Charlie Kirk Calls College a ‘Scam,’ Advocates Alternatives

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed in a shooting at Utah Valley University. The founder of Turning Point USA had long argued that college was overpriced. He urged young people to seek alternatives to a traditional four-year degree.

Kirk promoted this message in his 2022 book, “The College Scam.” He described higher education as a poor investment for most students. His views were a central part of his public platform.

Kirk’s Three-Point Indictment Against Higher Education

Kirk framed his argument as a prosecutor’s case. He cited soaring tuition costs fueled by federal loan programs. According to AP reporting, he believed this created a debt trap for young adults.

He also questioned the quality of education. Kirk claimed many graduates lacked critical reasoning and practical skills. He argued that degrees had become more about signaling than learning.

Finally, he criticized campus culture. He said universities punished ideological dissent and promoted conformity. This, he believed, stifled free speech and diverse thinking.

The Push for Practical Alternatives to University

Kirk consistently stated he was “pro-education but anti-college.” He made exceptions for fields like medicine and law that require degrees. For others, he advocated for different paths.

He encouraged apprenticeships, trade schools, and community colleges. He advised students to avoid debt until they had a clear career plan. His blunt advice was often: “Anything but college.”

This message resonated with his conservative audience. It challenged the long-held belief that university is the only path to success. Kirk presented himself as a pragmatist focused on financial wisdom.

Charlie Kirk’s “college scam” argument remains a defining part of his legacy, challenging conventional views on education and debt in America.

Thought you’d like to know

What were Charlie Kirk’s main criticisms of college?

He focused on high costs, poor educational quality, and restrictive campus culture. Kirk believed student debt was a trap for unprepared young adults.

What alternatives to college did Charlie Kirk suggest?

He promoted apprenticeships, technical trade schools, and community college programs. He also recommended gap years to avoid rushing into debt.

Did Kirk believe all college degrees were worthless?

No. He made exceptions for degrees required in fields like law, medicine, and engineering. His criticism targeted degrees without clear career paths.

How did people respond to his “college scam” argument?

It received strong support from his conservative followers. Many education experts, however, disputed his claims about the value of a degree.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, Fox News