There’s been plenty of talk lately about the cost of college, and whether it’s worth it. But here’s another interesting question: What’s the main purpose of a college?
It turns out, we’re pretty divided on this point.
The Pew Research Center surveyed about 2,000 Americans and found that 47 percent think the main purpose of college is to teach work-related skills and knowledge. But 39 percent say the main purpose of college is intellectual and personal growth. About 12 percent said the years we spend at an institute of higher learning should be devoted to both.
Interestingly, those with more education are more likely to view college as a place for personal and intellectual growth.