Would you get a degree for an extra $500 a week?

2014-09-03T14:10:18-04:00

Veterans with a bachelor's degree are much more likely to be employed than Veterans with a high school diploma. But did you know Veterans with bachelor's degrees earn an average of $500 more per week?

Could you have guessed which would be the highest paying fields of study?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 2:14 PM

2014-09-03T14:14:49-04:00

Great Topic and eye opening for those of us that do not have a Bachelor's degree yet. Thanks for posting!

Response by SGT William B. made Sep 3 at 2014 2:17 PM

2014-09-03T14:17:35-04:00

I'd throw anything IT-related in there as well. The pay bands probably have a higher variance than what you'd see in engineering fields, but it's a solid skillset that's in demand with virtually every major company out there, plus it's always growing. Computer Science is a pretty worthwhile major to go for.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Sep 3 at 2014 2:26 PM

2014-09-03T14:26:09-04:00

The value of education is often underestimated. While it is very true that there are many high paying jobs that do not require a degree (mostly in the skilled trades), for the most part, degrees will more than pay for themselves over the course of ones working life.
On reviewing your chart, I am somewhat surprised to see the percentage of female veterans is higher than male veterans in Government and Manufacturing. Not a bad thing, just not what I expected to see. Very interesting!

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Sep 3 at 2014 2:44 PM

2014-09-03T14:44:10-04:00

I just started my current class this week. Once complete, I'll have 5 more until I get my Bachelor's. It's funny to think that I took my first college class while assigned to my first duty station way back in 1992. It has taken a long time, but I know that when I get that diploma it will be well worth it.

Response by Jordan Gaudard made Sep 3 at 2014 4:15 PM

2014-09-03T16:15:20-04:00

I don't have personal experience in finding a job outside of the military, but if I had to add my opinion I would say a lot of it depends on who you know, not what you have to show for yourself. This may not be true in all career fields, but in the two that I have been a part of or having had knowledge of this has been true. I agree having a BA can't hurt, but I see a lot of military getting a degree from an online college that really is a check the block type of school.
For IT related jobs, I think it is more important to get certifications such as A+, Net+, Security+, CCNA, CEH, etc. Main reason I make that point is I have friends and family that are in the IT field and that is what they want to see. The degree will help you get paid more if they decide to have you for the job, but the Sec+ and CEH is what will get you the second interview. If you have no problem with where you will live the IT field probably pays more than most. The issue with that is the high cost of living around Maryland and other big cities where the IT jobs flourish.
At the end of the day, is it really about making more money or is it about doing what you enjoy? I am going out on a limb here and saying most people in the military didn't join because of the money, so getting a job outside of the military for money doesn't make a lot of sense to me.

My guess for highest paying, with a degree I would have to say something in the medical, either Pharmacist or Surgeon.
For the highest paid without a degree, I would say Air Traffic Controller.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2014 12:05 PM

2014-09-04T12:05:17-04:00

If I believe it would get me $500 absolutely, unfortunately I do not believe that at this time in my life..

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Sep 29 at 2014 9:11 PM

2014-09-29T21:11:19-04:00

CPT Laurie H. I can assure you of this: A degree matters. It may not give you an extra $500 a week, but what it will do is open doors. Once those doors are opened, who knows....

Example: 2 vets are applying with US Marshals Service. Both 29, both have 6 years Active Duty experience, both have clean records. Both got out and were police officers. One has a degree. That one will get interviewed faster, and when those "slots" fill, they won't open up again for a few years.

My point is this: When filling out a job application for "whatever", you are checking boxes. The degree, in some cases, is a required box. Can't fill it? "Love to hire you, come back when you can".

IF (can't say this enough) you are on Active Duty-GET YOUR DEGREE (from any accredited school). Your service counts. Your service and a DEGREE will get you hired when you get out.

End of rant. (by the way, I am still working on mine TSgt Joshua Copeland ) and have re-started the process thanks to a RP contact for a school that I had never even heard of. We will see how that works out!

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Sep 29 at 2014 10:30 PM

2014-09-29T22:30:02-04:00

I am actually already a Master's degreed Nurse...am considering a PhD after retirement. Time will tell....it will be based on long term employment and benefits/retirement package to tell me if it is worthwhile for ME or not.....

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 1:45 AM

2014-11-03T01:45:55-05:00

Heck, even an extra $100 a week is 5k a year and 50k over 10 years. That's a really nice car or 4 years of house payments...and a nice vacation.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 1:50 AM

2014-11-03T01:50:39-05:00

Plus a degree is something you take with you...forever, no one can take it away. Less than 25% of the population gets a first degree, and less than 2% gets a Masters', and less than .01% get a Doctorate....this guy is that .01%. Believe me, even with the school debt, it is worth it

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 3:10 AM

2014-11-03T03:10:09-05:00

CPT Laurie H..

