College graduates qualify for new career opportunities and often earn higher salaries than professionals without a degree. But returning to college can pose challenges.
This guide offers important information for anyone considering returning to college, including how to research prospective schools and apply for financial aid. Our guide also explains how students can maximize their prior experiences to save time and money on a college degree.
The Realities of Returning to College
Sometimes, myths and imagined barriers stop adults from returning to college. Here are some common myths about returning to school and the reality of these myths.
In 2018, nearly 7 million college students enrolled in online courses and over 3 million enrolled in fully online degree programs. Online learning makes college more accessible for many students.
Working adults often prefer online learning because they can arrange coursework around their schedule and save time and money on commuting to school. Additionally, online students can attend top programs around the country without relocating. Plus, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students.
Online colleges typically offer services to help ensure student success, such as academic advising, counseling services, and library access.
Returning to School Checklist
This section outlines important considerations for students considering returning to college. Review these steps to restart your college journey on a strong foundation.
Applying Credits and Experience Toward a Degree
Bachelor's degree programs typically require around 120 credits, which take most full-time students four years to earn. However, returning students can often receive credit for work experience, prior college courses, and credit by exam. By maximizing these credits, students can shorten the time to earn their degree and save money.
Expert Interview
When considering going back to school, there are a number of things to consider depending on each individual student's circumstance. Some questions I have my students ask themselves when thinking about going back to school are:
- Are you in a position to move if the program you want to study is outside of your locale?
- Does the local community college offer the program you are looking for? Each community college has a transfer center you can connect with to ensure that all of your credits transfer smoothly, if your end goal is a bachelor's degree.
- Meet with an academic advisor even before applying to go over the steps to apply, programs of study, and what to expect. Most academic advisement offices are happy to meet with prospective students — don't feel the need to apply first!
I think that many students get confused about the required courses for general education, specifically English and math requirements. Most students want to jump right in to classes they are more interested in, but those gateway courses in math and English are often prerequisites for other classes. Students really need to think about taking these classes early on so that they don't get hung up on completing a degree.
Generally, I hear about students who weren't sure where to start, but there are always people willing to help. Reach out to the academic advisement office to schedule a time (in person, online, or over the phone) to talk about any questions you have. That is what offices like myself are here to do: get students started on a path to goal attainment, whatever that goal may be.
Education opens so many doors. Don't let hesitation and fear hold you back from at least speaking to someone about the many opportunities out there. This can mean speaking to an academic advisor, faculty member, or financial aid advisor. Get all the information you can before deciding that it just isn't for you! Particularly at the local community colleges, we believe in accessibility at all levels. Get in touch with someone today.
Dr. Natalie Brown has been working in higher education for over 10 years. She particularly enjoys working with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. She oversees the academic advisement office and the International Services team at Truckee Meadows Community College. She is committed to helping students identify their interests and achieve their academic and personal goals.