Those who are looking to boost their earnings could find that returning to school really pays off in the long term. Erich Hetzel, labor-marketing analyst for the Office of Workforce Development, told Gatehouse News Service that higher education can increase candidates' options and earning power. "From the labor market standpoint, we always recommend people get a higher education," Mr Hetzel said. "It always benefits a person if they have that." Meanwhile, Jae Van-Wey, a job development and career specialist, explained that any type of education and experience - from technical training to an apprenticeship - can help job-seekers meet the criteria of their employers. Adult learners have many options for completing a degree, from distance learning to part-time courses. And according to the Department of Labor, these workers are well-placed to reap the financial rewards of their education. Data from the department indicates that median salaries rise in accordance with each year of education attained, while a degree makes the biggest difference of all. It has also found that for 12 of the 20 occupations that are predicted to grow most quickly in the 10-year period ending in 2016, an associate degree or higher is a requirement.  |