Does it Matter Where You Go to College for 2025? It Depends on Who You Are

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Conventional wisdom dictates that attendance at an elite university or college can lead to better employment opportunities or higher income. As such, many students have been conditioned to aim for Ivy League universities as well as top-tier colleges. However, one might think twice about this when factoring in incidents such as the recent college admissions scandal, Operation Varsity Blues, where Hollywood celebrities and leading business figures were charged with bribing school officials for their children to be admitted into elite colleges in the United States.

With all the fuss about college admissions, it’s only fair to ask, “Does it matter what college you go to?" In this guide, we will be examining the traditional advice of going to a top school by taking a look at studies that relate college selectivity with graduates’ income, job prospects, and workplace performance. With this information, parents and prospective college students can decide whether it’s worth going to an elite school.

Does it matter where you go to college 2025? Table of Contents

1. The Impact of College Selectivity: Clashing Views
2. College Selectivity and Income Gain
3. Impact of Attendance in Top Schools by Major
4. Elite School Attendance: Outcomes for Men vs. Women
5. Importance of Alternative Educational Pathways
6. Extracurricular Activities Shaping College Experience and Future Career
7. How Can Online Educational Pathways Enhance Career Prospects?
8. Can Alternative Credentials Supplement Traditional Academic Pathways?
9. What Additional Factors Should You Consider When Evaluating Your College Investment?
10. Is a Graduate Degree Worth the Investment for Advancing Your Career?
11. Can Accelerated Programs Provide a Faster Route to Career Success?
12. University Pedigree and the Hiring Process
13. Elite School Graduates’ Work Performance
14. Student Debt and Financial Considerations
15. Are Vocational and Trade Schools a Better Investment than Traditional Colleges?
16. Could a Graduate Degree Elevate Your Career Outcomes?
17. No Easy Answer for the Million-Dollar Question

Popular Online Degree Programs 2025

Choosing a degree is a decision that can determine what you look for in your college options. Curriculum delivery, whether in-person or online, can also impact the decision as not all schools will offer your chosen degree through the mode of delivery you prefer. As such, our research team has selected some of the most popular online degree programs that are commonly offered in colleges nationwide. Here are your options:

1. Finance

A bachelor’s degree in finance is an undergraduate program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, investment strategies, and risk management. Students commonly engage in projects such as financial analysis reports, investment portfolio management, and case studies to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. These projects foster skills in financial modeling, risk management, and strategic decision-making, preparing students for real-world challenges in the finance industry.

2. Elementary Education

An elementary education degree is designed to prepare individuals for teaching positions in elementary schools, typically covering subjects such as pedagogy, curriculum development, and classroom management. Common projects in this degree may include creating lesson plans, implementing teaching strategies, and developing classroom materials to enhance practical teaching skills. The teacher shortage has played a significant role in the proliferation of online programs for a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

3. Child Psychology

A bachelor’s degree in child psychology focuses on understanding the psychological development of children and adolescents. It typically covers topics such as developmental psychology, behavioral analysis, and child psychopathology. Students commonly fulfill requirements such as analyzing case studies on child behavior, designing interventions, and participating in research. The nationwide concern over mental health has contributed to an increased demand for child psychologists, which has influenced the availability of online programs for this degree.

4. Nutrition

An undergraduate degree in nutrition offers a curriculum dedicated to the study of dietary principles, nutritional science, and their impact on human health. Common subjects include anatomy, physiology, and public health. Additionally, projects in this degree often involve creating nutrition plans, conducting dietary assessments, and developing educational materials. Similar to child psychology degrees, nationwide health concerns and increased awareness of the importance of nutrition have contributed to the availability of this program online.

5. Nurse Education

A degree in nurse education typically refers to a program that prepares nurses to become educators, trainers, or instructors in academic or clinical settings. This advanced degree equips nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to teach and mentor future generations of nurses. Common coursework includes curriculum development, instructional methods, and assessment strategies tailored to nursing education. As it is one of the most sought-after professions, more states have begun to encourage online offerings for this degree.

