There is a strong body of evidence to suggest that a college education maximizes our chances of going on to a well-paid, successful career. For this reason, many parents – and schools – push kids towards college, in the expectation that they will achieve a degree and end up in a good job. However, whilst many kids do well at college and do end up in a good career, some drop out. So how do you know if college is right for your son or daughter? It’s a parenting decision every mom and dad will have to make sooner or later.

A College Degree is Essential for Some Careers

There are some career paths where without a college degree a high-paid job is difficult to find. If your son or daughter is interested in a career that requires math, technology, science or engineering, he or she is advised to pursue a college education. The same applies to jobs where advanced qualifications are needed. For example, if your child wants to be a teacher, but has ambitions of progressing up the career ladder, a higher education leadership degree is well worth having.

But Not Others

There are plenty of careers where a degree won’t make much difference. Plumbers, electricians, construction workers, HVAC engineers, stonemasons and music teachers are always in demand, yet none of these professions requires a college degree.

College is not the right choice for some kids. For them, a college degree is not going to help them pursue the career they want. You have to look at your child’s skills and aspirations before you encourage them to apply for college. Some kids find school extraordinarily difficult because they don’t enjoy academic learning. For these kids, a practical-based learning environment is a better choice and more suitable for their abilities.

Financial Considerations

Don’t ignore the issue of money. A college education is beyond the reach of many families, as who wants their child to graduate from college with $60k worth of debt? Unless your son or daughter is determined to pursue a career that requires a college degree – and has the ability to do so – there is no merit in encouraging them to go to college.

One way to reduce the cost of a college education is to study for an online degree instead. Enrolling for an online EDD degree means your child can live at home while they study and enjoy lower tuition fees as they get theirOnline RN-BSN Degree.

Are there Jobs in their Chosen Field?

There is little point in working for four years to obtain a college degree if there are no jobs at the end. Some colleges are guilty of inflating employment prospects to boost their enrolment figures. Always check advertised figures before your child applies, as it is a lot of money to spend on a degree that doesn’t lead to a job.

Some kids are just not mature enough to cope with life away from home. Never push your child to go to college if he or she is not emotionally ready for the break. College can always wait a few years.