a potential career path. While discussions around the importance of a college education are often limited to potential earnings, job possibilities are only a small part of a very large puzzle.

The benefits of a degree can be especially powerful for women. Education helps women and girls become the best versions of themselves, giving them the tools they need to create positive futures for themselves, their communities and their families.

The Impact of a Degree

The positive effects of a college degree spreads far beyond the degree holder. Data show that degree holders have stronger relationships with family and friends, better quality of life and are more engaged community members.

The Impact on the Family

toddler smiling held standing by it's mother

The positive impact of a degree spreads throughout a family’s relationships, well-being and opportunities. Some of these important, yet little-known benefits include:

  • Children of mothers with degrees are more likely to be healthy and hit developmental benchmarks (1)
  • A mother’s degree has the biggest impact on children’s academic achievement. Children of degree holders are more likely to read on grade level and continue on to receive post-high school education (2)
  • On average, mothers with degrees spend more time with their children than those with a high school diploma (5)
#

The Impact on the Community

Two women in business suits talking to a man in an office with an American flag in the background

Along with building strong families, degree holders are more likely to be civically and community minded, helping to develop their communities in some of the following ways:

  • College degree holders are much more likely to volunteer than those without a degree, and volunteer for more hours (2)
  • College degree holders participate at higher rates in school, community, service, civic and religious organizations, and are more likely to hold leadership roles in those organizations (3)
  • More educated citizens are more likely to vote, with 74% of college graduates voting in the 2004 elections (2)
#

The Impact on the Person

A smiling woman

When a woman pursues and earns her degree there are numerous, measurable and immeasurable benefits. Some direct, quantifiable benefits include:

  • An average life expectancy that is seven years longer than those with a high school education (3)
  • College graduates are less likely to lose years of life due to unhealthy behaviors like smoking and excess drinking, and are more likely to participate in healthy behaviors like eating right and staying active (2)(3)
  • Overall, graduates are happier, more satisfied with their lives and find their lives more worthwhile (4)
#

What's Next?

UVU is known for its student success mission. The Women’s Success Center at UVU is part of student services with services specially designed for women on campus and available to all students on campus. The center provides mentoring, success coaching, leadership opportunities and scholarships specifically designed for women.

If you or someone you know is thinking about college but doesn’t know where to start, reach out to us! We are here to answer all of your questions and to help you find your success.

References

 
Headshot of Wilson the Wolverine

Questions? Ask Wilson