Your Guide to Going Back to School as a Parent
Your Guide to Going Back To School As A Parent
By Kris Louis
If you are a mom or dad that’s been home with the kids for years, you might be ready to think about going back to work. But you likely have questions and concerns: Should I return to my former career? What degrees make the most sense? How can I finish my education while I still have little ones at home? Miraculous Mamas shares how going back to school as a parent might look for those ready to re-enter the workforce in a new or revised role.
Is It Worth It?
One of the first questions many adult learners ask is, “Is it really worth it?” According to CNN, yes! The wage premium — that is, the difference between having a degree and not having a degree — is approximately $30,000 each year. This means that over the course of 10 years, you stand to increase your family's income by $300,000 or more, not including your salary.
Degrees That Makes Sense
When you have children and want to pursue a degree, your first priority should be to find an online program that allows you to work at your own pace. This will give you an opportunity to complete classes after the kids go to bed or on the weekends while they visit grandparents. There are several degrees that make sense for parents, including teaching, business administration, and nursing.
A master’s degree in education can prepare you for a career as a teacher or school administrator. In this role, you will follow the same schedule as your children and, in most districts, can choose where your children go to school. A business degree can set you up to be an entrepreneur. You’ll be able to make your own schedule and work as little or as much as you want. As a nurse, you will be in high demand and can expect a salary of around $77,460 per year.
A Balancing Act
When you plan to go back to school, you have to be realistic about what you can do while also managing your obligations as a parent. Parents suggests consulting with your admissions counselor on the time it should actually take each week to devote to your studies. It may be best to enroll part-time, particularly if you plan to begin in the summer or if your children are not yet school-aged. If the children will be home with you full-time, taking just a few classes each semester shouldn’t significantly interfere with your parenting obligations. Keep in mind that most students spend 17 hours each week studying, so choose your course load wisely.
Finances are another concern, and you have to have a balanced budget when paying for school and supporting a family. If you’ve chosen a teaching career, you may be eligible for assistance via Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education, a grant available for those pursuing a degree in education. Other funding options include low-interest loans, VA assistance, and scholarships, which are often earmarked for adult learners.
The idea of returning to the classroom is a frightening one for those who haven’t seen a whiteboard in a decade or more. But fortunately, online classes mean we can further our education and our careers from anywhere and at any stage of life we may be in. As a parent, going back to school now is more flexible than ever, and can help you set your family up on a fast track to financial security. Do the math, and you may just find that earning a degree is an experience that pays for itself.
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