Regardless of U.S. labor market conditions one constant holds true: Education boosts earnings and reduces unemployment.
According to the Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities (APLU) the earnings gap between college graduates and those with less education continues to widen. In 2021, median income for recent graduates reached $52,000 a year for bachelor’s degree holders aged 22–27. For high school graduates the same age, median earnings were $30,000 a year.
Those with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, 75% more over the course of their lifetime.* In addition to increased earning potential, a bachelor’s degree can provide opportunities for promotion or entry into a new career.
*Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce
People with a bachelor’s degree earn on average
Master’s typically required for entry-level positions
Bachelor’s typically required for entry-level positions
Master’s typically required for entry-level positions
*National job opportunities data is based on national medians and figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational outlook handbook.
*Local job opportunities data is based on estimated base pay and figures from Indeed.com.
Professional organizations offer the opportunity for you to gain leadership skills, stay current with emerging industry topics, and expand your network both locally and beyond. The Kentucky Health Information Management Association (KHIMA) is the local chapter of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Students are able to join KHIMA for a low price of only $49. Students are encouraged to take advantage of all the benefits that KHIMA has to offer for student members, including:
Annual Meeting with Specific Student Track
The student track sessions offer education on important topics for students beginning their career. Student members are able to register for a heavily reduced fee.
Scholarship Opportunities
Each year KHIMA offers opportunities for student members to submit applications and potentially receive scholarships up to $1,500.
Credentials Exam Reimbursement
All KHIMA student members are eligible for reimbursement for the cost of a successfully passed RHIA or RHIT exam (within 6 months of graduation and pending proper documentation provided).
Leadership Opportunities
Students involved with KHIMA have the opportunity to transition to an active member after graduation. Active members have the opportunity to become committee members, committee chairs, and run for additional board positions.
The EKU Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all of your career and professional development needs. We offer a variety of services to current online EKU students and alumni to help you with your career development, decision-making and job search.
Services include: