Contemplating a return to the classroom as an adult? It's a significant decision, fraught with challenges and opportunities. Let's delve into the pros and cons, the practicalities and the possibilities, to help you make an informed choice.
Why go back to school?
Adult students tend to have two main motivators: learning and earning.
- There’s no universally “right” timeline for returning to school, but there are two major signs you might be ready: know what you want and know you can pay for it
- You know the subject you want to study and are clear on whether you’re taking a few skill-based classes or aiming for a degree
- If you enroll with a sense of purpose, your time in school’s more likely to be worth it
Advanced degrees
Help fill an essential employment niche, similar to the professional certification.
- Master’s degree in an in-demand area, like business, financial management, or real estate
- Online programs often have targeted degree options
- Full-time enrollment is a quicker route to completion
- Accreditation, or approval by an outside regulating agency, is the biggest indicator employers will take your degree seriously
- Find out your school’s aid requirements before you sign up for classes
- In-person resources-libraries, gyms, career counseling centers, and more-available for free to anyone with a student ID
Professional certifications or trade certifications require more commitment
Certifications often qualify you to perform a particular job.
- If you know a certain subspecialty has lots of job openings, getting your certification in that area can give you a leg up with employers.
Degree Programs
These may train you for a specific job, or they may give you a broader education in a subject area
- Associate’s degree programs usually take two years and are more job-centered
- Bachelor’s degree programs take four years and have a broader focus
- Graduate programs come in many variations
- Most employers value work ethic, enthusiasm and experience as much as they value the specifics of your education
