April Thoughts on Higher Ed

I was recently reading an article reporting the results of a survey of 70,000 small to medium-sized businesses across the nation. The survey concerned the need for workers to have a college degree. The sad results noted 67% did not see value in a college education. The reasons given by the employers were highlighted by a belief our colleges are not turning out graduates with relevant skills needed by businesses today.

As a member of the Ponca City University Center Board of Directors, I attend annual training by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. The main theme the last couple of years is “relevance.” Naturally, an institution cannot dictate which courses a student takes (unless that student is working towards a specific degree). And the temptation to take “fun” courses often aligns with enhancing the social college experience rather than a degree goal. But I advocate a student should decide in their freshman year which direction they intend to go with their education, and essentially how it will support their career direction upon graduation.

By the time a decision is made to go to college, a student should have spent at least a small amount of time evaluating the job market and what is needed, and subsequently finding a path forward that agrees with personal interests and capabilities. As an engineer, I KNOW the extreme math needed for my degree is not everyone’s “cup of tea.” But there is a massive shortage of engineers nationwide which means my degree guarantees employability. Other factors supporting my decision included 47% of college degreed workers have employer-supported health plans, and 72% have a retirement plan. 

Another great shortage is with Registered Nurses, especially those with a Bachelor’s Degree (BSN). But as my wife can attest, I hate needles and anything bloody, so engineering was a safer match to my personality. There are other degrees in need as well.

There is a perception pushing the idea that a degree from a “prestigious university” holds greater weight. But according to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, almost two-thirds of millionaires graduated from public universities or state schools. So degrees matter, but they do not have to be “the high priced spread.” Content matters more.

Oklahoma needs college graduates, with “relevant” degrees. There are so many options for funding and scholarships to help. Oklahoma has programs including “Finish Line” to give credit for experience, to allow testing out of a class when you have experience in that subject. State aid is just as present as federal aid. At the University Center of Ponca City, they can help you with the steps in degree selection, course enrollment, and applications for funding. And you can take the classes in town, at your pace.

The Roman Statesman and Philosopher Marcus Porcius Cato, known for his honesty, stated “Bitter are the roots of study, but how sweet their fruit.” In today’s language, the “pain and frustration” of earning a degree is only temporary. The benefits are fantastic. Think about it.