Learners can speak with financial aid, transfer, and career advisors. Top schools offer many online and campus resources for students attending college as an adult. Other ways to learn more about a major or class include reading a school’s academic catalog. These documents introduce class topics and expectations. Applicants can find contact information on an academic department’s website.Īpplicants who cannot connect with a professor directly should see whether they post syllabi or other materials online. Making a connection helps prospective students learn more about a major’s academic experience and requirements. This experience introduces learners to student services, such as career and transfer advising.Ĭollege applicants who know what they want to study can contact professors in that field. Top schools offer recent high school graduates and adult students a virtual or in-person orientation. Many schools offer online tours and information sessions, letting applicants connect with admissions staff and ask questions.
Advantages include meeting admissions counselors and faculty. Prospective on-campus and online students should consider taking a college tour. These professionals assist students with the application process and ensure they complete all admissions steps by the deadline. Degree-seekers can earn this credit by submitting a work portfolio or taking an exam.Ĭolleges recommend that adult applicants contact the admissions department for one-on-one help. Some colleges let students earn credit for prior knowledge. Steps may include taking a placement test. Many schools use special application steps for adult applicants. People find this information by taking a campus tour and contacting faculty. They should also learn about financial aid opportunities. Prospective students should research potential schools’ admission requirements and campus resources. What to Consider When Returning to School as an Adult Many programs’ asynchronous formats let degree-seekers view lectures and do assignments when convenient.įind a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school. In these programs, students complete coursework from anywhere and do not commute to campus. Many top schools feature online programs.
Working full time or raising children does not need to prevent adults from attending college.
Most certificates take under a year to finish. Other options include certificate programs. Second bachelor’s programs also feature a shorter curriculum. Adult learners wanting to earn a degree faster should research accelerated programs.
Graduate students in a master’s program may need 2-3 years. Most students spend four or more years earning a bachelor’s degree. These degrees help students change their job, reenter the workforce, or qualify for graduate school. Prospective degree-seekers with a bachelor’s should research second bachelor’s programs. Many junior and community colleges offer career-aligned degrees and certificates to learners without a college education. Some adults return to school to change their career. These professionals offer information on which degrees and certificates can help workers advance their career. Workers thinking about returning to school as an adult should contact their employer’s human resources (HR) department. However, companies’ policies and requirements differ. Will a Degree Help My Current Career?Ī degree may qualify an employee for a promotion or raise. They should also figure out how long they want to spend in school. Prospective students thinking about attending college as an adult should ask themselves how education may impact their career. Questions to Ask When Going Back to School School websites feature contact information for admissions, academic, and financial aid counselors. The final section highlights 10 schools with college programs for adults. We also discuss accreditation’s importance. This article covers questions to ask about returning to school as an adult and applying to programs. Many schools offer on-campus and online college programs for adults. Higher education also appeals to retired workers wanting to learn new things. Some professionals need a degree to stay at their current job. Attending college as an adult may bring many benefits, including job opportunities, promotions, or raises.