Why a College Degree? [ Forbes 8/08/2012 ]

As of the end of 2011, high-school only workers were unemployed at a rate of 9.4% while those with a bachelor’s degree had an unemployment rate of 4.9% (4.1% as of July 2012).

Most interesting is the fact that the total cost of degree acquisition ($64,000) is repaid through the increased, salary ($1600 per month, or $19,200 per year) in less than four years. Not a bad ROI [Return On Investment], and with a 50% increase in job security to boot.

The difference between a degree holder’s earnings and those of a high school-only worker are sizeable over a lifetime. According to the U.S. Government Info Web site, “… a high school graduate can expect, on average, to earn $1.2 million; those with a bachelor’s degree $2.1 million; and people with a master’s degree $2.5 million.”

Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/johnebersole/2012/08/08/why-a-college-degree/

Why a College Degree?

A recent article in a national newspaper raised the question as to whether earning a bachelor’s degree, or even an associate’s degree, is really necessary for employment today. Several examples were given of individuals who had succeeded in securing jobs, with little more than a high school diploma and specialized [...]

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 4:50 AM

2014-11-03T04:50:20-05:00

When I got in the Army I already had my Bachelor's, but I had an NCO who was ETSing who tried to tell me that his 2 extra years of experience would get him job before my degree would get me one. It took us calling the agency that he was trying to work for in order for them to explain to him that a degree was preferred over not having one, regardless of TIS. Being in the Military for some employers is just icing on the proverbial cake.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 6:50 AM

2014-11-03T06:50:40-05:00

Every single degree, certification, and license counts; it shows you have range and an ability to learn, regardless of the situation. The easier your employer thinks you can pick up and excel at a job, the more likely they are to hire you.

THats one reason why any cert's I can get I try for when they come available. Even if I won't use it immediately... never know!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 8:50 AM

2014-11-03T08:50:00-05:00

I am back in school... yet again. And thanks to a few more years of experience (maturity) I will be sticking it out until I am complete. The extra $$$ per week will just be bonus when the time comes. I am doing this for me and for my kids. I want them to see both of their parents with a degree (currently only my wife has one) and use that for encouragement when they go off to college.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 9:43 AM

2014-11-03T09:43:59-05:00

I am one of the old school people who think you do NOT need a college education to be successful in life. Bear with me here:

I am an employer in some form of a supervisory state. I am looking to fullfill a mid level management position in charge of 20 people, and the various intricacies involved.

I get 2 applicants, one who started working when he was 16, and is now 22. Upon a review of his references, his resume, etc, he was an outstanding worker, solid work ethic, no discipline problems, showed up, did his job, and never complained. So here is a 6 year solid history, great references, and he scored well on the interview.

The other is a female applicant, 22 as well, but has never worked a day in her life, mommy and daddy have paid everything (by her own admission), and she has a four year degree in business management. She has a solid 3.8 GPA, incredibly smart, did her homework about the company, and for all intents and purposes smoked the interview. She also has three letters of recommendation from her professors who insist that she has a solid work ethic, dedicated individual, and can accomplish anything thrown at her. However, the resume is extremely light and there is no character references as far as what performance on an actual job is like. Work is one thing, school is another.

As qualified as the female applicant is, bottom line is I am going with my 16 year old wonder kid in this scenario. I know I will have little to no problems or directions I need to give the guy, and he s trainable. How can you train someone who already has a full cup (the degree?)

End of story: I do not have a degree but am very close to one. I am debating whether or not I need one however most major airlines want their pilots to have degrees. I am quite comfortable where I am financially, and if I stick with the regionals I will be finishing in the 150K plus range for the rest of my career. Really I think it should be a matter of choice. But I do not think a degree is worth it.

This is just my .02 cents.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 9:48 AM

2014-11-03T09:48:09-05:00

A degree, while it is a wonderful thing to have, does not always equate to employment. This is a sad, harsh truth, but a truth nevertheless. What more and more employers are looking for is job experience.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 3 at 2014 10:30 AM

2014-11-03T10:30:38-05:00

No. I did not get my degree because of the money...but I am more than willing to take it if someone is willing to pay it?

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Nov 3 at 2014 11:17 AM

2014-11-03T11:17:12-05:00

I was told as a shiny new PFC that a degree was virtually "required" if I ever wanted to be a career NCO. I don't know what the education benefits are now, but the Army was paying 80% to 100% of college tuition excluding elective lab fees for serving members, outside of and separate to the GI Bill. So if you had the time to take classes, you could take as many as able during your tour/s, and then use the GI Bill afterward. Combined with some of the credits given by the education program for military service, that's a pretty weighty benefit.

