Oh, the many feelings that get conjured up at the mere utterance of the simple phrase: “back to school”! There is the exciting burst of hope at the chance for a fresh start, the brand new set of goals to strive for and the anticipation of change for the better.

For nontraditional students pursuing degrees in higher education, the back to school phrase is just as exciting. In fact, a higher education for nontraditional students can hold even more promise than the typical student since many nontraditional students did not imagine themselves getting a college degree at all.

Here are some reasons nontraditional students can feel excited about going back to school:

1. Higher earnings

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, even in today’s economy, workers with a bachelor’s degree will earn about 60% more than workers with a high school diploma. Generally, the higher the degree, the higher the earnings.

2. Opportunity

A college degree (or accredited online college degree) gives workers a competitive edge, leading to a new career or perhaps a promotion at a current job.

3. Job security

College graduates have greater chances at employment than those without a degree and unemployment rates for degree holders are lower.

4. The joy of learning

Nontraditional students are often older and have some real world experience which can often lead to a greater appreciation for the things in life that younger people often overlook. Higher education means learning about any number of subjects which can be a fulfilling and eye-opening experience.

5. Further education

You can’t get a master’s degree if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, so for nontraditional students with higher aspirations in education, one degree is a necessary step in the path to another. In times like this, it is easy to see the advantage of having the option to pursue another degree quickly and easily.

So go ahead and buy some school supplies and back to school clothes, nontraditional students, you’ve got lots of reasons to celebrate your pursuit for higher education!