Historically, there’s been a stereotype that once you enter the workforce, it’s too late to go back and earn a degree that can open up new opportunities. While it is true that it’s challenging to balance full-time school with a career that helps you manage all your financial and social obligations, new resources have made it much easier to re-enter secondary education and earn vital degrees. Even if you’re considering a degree for personal improvement rather than career prospects, it is far more reasonable to accommodate college classes around your life.
Online classes have gained a significant reputation for convenience and lower cost than in-person classes. At the same time, the quality of these programs has improved dramatically to the point where there is virtually no difference in terms of social standing as to whether your university is online or face-to-face. Yet another positive change since before COVID is that more and more universities that were exclusively face-to-face now offer quality online programs.
Determining the Schedule that Works for You
When people start the search for online classes, they often begin by browsing through different schools. However, it’s better to start by considering your schedule. How many classes can you take concurrently without disrupting your life? What is your budget for this program? What days of the week and times of day are you available to take classes?
Answering these questions before searching through schools can help you eliminate programs that may seem attractive but would ultimately not suit your educational needs. Further, these answers can prevent you from being fixated on a “dream school” that cannot accommodate your needs. It’s a good idea to write these questions down and decide your answers before even looking at a “best online schools” list.
Finding the Right School
After you know the degree you’re pursuing and scheduling limitations, you’re ready to search through online schools that could suit your needs. There are many potential schools, but several universities stand out for your consideration:
- University of Arizona Global Campus — This university has taken the step to embrace online education to reach more students fully. It features a full suite of degree programs available, including both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in subjects from the sciences to business, from history to foreign languages.
- George Mason University — Mason Online recently received accolades for being one of the top public online schools. It has continuously expanded its course selections and connected students around the world with qualified professors in nearly every degree field. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses, allowing personalized feedback for students at all levels. This school is also well-suited for those who want to take a few courses purely out of curiosity.
- Ivy League Schools (Harvard, Stanford, etc.) — Unlike some online universities, numerous Ivy League schools have opened up their classrooms to provide premier-level education for anyone interested in studying topics. These courses are free to the public, but as a result, they do not carry the same weight as going through a full program of study.
You can explore different options depending on your interests and what motivates you to return to school. There are hundreds of university programs available, including some that grant degrees or certifications with minimal costs. Some seniors have opted to try out the free courses at Harvard or other universities to get back into the swing of things before committing to a full program at another school.
For Those Who Already Have College Credits
Many people didn’t finish their degrees before entering the workforce full-time for various reasons. What many of those people don’t realize is that the credits earned years or even decades earlier may still apply to programs that are presently available online. If you have previously attended university, even for just a few semesters, you should check in with that school to get a transcript. This transcript can potentially save you thousands of dollars, as your new school will likely accept those classes and let you save time.
Regardless of your situation, there’s an online school for you. The right program can make a huge difference in preparing you to succeed in your goals. Whether you’re seeking the accomplishment of earning a degree or just trying to expand your understanding of the world, online colleges have opened new doors for seniors that otherwise couldn’t attend full university programs.