So honestly, I don't see a reason why younger troops shouldn't be leaving the service with at least an Associates degree in a four-year tour.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Nov 3 at 2014 12:28 PM

2014-11-03T12:28:58-05:00

KISS principle........ YES!

For those not knowing the KISS principle it can be as simple as "KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID" or in my preferred case "KEEP IT STUPID SIMPLE"

I constantly mentor and counsel on the subject of furthering one's civilian education while on active duty, not for promotion points, but for the AFTERLIFE of the military. So many do not see the overwhelming benefit to education.

Again, YES!

Response by SSgt Tim Ricci made Nov 3 at 2014 12:34 PM

2014-11-03T12:34:44-05:00

Yes, and it worked for me! When I first Joined the Army I was a High School Dropout that really Didn't care to pursue college, with my (Stupid) mindset i did not participate in the VEAP program. A year or so After ETS I went back into the service and the latest and greatest Montgomery GI Bill was availiable but not to me, because of the decision I made in 1979. Well anyways It took me near 16 years with Tuition assistance to recieve a bachelors degree and I made out great!

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Nov 3 at 2014 12:36 PM

2014-11-03T12:36:31-05:00

I have a BBA and am having a terrible time finding a job. I start my MBA program in January. Hopefully that will help.

The problems I see getting employment for myself right now is the economy and my age.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 12:47 PM

2014-11-03T12:47:57-05:00

Great topic. Im gonna go a little further with this one. I think that senior NCO's, E-7 and up, should have to get a degree. I would say that in order to achieve E7 a soldier should have an Associates or equivalent and to move on they should get a BS or BA. It incentivises soldiers to better themselves and sets them up for careers after the Army. It also demonstrates a discipline and drive that I think is important for senior NCO's. However, i do believe that the Army would need to change its pay scale to reflect the additional schooling. I believe the current pay scale is already unfair and uneven. Perhaps requiring a degree would help to support a change in that scale. Already, there are a number of Senior NCO's who have degrees and are in extremely important and influential positions, yet they are paid and can can retire at E9 with 30 yrs and still makes only slightly more in retirement than an O3 with 20. There is something inherently wrong with that with that.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 12:57 PM

2014-11-03T12:57:15-05:00

Is the cause the possession of the degree, or the possession of the traits that lead one to seek and successfully attain a degree?

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Nov 3 at 2014 2:39 PM

2014-11-03T14:39:54-05:00

Well I already have my masters, so....Pay up?

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Nov 3 at 2014 4:35 PM

2014-11-03T16:35:39-05:00

I have a BS and a M.Ed. Both courtesy of the Army and VA. I also worked while going to school so I didn't have any loans to worry about.

I have been told that my degrees got me jobs that non-degreed persons with more practical experience didn't get. I know that among my peers, those with degrees made more than those without. I didn't get mine until later in life (29 BS 31 M.Ed). I think the Army, life skills, and experience I had before going back to college (I flunked out at 18) were a great benefit. My Military experience matured me to the point that I was totally ready to go to college the 2nd time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 5:32 PM

2014-11-03T17:32:29-05:00

I figure I'll break even on the student loans with degrees in molecular biology and sociology. However, if I can get my post-grad in bio-engineering, I might have a little left over for a keg at my funeral. Maybe two.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 7:44 PM

2014-11-03T19:44:30-05:00

I've been kicking around the idea of getting a degree just to say I've gotten it, but I already make as much as my coworkers who've received their Masters.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 8:00 PM

2014-11-03T20:00:06-05:00

Does Technical Management have a chance in this advantage? I am in this program at Embry-Riddle.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Nov 3 at 2014 10:43 PM

2014-11-03T22:43:01-05:00

I hope to earn enough to pay off student loans and live better than paycheck to paycheck. I am not attending college to get rich. I have been working in nowhere jobs and a field I just don't care for anymore.

My motivation for college is making a difference and doing something that has meaning to me. I may not get rich writing, but I hope I can make a difference.

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Nov 3 at 2014 11:30 PM

2014-11-03T23:30:07-05:00

I am using my Voc Rehab benefit to get my BS Degree in Computer Science IT. I already have an Associates of Applied Science and over 15 years experience. It should all go nicely

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2014 12:37 PM

2014-11-04T12:37:49-05:00

Soldiers have the opportunities to use the Ed center to get a free bachelors degree, I don't understand why it is not taken more advantage of...

