When I finished university, I was one of the happiest people in the world. It was such a relief to be finally finished with studying. I was not in a hurry to pick up any books any time soon. It was finally time to enjoy my freedom.
I soon realised that in today’s world, everybody has either an Associate degree or a Bachelor of Science degree. And now, there are thousands of people who are on the same educational playing field all vying for the same jobs.
What has also happened is that many organisations are raising their minimum requirements for their jobs. If you take a look in the newspaper, university degrees are now requirements for jobs which in the past, required four Caribbean Examinations Council certificates.
To be honest, pursuing a higher level degree can be pricey. And especially if you’re on a strict career advancement path and unable to come up with the funds, it will be disheartening. What can you do to advance your education on a budget, especially if getting a loan or another form of financing is not an option?
1. Certifications and Designations
Specialist fields such as Information Technology, Human Resource Management and Project Management have a wide range of certifications. In some cases, these certifications and designations are more desired than a graduate level degree.
2. Diplomas
Post graduate diplomas are generally on the same level as degrees, but they can give you a chance to gain additional knowledge and education in your desired field of study for a fraction of the cost.
3. Certificate courses
Short courses, which are usually marketed as certificate courses are yet another way you can gain additional knowledge. They are usually priced very reasonably and impart necessary skills and knowledge.
4. Internships
Internships are a great way to gain much needed work experience and advance your education on a budget. If you take a look at job listings, many of them ask for work experience and an internship can take you one step closer to your dream.
5. Workshops
Some workshops can be very intense with the aim of giving you a lot of information in a short space of time. I love workshops because you get to interact with other professionals and share ideas. Some of the more advanced workshops award you certificates of completion.