The Impact of College Selectivity: Clashing Views

Does it matter where you get your degree? Does it really matter what college you go to? Traditional wisdom holds that going to selective colleges entails better pay-offs for students than going to non-selective colleges. One study that supports this was done by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in 2000. In this study, researchers found that obtaining a degree from a selective institution was associated with an 11% to 16% increase in earnings for men. On the other hand, attending selective institutions was associated with an increase of 12% in earnings for women. Moreover, women benefited by attending a selective liberal arts college, which led to 24% higher earnings than they would have had if they would have attended another kind of school (Fitzgerald, 2000).

However, a study by Dale and Krueger (1999) found that where you go to college doesn’t matter in terms of income — something that bodes well for students who are looking to choose from the many public schools and universities in the US. They concluded that “students who attended more selective colleges did not earn more than students who were accepted and rejected by comparable colleges but attended less selective colleges." They found that students who attended colleges with higher average tuition tended to earn higher incomes years later. Lastly, they found that income gains are highest for students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds who study in elite schools.

College Selectivity and Income Gain

Dale and Krueger followed up their findings with another study on college selectivity and earnings in 2011. They collected data from the College and Beyond Survey (C&B) on students who attended college in 1976 and 1989. They then compared self-reported earnings from the C&B survey to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They measured college quality using average SAT scores, net tuition, and the Barron’s index, which measures school competitiveness. The researchers formulated a “self-revelation" model, which assumes that the choice of schools that students apply to reveal their potential ability, motivation, and ambition.

Under the self-revelation model, the researchers found that the return to college selectivity “falls dramatically" and becomes “generally indistinguishable from zero" for both the 1976 and 1989 group of students. For the group of 1989 students, they found that there was a positive return to attending a more selective school for black and Hispanic students and students from educationally disadvantaged family backgrounds. For instance, the data suggests that going to a college that requires a SAT score of 200 points higher would yield a 5.2% in earnings for students in 2007 for students with parents who had the equivalent of high school education. Conversely, there was no return in attending a more selective college for students with parents who had an equivalent of a college education. The researchers hypothesized that attending selective colleges may be beneficial to these groups of students because it gives them access to valuable job networking opportunities. In contrast, most students who apply to selective colleges can turn to friends and family for the same opportunities (Dale & Krueger, 2011).

Impact of Attendance in Top Schools by Major

Eide, Hilmer, and Showalter (2016) explored the relationship between college selectivity and chosen majors aside from income. They discovered that college selectivity matters more to those who major in business, social science, education, and humanities. They found that business graduates from schools with top selectivity earned 12% more on average than schools with middle selectivity. In turn, graduates from middle selectivity schools earned 6% more than graduates from bottom selectivity schools (Eide et al, 2016). They hypothesized that institutional prestige gives business majors access to alumni networks and connections to employers for jobs and internships.

However, attendance at even the oldest university in the world made no difference in income for graduates with majors in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The researchers found no statistically significant earnings differences for science majors across schools with top, middle, or bottom selectivity. Engineering graduates from the top and middle selectivity colleges only had “marginally significant" earnings while there was no significant difference for engineering majors from the top and bottom selectivity colleges. The researchers hypothesized that the skills a student learns in STEM courses are more important than the college they attended (Eide et al, 2016).

For social science majors, the researchers state that there is a premium for going to a top selectivity college over a middle or bottom selectivity college. However, there is no advantage to going to a middle selectivity college over a bottom selectivity college.  For humanities majors, there is a significant premium to attending a top selectivity college over a bottom selectivity one. However, there is no advantage to attending a top over a middle selectivity college (Eide et al, 2016). Thus, if asked does the college you go to matter for jobs, in most cases it has an influence on career outcomes. And when considering the influence of college selectivity on career outcomes, it is worth noting that the acceptance rates of colleges play a significant role. The lowest acceptance rate colleges, often associated with top selectivity, tend to offer social science majors an advantage in terms of career prospects compared to middle or bottom selectivity colleges.

Elite School Attendance: Outcomes for Men vs. Women

Ge et al (2018) built on Dale and Krueger’s work by exploring how attending a selective college affects later-life outcomes. Like Dale and Krueger, they found that attending an elite college does not significantly improve earnings for full-time, full-year workers for both men and women. This finding supports earlier studies, which concluded that where you go to college doesn’t matter. This is especially important when one considers the reasons why college is expensive in the U.S.

In addition, they were able to uncover novel findings, particularly on the effects of college selectivity on women. For one, they found that going to a college with a 100-point higher average SAT score boosts the probability of women’s participation in the labor force by 2.3 percentage points. Ge et al point out that this could possibly be due to increased labor supply or labor demand, such as gaining access to job opportunities that women find meaningful or that fit their schedule (Ge et al, 2018).

