In recent years, the way we think about higher education has really changed. Nowadays, you can earn degrees through mobile apps. This raises interesting questions about education’s future.
Declining trust in traditional colleges is evident. A recent survey found that the number of Americans who see higher education as “very important” dropped from 70% in 2013 to only 35% today. Many believe that the education system isn’t working, with most feeling that the cost of college isn’t worth it anymore.
Experts have noted a significant shift. Many once-respected degrees seem less valuable today. High-profile leaders, like banking CEOs, are even saying that their MBAs were a waste of time. In some industries, employers don’t even require degrees anymore. This trend raises concerns for graduates facing a tough job market.
So, how do degree programs offered through apps change this landscape? For example, Cornerstone University in Michigan has launched fully mobile degree programs, allowing students to earn a Bachelor’s, Associate’s, or Master’s degree right from their smartphones. These programs let learners study at their own pace and could make education more accessible.
While they offer an affordable option—ranging from $2,400 to $3,750 per term—one has to question if they’re comparable to traditional degrees. They focus on providing lessons through short videos, podcasts, and more, but how does that match up to conventional learning?
Moreover, as traditional education faces skepticism, alternative models are emerging. For instance, the Khan TED Institute aims to prepare students for jobs in an AI-driven world by emphasizing human skills alongside technical know-how. This approach seeks to equip learners with relevant skills for the future job market.
Jason Wingard, in his book *The College Devaluation Crisis*, argues that the typical degree is falling short for today’s job seekers. With the rapid technological changes we’re facing, a new strategy for learning is essential. Schools need to adapt and focus on what skills will matter in the coming years, especially as AI continues to evolve.
As we rethink education, the landscape for degrees is changing rapidly. What once was seen as necessary might not hold the same value tomorrow. People are interested in skills over credentials, which could make traditional colleges less relevant. It will be intriguing to see how these trends unfold and how they influence future generations of learners.
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Robert Kiyosaki, college degrees, Cornerstone University, Dave Ramsey, Jason Wingard, mobile app, degree programs, Jeff Bezos, Stanford University Press, degree offerings