Response by SCPO Larry Knight Sr. made Nov 4 at 2014 6:14 PM

2014-11-04T18:14:49-05:00

I suppose if your an aspiring young individual trying to set the world on fire still, or trying to move up the corporate ladder still. Then my response would be 100% yes, because without it depending on the if it's a fortune 500 company you'll continue to push the broom. I have had a stellar career in the military, and after my retirement I wasn't looking to get rich but wanted to mentor those just beginning.
I have had both working for and with me, degreed and non-degreed and will say this the non-degreed excelled at a much more rapid pace then the other. I take this as those with a higher common sense factor seem to want to achieve more, too prove to those with their pig skin that they have just as high a level of intelligence.
In regards to a company looking for that special individual to fill that slot, you may want to take harder look at the individual who served in the armed forces regardless of (Degree or No Degree). The doors are always open to those with the right attitude and determination to show their worth.
I've been selected over others with the education because I'm results orientated driven, I believe that "You Lead Follow Or Get the Hell Out Of MY Way". I commend all of you on your input, and as I get ready to retire again, I'm here to mentor and give positive feedback to those willing to accept a no "BS" attitude. I will be working for some years to come but at my discretion , as to what industry. Probably more on the lines of private sector consulting in the welding NDT areas of responsibility, to ensure 0-defects in all areas of construction related industries.

again gentlemen and Ladies have a great day
Larry

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Nov 5 at 2014 12:48 AM

2014-11-05T00:48:16-05:00

Hell, I got a graduate degree for a 66% cut in pay.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2014 10:13 AM

2014-11-05T10:13:06-05:00

Yes, I would get a degree for an additional $500 per week. Over 30 years, that is an additional $800k in your pay. Every bit counts. Particularly if some/all of your degree is payed for.

I don't put much "stock" into which degrees pay the most, as I think it really depends on your specialty and where you end up, at least at the individual level. I know people 10 years into their careers who barely scrape past $50k with a Masters. And others who are near or over $100k without a degree at all.

In my opinion, you will get paid for the job you do, the revenue you produce, the value that you add, and the expertise that you have...instead of the thing you went to school for, in many cases (doctors and lawyers sometimes scrape by, compared to the cost of their education).

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2014 5:11 PM

2014-11-06T17:11:59-05:00

I would like to see that on my LES statement, seeing that I graduated with my BA in 2012 and I'm graduating in Feb 2015 with my MBA. I would LOVE to see an extra increase in pay as a GS-05.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Nov 7 at 2014 12:14 AM

2014-11-07T00:14:21-05:00

All depends on the cost of the degree, and the total income, would be nice to get an extra 500 a week IF and only if the total cost of the degree is less than that 500 dollars a week. It may seem odd but there are people who go to a fancy school to study a field that at the top income level still won't pay off the cost of that degree. So you really have to consider where you get the degree and the cost vs the field of study and the total earnings potential.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2014 12:40 PM

2014-11-07T12:40:24-05:00

There's no question that taking your education seriously (as opposed to having it given to you in a "General Studies" degree) is the way to put more money in your pocket. I already have a BS, but I'm back in school at 59 years old, getting certifications in computer security.

To those who want something handed to them, I have to say, if you don't think your career is worth the effort, you have nothing to complain about. What you get out is generally worth more than the effort you put in. No effort, generally means no result. There are a lot of options. If you are doing it on the cheap, you can buy a book, study, and test out of a lot. It largely depends on two things - how well you did your research and how much effort you are willing to expend.

However there's also no question that just because you get a degree or a cert doesn't automatically mean you get the $500 increase. Again you have to do your research and pick something there is a shortage of. For example, a BS in Psychology is the BOTTOM of the scale in terms of salary, so if you chose that, well, at least it was your choice.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 9:58 PM

2014-11-25T21:58:46-05:00

A degree will also earn you, on average, $1 million more over your lifetime.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Nov 27 at 2014 7:36 AM

2014-11-27T07:36:01-05:00

Yeah, Petroleum Engineering might not be that great of a decision..... The U.S. is starting to move towards natural gas.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2014 10:37 AM

2014-11-28T10:37:29-05:00

Mark Twain said, "There are LIES, DAMN LIES, and STATISTICS." From this, you can quickly realize that the statistics might say that degree X is valuable, and yet you don't have any success with it. So is the fault the degree, or is there something else at work?

Factoid 1: 40% of the jobs available to new graduated did not exist when the person started college.

Factoid 2: The most important thing a BS or BA degree says about you is that you had the gumption to slog through 4 years of crap to get that sheepskin. As someone who has counselled soldiers and made employment recommendations, I cannot find something I am more interested in than demonstrated ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

Factoid 3: I cannot tell you how many young soldiers think that just because they passed 25B, 33W, or some other technical MOS school, means that civilian companies are dying to give them 6 figure salaries. Enlisted are the BLUE COLLAR workers in the military equivalent of the civilian workforce. You need a LOT more than your military school if you expect that salary.

