Cox

In recent years, we have seen in Jamaica a great increase in the number of local and international institutions offering part-time study options to full-time workers interested in furthering their education.

According to Caroline Gatrell, author of the book, Managing Part-Time Study, this increase has also been identified in the United Kingdom, Europe, North America and throughout the developing world.

There are many options available for part-time study for Jamaicans. However, before you choose a course of study, consider the following:

What exactly do you want to do? In answering this question you must look at yourself in terms of your strengths, skills and talents, your prospects for growth and development in your current job, and your future career plans.

Do you need to have face-to-face or social contact?

How much time can you allocate for studying on a daily basis?

In what time frame would you like to complete your qualifications - nine months, one year, five years?

How will you finance your studies?

According to Gen and Kelly Tanabe, United States college and scholarship experts, and award-winning authors of 11 books on college planning, some of the choices available for combining work and school include evening attendance at a local college or university, as well as summer school.

You may also consider enrolling l in a certificate or diploma programme: Less expensive than degree plans, certificate or diploma programmes are offered part-time, in the summer or through adult education programmes and do not require you to take as many courses as you would to earn a degree.

While not as highly regarded as a degree, depending on your reasons for going back to school, a certificate or diploma might be just what you need.

Studying part-time is a viable tool for those persons who would like to further their careers while still earning an income, as well as work on their personal growth and development. The key, however, is to be able to manage your time and the multiple roles and functions of a part-time student.

Kareen Cox is co-ordinator, career resources department within the HEART Trust/NTA Email: kareen_cox@heart-nta.org