Are College Tuitions too High? The skyrocketing cost of college tuition has sparked a heated debate. While some argue that the benefits of a college education justify the expense, college tuitions are excessive and unsustainable. Therefore, college tuitions are too high because tuition fees rise by 14%. It makes repayment of the loans difficult for some individuals, and college should be about education and not making a profit. According to a report by the College Board, tuition fees have increased by 14% in just one year, outpacing inflation and wage growth (Winter, 2003). This exponential rise in costs makes it difficult for middle-class families to afford, let alone those from lower-income backgrounds. Increasing tuition costs lead to a …show more content…
Free community college programs, like those implemented in Tennessee and Oregon, demonstrate viable alternatives (The New York Times, 2015). Some may argue the increased cost reflects the value of a college degree in today's job market, where advanced skills and knowledge are highly valued. They may claim the rising cost of tuition reflects the increasing demand for higher education, and students will take on debt because they expect a higher return on investment as a result of better job prospects and higher earning potential. They may argue that top-tier universities with high price tags offer unique networking opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and renowned professors justify the high cost. While the monetary benefits of a college degree are undeniable, and the value of a top-tier education may be substantial, college institutions should prioritize affordability and accessibility for all students, regardless of economic resources. Free community college programs, like those implemented in Tennessee and Oregon, demonstrate viable alternatives that can provide high-quality education without saddling students with debt. By following suit, others can ensure education empowers, rather than encumbers, the next generation, and talented students from low-income families are not priced