You're a great example that college is "sometimes" worth the cost. The problem is that many people attend overly expensive private schools that don't have any added benefit in the job market. Only a few select schools do. A good rule is go to a top 15 US News university or go to the best public school you can get into in your area. If you get a history degree from a regional private u, all you're getting is a 150k diploma, frame not included.
clep and Dantes exams can shave thousands off the cost of degrees. Or try http://www.straighterline.com/college-courses/monthly-subscription.cfm . I completed My BS in business for $8,000 from start to finish. http://www.excelsior.edu/ college this one the the cheapest colleges around. anyone needing info pm me.
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-arum-college-20110602,0,2653653.story http://www.washingtonpost.com/busin...owning-in-debt/2011/06/02/AGVKXxGH_story.html government will protect state schools and big name private schools