It’s possible that parents are too busy sending their children back to school to have the time to think about going back to school. They should.

Nearly half of a million Washingtonians, many of whom are parents, have not completed a degree. Yet, by 2018, at least two-thirds all jobs in Washington will require some college. A bachelor’s and master’s degree is a great way to advance in your career, increase job security and improve earning potential. How can busy parents complete their degrees without being left behind?

It can be overwhelming for parents who are busy and have limited budgets to consider returning to college. There are many college options available, but few that are affordable or flexible enough to meet working adults’ needs.

Washington’s online university, WGU Washington (washington.wgu.edu), is now available to help them meet their educational needs. WGU Washington is a non-profit university that has been approved by the state. It offers 50 accredited master’s and bachelor’s degrees in business, information tech, teacher education, and health professions including nursing.

WGU Washington’s programs make it easy for students to quickly review what they know and focus on what they still need. Instead of logging class time, students can demonstrate what they know and move up in their studies. This learning model, which also includes support from a mentor, is known as competency-based education and represents an innovation in higher education.

WGU Washington costs less than $3,000 per six month term and offers unlimited courses. This is half the price of online universities, but much less than many Washington public universities. WGU Washington’s flexibility allows students to work at their own pace. The average time it takes to complete a bachelor’s degree is two-and a-half years. That’s an average cost around $15,000.

Most likely, you already encourage your children to plan for college. Children learn best when their parents do the same. A degree is more than a better career and higher earning potential. It is an invaluable achievement that shows your children the importance of education. Don’t let this back-to school season pass you by.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note to editors – Great for use in Washington’s region.