Figuring out what you want to do for the rest of your life – especially while you’re young – can be extremely challenging. Some people end up in a career that they no longer enjoy, while some may discover a new passion later in life. For others, the thrill is in exploring new options instead of staying on a steady career path.
Fortunately, it’s never too late to switch things up. Whether you’re in your 30s or just a decade away from retirement, it’s not too late to invest in your passion and start a new career. Best of all, the options to earn a degree or upskill are more abundant than ever before.
If you’re considering a new job path, here’s everything you need to know about how to make a midlife career change.
Challenges as an Adult Learner
Going back to school as a working adult can seem daunting. Traditional schooling may be too time consuming and restrictive for you to pursue studies while juggling work commitments and family responsibilities. If you’re also dealing with financial constraints, it can get more complicated.
Online courses or degree programs can help you tackle these challenges and learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. Whether you want to earn a degree, get a certificate, or finish a degree you started years ago, online programs offer flexibility to pivot careers or upskill without overwhelming your already busy schedule.
Is It a Good Idea to Change Careers Later in Life?
Sure! Changing careers later in life can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re not fulfilled in your current job role for any reason. A midlife job pivot can give you the tools to realize your passion, earn more, or explore new interests.
There are some considerations, however. Some fields may require specific qualifications, while others require experience and skills over formal education. It’s important to consider your career options and research the demand to ensure you’re making the right choice.
Can You Make a Midlife Career Change Without a Degree?
It depends on the career you choose. There are plenty of great opportunities that don’t require higher education, but you may need certifications or equivalent work experience to get a foot in the door.
Your goals and priorities can help you determine the best path. If you are set on a specific career that requires a degree, that’s worth considering. It’s important to research the field you’re interested in to gauge the level of education you’ll be pursuing!
Depending on the requirements, you may be able to gain the skills you need with an online learning platform like Sophia. Online courses are a convenient and practical way to upskill in specific subject areas without the constraints of the traditional classroom. If you are pursuing a degree, Sophia is a great way to refresh your knowledge.
How to Plan Your Midlife Career Change
Making a midlife career change can seem like a big undertaking, but it’s achievable if you set your mind to it. Here are some key considerations:
Think About Your Goals
Before you make a major life change like a new career, take some time to think about why you’re pursuing this option. This can help you avoid making a mistake or changing your mind later.
Consider what’s motivating you to find a new job. Are you burned out? Do you want a higher salary? Are you bored with your work and looking to follow your passion? Whatever your motivation, it’s important to understand the “why” to help you make sound decisions.
Explore Career Options
Once you’re sure a career change is the right move for you, it’s time to look for your dream job – or at least decide on an industry. Fortunately, this is much easier as an adult than when you were fresh out of high school. You know yourself, what you want and need, and what you’re good at.
On the other hand, if you’re not sure what career is right for you, try exploring your options with career assessments and aptitude tests. You can find plenty of free options online that help you narrow down your interests and jump start the research process.
Do Research
With a few ideas in mind, the next step is research. It’s important to understand exactly what’s required for your new career, including vital skills and education. Research the job market locally or in your preferred city, the salary range, the job responsibilities, and more, so you can prepare for your new career.
Prepare Your Budget
As you plan your career change, think about your financial situation. Tuition can be cost-prohibitive, so determine how much you can afford to put toward your education and research options for scholarships, grants, or employer-sponsored programs.
While school is an investment in your future, you can still save wherever possible. Online degrees often have lower costs than traditional degrees because you don’t have campus housing, meals, and other expenses. You can also save with lower-cost options like Sophia, which offers a transparent subscription plan for self-paced, transferable gen ed courses designed to transfer for credit toward your degree.
Get the Process Started
Now that you have all the bases covered, it’s time to get started! Enroll in some online college courses that align with your career goals or satisfy your skill requirements. The first step can be the hardest, but you’ll probably get right back into the routine of school once you take that first course.
Start Your New Career Path
Navigating a midlife career change can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Sophia’s self-paced online courses not only cater to the busy schedules of working professionals but offer a range of subject areas to explore new interests and career paths. Ready to get started? Start your free trial on Sophia today!
