I’ve chosen my education program – now what?

If you’re taking a look at this article because you just chose a new educational program at a nearby technical college, congratulations. You took the first step in making yourself more marketable and successful. There are a few more things you have to consider now to keep you headed in the right direction.

What should I consider when choosing a program?

• Accreditation, ranking and reputation of the college program
Accreditation can help with more than just the quality of the education you’ll be receiving. If your school is fully accredited, this will help because it also means your school participates in the Title IV student aid program. If you want to find out more about your school’s accreditation, you can find this at the web sites for the Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report or Kiplinger.

• Financing
What kind of financial aid is available? Does your school offer any specific scholarships targeted toward adult students? Even if your school isn’t fully accredited for federal aid programs, your particular school might have other options that will ease the burden as you concentrate on your studies. Schedule an appointment to speak with your school’s financial aid office to find out the details. Are the college’s tuition and expenses affordable? It may sound complicated, but it is very important.

• Transfer Credits
Does your college accept all transfer credits?
How many and what kind?
Does it provide options for receiving college credit by examination or prior learning?

Transfer credits are especially important if you are interested in graduate school or an advanced degree. Speak with your admissions counselor immediately to make sure the program is fully transferable and meets all requirements. This can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

• Scheduling
Make certain that all your courses are presented at acceptable times for your schedule. Working adults, especially adults with family obligations, should seek out available night and weekend courses. The most convenient option for busy adults is the online degree program. These programs can be done in your home (or wherever you have an Internet connection), and many allow you to finish on your schedule. Is an online program for you? Here are a few questions you should ask yourself before you sign up for one.

• Staff
Does your chosen school require your instructors to be available for questions or extra help for a specific amount of time each week? Your admissions office should be able to tell you when your professors are available after class hours. Use your admissions office as a frequent source of information.

• Childcare
The college offers a community and support for adult students, but do they offer other convenient services such as childcare? Many technical and community colleges these days recognize the needs of the large returning-student population and will cater to their needs to keep them in class.