The Value of a Liberal Arts Degree: Students' Perspectives on Financial and Nonfinancial Returns on Investment. Issue 5 (20th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barrett, Laura; Helens-Hart, Rose
• Is Part Of: Western journal of communication. Volume 86:Issue 5(2022)
• Page Start: 672
• Page End: 691
• Publication Date: 2022-10-20
• Subjects: Anticipatory Socialization -- College Experience -- Liberal Arts -- Meaningful Work -- Return on Investment; Oral communication -- Periodicals; 428.3
• DOI: 10.1080/10570314.2022.2100469
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1057-0314

Abstract

Abstract : This study explores student perceptions of the financial and nonfinancial return on investment (ROI) of a liberal arts (LA) degree through surveys and interviews. Four prominent returns emerged through qualitative analysis of data: financial security, a credential, personal growth, and the promise of meaningful work. Results demonstrated the influence of anticipatory socialization on conceptions of meaningful work and the ROI of the LA degree. These findings detail a contemporary view of the value of a LA degree in the United States and are important for educators and administrators who seek to transition students from college to career.