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There are so many things for you to consider as you look to pursue higher education. The cost, of course, is a big concern. As is the return on investment of your degree – in other words, will your degree put you in position for a viable and worthwhile career?

But perhaps one of the most important factors to consider is whether the school is accredited.

Part of our mission here at Compass Career College is to help both traditional and non-traditional students create viable and rewarding careers in professions such as Salon and Spa Services, Allied Health, Practical Nursing, and Welding.

For entry to each of our programs, potential students must have either a valid high school diploma or its equivalent. Unfortunately, over the past three years, it has come to our attention that some hopeful students, through no fault of their own, have been awarded invalid high school diplomas.

But how is this possible?

For decades, Americans have equated a 4-year degree as the gateway to the American dream, and for good reason.

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, a bachelor’s degree accounts for an average of $16,900 in additional income, per year, compared to a high school diploma ($30,000 versus $46,900).

When you factor in that difference over an average 30-year career, you’re talking about a $500,000 difference.

But these numbers don’t really tell the whole picture. For starters, not all degrees promise the same increased salary expectations. Just ask former President Barack Obama, who was quoted in 2014 as saying:

“[A] lot of young people no longer see the trades and skilled manufacturing as a viable career. But I promise you, folks can make a lot more, potentially, with skilled manufacturing or the trades than they might with an art history degree.”

While many professions are still licking their wounds from the latest recession, the welding industry has enjoyed exciting growth. In fact, since the end of the recession in 2009, skilled labor has been one of the highest occupations in demand.

“For the life of me I don’t know why we stigmatize vocational education,” said Florida Senator Marco Rubio, during a 2015 Republican Presidential Debate. “Welders make more money than philosophers. We need more welders and less philosophers.”