Study finds Americans increasingly interested in continued education

Study finds Americans increasingly interested in continued education

According to the latest Solid Index published by Sun Trust Banks, the recession is causing a majority of adults to consider going back to school to boost their skills.

The index, which tracks the way finances impact consumers' daily lives, state of mind and emotions, has found 51 percent of parents and more than one-third of all adults think it may be a good idea to return to school for more education.

"Despite the challenges that the current environment presents, proper and proactive financial planning and budgeting can help Americans reach their attainable retirement and education goals," says Rilla Delorier, chief marketing officer for SunTrust Banks.

These types of students - who are likely to be working parents, professionals or juggling other responsibilities - typically benefit most from online degrees or distance learning programs.

Such programs, which are offered by thousands of institutions around the country, are cheaper than traditional colleges and offer the flexibility of evening or weekend instruction.

Labor market studies have found that those with a college degree can earn twice as much as those who do not have them.