Those with a degree tend to do better financially but rural students are ignoring the long-term benefits of university education for short-term gains, says La Trobe University Director Albury-Wodonga Campus Professor Lin Crase.

Many rural young people are seeking out immediate employment after they leave school rather than considering tertiary education explains Professor Crase, adding “from the student’s perspective the opportunity cost of the study period is probably of greatest concern..”

He argues this trend will widen the gap between rural and metropolitan students seeking a place in higher education.