Returning to college as an adult is an exciting prospect. Pursuing higher education and earning a degree or specialized training can open up new career opportunities. It can also equip you with in-demand skills and expand your worldview, all of which help improve your quality of life.
Whether you want to complete a degree you previously started or are looking to embark on a new academic journey, keep reading for practical advice on choosing the right school, breezing through the application process and making the most of your student experience.
Before applying to colleges, we recommend setting aside some time to outline your education and professional goals. It doesn’t have to be an intricately detailed 10-year professional plan, but a general idea of what career path you’d like to pursue and the required degree or specialized training to get there that supports your overall progress.
It may be beneficial to ask yourself the following questions:
Answering these questions or others that you brainstorm highlights what motivates your return to college and clarifies what you should look for in a program and an institution. When you know what you need, it simplifies the process of finding a school that can help you reach your larger academic and professional goals.
Another important next step when preparing to go back to school is to determine what type of degree or educational program you’d like to pursue. Colleges and universities offer a broad range of advanced education programs that vary in content and length. Common program offerings include:
If you have a new career track in mind, be sure to do your research and see what degree or certificate you need. Or, if you’re looking to continue your education and enrich your qualifications, see what type of program complements your academic interests and background.
As an adult learner, your needs differ from those of an 18-year-old student who has just graduated from high school. Likely, you work full-time, have children or have other pressing commitments, so it’s crucial that you look for schools—as well as degree programs—that have flexible program formats. Many colleges offer a broad range of course options like evening and weekend classes or empower you to learn in a hybrid or online format. These convenient offerings empower you to progress toward your degree while saving time.
You could also chat with admissions counselors or faculty members. Connecting with staff and faculty allows you to ask questions and receive more detailed information regarding how this school or program can help you achieve your goals. Plus, it’s always a good idea to start building campus connections early; this can make your transition to life as a student a bit easier.
While you may be deciding between a traditional university or a community college, community colleges give adult learners an accessible pathway back to higher education because of their affordable tuition rates and fees, shorter program lengths, and flexible schedules. If you want to eventually transfer to a four-year university, many community colleges have well-established relationships with local universities, simplifying the transfer process.
Learn about the benefits of attending a community college.
One of the determining factors for you and other adult students deciding to go back to college may be the cost. Earning your degree can be expensive, but it’s important to remember that there are affordable options and that an investment in your education is an investment in yourself.
Adult students can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to receive federal aid like traditional students. There is no age limit when it comes to financial assistance. Federal student loans, grants and scholarships can help reduce the initial cost of attendance and get you one step closer to your degree.
Contacting your school’s financial aid office and chatting with their staff is also beneficial. They can connect you with additional resources, answer your questions about the cost of your education and support you as you navigate how to finance your degree.
Along with pursuing financial assistance opportunities through your college, you can also explore scholarships for adult learners on databases including:
Returning to your college should be an exploratory time when you can discover new interests and an excellent opportunity to develop your expertise in your selected field and beyond.
Most degree programs require general education electives—use these classes to delve into unfamiliar subjects and deepen your understanding of the vast world. If you have additional time and live close to campus, you can join academic clubs or student organizations or attend guest lectures and seminars outside your field to enrich your knowledge.
Personalizing your education helps fuel your passion for learning and maximize your investment in a degree.
Whether learning online or attending classes on campus, you are surrounded by up-and-coming professionals, knowledgeable staff and expert-level faculty. This is the time to actively build your network. The connections you forge in school can lead to internships, potential job opportunities and other exciting career connections.
Besides the potential career impacts, developing meaningful relationships allows you to form a supportive community with your classmates and professors. This creates an invaluable support system, where you can collaborate, challenge one another, and enjoy your time learning and growing together.
Beyond delivering a quality academic experience, most colleges work hard to meet the holistic needs of students. And even though you may not live on campus or study full-time, take full advantage of all the student services available. Schools typically offer a broad range of resources, including career support like résumé writing and interview preparation, access to mental health care, fitness centers and medical services, tutoring and more.
Earn your degree at a pace that works for you. When transitioning back to being a student, be mindful of how much you are taking on and ensure you give yourself enough time to complete your coursework and meaningfully engage with the material.
Your schedule may vary from semester to semester. During some terms, you may take two to three classes at a time, while at other times, you may not be able to take any courses. However, you have the flexibility to determine your schedule and maintain steady progress toward your educational goals. It’s always a good idea to connect with an academic advisor so they can provide you with their well-seasoned insight and help you plan your course load.
Meet a world filled with opportunity at Northampton Community College (NCC). You can pursue your career dreams here through exceptional education, affordable tuition and outstanding faculty support.
Wherever your interests lie, we offer more than 120 degree and certificate programs in on-campus, hybrid and online formats. This empowers you to choose a learning style that complements your schedule without compromising quality.
Take the next step toward a brighter future by applying to NCC today.
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Northampton Community College
3835 Green Pond Road
Bethlehem PA 18020
610.861.5300