Let me also say that we hear a lot about Equal Opportunity, and perhaps even about Equal Education. What I don't see is Equality of Effort. I see a lot of people who think that graduating is all that is needed, whether it's degrees, certifications, training schools, whatever. But the factor that I think means the most is the EFFORT you put into it.

This can be seen at the lowest of all professions (in terms of education) i.e. prostitution. Which one gets more money per trick, the one who wears trashy clothes and has the loud mouth, or the one who looks like your high school sweetheart?

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Nov 28 at 2014 12:30 PM

2014-11-28T12:30:43-05:00

Along with my graduate degree came a 50% income reduction in return. Time to change fields... again.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2014 1:56 PM

2014-11-29T13:56:21-05:00

I wonder if there's a comparable bump in pay for master's degrees. I came into the military with a bachelor's degree but anymore it seems like one needs to get a master's to set him or herself apart.

Response by PO1 Michael G. made Nov 30 at 2014 1:58 PM

2014-11-30T13:58:36-05:00

CPT Laurie H. Absolutely, ma'am! Part of the reason I enlisted is because my college money ran out and I didn't want to finance my degree with a boat load of debt.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2014 6:04 PM

2014-11-30T18:04:09-05:00

Here are some great charts done by the census bureau. One is the change in education status from 2003 compared to 2013. The other is the percentage of the population that have achieved different levels of education.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Dec 1 at 2014 1:34 PM

2014-12-01T13:34:26-05:00

1LT Laurie Deitemeyer I would eat a crap sandwich for an extra $500 a week, without any salt. That's $12k per year. Hell over the last 3 years I have had to take $15k in pay cuts. Laurie tell me where I go to get this kind of deal and I will give you $100 of that $500. ;-)

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Dec 1 at 2014 3:57 PM

2014-12-01T15:57:50-05:00

Apologies to all for my math mistake as pointed out by the quick witted PO1 Walter Duncan a 20 year 1st Class Petty Officer and Machinist Mate.

Thank you for doing so in such a kind way PO1 Walter Duncan.

Response by PO2 David Wagner made Dec 2 at 2014 10:24 AM

2014-12-02T10:24:23-05:00

Of course, but I am not sure that my three degrees (baccalaureate + two graduate degrees = $1,500 a week more income.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 17 at 2015 11:35 AM

2015-01-17T11:35:32-05:00

There is no denying that a college degree opens doors to opportunities. Advanced degrees open even more. However, they don't come with guarantees of anything. What we're discussing here is based on speculation and highly suspect numbers.

All claims about employment and unemployment coming out of the government are suspect. Politicians are manipulating the formulas by which these things are calculated. Incumbents use them to paint a rosy picture to remain incumbents and candidates paint dire pictures to replace incumbents. If, for example, we employ the formulas used as recently as during the Clinton Administration, we'd find that unemployment is more than double the rates being reported today.

Pursuing a college education is a highly individual decision that cannot be discovered at the end of a formula. If you have a burning desire to be a doctor or a nurse, a lawyer or a paralegal, you need a degree. Several in fact. Not so much if you want to engage in a trade. I suspect that the demand for skilled craftsmen and tradesmen will always out distance the market for professionals and many earn more than some professionals. Sure, there are lawyers who catch those ambulances they're chasing and earn vast fortunes. However, there are far more who are not as fleet afoot and end up clerking for the named partners. As for medicine, sadly government intrusion into that marketplace as well as lawyers helping raise malpractice premiums have left many doctors wondering if they'll ever earn enough to pay off their student loans. (You needn't worry about lawyers suffering a similar fate. Most politicians are lawyers.)

And, yes, bureaucracies love degrees. If you want to join those ranks, a degree may well be your ticket of admission. However, if We the People ever wise up to the fact that our federal bureaucracies are nothing but entitlement farms for the politically connected and are bleeding our nation dry, job security in those ranks will hopefully thin out (soon I hope).

Now, if you're still determined to pursue a degree, weigh carefully the cost/benefit ratio. Most college professors are ideological propagandists who are far more interested in indoctrination than education. Thus, you may exit their classrooms with a degree, but dumber than when you entered. And the degree will probably be stamped large and red with "IOU" in amounts that your $500 may barely cover the interest.

I don't envy you your decision. I'm in the waning years of my life. I earned a diploma and a law degree long ago in a place where all the professors were all practicing lawyers and judges and the cost was easily paid. (I had no student loan - in fact, I don't think they were an option) Although I never practiced law outside a courts martial (I was the antithesis of Perry Mason - lost every case) my degrees opened doors for me. However, once I got past the doors I developed skills so that people wanted to keep me inside.

I won't belabor you with my philosophy of education, but if you're interested in garnering some wisdom, read Louis L'Amour's The Education of a Wandering Man. He tells the story better than anyone else I've ever heard or read.

Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Jan 17 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-01-17T21:57:01-05:00

I retired in 2000 with a HS diploma. In my hometown, Nashville, I had very few connections other than family who had never attended college and had regular hourly wage jobs. So, my first job after retiring was as a warehouse manager for a mom-n-pop computer wholesale company making $11.00/hour. When I say, warehouse manager, I basically managed myself, shipped and received product, and maintained inventory.

Shortly thereafter, I received word from the VA that I was eligible to attend college under Vocational Rehab because I could no longer work in my MOS (metalworker 44B/44E) with my disabilities at substantial employment levels. I received an AA in Communication Technology (networking computers) and a BA in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. Both degrees were paid in full by the VA including books, lab fees, paper, pens, computer programs, scientific calculators, etc. During the degree programs, I worked for the State of Tennessee as an Unemployment Interviewer and Adjudicator, and then as a Training Coordinator. After getting the degree, I was hired by Social Security as a Senior Case Technician working disability claims. I started that job as a GS-5 and worked my way to a GS-8.

My wife was working for Trevecca Nazarene University and they offered a benefit of paying for a spouse to get either a Bachelor's or Master's. I received a Master's of Science in Management in 2011 and was promoted in Social Security as a Paralegal Analyst writing disability decisions for Administrative Law Judges. The position is a GS-9/11/12. Basically, my pay increased an average of $10,000 a year during the first three years as a Paralegal.

I must also add that Voc Rehab not only pays for the college education, but also pays the veteran to attend college. I was receiving around $900 a month (tax free) as a full time student.

Was it difficult to obtain the college degree's while working full time? YES!!!! Was it worth it? DEFINITELY!!!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2015 10:44 PM

2015-01-17T22:44:44-05:00

I just started my class for my most recent certificate. I will eventually get my Bachelor's. I am 120+ credit hours in, it has definitely been a long road. In the end it will be worth it.

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Jan 18 at 2015 10:54 AM

2015-01-18T10:54:41-05:00

I may choose that path, and I always encourage anyone to follow their course in life. I'm fortunate to have a DOD job that pays well, in addition to my retirement. If I choose to get a degree, it would be from wanting to vs. needing to. Like most Veterans, I never say never :)

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-01-23T15:09:23-05:00

I sure hope other veterans are enjoying the money, because I'm not seeing it and have a Masters, lol...

In all seriousness though, while I don't think college is for everyone, EVERYONE needs some sort of post-secondary credentialing to be competitive in today's job market. The days of coming into a job with a high school diploma or less, starting at the bottom and going on to run a company are gone.

I know a lot of folks, veteran and non who were in a similar situation (little to no education and in a leadership position) who had the bottom fall out when the economy tanked. Because they had no education, they had to take a CONSIDERABLE cut in pay with their new positions (for those that even found jobs, many did not).

Response by SSG(P) Matthew Bisbee made Jan 25 at 2015 4:52 PM

2015-01-25T16:52:08-05:00

It depends upon what the degree is in. Will you make enough to pay off student loans? Will there be positions available in that career field. I started taking classes while on active duty in 1986. I earned an associates degree in 1991 and a BS-Secondary Education degree in 1995. I trained to be a social studies teacher (a career field that has few openings). I am now going back for a diploma in a vocational field. I strongly believe education is important, but it is even more important to look at the career field's average pay, work conditions, projected available positions, and opportunities for advancement within that career.

I have seven children. Two are working on gaining their A&P aircraft maintenance degree, one is working on an automotive service technician/automotive engineering degree, one is working on a nursing degree, one is an boat motor apprentice in a marina, one is going to barber college, and one is disabled and working in a sheltered workshop. I encouraged each child to follow their interests, but to do so with an eye towards employment.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jun 25 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-06-25T16:45:32-04:00

I well remember my first class in statistics in college. The professor began with an anecdote about averages in which a man with one foot frozen in a block of ice and the other roasting in a furnace is, on the average, comfortable. Of course not.

In today's world, I would go with Twain's observation about "lies, damned lies, and statistics".

Statistics relating to employment and unemployment have been manipulated greatly in recent times to favor one political view or another. I have seen, for example, credible evidence that the current unemployment rate would well exceed 12% if we employed the same criteria used as recently as the Clinton Administration.

Thus, when someone begins explaining that veterans with bachelor's degrees earn an average of $500 more per week, please forgive me for doubting.

