Recently Howard Stephenson R-Draper, said that degrees in psychology, Sociology history and philosophy were useless. He called them degrees to nowhere. He went on to say that applied technology schools were better for students and that graduates were more prepared for employment. (Utah Statesman, March, 14, 2011)
Though I feel that applied technology schools are great for some students, they are certainly not the only good educational option. One of the biggest problems with AP schools is that they flood the market with graduates who have a small set of very specific skills. A graduate from Stephan's Hennager's oral hygienist program is going to end up competing for jobs with all of her graduating class. That degree, though useful, is non transferable.
Someone who graduates with a degree in History or Philosophy can go into several different fields.
The most important thing to remember is that we are all unique and we all have something to contribute to society. The educational opportunities in any state should reflect the diverse nature of humankind.
For those who want the facts, here are some statistics.
according to the 2010 Bureau of Labor the unemployment rate for persons holding a bathelors degree was 4.8% Those who had an associates degree, the category that covers applied technology degrees had an unemployment rate of 8.1%.(Statesman,pg 1)
Today the one quality that employers say is lacking in students is the ability to communicate well. That includes e mail memo's and face to face interactions.
So don't make the mistake of thinking that there is only one reason to go to school. Education is far more than quick and dirty money. It is becoming a better citizen and a better communicator.
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