Now, it’s time to consider exactly how to go back to school as an adult. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Figuring out what you should go back to school for is the first step on your path to college as an adult. You’ll need to take plenty of time to figure out what your goals are for your education. Once you know your goals, you can more easily figure out which degree would suit you best.
For example, if you want to transition to a new career field, you’ll want to earn a degree in that specific field. If you aim to position yourself to potentially seek a promotion in your current field, you’ll want to look for a degree that’s relevant to the position you seek.
There are many schools to choose from, but not all of them are the right fit for every student. You’ll want to think carefully about your options. Of course, the number one question is whether the school you’re considering offers the degree you want.
Other factors to consider might include:
- Cost of tuition
- Geographic location (only relevant for on-campus degree programs)
- Philosophy (e.g., religious faith)
- Academic reputation
- Accreditation
If you are working a full-time job and don’t know how to make the time to go back to school, you have a few different options. There are a variety of modalities specifically meant to support the learning needs of different students.
For adult learners, online and evening classes can be good options.
Taking online classes can be a convenient option for adult learners. It provides geographic flexibility, meaning that you won’t have to relocate near campus. Plus, you won’t have to worry about commuting to campus.
Online degree programs can allow you to work around your schedule as needed. Synchronous online classes take place in real time, whereas asynchronous online lectures can be watched whenever the learner wishes. Online programs still offer a sense of community through online classrooms, as well as access to many of the traditional resources, such as school libraries, academic counselors, tech support and more.
If you learn better in person and want to spend some time on campus, you can always take evening classes. Head over to campus after work and spend a couple of hours in the classroom to learn from a professor face to face. This can be a great option for those who work during the day but do not wish to take their coursework fully online.
Your ideal degree level is another factor to consider when exploring how to go to college as an adult. Choose from the following:
A bachelor’s degree is designed for students with a high school diploma or a GED. However, the curriculum is far more comprehensive and in-depth than that of an associate degree. This degree may qualify you to pursue entry-level or early career jobs.
A master’s degree is designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. It is the first level of graduate degrees. You may wish to earn a master’s degree if you plan on positioning yourself to potentially pursue managerial positions or other advanced roles.
Popular career fields to earn a master's in include business, education, healthcare and STEM.
Another graduate degree option is the doctoral degree. You may have to earn a master’s degree before applying to a doctoral program, but this is not always the case, so it’s important to first research your university’s admission requirements. This degree signifies the highest level of mastery in a specific subject, which is why it’s known as a terminal degree.