Secondly, the researchers found that a 100-point increase in a school’s average SAT scores increases the probability for women to earn an advanced degree by 4.8 percentage points. It also decreases women’s chances of getting married in their late 30s by 3.9 percentage points but increases the likelihood that a woman’s spouse has an advanced degree by eight percentage points (Ge et al, 2018).

Importance of Alternative Educational Pathways

For students reconsidering traditional academic routes, alternative educational pathways are growing in significance. Programs such as accelerated bachelor degree programs provide an innovative solution for those seeking cost-effective and time-efficient ways to earn a degree. These programs compress the typical four-year timeline into a shorter period, allowing students to join the workforce or pursue advanced studies sooner. Such pathways are particularly beneficial for adult learners, career switchers, or students who wish to minimize educational expenses without compromising on quality.

Additionally, the flexibility of many accelerated programs, often delivered online or in hybrid formats, ensures accessibility to a broader demographic, including working professionals and individuals from underserved communities. This approach can diminish the geographic and financial barriers associated with attending traditional, selective institutions. As research suggests, the return on investment for education is not solely tied to institutional prestige but also to the practicality of the learning experience and its alignment with career goals.

For example, institutions offering well-designed accelerated bachelor degree programs focus on equipping students with market-ready skills through intensive curricula that mirror industry needs. Such programs may emphasize experiential learning, professional certification opportunities, and direct pathways to employment, making them a viable alternative to conventional college journeys. By exploring these options, students can achieve academic and professional success while mitigating the financial burden that often accompanies attendance at elite colleges.

Extracurricular Activities Shaping College Experience and Future Career

Extracurricular activities are an often overlooked aspect when choosing a college, but they can significantly impact a student’s personal development and future career opportunities. Beyond academics, involvement in campus organizations, sports, or volunteer programs can provide valuable skills and experiences.

• Leadership skills: Participating in student government, clubs, or sports teams helps students develop leadership qualities that are highly valued in the workplace.
• Networking opportunities: Extracurriculars allow students to build connections with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, which can lead to internships and job offers.
• Time management: Balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities teaches students how to manage their time effectively, a skill crucial for career success.
• Real-world experience: Many extracurricular activities, such as volunteering or project-based clubs, offer hands-on experience that can be directly applicable to future careers.
• Personal growth: Extracurriculars foster personal development by encouraging collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity, helping students become well-rounded individuals.

How Can Online Educational Pathways Enhance Career Prospects?

In an increasingly dynamic labor market, graduates are leveraging online educational pathways to stay competitive and continuously upgrade their skills. Digital platforms and tailored online programs provide opportunities to acquire niche expertise and practical competencies that may not be part of traditional curricula. Such programs offer flexibility in learning and can be integrated with professional responsibilities, allowing individuals to advance their careers without extensive time away from work. Additionally, targeted courses and certifications can bridge specific skill gaps, enhancing overall employability and adaptability. For those seeking a flexible option that accelerates career growth, enrolling in an accelerated online bachelor's degree program has become a viable strategy for achieving long-term success.

Can Alternative Credentials Supplement Traditional Academic Pathways?

In today’s evolving job market, professionals increasingly rely on targeted learning to address skill-specific gaps that traditional degree programs might not fully cover. Focused credentials provide industry-relevant expertise, enabling individuals to adapt rapidly to emerging trends and technologies. Employers value these specialized achievements, which complement formal education by demonstrating practical competence. Many institutions now offer accredited certification programs online that furnish learners with competitive, market-ready skills, thereby enhancing overall career versatility and long-term growth.

What Additional Factors Should You Consider When Evaluating Your College Investment?

While college selectivity, cost, and immediate career outcomes are central to the discussion, it is also essential to assess factors such as academic support services, curriculum flexibility, and real-world learning opportunities. Institutions that offer strong career counseling, mentorship programs, and industry-linked internships can enhance professional development in ways that extend beyond conventional metrics. Evaluating the quality of campus resources, access to research or internship programs, and the diversity of extracurricular initiatives can further inform a sound educational investment. For students considering a less rigorous academic pathway, exploring options like the easiest degree to get may provide a balance between accelerated learning and career readiness.

