IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION                                                                                     2 
 
Importance of Education 
Part I 
Asoni, A., & Sanandaji, T. (2016). Identifying the effect of college education on business and employment 
survival. Small Business Economics, 46(2), 311-324. doi:10.1007/s11187-015-9686-5 
  The study utilized a multipronged identification strategy to measure the effect produced by 
college education on business and employment survival. The study looked at both employed and self-
employed individuals and their level of education relying on data from the National Longitudinal Survey of 
Youth 1979. The study found that having a degree significantly increased the chances of gaining 
meaningful employment. However, having a degree had less significant impact on the chances of 
business survival. The authors conclude that college degree benefits individuals by increasing chances of 
employment. At the same time, it provides knowledge and technical expertise needed for 
entrepreneurship.  
  The findings of the article directly support the thesis that education is vital in several areas in this 
case in employment and entrepreneurship.  Therefore, education plays a vital role in upward social 
mobility making getting a college degree a essential strategy in life. 
Abel, J. R., & Deitz, R. (2014). Do the Benefits of College Still Outweigh the Costs?. Current Issues In 
Economics & Finance, 20(3), 1-12. 
  The authors note college tuition is continuously in the increase a trend that has led to observers 
questioning the value of college education. However, an analysis of economic returns to college from 
1970s demonstrate that an associate degree and bachelors degree still outweigh the cost. The study 
found that a degree offers a return on 15% over the past decade. Therefore, the return to value on the 
degree has remained despite falling wages.  
  The article is relevant to the study establishing the value of education and the investment on 
education on the long-term. The article findings support the thesis that education has a positive impact on 
individuals helping them develop their financial status.