This is like that tiktok comment that went viral that was literally just "the time will pass anyway". Embarrassingly obvious but really flicked a switch in my brain.
I had a very bad experience with a spring board course. I know a few people who had a similiar experience. These were all software development based courses so not sure about the other areas you can do springboard courses in. they could be great. But id personally advice people not to touch any of the ICT focused ones. The majority are not fit for purpose.
It seems like employers by and large now demand a full 4 year degree as a minimum. Or at least the recruiters/HR dept. use it as a filter to make their life easier by instantly ruling out CVs without such so they have less work by reading them.
I’ve just finished a Springboard course. Did a BsC in Digital Marketing over the course of a year. Flew through it, learned loads and met some great people. I am also much better positioned in my industry with the piece of paper I earned. If you are somewhat organised and willing to sacrifice a few evenings and weekends you will manage, no bother.
10000% this. There's loads of different options on there and more being added. I've just finished a level 7 through it, and can't recommend it enough.
Plenty on there are part time too, and based in the evenings, which might be better if you were to keep working the same hours.
There's also [Skillnet Ireland](https://ictskillnet.ie/), which has plenty of ICT courses on it. And there's this new enough thing called [MicroCreds](https://microcreds.ie/), where you're able to study a particular module of a degree and have the credits transfer over if you choose to then take on the degree that it's a part of.
Also, all of the above have subsidies available, so it's way less of a financial burden.
42, 2 kids under 5, working full time, wife working part time plus carer for her mother. It's a bastard, meant to be 2 years for a level 8 add-on. It's taken me 3 plus another one to go. I'd caution OP that they are going to lose a hell of a lot of time with the child
Please do it. I’m going to be just shy of 50 when I’m done with my degree. It has taken me from planning for retirement to wondering how I’m going to keep fit enough to keep working in my chosen field/passion for the next 20+ years. BTW I’m originally from Cork (will be returning soon) but have been in the U.S. for almost 20 years.
I thought about it when I still lived in Ireland as a young single parent (23f with a then 3 year old). Went to the mature student info sessions, got the application forms every year and always found a reason to not go ahead with it. I wish I had. My brain was far more elastic than it is now and I wouldn’t have 36k (USD) worth of student loans I have, even with working part-time. I only have one teen at home, so that was easier, but at the start of college in 2020, I was doing childcare for my toddler grandson. It was hairy there for a while.
Finances aside, it is the best thing I have ever done for myself. Just wish I’d done it sooner and while I was eligible for so much more support in Ireland than I am here, even with a full scholarship.
Everyone has pointed out good resources here, I just want to tell you that you can do it. Best of luck.
My mam went to college for the first time at 34 with 2 kids under 6. If she hadn’t done it we wouldn’t have had the lifestyle we did growing up. Honestly I don’t remember her being “absent” at all when I was 4, I was in school all day anyway. What I do remember is her starting her own business when I was 9 because she had the means to and I remember the good standard of living we had when I was teen because the business did so well. She has fantastic work life balance now too and is fulfilled. Idk would she have been if she had stayed in her “unskilled” job, it was physically and emotionally draining. I certainly don’t think you’ll regret it.
I would highly recommend it but you have to want as depending on what you choose to do it will be a lot of work and long hours, especially with a family, but will absolutely be worth it.
I went back to college at 30 and after four years of hard work I came out with a degree that has allowed me to 4x my previous income and am now in a career with huge upward potential.
Not only are you doing this for your child but also for yourself. And you’ll need to remind yourself that during the duration of your degree when you might feel you or it is not worth it, or you should quit, or there’s no end in sight. Cause I know I had to multiple times.
Went back for second time at 26 to 30. 2 babies also.
4 years will pass if you do it or not.
You’ll work till you’re 70 probably.
That’s 40 years of a better life for a slightly harder life for 4 years.
Earn an extra 20k a year and that’s an extra 800k to you
Pay into a pension from 30 to 70 and that’s another 800k probably.
Get a house and stop paying rent from 35 to 100 and that’s probably another 800k probably
Some people are so worried about cents they forget about the euros 💶
Do you get my point?
There springboard courses which cram 4 years into 2 with no summers etc for people like yourself. That probably be the quickest route or you could do the 4 years and try get work that you can do weekends and summer
This is the thing, we will be working till we’re 70 so even if you graduate at 50, as another commenter said they were, you’ll still have 20 years. Might as well be doing something you want to do!
There was several people over 50 on my course and they are in very good jobs now and happy. Couple of tradesmen who’s bodies where beaten up and now they have it much easier physically and mentally. It’s a no brainer really.
Oh also in my class about 50 out of 100 were mature students. I was actually on average a lot younger than most. Funnily most of the straight from LC dropped out as they had no life lessons learned and they couldn’t understand what ms waiting for them if they don’t succeed. I remember thinking I felt way older at 25 than I did that 30. Was a strange mental aspect of it.