Is a Graduate Degree Worth the Investment for Advancing Your Career?

Graduate education can offer specialized expertise and leadership development that complement an undergraduate degree, potentially unlocking roles requiring advanced analytical and strategic skills. Empirical evidence indicates that a master’s degree may enhance professional credentials, broaden networking channels, and foster adaptability in an evolving labor market. For those prioritizing cost-effectiveness without compromising on quality, exploring the cheapest online master degree options can align educational investments with long-term career objectives and financial sustainability.

Can Accelerated Programs Provide a Faster Route to Career Success?

Accelerated educational pathways, such as condensed associate degree programs, offer a pragmatic alternative to traditional degree timelines by enabling students to attain credentials and enter the workforce sooner. These programs focus on streamlined curricula and targeted skill acquisition, often leading to lower overall educational costs and a reduced debt burden. For instance, pursuing the quickest associates degree can fast-track professional entry in specific sectors, where timely hands-on experience is highly valued by employers. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking immediate industry involvement without compromising the quality of learning or long-term career advancement.

University Pedigree and the Hiring Process

Despite data suggesting the contrary, employers still continue to hire graduates from elite colleges. According to an Indeed survey on the costs of a top college, 29% of senior-level and executive managers said that they preferred to hire candidates only from top institutions. Does going to a prestigious college matter? The majority of survey participants (48%) said that where the candidate graduated is a “somewhat important" consideration in the hiring process. Only 4% said that it doesn’t matter where they obtained their degree as long as educational requirements for the role are met (Indeed, 2016).

However, the same survey also found out that the preference for graduates from elite schools is most likely the result of managers’ own biases. Forty-seven percent of managers surveyed who self-identified as coming from a top school agreed with the statement “I believe that employees from top education institutions are on par with the rest of the top performers." Meanwhile, 55% of managers who agreed with this statement did not self-identify as coming from a top school.

When asked about the qualities of top performers, 72% of managers surveyed said that what matters most is that the candidate has the ability to work well with others. In addition, 71% said they must have strategic thinking and 66% mentioned that they should be self-directed. Managers ranked the college name on a degree as the least important for top performers (Indeed, 2016).

The survey also noted that degrees from elite colleges matter more to managers looking to fill entry-level positions or executive roles. However, it is not as important when hiring for middle management jobs (Indeed, 2016).

In another survey about data talent, Correlation One (2019) found that tier two and three colleges had “significantly more elite data science and analytics candidates than the top 30 schools." In fact, 75% of such candidates came from tier two and three institutions. They also found them to be “significantly more skilled than average students from tier one schools." Correlation One warns that when large companies focus on candidates from top colleges, they only reinforce the bias in the hiring process, skew the competition for talent, and do not maximize hiring outcomes for most firms. However, there is no denying that when asked does it matter what university you go to, the recruitment practice often considers the institution.

Elite School Graduates’ Work Performance

Like the Indeed survey, Taras et al (2019) found that an employee’s university pedigree is not a reliable indicator of performance in the workplace. In the study, researchers looked at the performance of 28,339 students in global virtual teams as they worked on an international business consulting project. The students came from 79 countries and 294 universities, which figured in the top 10 to 20,000 positions in the Webometrics global university rankings.

They found that for every increase by 1,000 positions in the Webometrics rankings, overall performance improved “only nominally" by 1.9%. The performance differential jumps to 19% when comparing graduates from a top university versus a “global average" university. However, the researchers explained that this seemingly significant increase was for graduates from colleges that were 10,000 university rankings apart. Considering that new hires will be most likely hired from a more narrow pool of candidates, the researchers estimate that the realistic difference is closer to 1% (Taras et al, 2019).

Moreover, they observed that while graduates from top colleges had a slightly better performance than other graduates, they tend to focus more on accomplishing instrumental tasks and less on interpersonal relationships. The researchers also noted that graduates from elite schools tend to stir more conflict, held fewer non-instrumental conversations, and showed less commitment and identification with their teams (Taras et al, 2019).

Student Debt and Financial Considerations

Financial implications are crucial when deciding between a selective college and a more affordable institution. Elite colleges often have high tuition costs, leading to significant student debt. While these schools may offer scholarships and financial aid packages, the overall expense remains substantial. The return on investment (ROI) can vary widely depending on the chosen major, career path, and the specific college's resources.

