Earn More Money, Esteem. Go Back to School

After advanced training, adults report higher labor market value, raises, and career perks*. Education boosts the brain and self-esteem, too. Most adults report improved knowledge and skills in addition to a raise. School and your schedule might not be a good match, but don't toss the idea without exploring some options.

Types of Education

Bricks, mortar and chalkboards are still the norm, but not the main game in town. On-line colleges have surged, earned accreditation, and leveled the playing field.

Educational programs exist on-line, nights and weekends at most colleges. Google "on-line degree programs" and prepare to be wowed. Browse and learn. Find college websites and read their Extended Programs or Continuing Education sections.

Self-starter plus on-line course equals good fit; so don't jump into this format unless you can keep up. On-line course formats come in two major modes: Synchronous and asynchronous. In synchronous mode, everybody works at the same time, but all attend class at home via computer. In asynchronous mode, you pace yourself on-line. You are the boss. Self-starters should pick asynchronous modes. Others should pick synchronous. The only caveat; instructors can blend methods making it harder to find the perfect fit.

Degrees

If you went from prep to grind without college, then you might need some work. Find the Dean of Instruction at a community college and discuss starting a degree. The Dean knows the "articulation" specs, the agreement with other colleges for transfer credits.

Articulation is a big issue with state governments, so most institutions have a plan. The plan should be: College Algebra equals College Algebra at both locations. No negotiation. The plan wasn't always this easy in the past.

The four-year college fray as a non-traditional student drains the senses and the wallet. Take courses from a community college first; get familiar with the system, and save some money.

Some Associates degrees train you for the job without much of the four-year degree requirements. It seems quicker, but be careful. Some Associates degrees fail the articulation test for transfer.

Community colleges also offer certificate programs so you can get what you need and get out fast. If you aren't worried about a degree, explore a certificate program in Computer Automated Drafting, Culinary Arts, or even Global Positioning Systems to name a few. The offerings are huge these days and all of them energize the gray cells.

Costs

Costs vary. Average tuition and fees for a four-year experience can rank around $7,300 per year, with community colleges significantly lower at an average cost of $1,800*. That hurts, but these are just national averages. Lower cost programs are out there. You will also find some on-line colleges that are expensive and cost prohibitive. If your company does not pay for continuing education, then browse the local community college. Pick up a catalog and a schedule of classes. You may find cheaper on-line and classroom options.

*National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Career/Technical Education Statistics for 2003-2004.

Learn more about this author, Noel Bell.
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