Traditional colleges offer working adults the opportunity to sharpen skills with a couple of courses or to earn an advanced degree. However, inflexible course schedules may make on-campus class attendance impossible for full-time workers. Many colleges offer degree programs for working adults that allow for some or all of the coursework to be done online. Some well-established Creative Writing MFA programs also offer a low-residency option, which brings students together on campus for approximately two weeks each semester, while the rest of the semester is conducted online or via email.
Not all adult students are looking for degree programs or courses that earn college credit. For these learners, community centers offer a wide range of classes focusing on topics such as marketing, computer skills, business planning, art, music, writing and foreign languages. While some of these classes are designed for seniors who need to learn technology basics before re-entering the workforce, many community centers offer advanced classes for those currently working who wish to learn new skills or hone those they already have.
Continuing education classes include those designed purely to enrich your life. You can enjoy lessons in art, cooking, dance, gardening, athletics, writing or woodworking; classes are available in almost anything you’ve ever wanted to learn. Enrichment can also be more than entertaining. Some of the world’s top universities, such as Princeton, Brown, Rutgers and Columbia, offer free online classes in everything from economics and genetics to art and music. You can’t earn a degree with these classes, but you’ll have access to all the lectures, an online homework exchange, and a course completion certificate when you finish successfully.
Whether attending relaxed classes that focus on fun or enrolled in courses with rigorous academic standards, continuing education is always beneficial. Many employers look favorably on personnel who demonstrate a willingness to learn through continuing education as proactive employees on the top of their game. With new skills and an enriched, well-rounded resume, continuing education for working adults can lead to promotions, raises and even new careers.