I have degrees, a college degree and a law degree. Although I never practiced law, they were useful in opening doors to opportunities. However, it was my skills that earned money. Thus, whenever teenagers beset me with their concerns about college attendance or which major should they pursue, I encouraged them to make their own decisions. However, I advised them concurrently to gain skills. You can always survive with a skill. A degree is often little more than a decoration on the wall. And, of course, certain professions, principally law and medicine, pay better than others and they require degrees. These and others of their kind create artifacts in such statistical analysis.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Jun 25 at 2015 5:17 PM

2015-06-25T17:17:52-04:00

I would if the pay back was probable. I have a BA. The cost of a MA is a lot. At 60, there is little expectation of a substantial return on the investment, so I have decided not to invest in a MA.

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Jul 2 at 2015 5:16 PM

2015-07-02T17:16:36-04:00

I have an advanced degree and now make less money than I did as a 20-something E-5. Talk about bad decisions...

Response by SGT Richard H. made Jul 2 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-07-02T17:20:08-04:00

With a daughter in college, I can tell you that $500 a week is pretty darn close to what a degree COSTS (at least if attending full time at Texas A&M). With that being said, yes, the fact that I'm paying for one obviously suggests that I recommend getting one if you can. One thing to add though: A degree doesn't amount to a hill of beans if you don't apply yourself. I pretty much guarantee that a degree would not change my income, but at the same time, there are a ton of jobs out there that I wouldn't qualify for without a degree.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Jul 2 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-07-02T17:51:56-04:00

Hell, I have a degree but can't find a job that caters to it or pays worth a damn. I might have to return to law enforcement.

Response by SFC William Farrell made Jul 4 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-07-04T23:04:56-04:00

Any education is not wasted, even if you are not making 500 more a week!

Response by SPC Makissa Lewis made Jul 5 at 2015 1:42 AM

2015-07-05T01:42:38-04:00

A degree never been about the money with me. Though, extra money is always welcome. A degree provides me with something priceless, an education.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Jul 5 at 2015 6:53 AM

2015-07-05T06:53:16-04:00

I like the Logistcs Field, Transportation Field.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2015 7:28 AM

2015-07-05T07:28:58-04:00

A degree is a ticket. Without it you don't get into the game where you can excel and be paid well.

As, stated before, you can succeed without one. But, in all probability you will fall short of what you would have if you had the degree. And very often the lack of the degree results in not even be allowed a chance.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jul 5 at 2015 12:01 PM

2015-07-05T12:01:32-04:00

What is important to caution folks on is some fields can not absorb all the graduates that are produced. It is not as simple as A+B=C. I would recommend to anyone pursuing a degree that they look not only at current demand but projected demand. I would also look at fields where there is overlap into other fields. I would also say that specialized fields without degrees are overlooked, like machining and welding.

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels made Jul 7 at 2015 9:48 PM

2015-07-07T21:48:59-04:00

This is very true. I have two degrees, Business Admin and Accounting. Before I finished my degrees, I found it very difficult to find a job. Once I got my degrees, I received more emails about wanting to meet, mostly from recruiters who work with companies to find people who are a good fit for the open positions. After doing some temporary jobs, I get phone calls and emails every other day. I am in another temp position but am in the final interview stage for a permanent position in Accounting. Pick a field that you are interested in and get a degree in it. Then find out if there are any certifications you can get by having that degree. Certifications make you more appealing to companies. Also work with recruiters. They can help you adjust your resume and make it look more appealing.

I have ten years experience in the Coast Guard, a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, and Business Administration with a specialization in Finance. I am a QuickBooks, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Enterprise Pro Advisor, and a Bill.com certified Expert. I am also starting to study for the CPA exam, which will make me more appealing to companies. These things along with only one year of real accounting experience makes me stand out from the, sometimes, hundreds of resumes, a hiring manager might see. It is all about making yourself stand out more than anyone else. Working with recruiting firms can also help you a lot. Because of one recruiting firm, I was able to get some exposure to SAP, another accounting program.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Aug 30 at 2015 9:29 AM

2015-08-30T09:29:45-04:00

YES

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Sep 10 at 2015 3:25 AM

2015-09-10T03:25:27-04:00

Yes I went back to college after dropping out to enlist in the Marine Corps. And I would do it again for $500.00. $500.00 could provide a potential increase to $5000.00 because of a college education.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 24 at 2015 11:01 PM

2015-09-24T23:01:24-04:00

a college education is important and sets you up to make more money in the future

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Sep 25 at 2015 9:08 AM

2015-09-25T09:08:40-04:00

I would get a bachelors degree to further my knowledge, however, getting more pay doesn't hurt.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Sep 28 at 2015 11:01 AM

2015-09-28T11:01:09-04:00

CPT Laurie H. Ma'am, I earned both a Bachelor and Master's degree while serving. I work for the USG post retirement (although vastly underpaid) and use my MA as a platform for me to teach at a local college in my field of study. I do not believe my degrees have obtained me any additional pay but may have been an edge in being employed (not convinced but willing to accept the possibility), but my degree does earn about $350 extra per week teaching, but as a secondary job.

