If the bachelors degree is the new high school diploma?

[dfrecore]

No, the BA/BS is not the new high school diploma, as much as the education industrial complex might want you to think it is (and therefore a must have for everyone).

Now, for those kids who want to get a degree right after high school (I have 2 kids, 1 who wants a BA, one who does not), it MAY be an option. But from what I've seen as I look at transcripts, most people, especially the ones going in at 18, either: 1) have no clue what they want to do (changing majors multiple times); 2) don't have what it takes to take college-level courses (low grades), 3) don't have the motivation (probably because of #1), 4) move at least once leaving behind an unfinished degree, or 5) any/all of the above. There is just so much going on when you're 18, it's hard to finish a degree.

Now, for those going back as adults, they may be more motivated, and they have a few years in the workforce and are able to figure out what degree they actually want/need. At that point, they may have a lot of credit under their belts and can transfer them somewhere and finish their degrees fairly easily.

But in general, it depends on where you live and what industry you're in as to whether you need a degree at all. Most I think find that it isn't needed, and never finish.