Should You Go Back to College After University? Here’s How to Decide
Graduating from university is a major milestone, but for many, it’s just the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and growth. If you’ve found yourself wondering whether to return to college after earning your degree, you’re not alone. Whether it’s to switch careers, gain specialized skills, or pursue a passion, the decision to re-enroll is deeply personal. Let’s break down the factors to consider so you can make a choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Start by Clarifying Your “Why”
Before diving into logistics, ask yourself: What’s driving this desire to go back? Common motivations include:
1. Career Transition: Maybe your current degree isn’t opening doors in your desired field. For example, an engineering graduate might want to pivot to psychology.
2. Skill Gaps: Industries like tech, healthcare, or finance often require certifications or hands-on training that a general degree might not provide.
3. Passion Projects: Some return to study subjects they love but didn’t prioritize earlier, like art history or environmental science.
4. Economic Shifts: Rapid changes in job markets (e.g., AI, sustainability) might push professionals to upskill.
If your reason feels vague—like “I just miss being a student”—pause and reflect. College demands time, money, and energy, so clarity is key.
Weigh the Practical Realities
Returning to college isn’t just an intellectual decision; it’s a financial and logistical one. Ask:
1. Can You Afford It?
Tuition costs vary widely. Public colleges often offer lower fees, while private institutions may charge premium prices. Explore scholarships, employer reimbursement programs, or part-time work opportunities. If you’re taking loans, calculate repayment timelines and interest rates.
2. How Will You Manage Time?
Balancing studies with work or family can be tough. Many colleges now offer hybrid or online programs for flexibility. If you’re considering full-time study, ensure you have savings or a support system to cover living expenses.
3. What’s the Opportunity Cost?
Time spent in college is time not spent gaining work experience or building a career. For example, a two-year MBA might delay promotions or salary growth. Weigh these trade-offs against the potential benefits of the degree.
Research the Return on Investment (ROI)
Not all degrees guarantee career advancement. To assess ROI:
– Talk to Alumni: Connect with graduates from the program you’re considering. Did it help them land jobs? What salaries are typical?
– Check Job Listings: Look at roles you want. Do they require—or prefer—the degree you’re pursuing?
– Consider Alternatives: Certifications, bootcamps, or online courses might offer similar skills at a lower cost. For instance, coding bootcamps like General Assembly often lead to tech jobs faster than a traditional CS degree.
Address the Emotional Hurdles
Returning to school later in life can stir up doubts:
– “Am I Too Old?”: Age is less relevant than ever. Many colleges welcome “non-traditional” students. In fact, life experience can enrich classroom discussions.
– “What If I Fail?”: Fear of failure is natural, but structured programs often provide academic support. Start with a single course to test your confidence.
– “Will I Fit In?”: Campuses are increasingly diverse. You’ll likely find peers in similar situations, from parents balancing family life to career changers.
Create a Decision Framework
Still stuck? Use this step-by-step approach:
1. Self-Assessment
Write down your short- and long-term goals. How does another degree fit into this vision?
2. Industry Research
Interview professionals in your target field. Ask: “Is this degree necessary, or can I learn on the job?”
3. Consult Mentors
Discuss your plans with professors, career counselors, or trusted colleagues. They might highlight angles you’ve overlooked.
4. Financial Planning
Draft a budget that includes tuition, living costs, and potential income loss. Tools like spreadsheets or apps (e.g., Mint) can help visualize the impact.
5. Test the Waters
Enroll in a community college course or attend a seminar in your field of interest. This low-risk step can clarify whether further study is worthwhile.
Real-Life Scenarios: When It Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)
Case 1: The Career Switcher
Maria, a marketing graduate, worked in advertising but felt unfulfilled. After volunteering at a nonprofit, she realized she wanted to work in public health. A master’s in public health (MPH) gave her credibility and connections to transition into the field.
Case 2: The Lifelong Learner
John, a history graduate, loved teaching but wanted to specialize in museum curation. A second degree in art history allowed him to land his dream job at a national museum.
Case 3: The Cost-Benefit Dilemma
Sarah, an IT professional, considered an MBA to move into management. After realizing her company promoted internally based on experience—not degrees—she opted for leadership workshops instead.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to return to college isn’t about following a preset path—it’s about designing your own. If your goals align with the skills a degree provides, and you’ve mapped out the practicalities, taking the leap could be transformative. However, if uncertainty lingers, explore alternatives like internships, freelance projects, or short-term certifications. Education is a tool, not a destination. Whether you choose to go back or forge ahead with experience, what matters most is intentionality and adaptability.
Take your time, crunch the numbers, and trust your instincts. After all, you’re not just investing in a degree—you’re investing in the future you want to build.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Should You Go Back to College After University