College education vs. market investments: Which offers greater returns?

The debate over whether to invest in a college education or direct funds into financial markets is increasingly relevant as tuition costs soar and the job market evolves. This article explores the return on investment (ROI) of a college degree compared to other investment opportunities, offering insights into the financial and intangible benefits of higher education.

Return on investment is a critical metric used to evaluate the financial benefits of a college degree. It is calculated by dividing the net return (or benefit) by the cost of the investment. This percentage or ratio helps compare the effectiveness of a college education against other investment options.

The Financial Case for College

Despite rising tuition costs, the financial benefits of a college degree often outweigh the initial expenses. According to a study by Payscale, certain colleges and majors offer significant ROIs. For instance, the United States Merchant Marine Academy boasts a 20-year ROI of over 23%, with a total four-year cost of $20,000. Similarly, institutions like Harvey Mudd College and MIT report high income returns, with graduates earning approximately $1.38 million and $1.34 million, respectively, over 20 years.

However, the value of a degree varies by major. Fields such as computer science, engineering, and business tend to yield higher starting salaries and lifetime earnings. For example, computer science graduates earn an average starting salary of $75,900, while engineering graduates start at $73,922. These figures highlight the importance of choosing a major aligned with market demand.

Comparing College to Market Investments

When considering alternatives to college, market investments like stocks and bonds present viable options. Historically, the S&P 500 has returned 325% over 20 years, outperforming the average college degree but not the top-tier degrees from leading schools. Investments in individual stocks, such as Apple or Microsoft, have yielded astronomical returns—30,000% and 820%, respectively, over the same period.

Yet, a college degree offers more than financial returns. It provides job security, networking opportunities, and personal growth, which are difficult to quantify but invaluable in career advancement. Having a college degree does, in fact, raise one's income and decrease the likelihood of being unemployed, both of which are important considerations to take into account when comparing a college degree to an investment in the market.

The Intangible Benefits of Higher Education

Beyond financial metrics, college education offers intangible benefits that contribute to personal and professional development. These include:

Networking Opportunities: College provides a platform to build relationships with peers, professors, and industry professionals, which can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.

Skill Development: Students acquire critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential in any career.

Personal Growth: College fosters independence, self-discipline, and resilience, preparing individuals for the challenges of the workforce.

Personal ROI: A Case Study

The ROI of a college degree is not uniform; it varies based on individual circumstances. For example, one graduate from CU pursued an MBA from the University of Denver, which cost 33% more than the in-state tuition at CU. Despite the higher cost, the graduate was debt-free within two years and experienced significant income growth attributed to the MBA. This individual's ROI was 889%, showcasing the potential financial benefits of further education.

Deciding between college and investing requires careful consideration of personal goals, financial circumstances, and career aspirations. While a college degree offers substantial financial and intangible benefits, the choice of institution and major significantly impacts ROI. As the job market continues to evolve, prospective students must weigh the costs and benefits of higher education against alternative investment opportunities.