While historically a college degree was considered a useful tool for economic and professional advancement, the rising cost of college tuition and the student loan crisis that has resulted from it have caused some to question whether higher education is worth the price. This volume considers a wide range of viewpoints on the role higher education plays in society, the economic variables that determine whether or not a college degree is worthwhile, and the role of academic research in the private and public sectors. It also explores what could be done to make higher education more beneficial in today's society and potential alternatives to traditional higher education.