Simly put - law or life - the higher the risk of failing the higher the payout if you succeed, low risk = low layout.
Stocks, lottery, business ventures, education etc all follow that rule.
Every single billionaire out there who is self made started out on a high risk venture.
College is an easy way out, therefore low risk and “safe” so don’t expect a high
Payout for the “easy” 2 or even 4 year. If you take on more risk by taking on more loans and going to grad school, it’s a bigger payout.
And Audi jay is right, college degree is a new HS diploma. It doesn’t get you ahead it just puts you on the playing field.