Whether you are someone who completed school but is considering going back to further your education or you had to drop out as a result of life circumstances, the question about whether or not to go back is one that may be holding you back. Individuals who are in their mid to late 20s or in their 30s may believe that it is too late for them to go back or that they are no longer in need of education at this point in their career. Regardless of your current circumstances, there are always opportunities out there for you. Should you go back to school in your 20s or 30s? If you find yourself asking this question, here are your options.
1. Consider Taking Online Classes if Your Schedule Is Too Hectic
Once you establish a solid weekly schedule, take on more responsibility at your current job, and learn how to balance your other life responsibilities, the thought of going back to college can seem overwhelming. That said, going to college can be a valuable way to advance your career and learn skills that you would be unable to acquire anywhere else. So, what are you supposed to do? The good news is that college is no longer restricted to a specific campus. The success of the online college industry has opened up the doors for other universities and services to bring your education to your doorstep. If you want to take classes on your time and avoid the hassle of traveling to a campus every day, look into online opportunities by taking an online learning self-assessment to get started.
2. Pursue Trade Programs and Certifications
If you are someone who is advance your current career, you may not necessarily need to go out of your way to go back to college. While education is still necessary, you can pursue trade programs and certificates instead. Say, for example, that you work as a mechanic and have managed to work your way up to a point where you must learn more in order to move forward. Rather than pursuing a college degree, you can look for automotive and diesel certifications instead. These certificates will show employers that you have received the necessary education to work with more complex vehicles and related technology. Using this method rather than pursuing a degree, you save yourself a significant amount of time and money along the way as well!
3. Try Online Courses and Related Certificate Courses
Along with online college, there are a number of online course websites that offer you the ability to take single classes that will provide you with a verified certificate afterward. While this is not a suitable alternative to an online or in-person degree (or licenses for certain businesses), it does demonstrate to employers that you have learned the skills necessary to handle processes that your job requires of you. Besides these options, there are also organizations and individuals who offer their own certification courses, which are often extensive and will give you a more comprehensive overview of your field of study. Keep in mind that not all certification courses are designed to give you more opportunities in your career. If you are only looking to learn new skills, any online class or course will do. If you are looking to advance your career, pay close attention to what your chosen certification course accomplishes it and who offers the certificate.
It is never too late to go back to college or continue your education and for some, they are in a situation where it only makes sense. If you are in your 20s and 30s and need to go back to college in order to advance your career, take a look at the 3 options above to learn more about how you can get started!
