Choosing the Program That Matches Your Goals
Returning to college as an adult is a unique, rewarding and challenging endeavor. If you’ve decided to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree as an adult learner, congratulations! You’ve taken a significant first step toward gaining new skills, advancing your career and living up to your highest potential.
Now comes the next step — choosing the program that’s right for you.
Your goals and ambitions shape your academic pursuits. Whether you're hitting a skill ceiling in your current field, aiming for a career change or higher salary, or pursuing a lifelong passion, selecting the right program requires careful consideration. Here are key things to keep top of mind when choosing your academic program.
- Goals and Objectives: Start by defining your academic and career goals as clearly as possible. What do you hope to achieve by returning to school? Where do you see yourself once you have your new degree in hand? Consider taking a career aptitude or assessment test to help discern your goals.
- Program Fit: Look for programs that offer specific courses, field experiences, or faculty expertise that match your area of interest. Admissions counselors are knowledgeable experts who can help steer you toward a degree that matches your goals — or suggest programs you weren’t even aware of that may be a great fit.
- Reputation and Accreditation: Research the rankings, reputation and accreditation of the program and college. Regis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, while many of our individual programs have received the stamp of approval from respected industry associations.
- Flexibility: Consider the flexibility of the program, especially if you’re juggling a full-time job, parenting duties or other responsibilities. Online, evening and part-time options are available for the vast majority of adult undergraduate and graduate programs at Regis.
- Career Opportunities: Research the job market and potential career opportunities in your chosen field of study. Will a degree help you advance in your current career or start a new one? What is the likely return on investment (ROI) of tuition costs versus increased earning potential?
- Networking Opportunities: Networking can be crucial for career advancement and is often just as, if not more, important than the skills gained in the classroom. Consider whether your program offers opportunities to connect with industry professionals, distinguished faculty and alumni, peers and mentors. Some may even grant you access to exclusive events and organizations.
- Student Support: Explore the support services available to adult students, including career counseling, academic advising, writing coaches and professional clubs or associations. Choose a program (and a school!) that will prepare you for the changing job market and help you advance personally and professionally.
We hope this list can give you some food for thought as you consider your next academic and career move. At Regis, we believe that education is a lifelong journey, and we’re committed to being your partner every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch with our admissions team and we’ll discuss your goals, interests and a degree plan that works for you.