The lowest rates of unemployment are for those who have college degrees. According to recent Census Bureau data, unemployment is two to three times greater for those with only a high school degree compared to those with a college degree. Higher education is a key to personal success and an educated population is critical to the success of society. Every penny Pennsylvania invests in higher education is repaid in multiples. That's a four to one rate of return to the taxpayers of the state.
Education is the driver for economic, societal, and cultural vitality.
And higher education offers a piece of that vitality at an affordable price to any resident of the Commonwealth. The American system of higher education is the envy of the world, and access to an affordable education is what makes it so unique. Public university tuition is high in Pennsylvania compared to other states, and those of us in university administration are painfully aware of the sacrifices families must make to make higher education possible. And we endeavor to keep our costs as low as possible while providing the highest quality education we can. If someone offers to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge, don't rush to pull out your checkbook.