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Should I go back to school? 7 questions to help you decide

Find out if going back to school supports your goals and fits your life. Review seven practical questions and plan your next step with Rider today.

Keyword(s): back to school

Going back to school can be worthwhile when a degree supports a clear goal and fits your time and budget. Compare the likely benefit with the full cost and changes your household must make.

Recent show that workers with a bachelor's degree earned median weekly pay of $1,543 in 2024. Their unemployment rate was 2.5 percent, compared with 4.2 percent for workers whose highest credential was a high school diploma. These figures cannot predict one person's result, but they show why education can be a strong long-term investment.

1. What Are My Goals for Going Back to School?

Before getting started, what is your purpose for going back to school? You may want to advance in your current role or increase your job security. You may want to switch careers or study a subject that matters to you.

Your goal may be personal achievement or leading by example for your family. Taking time to determine your focus will make your academic journey easier. A clear goal turns school from an idea into a plan.

If you are unsure where to begin, you can before applying to Rider. An advisor can discuss your skills and interests. They can also help you compare programs with your career goals.

Write down the job title or personal result you want. Ask whether the degree is required and which skills employers expect. Our guide to program choices and careers can connect a field of study with a practical outcome.

2. Will the Program Lead to the Outcome I Want?

A degree has value when the program matches your intended path. Review required courses and the time to finish. For a licensed career, confirm that the program meets the rules where you plan to work.

Look beyond the school's overall reputation. Compare program graduation rates and typical debt.

Talk with people who hold the role you want. Ask which credential helped them and which skills they use. Choose the outcome first, then choose the program.

3. How Much of My Past Learning Can Count?

If you have completed some college coursework, you may not need to start over. Request a no-obligation, to learn how your credits may apply toward a Rider degree.

Transfer rules differ by course and program. A course may transfer as an elective without replacing a major requirement. Rider explains more transfer student benefits for people bringing credits from another school.

Your work experience may qualify for credit in some cases. Military training may qualify through a separate review. You may earn credit for prior learning through an approved exam or review. Our counselors can recommend an option that fits your program.

Gather transcripts and training records before estimating your finish date. Ask for a degree plan showing accepted credits and remaining requirements. Every accepted credit can save time and tuition.

4. Will I Have Enough Time for College?

The time needed to earn a college degree is a top concern. While it is important to weigh your options, continuing education programs are designed for adult learners with flexibility at the forefront.

Rider's continuing education programs help busy adults balance their studies with other commitments. We offer full-time and part-time study. Depending on the program, students may also find online or hybrid options.

Build a sample week before registering. Include study time and class time, then add other duties. Rider also offers accelerated winter and summer sessions that may help you progress outside a standard term.

Start with a course load you can finish. Ask how often classes meet and whether online courses have set times. A realistic schedule is part of academic success.

5. Can I Afford Going Back to College?

Investing in college can be intimidating. As an adult student, you may have added life responsibilities. Our overview of adult learner funding options can help you find questions to ask.

Calculate more than tuition. Include fees and books. Add possible changes to child care or work hours to see the real effect on your budget.

Some aid is open to adult undergraduates, but each award has its own rules. Review scholarships for continuing education before assuming that age or enrollment status will qualify you.

Award amounts can vary based on the program and available funds. Some awards may close after their budgets are used.

Rider lists veteran scholarship options for service members and eligible beneficiaries. Benefit amounts and enrollment rules differ. Confirm what applies before building a budget.

Complete the even if you think you will not qualify. Applicants can list up to 20 schools on the online form. Filing does not require you to accept a loan.

Ask whether your employer offers tuition help and requires continued employment. Some workers may qualify for university partner tuition benefits. Judge affordability by your net cost, not listed tuition alone.

6. Will I Have the Support to Succeed?

Returning to school as an adult can be challenging, but the right support can help. Build a support system of trusted family and friends.

From day one, our admission counselors can help with credit evaluation and academic planning. Financial aid advisors can explain resources. Enrolled students can use free tutoring and career development services.

Students can use the Student Navigation Office and work with a coach in person or virtually. Career planning matters before graduation, so review our professional networking guidance while taking classes.

Tell people what help you may need. That could mean quiet study hours or backup family care. Rider also provides military and veteran support for eligible students.

7. Am I Ready to Make the Change?

Going back to school as an adult feels unfamiliar. Adult education values existing experience.

Going back to college may affect your schedule and family routines. Decide what you can pause for one term.

Test your plan before making the full commitment. Follow a study schedule for two weeks. Notice whether you can protect focused time when work becomes busy.

Then review Rider's continuing education webpage to compare available paths. We offer options that can help adults begin or complete a degree. Some students may also prepare for advanced study or pursue personal enrichment.

Readiness does not mean life must be perfect. It means you understand the likely pressure points and plan for them. You need a workable next step, not complete certainty.