Wait - we thought health care costs were the fastest growing expense category. We were wrong. Since 1978, college textbook prices have risen 812%, versus the mere 575% snail-like increase of medical services costs.

But, as with any field, some segments have seen greater cost growth than others. In this case, textbooks in the sciences are typically substantially more expensive than those for the humanities.

To offset this cost, many students look to resell their textbooks at the end of each term. Unfortunately, the more expensive science books lose more of their value than the less expensive humanities texts. See what your passion will cost.

Why does it matter? Not much you can do about it, except be prepared for sticker shock. Eventually, digital books and open source content may make a difference.