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About Cynthia Wolfe
Expertise
Let me help you with questions about adult education and continuing education programs. If you are looking for a program or have questions about adult education in general, I can guide you. If you are a teacher looking for new ideas or methods, I can help. I have resources and ideas to share. I am a member of the National Business Education Association (NBEA), a professional organization devoted to the recognition that business education competencies are essential for all individuals in today's fast-changing society.

Experience
I am an instructor at the University of Phoenix, working in online and classroom modalities. I am also a student at Northcentral University, where I am working on a PhD in Business Administration, with a specialty in Management. My MBA is from Troy University, 2001, and I have a BS, Environmental Science, from Troy University, 1980. Read about my experiences as an online student at my blog thinkPhD .

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You are here: Experts > Education > Adult/Continuing Education > Continuing/Adult Education > Going to University at 43

Continuing/Adult Education - Going to University at 43

Expert: Cynthia Wolfe - 10/20/2009

Question
I graduated high school in 1985 and went to a University for one year (a wasted year) immediately after high school. Since then I have been in the work force. I've discovered a large interest in History and really have thought about returning to University. My question is, where do I begin? What do I need to get started? Will I need to take SAT or something like that? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you very kindly.
Lee Raymond

Answer
Hello Lee,
Thanks for asking a question. It's great that you are considering completing your education! Universities and colleges often have different enrollment requirements. Some are for-profit and some are state-supported, and even different degree programs can make a difference in requirements. You must also consider whether you can go to school full time or part time. Most traditional college courses are held during the day, which may be inconvenient if you are working full time.

As I do not know where you live, I checked out the University of Toronto's enrollment website, http://discover.utoronto.ca/academics/Apply_to_U_of_T.htm

Traditional students entering from high school will often have different requirements for admission than do adults returning to school. UT has a unique bridging program (http://www.wdw.utoronto.ca/index.php/programs/academic_bridging/overview/): "Academic Bridging is designed for individuals who have been away from formal education for some time and do not meet the University’s established requirements for direct entry admission; each course is intended to bridge the gap between a student’s prior education and the requirements of first year university courses in Humanities and Social Sciences. Students who successfully complete the Academic Bridging Program are admitted to the Faculty of Arts and Science, at the University of Toronto, with one full credit towards their degree." There is a pdf application on the webpage.

Another option is distance learning through a private college. Many private colleges have "open enrollment" which means you do not have to meet certain academic criteria like a grade point average or an SAT score to enter college.

I suggest that you browse multiple school websites and think about the type of career that you wish to enter. "History" is very broad and you must consider what you would do with a history degree. Remember, enjoying a subject is not the same as using it to make a living. My husband is a history fanatic but that is not his chosen occupation.

I think that you are definitely on the right path; an education is a valuable asset to any resume. Whichever path you choose, dedicate yourself to making your education "work" for your success.

Kind regards,
Cindy Wolfe
www.thinkPhD.com

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