Why adults in midlife and beyond are filling college courses

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Millions of U.S. Adults are returning to the classroom, not for traditional degrees, but to gain new skills, advance their careers, or simply explore personal interests. This surge in continuing education reflects a broader trend of lifelong learning driven by economic concerns, rapid technological advancements, and a desire for job security.

The Rise of the “New Majority Student”

UCLA Extension, the continuing education division of the University of California, Los Angeles, currently offers over 90 certificate and specialization programs. These range from interior design and accounting to music production and the ancient Japanese art of ikebana. Individual courses cover topics like retirement planning and the business of athletes and artists.

During the last academic year, UCLA enrolled approximately 33,500 students, with nearly half being over the age of 35. This contrasts with a full-time undergraduate enrollment of around 32,600 degree-seeking students. Traci Fordham, UCLA’s interim associate dean for academic programs and learning innovation, describes these adult learners as “the new majority student,” often already employed and seeking upskilling or a career change.

Navigating the Challenges of Returning to School

Experts note that many adults pursue continuing education due to anxieties about job security, particularly in the face of rapidly evolving technologies like artificial intelligence. Eric Deschamps, the director of continuing education at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, explained that even those with degrees from just 5 or 10 years ago may find their knowledge outdated.

Returning to school while balancing work, family, and other commitments presents unique challenges. Students often juggle coursework with full-time jobs and caregiving responsibilities. However, this balancing act can also lead to sharpened priorities and a sense of fulfillment.

What to Consider Before Enrolling

Academic advisors suggest prospective students carefully assess their time and budgets, weighing the potential benefits against the financial impact and the possibility of burnout. Deschamps recommends considering long-term goals – where you want to be in 5 or 10 years – and how additional training can help you get there. For example, learning to brew beer could be a step toward starting a microbrewery.

Schools like UCLA and Northern Arizona University are working to make continuing education more accessible by offering lower costs compared to degree-track classes and providing financial assistance. They also offer flexible learning environments, including in-person, online, accelerated, and self-paced instruction.

Katie Swavely, assistant director for academic advising and student success at UCLA, shared her own experience returning to school after a decade, eventually earning a master’s degree with the help of employer-sponsored tuition assistance. She emphasized the importance of investing in oneself, even when faced with financial constraints and personal sacrifices.

Overcoming Psychological Barriers

Experts identify a significant barrier to returning to school as psychological – concerns about skills being rusty or a lack of foundational knowledge in areas like math or technology. Fordham noted that many learners haven’t previously envisioned themselves in a higher education environment.

Swavely stresses the importance of building a support network and utilizing available counseling and advising resources. She encourages adults to “find your community” and to be kind to themselves, setting boundaries and seeking help when needed. Her advice: “You’re never too old to learn.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are more adults going back to school?

Higher education experts say some adults take classes for professional development as economic concerns, technological advances and other workforce changes create a sense of job insecurity.

What types of courses are available for adults?

UCLA Extension offers more than 90 certificate and specialization programs, from interior design to music production, as well as individual courses covering a wide range of topics.

What should adults consider before returning to school?

Adults interested in becoming students again may want to assess their time and budgets, and weigh the potential benefits and consequences, including the financial impact and the potential for burnout.

As the job market continues to evolve, will lifelong learning become the norm for maintaining career relevance?