Reports Show College Costs Up, But Graduates Earn Higher Salaries

An October 18, 2005 article from CNN/Money discusses how two recent reports from The College Board show college costs are on the increase, but individuals with a college degree earn more money throughout their lifetime.

"Trends in College Pricing 2005" reflects that, even though overall college costs continue to rise, the rate of tuition increases at four-year public universities has slowed from 10.5% last year to 7.1% this year. When room and board costs are also factored in, the national average for one year's costs is $29,026 at private colleges and $12,127 at four-year public universities.

"Education Pays 2005" shows that, even though pursuing higher education is a considerable investment, obtaining a college degree helps to increase an individual's future earnings potential. Based on study findings, the report suggests that a college graduate will earn an average of 73% more than a high school graduate over the course of a 40-year career.

The article is available at the CNN/Money Web site.