On the other hand, more affordable colleges often provide the same foundational education and opportunities to build skills needed for a successful career but at a lower cost. Students from these institutions may graduate with less debt, enabling them to invest in other financial goals sooner, such as homeownership, starting a business, or saving for retirement. Additionally, affordable colleges may offer robust career services, internships, and networking opportunities, challenging the perception that less selective schools don't provide the same potential for success.

Students need to weigh the immediate costs and the long-term financial impacts. For example, those who choose affordable options may find that their lower student debt allows for more flexibility in their career choices, reducing pressure to secure high-paying jobs immediately after graduation. This can be a crucial factor in choosing a career path that aligns with personal interests and long-term goals rather than being solely driven by financial necessity.

For those looking for a cost-effective way to earn a degree, exploring the cheapest online bachelor's degree programs could be beneficial. These programs often offer flexible learning schedules and lower tuition costs, making higher education more accessible without compromising quality.

Are Vocational and Trade Schools a Better Investment than Traditional Colleges?

Evaluating the return on investment for vocational training is increasingly important amid rising tuition costs and changing workforce demands. In many technical fields, hands-on education can lead to faster entry into the job market and reduce student debt, while providing industry-specific certification that is highly regarded by employers. Data indicates that targeted skills training often results in competitive salary trajectories in sectors where practical expertise is paramount. Prospective students should assess factors such as program accreditation, apprenticeship opportunities, and long-term career growth when considering alternatives to traditional degrees, including online trade schools.

Could a Graduate Degree Elevate Your Career Outcomes?

Recent evidence suggests that graduate education can serve as a strategic lever for enhancing specialized skills and leadership capabilities, ultimately creating opportunities that extend beyond the advantages of an elite undergraduate background. Data indicates that pursuing advanced qualifications not only provides niche expertise but also unlocks access to exclusive professional networks and higher-level roles. Evaluating long-term return on investment is essential; many professionals weigh the immediate costs of tuition and potential additional debt against anticipated professional growth and increased lifetime earnings. For more insight into how targeted graduate programs can influence career trajectories, consider reviewing the highest paying master's degrees.

No Easy Answer for the Million-Dollar Question

The answer to “Does it matter where you go to college?" is hardly a black-and-white matter. On one hand, a study circa 2000 shows that yes, it does matter as college selectivity was shown to increase incomes for men and women. However, more recent studies have cast doubt on these findings. Based on these studies, college selectivity only matters to students from certain backgrounds and for select majors. Specifically, attending an elite college is more beneficial to Black and Hispanic students and those that are economically disadvantaged and whose parents did not achieve a high level of education. It also appears to matter more to students with business, humanities, and social science majors but not for students with STEM majors.

Attending a selective college also benefits women more than men. Doing so makes them more likely to participate in the labor force or get an advanced degree. When it comes to job type, a candidate’s college pedigree has more weight in entry-level or executive positions but not in middle-management jobs. While it may help graduates get their foot in the door, there are studies and surveys, which suggest that college selectivity is not an indicator of stellar performance in the workplace. In these cases, it is perfectly okay to consider affordable online colleges rather than risk incurring high student debt when attending Ivy League universities and similar premier colleges.

Key Insights

• College Selectivity and Income: Studies show mixed results on whether attending a selective college leads to higher income. Some research indicates a positive correlation, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, while others find no significant difference.
• Impact by Major: The benefits of attending a selective college vary by major. Business, social science, education, and humanities majors tend to benefit more, while STEM majors show little to no income advantage.
• Gender Differences: Women attending selective colleges are more likely to participate in the labor force, earn advanced degrees, and have spouses with advanced degrees. However, their chances of getting married by their late 30s decrease.
• Employer Preferences: Many employers still prefer candidates from elite colleges, especially for entry-level and executive positions. However, this preference is often influenced by personal biases rather than concrete performance data.
• Workplace Performance: Graduates from top colleges perform slightly better but tend to focus more on tasks and less on interpersonal relationships, potentially stirring more conflict.
• Overall Value: The value of attending an elite college is not clear-cut and depends on individual circumstances, including socioeconomic background, chosen major, and career goals.

