"How Can I Pay for College?" And Other Common Questions Answered

Earning your bachelor's or advanced degree can open many doors for career advancement and allow you to study what you love. The idea of going back to school may seem unattainable at first, but it really can be an investment that is worth the time, money, and effort. Navigate some of the most common concerns when deciding to go back to school.

How Can I Finance My Education?

When researching ways to pay for school, look to see if your current company offers an education pre-payment or reimbursement option. Even if they don't offer this for full degree programs, they may help fund a professional certification that can increase your industry knowledge and help enhance your current role.

Many schools offer financial assistance through grants and loans to help cover tuition costs, as well as special discounts for older students, teachers, members of the military, and more. Some schools even offer course credit for previous experience and assessments, helping you save time and money while earning your degree.

How Will My Education Translate to the Real World?

The right degree program can help you gain innovative tools and skills that directly relate to your dream job or industry. To get the most out of your time in the classroom, research potential programs before applying. Look for programs that focus on hands-on learning and involve field experience like internships or practicums.

Build a strong professional network while earning your degree. Making connections with experienced faculty and classmates can go a long way in the professional world—from a glowing recommendation letter that leads to an interview to an internship opportunity in your dream field—you never know what opportunities are out there.

How Can I Juggle School With My Personal Life?

Start out slow. Consider taking one class your first semester to establish your routine and what works best for you. Decide how you want to build your schedule to best fit your professional and personal responsibilities—will that include summer classes? Online learning? Work with your school's academic advisors to help plan out your course schedule each semester. Be realistic about how many classes you can take per semester, but also make sure you're on track to graduate!

At Tulane School of Professional Advancement, we want your education to be a valuable investment. That's why we offer career-focused degree and certification programs built for working professionals. Request more information to see where SoPA can take you.