11 Steps to Returning to College as an Adult
Trying to figure out what the best next step is to move forward in your career? Thinking about going back to school again? This article walks you through 11 steps to get you started pursuing more education as an adult.
1. Clarify your career goals
People go back to college for a variety of reasons. Some are pursuing a promotion, leadership position, or higher pay at work, where others are trying to switch their field entirely. It's important to figure out what you want out of your next stage of life and reevaluate your long-term career goals before dropping a dime on another degree. For more reasons why people go back to college, read our article "9 Reasons Why You Should Get Your Master's Degree."
2. Identify the skills, experience or credentials you need
Now that you have a picture of what you want in your mind, figure out what kinds of skills, experience, or credentials you need to obtain to get you there. This doesn’t always mean a degree! Sometimes, advancing your career looks like getting certifications, professional license, specialized training, or even just networking. If it helps, you can picture your “ideal self” and visualize what kinds of qualifications they have that you need to work toward.
3. Decide whether higher education is the right fit
For some careers, a certification, mentorship or new work experience may be a better investment, while for others, a degree is essential. Make sure higher education is the right fit for your career goals by doing your research. Do you need a master's degree as a prerequisite in your field? Will the cost of school compare to your potential increase in salary, or will it just be more student loan debt? You can also reach out to professionals who hold your dream job and ask them if their graduate degree was important to their success in their career.
4. Research programs and schools
If higher education is your chosen path, that's great! Now is the time to do even more research and search what programs and schools offer you. Make sure the college or university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (in the United States). Be wary of campuses that do not have this accreditation. Take into account the size of the school. For more personalized attention, maybe enrolling in a smaller program makes better sense for you. Are you a person with strong faith? Research faith-based institutions. Think about what type of classes will best suit your personality and needs. Do you want in-person evening or evening classes? If you know a graduate of the program, get their feedback.
5. Check in with HR
Your human resources office may be able to provide program recommendations. Some colleges and universities have formal partnerships with businesses and non-profits. These partnerships may provide training specific to your company or tuition incentives such as employer reimbursement plans. However, there may be parameters or qualifications you must meet. If you’re a veteran, your HR office or the college where you are applying may be able to help you access your benefits.
NOTE: If you are continuing your education in order to leave your current company, you will need to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
6. Talk to enrollment counselors
Once you’ve narrowed your choices it is time to learn about a program from the source. Schedule a meeting with an enrollment counselor at your top colleges and universities. They will be able to share details such as graduation rates, costs and time commitments. You may also be able to meet with a faculty member or the financial aid department.
7. Apply
Your admissions counselor will share the next steps to take for your specific program. Remember, you can apply to more than one college or university. Different schools ask for different applications materials such as a transcript, interview or resume.
8. Determine your start date
Some programs offer rolling admissions that provide several start dates throughout the year. Other programs rely on the traditional semester or quarter structure. Do you want to get started right away? Or, would waiting a few months help you get ready to take on your new challenge?
9. Develop a support network
Adding college courses, research and homework to your regular career and family commitments can be difficult. Prepare to re-prioritize your time. If you have kids, plan for your childcare needs. If you travel for work, determine how your class schedule will be impacted. Sacrifices may be necessary in order to achieve career goals, but determining a plan of action in advance will help you succeed. For more on this, read our article "How to Balance Work, Family and going Back to School."
10. Go to class
Complete your assignments. Learn, grow and relish the skills, confidence and knowledge you have gained.
11. Take on new challenges/advance in your career
There’s no need to wait until you have completed your degree to flourish! Start applying for new jobs, ask for more responsibility at work, or take on a leadership role.
Congratulations on turning your dream into reality!
At Bluffton...
Bluffton University offers four different accredited graduate programs in education, nutrition and dietetics, business administration, and social work. Learn more about pursuing a master's degree at Bluffton here.