tApart from the hard sciences, most further education is just a pyramid scheme perpetuated by unions. It's ridiculously expensive for what it is and for anything that is remotely 'modern' tends to be way behind the times.
Simon ...
With all of your knowledge and insight, I can't believe what you are writing here, that further education is "a pyramid scheme" ?????
I think most people would agree with me that the ultimate goal most have in getting "educated" is to get a good job. Again, I said most, there are always exceptions.
Well, to even be considered for that "good job," there is a path that most middle and large companies use to find new employees ..... it is called recruiting on campus. Even some small companies do it.
Near graduation time, many companies come and interview students. They want the best and the brightest. If you have never worked a day in your life but have the "papers" to show your accomplishments, you can often start at a salary greater than what your parents may earn.
Is that a pyramid scheme? I think it is just the way the game is played, no different than Monopoly or Chess.
For most other graduates, the degree is still an important piece of paper to get started or even later in a career. For example, after 10 years, Simon and Rub a Dub have extremely similar work records and accomplishments. We both see a management opportunity at company ABC that pays much more than what we both are currently earning. We both apply for the job.
Put yourself into the shoes of the Human Resource Manager at company ABC. He/she is putting their butt on the line hiring someone at this high salary. The HR manager reports directly to the CEO of the company. Simon does not have an advanced degree but Rub a Dub has a masters degree in IT from a good university. All other things are equal. Which one do you hire????
From the HR standpoint, if compensation was not the main issue, I would definitely hire Rub a Dub. Even if Rub a Dub fails, I have done my due diligence in accessing his qualifications. On the other hand, I may reason that Simon is worth considering since I could likely get him for a lot less money. If Simon works out well, the company saves money and I look really good. However, if Simon doesn't work out, I have a lot of explaining to do as to why I hired him.
Am I not telling the truth? Are there any HR people here? Comments?
Rub a Dub