Should I Go Back to School?

By Kaylor Jones

Adult learners studying with their professor in a continuing education classroom

If you’re considering going back to school, there are probably dozens of questions on the tip of your tongue. Making the leap can take courage, dedication and a fair amount of resources. Here are some things to think about when deciding whether or not you should go back to school.

Motivation

Whether you want to climb the career ladder, further your knowledge or prove to yourself that you’re capable of taking on something big, your motives behind going back to school should be realistic and well-thought out. A decision as big as this should not be taken lightly, and your education is too important for impulsivity. When it concerns a large investment of time and money, think through your reasons for doing it before getting started and you may save yourself some trouble in the long run.

Career Movement

Will going back to school help you advance in your career? Many people get a degree because they wish to earn a promotion or a raise in salary. If this is the case, ask your boss or supervisor if any opportunities are available for employees with graduate degrees. Others wish to pivot in their career and decide that going back to school is the right way to get them started on their new journey. No matter the desired outcome, having a goal in mind for post-graduation is one of the best ways to stay determined while you’re taking on the extra work.

Subject Matter

Which degree program will help you reach your goal? For example, a Doctor of Education can help learners hone their leadership skills, while a Master of Business Administration may be a fit for those looking to advance their knowledge of business. If you have a career role model, learn about their education and what programs built their knowledge and helped them get to where they are today.

Timing

Are you in the right stage of your life to go back to school? If there’s a new addition in the family or you’ve just taken on a lot of extra duties at work, the timing may not be right for you to go back to school. Make sure you’ll have an appropriate amount of time, resources and energy to invest in your education. Finally, if the pieces seem to be falling into place and you’ve made the decision to go back to school, don’t forget to do your research. Look for an accredited institution with a strong reputation so you know you’re getting the best education possible.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.

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