Going Back to College

Thinking of returning to school to complete a degree, further your career or change careers? Consider these five tips before taking your educational journey.

- Rebecca McMann

The word “school” evokes a picture of playgrounds or young adults in dorms, but many individuals return to school years into their careers. Some may be returning to complete a college degree so they can qualify for new positions. Others may be aiming for a graduate or professional degree to further their career or change careers. Regardless of your reason for returning, entering an educational program as an adult brings new challenges.

1. Choose your program wisely

First, you will first need to decide what you want to study. You may have started the process of returning to school with a clear goal in mind or you may be exploring multiple paths. Choose a degree that is relevant to the work you want to do. To help with this decision, consider getting impartial advice from people who are doing, or hiring for, the job you want. Youmay find that a particular degree is highly valued while another is seen as worthless in the field.

Once you decide on your field of study, be sure to carefully assess the program and school. Although a more convenient location or cheaper tuition seems appealing, the quality of the education and reputation of the school are arguably more important. Ask questions about the types of practical experience, networking and job placement that the school offers. Carefully examine statistics on how many students successfully graduate or gain employment.

2. Look for programs aimed at working professionals