There are now far more adults pursuing college and graduate school degrees than ever in history.
The reasons are fairly straightforward. First, the wide availability of online education makes it possible for adults to pursue a degree online without interrupting their careers.
Next, it is now easier than ever for adults to qualify for financial aid, especially for online education. Twenty years ago, almost no aid was available to students enrolled in online degree programs or distance education.
Another factor responsible for the growing number of adults returning to higher education is the greatly increased acceptance of online degrees. Several recent surveys have found that employers are more likely than in past years to view an online degree as being valuable.
Another big change in the higher education world that has contributed to the surge in adults furthering their education is the increased awarding of college course credit for life experience. The fact that credit for life experience reduces students' costs and the time it takes them to complete a degree provides a major incentive to many.
Of course, with more and more universities offering late afternoon, evening, and weekend classes, not all working adults are studying online. Many are returning to campuses throughout the United States.
Convenience, the availability of scholarships and financial aid, the growth of online education, and other factors have been major contributors to the huge growth of adult higher education. But, most adults currently enrolled in degree programs will tell you the primary reason for their return to school is to acquire the skills and credentials necessary for career advancement.
Whatever your reason(s) for considering a return to school, be aware that you are living in a world where there are far more good educational options available to adults than ever before.
The reasons are fairly straightforward. First, the wide availability of online education makes it possible for adults to pursue a degree online without interrupting their careers.
Next, it is now easier than ever for adults to qualify for financial aid, especially for online education. Twenty years ago, almost no aid was available to students enrolled in online degree programs or distance education.
Another factor responsible for the growing number of adults returning to higher education is the greatly increased acceptance of online degrees. Several recent surveys have found that employers are more likely than in past years to view an online degree as being valuable.
Another big change in the higher education world that has contributed to the surge in adults furthering their education is the increased awarding of college course credit for life experience. The fact that credit for life experience reduces students' costs and the time it takes them to complete a degree provides a major incentive to many.
Of course, with more and more universities offering late afternoon, evening, and weekend classes, not all working adults are studying online. Many are returning to campuses throughout the United States.
Convenience, the availability of scholarships and financial aid, the growth of online education, and other factors have been major contributors to the huge growth of adult higher education. But, most adults currently enrolled in degree programs will tell you the primary reason for their return to school is to acquire the skills and credentials necessary for career advancement.
Whatever your reason(s) for considering a return to school, be aware that you are living in a world where there are far more good educational options available to adults than ever before.
About the Author:
Daniel Z. Kane is an experienced college admissions director, dean, and counselor whose websites offer information on online degree programs and online college degrees.
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