Top 3 Things to Consider When Going Back to School While Working

Going back to school can make all the difference in your career journey. Kudos to you for thinking about making the leap. Continuing your education and upskilling by earning a degree or certificate is a great way to boost your value in the workforce and progress in your career. 

Taking the first step is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mindset and a little motivation, your education journey can fit nicely into your current lifestyle. Here are three important factors to consider as you make your plan. 

Time commitment

Going back to school while working will be a juggling act, no matter your life circumstances. If you have family responsibilities, a job that requires extra hours, or other commitments, adding school into the mix could add more stress and be difficult to manage. However, the balancing act is often worth it. It just takes preparation, flexibility, and commitment. 

Here are some questions you’ll want to ask yourself before you commit: 

1. What kind of time commitment works best for me? Do I have the time to take multiple courses at once, or do I need a program that is more spaced out and flexible? 

2. What about location? Do I want an all-online program, an in-person program, or a hybrid program? 

3. If I’m taking classes in person, how will the commute affect my daily routine? 

4. Do I want to take classes or do my coursework on weekday evenings, or do weekends work better for me? 

5. How do I manage my time? Am I used to keeping a detailed calendar, planner, or to-do list? 

6. How do I deal with competing priorities in my life? Do my family and friends support my endeavor? Does my employer know I’m going back to school? 

Career path

Your main goal when pursuing education is to open the door to your career, and ultimately, your life. By building skills, growing your network, and earning a certificate or degree, you’ll set yourself apart from others in your field. 

It also demonstrates the value you can add to your company. Even though going back to school may seem like an obvious next step, you’ll want to make sure you’re going back for the right reasons. 

Here are some questions to consider: 

• Where would you like your educational journey to lead you? What is your ultimate goal? What do you hope going back to school will help you achieve? 
• Does the program you have selected align with your professional goals? 
• Have you studied the career paths of others in your industry? Have others achieved the success you hope to find by following a path similar to the one you’re considering?

Cost and value

Last, but certainly not least, you’ll want to think about the cost. Going back to school costs you time and money. You need to make sure you’re clear on why education is your priority. 

You may have a tuition assistance program, or access to discounts through a benefit at work that helps you cover the cost of going back to school. If you don’t, there are more options than you think when it comes to paying for your continued education. 

Here are a few more questions to ask yourself: 

• Can you afford the degree you are pursuing? Are you paying for it out-of-pocket, or will you take out a loan? 
• Have you explored financial assistance options? Does your employer offer a tuition reimbursement program? If not, have you considered making a special request? 

In conclusion

Pursuing your education can be incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally. You can focus on your development in a way that you often don’t in the workplace. Taking the time, making a plan, and keeping your goals in mind will allow you to navigate your education journey smoothly. Always remember, going back to school doesn’t have to be a burden with the right support and resources in place. By asking yourself those big questions and coming to answers that feel right for you, your continued education will empower your next chapter of growth.