FAQ

1. Does attending a selective college guarantee a higher income? Attending a selective college does not guarantee a higher income. Studies show mixed results, with some indicating a positive correlation and others finding no significant difference. The impact varies depending on factors such as socioeconomic background and chosen major.
2. Which majors benefit the most from attending a selective college? Majors in business, social science, education, and humanities tend to benefit the most from attending a selective college, often leading to higher income and better job opportunities compared to those from less selective institutions. STEM majors, however, show little to no income advantage based on college selectivity.
3. How does attending an elite college impact women differently from men? Women attending elite colleges are more likely to participate in the labor force, earn advanced degrees, and have spouses with advanced degrees. However, their chances of getting married by their late 30s decrease compared to those attending less selective colleges.
4. Do employers prefer graduates from elite colleges? Many employers, especially for entry-level and executive positions, still prefer candidates from elite colleges. However, this preference is often influenced by personal biases rather than concrete evidence of better performance.
5. Does attending a top college ensure better workplace performance? Graduates from top colleges tend to perform slightly better in the workplace but are more focused on tasks and less on interpersonal relationships, potentially causing more conflict. Overall, college selectivity is not a reliable indicator of stellar workplace performance.
6. Is it worth the cost to attend an elite college? The worth of attending an elite college depends on individual circumstances, including socioeconomic background, chosen major, career goals, and available financial aid. For some, the benefits may outweigh the costs, while others may find more value in less selective institutions.
7. What are the long-term career benefits of attending a selective college? Long-term career benefits of attending a selective college can include better networking opportunities, increased likelihood of earning advanced degrees, and higher initial job placement rates. However, these benefits vary widely and are not guaranteed for all graduates.
8. Do selective colleges provide better networking opportunities? Selective colleges often provide better networking opportunities due to their extensive alumni networks and connections with top employers. These networks can be beneficial for job placements and career advancements, particularly for certain majors and disadvantaged students.
9. How does college selectivity affect job prospects for graduates? College selectivity can affect job prospects, especially for business, social science, education, and humanities majors. Graduates from elite colleges may have an advantage in job placements and higher starting salaries. However, for STEM majors, the college attended has less impact on job prospects.
10. Should I prioritize college selectivity when choosing a school? Prioritizing college selectivity depends on your individual goals and circumstances. Consider factors such as your chosen major, career aspirations, financial situation, and personal preferences. While attending a selective college can offer certain advantages, it is not the only path to success.

References:

• Correlation One (2019). Future of Data Talent. 2019 Annual Report. New York, NY: Correlation One.
• Dale, S., & Krueger, A. (1999, August). Estimating the payoff to attending a more selective college: An application of selection on observables and unobservables. NBER Working Paper 7322. https://doi.org/10.3386/w7322
• Dale, S., & Krueger, A. (2011 June). Estimating the return to college selectivity over the career using administrative earnings data. Working Paper 17159. https://doi.org/10.3386/w17159
• Eide, E., Hilmer, M., & Showalter, M. (2016 January). Is it where you go or where you study? The relative influence of college selectivity and college major on earnings. Contemporary Economic Policy, 34 (1), 37-46. https://doi.org/10.1111/coep.12115
• Fitzgerald, R. (2000 August). College quality and the earnings of recent college graduates. NCES 2000-043. Washington, DC: National Center for Education Statistics.
• Ge, S., Isaac, E., & Miller, A. (2018 November). Elite schools and opting in: effects of college selectivity on career and family outcomes. NBER Working Paper 25315. https://doi.org/10.3386/w25315
• Gunkel, M., Taras. V., Assouad, A., Jimenez, A., Tavoletti, E., Lei, W., Svirina, A., Shah, G., & Kraemer, J. (in press). The predictive power of university pedigree on the graduate’s performance in global virtual teams. European Journal of International Management. https://doi.org/10.1504/EJIM.2021.10031657
• Indeed (2016, August 17). Is the cost of a top college worth it? It depends. Indeed.com.
• Nadworny, E. (2020, September 30). Lies, money, and cheating: The deeper story of the college admissions scandal. NPR.
• Shamsian, J., & McLaughlin, K. (2020, September 2). Here’s the full list of people charged in the college admissions cheating scandal, and who has pleaded guilty so far. Insider.
• Taras, V., Shah, G., Gunkel, M., & Tavoletti, E. (2020, September 4). Graduates of elite universities get paid more. Do they perform better? Harvard Business Review.