Introduction
American researchers claim that the development of higher education in the USA was initiated in 1636 with the opening of Harvard College of Liberal Arts. The level of higher education in the United States is usually influenced by many factors, and researchers often study this phenomenon through sociological research and data analysis. Economic status, educational funds, and geographical factors can be among the most important factors and variables that may explain why some people earn a bachelor’s degree or graduate degree while others do not.
Reasons Behind Pursuing Higher Education
One of the strongest factors is family income and financial support. People with higher incomes are more likely to be able to pay for higher education and training. According to Browning et al. (2021), “Colleges in the United States cost more than higher education institutions nearly anywhere else in the world; therefore, financial concerns may be particularly apparent in the United States.”
The level of education of parents can influence the decision to obtain higher education. Children of more educated parents are more likely to have a positive attitude towards learning and obtaining a degree. A person’s place of residence can also become a factor of influence. Colleges and universities are not available in all regions of the United States, and tuition may vary.
The decision to pursue higher education can be influenced by ethnicity and culture. Some groups may have a more traditional relationship with higher education. According to Wu et al. (2020), “children from high-income families are more likely to achieve a higher academic performance than children from economically disadvantaged families.” (p. 248). The possibility of receiving scholarships, grants, and financial aid can greatly simplify access to higher education. Young people who already have children or family commitments may have limited time and resources available for studying.
Conclusion
In general, higher education can be seen as a means to enhance social status, which in turn influences people’s decisions. The social context, political situation, and cultural traditions can also be reasons to obtain higher education. The financial and economic aspects of the decisions are also crucial.
References
Browning, M. H. E. M., Larson, L. R., Sharaievska, I., Rigolon, A., McAnirlin, O., Mullenbach, L., Cloutier, S., Vu, T. M., Thomsen, J., Reigner, N., Metcalf, E. C., D’Antonio, A., Helbich, M., Bratman, G. N., & Olvera Alvarez, H. (2021). Psychological impacts from COVID-19 among university students: Risk factors across seven states in the United States. PLOS ONE, 16(1).
Wu, Sh., Wu, Q., Wei, X., Bledsoe, S. E. & Ansong, D. (2020). Exploring Factors for Achieving Successful Educational Attainment among Chinese Doctoral Students in the United States. Journal of International Students, (10)2, 244-264.