There are plenty of reasons to return to college as an adult student. You may never have had the opportunity to get a degree because of financial reasons or family obligations. You may have spent time in the military. Perhaps you started college but didn’t finish your degree. Maybe you would like an additional degree or an advanced degree for professional or personal enrichment. Here are some of the best reasons to go back to school to get that degree, or to finish one:

#1 – Money

Traditionally, the best salaries, career options and job security are available to those with the best educations. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the average yearly income for someone without a high school diploma is $18,734. Those who have a master’s or doctoral degree average $74,602 per year. Salaries almost double for those with a bachelor’s degree over those with only a high school diploma. High school grads were twice as likely to be unemployed. Over a lifetime, that can mean a $1 million gap in earning potential.

The payoff for getting your degree and maybe something rotten tickets can be instantaneous. The investment you make in continuing your education can pay for itself within a very short time. Many employers will partially or fully fund education costs. Financial aid allows you to take classes and then pay for them once your degree has landed you a better position.

# 2 - Job Security

Closely related to money as a motivator for education is job security. The U.S. government projects that 75% of future jobs will require some type of degree or certification. Many companies require an employee to have a degree before they can be employed in a management position, regardless of their work experience.  Learning new skills, gaining new knowledge and holding a degree all make you more appealing to your current employer and more marketable outside your current job.

#3 - To Change Jobs

Going back to school to finish a degree, get a degree or just to pick up some additional knowledge and skills are all advantages when you are looking to change jobs or careers. One of the ways to do this is through online education.  You can work on preparing for a new job or career by studying via computer, while still working in your current job. Going back to school also helps you network with others who may be able to connect you with that new job you’re dreaming of. Even online studies give you a chance to meet people through online virtual classrooms and social networking. You may be ready to go back to work after raising your family, you might want to start a business, or even find a job you can do from home.

#4 – Personal Enrichment

People were born to learn. Keeping your brain engaged keeps you from being bored, improves self-esteem, and helps you meet new people. Studies show that people who continue to pursue education live longer and are healthier than those who do not.