It used to be that adults could expect to have three or four careers in their lifetime. Today, with rapid changes in corporate loyalties and even faster developments in new industries and technologies, the average adult born between 1957 and 1964 already held an average of 11.9 jobs before the age of 50, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
It’s no wonder then that so many adults are going back to college to prepare for new careers, and the University of Redlands is here to help. Advisors say it’s never too late to change careers. The key to a successful midlife switch is getting started and staying focused.
Consider this: AARP The Magazine reports a growing number of Americans are working into their late 70s and even into their 80s––not just for the income but also to stay mentally sharp and for the social interaction. So why not spend that time doing something you love? In the past, midlife was seen as a time of nearing the end. Now, it’s considered by many to be the beginning of a second chance at life.
The University of Redlands provides a wide variety of resources to help, including advice on assessing career goals through its Office of Professional Development and up-to-date information on loans, scholarships, grants and work programs available to re-entry students through its Office of Financial Aid.
The University of Redlands School of Continuing Studies offers certificate programs—which range from healthcare administration to project management—that could help pave the way for a career change.
Or check out these individual general education and elective classes starting soon:
- Creative Photography (January 8 to February 26, Mondays, 6–9:45 p.m.; online)
- Seminar on Compassion (January 8 to April 9, Mondays, 6–8:50 p.m., Redlands campus)
- Christian Scriptures (January 9 to April 5, Tuesdays, Thursdays, 2:30–3:50 p.m., Redlands campus)
- Excel Essentials (January 17 to February 7, Wednesdays, 6 to 9:45 p.m.; Redlands campus)
- Coding Boot Camp (January 22 to April 12, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6 to 9:45 p.m.; Redlands campus)
- Religion and Popular Culture (March 5 to April 23; online)
- Personal Branding (March 5 to April 23; online)
The above classes are open enrollment, with no application or admission process required. Call 909-748-8868 or email bridgett_gloudeman@redlands.edu with questions or to reserve a spot.
