New data from the College Board shows that the advantages of a college degree go beyond personal gain. It may also be good for society.

According to a new report, a college degree may be a sort of civic duty. College graduates, says the report, are more engaged citizens. They volunteer, vote, and make healthier decisions. In short, a nation full of college graduates makes for a stronger democracy.

College Grads Donate Their Time

Although it's difficult to make assumptions about cause and effect, the data from the report make some compelling correlations. 43% of college graduates say they volunteer an average of 55 hours per year. But only 20% of high school graduates say they volunteer, and those 20% average just 52 hours every year.

College Grads Vote

The societal advantages of a college degree are also reflected in voter turnout. 76% of college graduates aged 25 – 44 voted in the 2004 presidential election. But only 49% of high school graduates showed up to the poles that year.

College Grads are Healthy

There are also health advantages of a college degree that make for a healthier, more productive society. At every age and income level, more education equals better health. However, the data is especially pronounced in the 65-and-older age group. 70% of college graduates reported being in "very good" or "excellent" health. Just 45% of high school graduates reported the same.

Enroll in a College Degree Today!

Are you interested in earning your college degree? The University of Phoenix offers accredited, online programs at the associate, bachelor, master, and doctorate levels. Fill out this information request form to take the first step towards reaping the personal and societal advantages of a college degree.