The high rates of return on investment to students in higher education is an expected wage increase between 1.5 - 2.5x. 

According to an IDB study, the returns on investing in one year of higher education (measured as the income differential between people with higher education and those with secondary education) is greater than the differential obtained from completing one year of primary school or one year of secondary school. One year of higher education generates an increase in expected personal income of 17% while the figures for primary and secondary education are 7.4% and 9.5%, respectively. That is to say, higher education investments make business sense for private investors as well as governments. In addition to improving average income, individuals with a higher education degree are more likely to be employed in formal sector jobs.

However, there is the concern of “garage courses” or poor quality on-line degrees that could waste money without yielding results.  Most accredited universities that offer distance learning components have accreditation quality standards to cover such components.  Many country-level regulators also review courses.

Knowing this might motivate young adults to think or prioritize differently. However, for those with few means, living close to campus and/or being a full-time student is not an option. Long, difficult commutes, the demands of balancing work and school or the demands of studying as a parent are intense.  Distance learning has helped bridge this gap and allows students to get a degree while managing life.  Many universities are incorporating online components into classes or offering portions or all of classes virtually.  Students can now work on teams remotely, saving time and money in commuting. Students have more flexibility with distance learning components to balance work and study as well as family needs.

Do you know of any strong distance learning programs? Do you think distance learning offers more benefits than risks? As the IDB Group private sector contemplates supporting such quality higher educations models, what your thoughts?