In 2025, the question of whether college is worth the investment is more urgent than ever. With tuition costs soaring, student debt exceeding $1.8 trillion, and AI reshaping the job market, many wonder if a degree still guarantees success. This comprehensive blog dives into the debate, weighing the enduring benefits of higher education against its growing challenges. On one hand, college graduates earn 66% more over their lifetimes—about $1.2 million—and face half the unemployment risk, with fields like engineering boasting ROIs up to 326.6%. Beyond finances, college fosters networking, critical thinking, and social mobility, especially for marginalized groups. Yet, critics highlight outdated curricula, 43% of grads in non-degree jobs, and declining public trust (down to 36% in 2024). Alternatives like trades, bootcamps, and self-learning offer debt-free paths, with companies like Google prioritizing skills over degrees