The highest paying do not surprise me. Thank you for your post / question and allowing me the opportunity to respond.

Response by SFC James Barnes made Sep 29 at 2015 1:57 AM

2015-09-29T01:57:58-04:00

interesting since I was the only one without a degree at my secret service and border patrol interviews and testing. But hey working in the engineering department of a Major railroad will do.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 8:40 AM

2015-09-29T08:40:41-04:00

No.....I would not.

Unless the degree program was in something that I truly wanted to do. I know way to many people who hate their jobs but are stuck in them because of student loans and financial obligations.

Additionally in several cases the cost of a degree does not out weigh the potential financial gain vs the inherent workload. For example a Middle School teacher in North Carolina for which a bachelors in education is required has a starting pay is between $31K and $35K ....let's just call it $32.5K for argument...this means you make $625 a week (extrapolated for a year of course) or $15.63/hr pre tax. Were as a medical assistant in the same state with zero experience who has completed an 8 hour "certification" course makes $15/hr or $31,200 a year. In my opinion, and seeing what my wife, the teacher, has to do in her job I humbly submit that the long hours of grading papers at home/working on lesson plans, additional duties, lost weekends, and be subjected to unappreciative kids and even worse parents is not worth the extra $1300 a years (which is less than what her student loan payments are....so in reality the non-educated medical assistant has more initial disposable income than her.)

Anyway I guess what i'm saying is that a degree does not guarantee you anything make sure that if you are going to school its for something that you want and love to do....the cost differential is many jobs is not as great as people think.

Not even going to go into the whole let's raise national min wage thing....which in all reality will just continue to devalue the cost of education and the benefits of having a degree even more.

Anyway soapbox put away...peace, love, and democracy to all.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Oct 18 at 2015 10:26 PM

2015-10-18T22:26:03-04:00

I'm a freshmen at PSU now, finally doing something I always dreamed of doing since 2006. Patriotism is one thing, but when you don't have money for college ; the military starts looking pretty damn inviting. I don't care for those cookie-cutter classes though. Same ones everyone and their brother joins, too much competition among open positions. Choose something that will make you happy. Get as many degrees and certifications as you can, I'm a lifelong scholar.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2016 1:12 PM

2016-12-08T13:12:23-05:00

Without hesitation.

I know the question specifically says degree (4 year college inferred), but lets take off the academia blinders for just one minute.
Education and perseverance are the two most basic principles to success. It is very difficult to succeed without both. Apply that thought to anything...going on a mission? What do you do? You gather intel (educate) and you train (in order to persevere). Starting a new company? You gather intel (educate) and you get to decide which 80 hours you will work that week (persevere). I could go on and on with example after example.
The "degree" is the tool used by industry to see if you have the basic ability to learn and to persevere.
I am a huge proponent of the trades, and while you do not need a bachelors degree to become a welder or an HVAC technician, you will need certifications to be employable by companies (that are not personally or family owned). The reason those certifications are needed goes back my statement that the "degree" is a tool industry uses to judge your value to the company.
All of that explaining to simply say that the original question should state certifications, apprenticeships and degrees, because they are all used to show success.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Dec 11 at 2016 6:26 AM

2016-12-11T06:26:06-05:00

Yes

Response by SSgt Chuck “Gunz” Gundlach USMC Ret., MBA made Dec 16 at 2016 2:43 PM

2016-12-16T14:43:31-05:00

Degrees may not be worth an exact amount in all situations, but I have a buddy, who although he has more than enough experience to move from a superintendent position to the office manager position, they will not let him apply because he doesn't have a Bachelor's Degree. Knowing this guy, in this situation, he is more than qualified, but the lack of the degree is holding him back. Although he is already earning six figures, he would earn well more if he was promoted, and it could be another $26k ($500 a week), especially after annual bonuses and all, so it is a definitely a financial gain to have a degree.

Response by SSgt Chuck “Gunz” Gundlach USMC Ret., MBA made Dec 16 at 2016 2:46 PM

2016-12-16T14:46:57-05:00

I was two classes away from my MBA when I retired from the Marines, and it allowed me to compete against military officers who had 4-8 years active duty. I became even more qualified because of my 20 years in maintenance management, and allowed me to walk into a six figure job upon retirement as a maintenance supervisor.

Response by SGT Ryan Lawson made Jan 29 at 2018 5:24 PM

2018-01-29T17:24:51-05:00

Argosy University Twin Cities gives life experience credits, takes JSTs, accepts VA benefits, and gives 20% deal for active, reserve, or vets. Has accredited 100% online too! Associates-Doctoral.