10 Tips for Adults Who are Thinking About Continuing Education Program

Many people talk about going back to school; however, they are not focused. Reasons for going back, financial considerations, and selecting the right school need to be thought.

Going back to school is an important decision and there are many things to be considered. Signing up with any continuing education program will require time and effort. Ask yourself the next 10 questions prior to enrolling in a program.

Reasons for Going Back to School
What are your short term (next five years) goals in life?

Short term goals are the easiest to predict; however they may not be the easiest to obtain without proper planning. Do you plan to move up in the company or thinking about moving to another career option? These are choices which need thorough thought

What are your long term (ten years and longer) goals in life?

Long term goals are easier to achieve; however they require more patience and planning. Most continuing education programs can take many months or years to complete.

Is now the right time?

Work and life experiences may hinder the full focus to necessary to do well. When entering a continuing education program, the desire to do well is critical. Taking a program seriously is required to achieve desired results.

Will the continuing education program help achieve goals?

Enrolling in a program which will not meet short or long term goals is a waste of time and money. Going to school, just to go to school, is not a reason. The program must help meet desired goals. If you understand that you don’t have ammount of time and energy to take on full education, but you feel like you need to improve your skills in particular area of your life. You can take classes with Skillshare. It is very inexpensive, only $10 per month and you can have access to thousands of classes on the go. You can read the review of Skillshare and understand if it is a good match for you.

What specifically will be accomplished by enrolling in a program?

Having a clear understanding of what is needed to be successful is vital and needs to be clearly stated in a program’s objectives. Continuing education programs take time and taking needless courses is not recommended.

Why complete continuing education anyway?

The smartest choice a person can make is to invest in his or her own education. More education means a greater income. The National Center for Education Statistics for 2007 shows that someone with a bachelors degree will earn $22,000 on average a year more than someone with just a high school degree.

Financing Your Continuing Education How will you pay for the program?

Continuing education is expensive and many students drop out every day due to financial reasons. A clear financial plan is necessary from beginning to end.

Are tuition reimbursement or interest free loans an option?

Many companies offer employees tuition reimbursement or interest free loans, which benefit the company’s long term goal for more skilled employees. Companies require attainment of specific GPAs for courses they are willing to reimburse tuition.

Selecting the Right School and Support
Is the right school available?

Selecting the right school for continuing education is just as critical as deciding to enter a program. The school must offer the right program and courses to help achieve desired goals. A thorough research of programs and schools is required, along with school national ranking.

Do you have the necessary support?

Success in continuing education can be achieved with some sacrifice and you might miss important events. If married, the spouse must become a strong supporter. Friends must be willing to provide support and understanding, as well.

The final thing to remember with any continuing education program, completing the program is accomplished through dedication and will power. Success or failure rests squarely on your shoulders, now one else’s. The short term sacrifice is well worth the effort as long term goals are met and success becomes apparent.