You don’t always need a degree to get a good job, but in many fields and in a competitive job market, it can be a huge help. Choosing to go back to school as an adult can seem intimidating, but it’s now becoming increasingly more common. Step foot on the campus of any university or college, and you’ll meet lots of mature students. There are factors such as the cost and personal commitments that can make it difficult to study as an adult. Here are some tips for those considering taking this step and advice to determine whether returning to education is right for you.

Funding your studies

The most common way to finance your studies is to take out a student loan. This action does result in debt, but this debt often doesn’t have to be paid until you’ve completed your studies. In addition to government loans, other options include, a personal loan or borrowing monies from family members or friends. There are services, such as student debt relief program, designed to assist those struggling with student debts.

Another option is to work as you study. Your income can then directly pay off your education so that saddled with any debt. Given how expensive many courses are, you may be required to have a fairly well-paid job to cover these expenses.

University courses are likely to be the most expensive option, but you may want to consider other forms of less-expensive education that might give you similar qualifications or knowledge. There are various apprenticeships out there and short-courses that could be better for giving you the skills you need.

Juggling commitments

The beauty of being young when you study is that you usually don’t have obligations such as a family to take care of. Fortunately, distance learning is now an option. Online courses could allow you to study in your free time from your own home, preventing the need to travel to a campus.

Make sure that you don’t have too many commitments as these could get in the way of your studies, even via this option. Some people are able to complete an online course while working a full-time job, but this may involve studying in your evenings or on the weekend. If you already struggle to find free time, it could be worth reducing your hours to a part-time basis, if possible. Similarly, if you’re a parent, you may need someone to look after the kids occasionally while you study so that you may give full concentration to the course.

Securing your dream job

Even with a degree, there’s no certainty that you’ll get your dream job. Many people have the qualifications, but struggle to get into their dream career, for a variety of reasons. Certain courses can offer job security, as some big companies offer sponsored courses. Not only are you guaranteed a job at the end, the entire course is paid for you. Such courses are incredibly competitive, so bear this in mind if you’re thinking of applying to one.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Decide how much you want it, how beneficial it can be to your future and if the opportunity to go back to school is something you aren’t willing to forgo, be radically audacious and make it happen!

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