STATE NEWS
University System of Georgia (USG) graduates from the Class of 2021 will earn more than $1 million more during their lifetimes than they would have without earning a bachelor’s degree, according to a new study.
The study, conducted by Jeff Humphreys, director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, revealed the breakdown of how much each level of higher education can add to a USG graduate’s total earnings over their lives.
“The difference higher education makes on a person’s life is dramatic,” said system Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Whether you are a high school graduate trying to decide between going to college or entering the workforce, or you are a mid-career adult wanting to improve your earning potential by completing your degree or adding to your education, this study clearly demonstrates a college degree in Georgia is a worthwhile investment.”
The report showed that earnings increase substantially with each step up the ladder of post-secondary education. On average, the study found each credential generates additional earnings over a person’s lifetime by: • $238,455 for a certificate.
• $377,000 for an associate degree.
• $1,152,500 for a bachelor’s degree.
• 1,399,500 for a master’s degree.
• $2,037,500 for a doctorate.
