Going Back To College at 50: 6 Tips to Succeed

Despite common misconception, returning to college, or going for the first time, at an older age isn't uncommon at all.

Many older adults become college students for a variety of reasons.

Returning to college after 50 can be great for both personal and professional growth; we're lifelong learners!

However, it does present some unique challenges to consider.

In this article, we'll suggest a few tips for how to be ready for and succeed in college after 50.

We'll also explore some great degree options for prospective students interested in returning to college after 50.

6 Tips for Going to College After 50

Here are some tips to make sure you will thrive when returning to college after 50.

Know Your Goal

Establishing a clear goal is essential for any undertaking, but it is especially important for a challenging, multiyear undertaking like completing a college degree.

Knowing your goal will help in all decision-making leading up to and preparing for a degree, and it will help you push through when the task seems overwhelming.

Knowing what you want out of returning to college is the most important thing to determine before choosing to follow through.

Pick the Right University

There are innumerable colleges and universities out there to choose from, and finding the right one is very important for being successful in and after college.

Consider what programs you're interested in, how long you want to attend college, if you want to take in-person or online classes, what school is the most accessible, what school is most affordable for you, and more.

Answering questions like these and others will help you pick the right university.

Apply for Scholarships

There are many different kinds of scholarships, literally thousands, that can be applied to.

Many are specifically intended for specific kinds of students, including non-traditional and older students.

Scholarships are an invaluable resource for making college affordable, and non-traditional students will likely qualify for a wide variety.

This should be taken advantage of to lessen the financial burden of pursuing a degree.

Find and Use Resources

Being a non-traditional student presents unique challenges and can be tough, particularly being a student at age 50 or older.

That's why most colleges and universities have resources available to assist students.

For example, many schools have centers for non-traditional students where they can ask questions, get help, meet and socialize with others, or even just have a quiet place to study.

Make a Good Schedule and Routine

Part of what makes being an adult college student challenging is trying to fit your classes and studies around work, daily life, family, and other responsibilities.

It's important to make sure your class schedule is set up to work with all the other things in your life.

Routine is also essential. Don't just schedule your classes; schedule your time for studying and completing assignments, and stick to this schedule.

Believe in Yourself

The most important thing to remember is: that you can do it!

There are many, many adult students attending colleges all over the country, many of them 50 or over. You aren't alone, and you've got this!

Best Degrees for College After 50

Here are some degrees to consider that are great for older students.

Computer Science

Computer science is one of the most popular fields of study across the world, and there are an enormous amount of opportunities for employment and job growth.

It's a fantastic field to get into at any point in life.

There are computer science degrees, as well as more specified programs like programming, web development, and more.

Accounting

Accounting is a great degree for older students because there are often excellent associate's degree choices that lead to solid-paying jobs, meaning a new career can be begun in two years or less.

The options of full-time, part-time, or contract desk work that is offered in accounting are perfect for students over 50.

Psychology

Psychology is a field of study in which older students can make use of their vast life experience.

There are many different career opportunities, doing things such as counseling, social work, human resources, and more.

Creative Arts

Creative arts is a broad field that could include things like creative writing, visual arts, photography, and more.

This can be a wonderful field of study for students over 50 who are looking to learn new skills and explore their creativity.

This is also a great example of a field in which older students could channel their extensive life experience.

Is It Worth It to Go Back to College After 50?

Many things factor into this question. In general, however, if the decision was made thoughtfully, the answer is yes, it is worth it to go back to college after 50.

However, prospective students must have a strong focus and a clear goal they wish to achieve.

They should also have picked an affordable school and applied for as many forms of aid and scholarships as possible.

What is the Oldest Age to Start College?

There is no oldest age to start college. Colleges in the United States generally do not have any sort of age limit.

They have many programs and courses designed specifically for older students.

It's Never Too Late to Get a Degree

Age is not something to hold you back from completing a college degree.

If it's something you want, you can make it happen, no matter your age. Don't be afraid to return to college after 50!