5 Continuing Education Options to Know
College graduation doesn’t have to mark the end of our journey with education. Learning is a lifelong process, and it’s one that takes many different forms.
Each year, more people turn to continuing education to enrich their personal and professional lives. As an adult learner, it’s worth being aware of your options for continuing education. They include—but aren’t limited to—the following.
1. Certificate programs
Certificate programs can provide you with the resources you need to improve specific skill sets, such as editing, marketing, and programming. And many people prefer certificate programs for their affordable and relaxed nature. Their flexible course formats, in particular, have contributed to their popularity.
Certificate programs can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the specifics of each program and the institution hosting it. However, these figures are still relatively low when compared to tuition costs for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
2. International classes
Studying abroad isn’t just for college and high school students. Through companies like Education First, you can spend time abroad to learn a foreign language, for instance. Such companies offer a range of programs in different countries—the goals, duration, and cost of which vary to suit individual needs. If you want to learn in an exciting new environment and from a totally different perspective, consider studying internationally.
3. Online courses
Online courses are a great opportunity for those with family commitments, limited transportation, or an unusual schedule. Much of the allure of online classes stems from their flexibility. Some online courses require students to sign on for live lectures, but many instead base participation grades on forum discussions or other asynchronous activities.
One example: massive open online courses, or MOOCs, are classes that are available to the public at no or little cost. However, because MOOCs often lack instructors and are self-paced, it’s worth noting that they require a high degree of self-discipline.
4. Volunteer service training
Many volunteer programs not only offer specialized training—they may also require it. The benefits of engaging in volunteer work are numerous: you make a positive impact on others, all the while learning something new, making contacts, and bolstering your resume.
Ample volunteer openings are available to you both abroad and locally. For example, the Peace Corps is a well-respected government agency that places volunteers across the globe to assist in non-profit healthcare, sanitation, agriculture, and education initiatives. If you want to volunteer in the United States, you can inquire at places like a local hospital or library about openings.
5. Conferences
Periodic conferences can be an outstanding option for working professionals and others who have a desire to learn but who cannot commit to structured programs. By attending conferences, you can stay abreast of the latest research and breakthroughs in a range of different fields. You also get the chance to travel, network, and, in some instances, participate in useful workshops after the lecture is over.
Continuing your education is a commendable effort that will surely be worth your time. Before opting for one continuing education route over another, research and weigh all the possibilities.
Tiffany Sorensen holds a Master of Science in Spanish-English Translation from New York University. She works remotely from sunny Mexico, where she gives English and Spanish classes, writes educational articles, and designs practice tests for the ACT.