Things You'll Need:
- Determination,
- Focus,
- Time management skills,
- Time in your schedule
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Step 1
Decide exactly why you are going back and how a degree will help your career. Set your goal realistically. Young adults coming out of high school don't always plan their career path to line up with their major, but you probably won't have that luxery. The good news is that you should have a much better idea of what a degree will and will not do for you after being out in the job force for awhile.
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Step 2
Be sure you can make the time. Unlike a job where you clock out at the end of a shift, you will need to schedule addition time for studying. If you have a family to take care of, you will need to make sure you have their support.
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Step 3
Research your target schools for commuting distance, cost, and schedule compatibility. A community college or extension program is a great option for some degrees or for taking prerequisites for larger schools at a cheaper rate. Let's face it: getting the degree is the important part, not the prestige of the institution. Do check the accreditation of any school before applying, especially if it is an online program.
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Step 4
Get your financial arrangements made carefully and early. This isn't like the first time around.
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Step 5
Check with your current employer to see if they offer an Employer Tuition Assistance program. Your return to school might be paid for through your work, making it that much easier. These programs are more common than ever.
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Step 6
Look for alternate sources of text books and supplies, such as used or online stores or postings on campus bulletin boards.
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Step 7
Leave your past in the past. Resuming an education can feel at first like a step backward. Put your old views and old habits behind you if they are holding you back.
