Receiving a graduate degree from an online program offers flexibility for older adults who may not be able to commit to full-time graduate school. Online programs can be more affordable than traditional programs. Established schools often offer online graduate programs, so you can take classes from a well-known program without moving across the country. However, if you are not well-versed in using computers and Internet-based systems, online graduate school may prove more frustrating than useful. In addition, if you are interested in an area of study where hands-on experience is imperative, carefully research online programs to ensure you receive appropriate job training.
Check local universities in your area for graduate programs, both online and traditional. Having an accessible personal connection to your program can help when difficulties arise either with a course of study or with online systems. If that is not applicable, online searches provide thorough information about online graduate programs. One website, distance-gradschools.com allows prospective students to search master's degrees by category and subcategory, and then request information from specific schools that meet search requirements. Once you find potential schools, visit their websites to learn more about the school and program.
Some graduate programs offer nighttime classes for students working through graduate school. This alternative to full-time graduate school can assuage some of the need for loans to pay for graduate school. But graduate school asks more of a student than undergraduate work, so assess your ability to balance the workload before committing to a program. Committing to both work and school may extend the time it takes to complete a graduate program, but with night and Saturday classes, that goal is easily obtainable.
Receiving a teaching certificate offers the opportunity to move into a new career while utilizing prior college education and work experience. Many young people major in education in college, or go to graduate school to receive teaching certification, but in the past 30 years, alternative teaching certification programs arose due to high demand for teachers. This alternative program intends to fill needed teaching positions in specific areas of the country, so connecting to a local school community is important in seeking an alternative teaching certification. In return, your local certification program will train you on state and local education standards, and your local connection may lead to a teaching job.