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Q: I'm considering a change in careers. I don't have a degree
in the field I want to go into, so I'm considering additional
education. Should I go back to school?
- Katie in Toledo
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A: That's a loaded question, Katie! In
fact, as time - and technology - goes by, most professionals consider
acquiring additional education or training. Before you make a
decision one way or another, weigh your options.
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Deciding factors. There are quite a few questions to ask as
an adult returning to school. Are your spouse and/or family on board
with it? Will you be able to dedicate the time away from your family,
friends and other commitments to be successful? Will your employer
pay for the degree? If so, is it up front or after you submit a
receipt? Will you be fully compensated or will your employer only pay
a percentage? Do you have the funds to pay for courses? Can you get
financial aid? These are just a few of the questions to consider carefully
before taking the leap.
Do you really need a degree? Is a degree needed to enter your
new field? It may not be. You may only need a certificate - or
just a couple classes - to break in. Certificates from a community
college usually focus on just a few courses, which make getting them
quicker and cheaper. You may even be able to get by with a couple
adult continuing education classes offered by your local school
district. Also, consider your existing skills set - you may have
quite a few transferable skills that (properly worded on your resume) could
nab you a few interviews in your new field.
What's the difference? Adult continuing education classes are
extremely affordable, but often don't provide you with an academic
credential, such as a certificate or degree. Obtaining a certificate
from your local community college is a little more expensive, but a great
way to score a credential, save time and money. A degree (A.A.S., B.S., B.A., M.S., etc) hold more clout than
continuing ed courses and certificates, but take longer and are more costly
to obtain.
Getting a degree. Gone are the days when you had to go to
campus for every class. Now, you can take most of - if not all - your
classes online. This provides a tremendous boon to students who have
families and existing careers, as they can log on 24/7 to take their
classes when it's most convenient. If taking classes online is not an
option, look into accelerated degree programs (many offer degrees in as
little as 16 months!).
If you choose not to go back to school. You don't have to
settle even if you can't go back to school. Take advantage of the
training programs (related to your new field) offered by your current
employer. Look into gaining experience by doing some volunteer work
at a non-profit. There are many ways to learn without paying.
IN THE CARAVAN: There are many things to consider before returning
to school and many options in how to acquire training.
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The Lion’s Pride: Q & A
