Many adults feel limited in their career options because of past decisions. For some, college didn’t seem like the right choice immediately after high school or returning from military service.  People may have taken jobs out of necessity and worked in positions that didn’t align with their passions or long-term goals; this may have been the case for you. What can add to this feeling is the mistaken belief that they have missed their chance to go to school and earn a degree, either because it is too expensive, too time-consuming, or simply unworkable with their lifestyle and responsibilities. But here’s the truth: It’s not too late to go back to school. 

More working adults are re-enrolling in college—whether to finish a degree or to start one for the first time. While the experience of attending college as an adult is different, that doesn’t mean it is any less rewarding or worthwhile.  

The Post-Pandemic Society Has Embraced Remote Opportunities for Education 

Adult learners often juggle full-time jobs, housing expenses and caregiving responsibilities while going to school. But the landscape is changing. 

The COVID-19 pandemic and emerging shift to hybrid or fully remote learning has led to a resurgence of interest in college, opening the door to students with difficult schedules or those who are outside the ‘traditional’ college age range of 18-24. Flexible formats have made it easier for nontraditional students to fit their studies into their schedule. At the same time, shifting public perception has made it more acceptable — and even inspiring — for adults to return to school. Here are some of the reasons more people are choosing to go to college well into adulthood: 

Adults Consider Going Back to College Because a Degree Still Pays Off  

Attending college offers some undeniable advantages: greater career opportunities, better financial outcomes, and invaluable connections to other students and professors. 

Higher Education Remains a Key Component of Career Advancement 

While a degree is not essential to pursue a rewarding career, the numbers show that students who earn a bachelor’s degree typically make more and have greater job flexibility when it comes to obtaining new job opportunities. This is also true for professional certification and licensing programs or trade schools, which often help with job placement and professional networking.  

Even if you are not looking to go to college purely for your career advancement, attending college can be a meaningful way to study topics you are passionate about—with the support, guidance and access to subject matter experts and academic resources.  

Remote Studies and Flexible Scheduling Have Made College More Accessible 

Thanks to online programs, asynchronous classes and schools that tailor offerings to student needs, more adults can find programs that fit their lives. A growing number of schools are able and willing to work with the unique needs and responsibilities of each student to help them complete their program and requirements. Balancing work, parenting and other responsibilities are realities for adult students, and more institutions are adapting, along with resources developing, to help learners succeed.  

There is a Better Transition into Student Life and Collaboration 

One reason many adults hesitate to return to college is the fear that they will not ‘fit in’ with college-age students and will thus struggle to collaborate and communicate in a way that enriches their educational experience. However, the paradigm shift of remote learning and the changes in student age demographics at flexible schools mean that older students are much more likely to find peers with whom they share similar life experiences, responsibilities and perspectives. This has made the ‘college experience’ much more welcoming, as it fosters an environment that encourages older students to draw from their life experiences as adults in an academic context. Adult students also bring valuable perspectives into academic discussions—enhancing the learning experience for everyone. 

Get your Degree at Columbia Southern University 

At Columbia Southern University, we work continually to design and improve our degree programs in ways that support students of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their goals. Our remote learning and flexible approach are designed to fit your schedule.  

Whether you’re looking to change careers, finish what you started or pursue a lifelong passion, we’re here to support your journey. Explore our degree program offerings to learn more. 

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.