Kyle Hunt
The economy is struggling, and tuition prices continue to rise. According to USA Today, the average cost of tuition raised 15 percent between the years of 2008 and 2010. According to CNN Money, In 2012 the average cost at a public four-year college cost $8,655. If that price were to magically lock, after four years college would cost you $34,620. As if that price isn’t bad enough, experts say the cost will continue to rise.
For people struggling in the economy, which let’s face it that’s most of us, these
If you attend a local college you have the option of living at home. Room and board is expensive, especially if you’re living in dorms. According to CNN Money, the average cost in 2012 for room and board at a public four-year college (including books) is $13,606. This cost is on top of your tuition. Living at home is a great way to cut back on that cost.
If you want to be a personal trainer, dental assistant, nurse or medical assistant look into technical colleges like AmeriTech. The average cost is usually about half the price of a 4-year university. Their programs are also only two years, this way you get out into the career field faster.
Apply for scholarships. Scholarships aren’t only for the smartest students in the class. There is a scholarship for just about everyone. For example, if you are a woman over 5’10 you may qualify for a $1,000 scholarship from Tall Club International.
Buy used books. Most campuses offer used books in their bookstore. If your college doesn’t offer them, there are many off campus stores and websites you can turn to. Some books are even sold for less than half the price of a new book. You also have the option to sell your books after. That way you can earn back some of the money you spent.
If you insist on attending a four-year university, get your associates degree at a community college then transfer. U.S. News says that the price of a four-year institution is nearly triple the cost of a community college. If those statistics are true and a four-year college costs $8,655 per year, then tuition at a community college costs $2,888.33. For two years at a community college you will pay around $5,776. and at a four-year college you will pay around 17,330. You would save a total of $11,553 by attending the community college. Either way, you earn the exact same degree.
AmeriTech College specializes in health care education in the medical, dental, fitness, and nursing fields.
