Considering going back to school as an adult? If you’re weighing the pros and cons, here’s a breakdown of why thousands of adults are making the leap—and why it might be worth it for you too.
1. Increase Your Earning Power
We live in a world where inflation is rising, and so are the costs of everything from groceries to healthcare. A degree doesn’t solve all financial struggles, but it can open the door to higher-paying opportunities. For working adults, earning a degree means being able to pay the bills with less stress, supporting your family, or even saving for the future. Degrees today are more flexible than ever, so you don’t need to quit your job or uproot your life to get started. Schools now offer online programs and part-time options tailored to busy adults.
2. Build Career Stability
The job market is constantly evolving. Roles that seemed stable a decade ago are now being replaced by automation or shrinking industries. Returning to school gives you the skills and qualifications to weather these changes and find more secure positions, whether in your current field or a new one.
Many adult learners return to school after layoffs, career pivots, or promotions that require new certifications. It’s not just about “upskilling”—it’s about staying relevant in a world where career stability feels increasingly rare.
3. Take Control of Rising Job Requirements
Gone are the days when experience alone could carry you up the career ladder. Today, many employers see a degree as the baseline requirement for jobs that didn’t need one a decade ago. If you’ve hit a ceiling at work, it might not be because of your abilities—it might simply be the lack of that diploma.
Returning to school gives you the qualifications to break through those barriers. It’s less about adding letters after your name and more about having the credentials employers expect so you can move forward with confidence.
4. Set Yourself (and Your Family) Up for a Better Future
For many adult learners, going back to school isn’t just about their own goals—it’s about creating a better future for their families. Higher earnings can mean more stability for your kids, whether that’s saving for their college education or simply being able to afford extracurricular activities and family vacations.
Beyond the financial benefits, you’ll also set an example for your children (or other family members). Studies show that when parents go to college, their kids are more likely to follow suit. You’re not just pursuing a goal for yourself—you’re modeling what’s possible for the next generation.
Discover how learners like Alex, Tonya, and Andrey have transformed their futures and inspired their families by taking the next step in their education.
5. Reclaim Your Confidence (And Prove You Can Do It)
Life doesn’t always go as planned. Maybe you started college and had to stop because life got in the way. Maybe you’ve always wondered if you could handle the challenge but didn’t have the time or resources to try. Returning to school as an adult isn’t just about the degree—it’s about reclaiming that part of yourself that knows you can accomplish big things.
Earning your degree now, as an adult, comes with a deeper sense of pride and fulfillment. You’re doing it on your terms, for reasons that matter to you, and that’s something no one can take away.
The Bottom Line
Is it worth it to go back to school as an adult? Only you can answer that. But if you’re looking for better pay, stronger career options, and a chance to create a more secure future, education can be a game-changer. And the best part? It’s never too late to start. Today’s programs are designed for adults with real responsibilities—offering flexibility, support, and a path forward no matter where you’re starting from. The question isn’t just whether it’s worth it—but whether you’re ready to invest in a future that’s worth even more.
