Thinking about going back to school? Whether you’re looking to change careers or just seeking more education, there are several things to consider before diving into the world of formal education. Here’s how you can make an informed decision.
Do You Actually Need to Go Back to School?
The need for formal education really depends on the career path you want to pursue. For many white-collar jobs, a bachelor’s degree is essential, and a graduate degree might be required for higher-level positions. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to spend four years in a classroom to earn a degree. Programs like CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) allow you to test out of introductory college courses, saving you time and money.
Additionally, you don’t have to put your life on hold. Many schools offer online classes that you can take while juggling your job and other commitments. So, going back to school doesn’t have to be as difficult as it seems.
Your career goals will ultimately guide whether going back to school is the right decision. For instance, if you want to start your own business, you might need certain skills, but formal education may not be necessary. If you’re unsure whether a specific career is worth the additional education, the best approach is to talk to people already in the field. Ask them about their educational journey and whether they’d do anything differently. Their insights can help you decide whether school is the right move for you.
You Might Be Able to Get Free Education
Before assuming you’ll have to pay for school, consider free education options. Many programs help people develop in-demand skills that don’t require a formal degree. For example, coding bootcamps often offer free training programs in web development, which can open doors to IT careers.
There are also workforce development programs provided by your local government that can equip you with valuable skills. You might even find free resources online to learn things like graphic design, video editing, and more. LinkedIn Learning and other platforms offer high-quality courses at no cost, so you can boost your skills without the debt.
Make an Informed Decision
If the idea of going back to school feels overwhelming, take a step back and explore your options. Consider testing out of courses, researching free education programs, and talking to people in your desired field. There are plenty of ways to learn and grow professionally without going back to school full-time.