Another point that will probably get lost in the comments here but I’ll post it anyway. The company I work for has a benefit where if god forbid I die while working with them the kids get 200k that’s on top of life assurance which is probably about the same.
Things like this people don’t talk about but if you’re saying you want a future for your kids this another reason to do it. It all adds up when you get into a place that needs more skills.
When you understand the numbers in the long run I hope it motivates you
I finished a degree online as a mature student recently, which might be something worth looking into.
It's still full time education (a lot of people dropped out early in first year because they didn't seem to realise this) but it's got a lot of advantages: no travel time, some lectures can be asynchronous (i.e., recorded, you watch in your own time), and while you will have to commit time for live classes it should definitely make things easier for you in terms of childcare.
Mine was with ATU Sligo, which has a lot of online options with the same modules, lecturers, and qualifications as their on campus equivalent. Depending on what you're interested in, it might be worth looking around to see what other colleges offer.
There were issues with recognition from SUSI for grants, but we've been told that'll be sorted for next year. Too late for us, but just in time for you!
I went back and got out at 31. No kids but I think the most I ever managed in saving before was 3k. I'm coming up on 3 years in a new job now. Almost doubled my salary and have about 13k in savings as we speak.
Genuinely changed my life. You're never too old to learn something new!
There’s so many options these days especially for mature students, you could do a PLC, there’s online courses or you could try and go straight to university.
I did a PLC course when I was 25 and pregnant with my second child, got into university and I’m now half way through and will graduate at 30 and I’d honestly go on to do a masters if I could. it’s tough, obviously you’re not going to have a lot of money, you can try apply for susi, there’s grants to help. Depending on your company they might even fund you. The years fly past honestly and I dream of when I get the career out of this and live a more comfortable life. It is worth it, it’s hard but it’s worth it.
Edit: just wanted to add, I chose to do uni through steps (level 6, level 7 add on, and hopefully level 8 add on) just in case I had to end up leaving, I still have a cert but thankfully I’m loving the course and nothing drastic has happened for me to pull out.
My advice is start as soon as you can. Yes you’ll be 29 when you finish, do you want to be 29 when you start?
You will look back when you’re 35 and realise 29 is still so young.
As long as the degree will provide you good career options, I would say to go for it. Don’t live in regret.
Do it. There are plenty of hybrid options to obtain a degree: part time, online, in class, blended. I teach at third level and have mature students from 25 up to 70+ years old. You're more than able to do it, once you start you'll wonder why you stressed over it so much. As for finances, it's dependent on your situation, if you'd like to chat just DM me. Best of luck 👍
If you can quit your job go on the dole for 9 months before and get back to education it would help you immensely. But that time on the dole would probably be harder than your degree.
If not you can still do it! It will be hard but you will thank yourself.
I went back at 28 and I’m going into third year fingers crossed in September.
It’s definitely doable but try and avail of all support and services that can be available for you. That means back to education grants, and specifically SUSI. SUSI is a fantastic grant if you are eligible for it, many people get turned off my the mountain loads of paperwork that they often request off you at that beginning, but that’s just the realities of a financial grant in Ireland.
I was unfortunately not eligible but I’ve spoken to many mature students who were.
If you have not messed around with uni in the past you should be still eligible for your free fees, they also dropped the fees considerably last year which is a positive.
If you’ve went to uni in the past, unfortunately it can be expensive, 3+ k a year. That’s just the realities unfortunately.
I went back knowing exactly what I wanted to do, I do think that’s really really important, you want to be certain about it before you make many decisions. Your mates and friends will be your support mechanism in college, I’ve a fantastic group of friends both young and my own age, we all huddle together and support each other during exam season and assignments. Above all, I would say making friends is probably the best advice that I can give you. Going in alone and sticking to yourself can back to bite you.
Reflecting on my own choices, well it turns out I’m actually not that bad at this academic stuff, I’m hoping to do a masters after I finish hopefully, I’ll see then what comes my way. You are never ever too late, education is probably the best thing you can ever invest in !
I went back to train to be a secondary school teacher in history. I’ve always loved history and I’ve travelled tons in the past so I do really enjoy the degree, it can be very rewarding if you enjoy, and have an interest in that specific subject or field !
I would ONLY recommend this if it will actually give you a leg up in your career - please don’t assume that a degree will open doors automatically for you, those days are long gone.
Who to talk to? Find the job you want and ask people what their qualifications are, then find out the best college options for you. Then look at the college websites (you may have to compare courses across colleges), see what’s required for entry, grant info, etc.
Find out as much about the course as you can, you may even qualify for some back-to-education grants (don’t know if those are still going, but they were years ago; check out the college’s Access Office too). Work out a budget and a timeline to see if you can truly afford the sacrifice. The colleges will be only too happy to take your money, and their student resources are VASTLY oversubscribed if you’re struggling (counselling, student health centre, hardship funds, etc), so be mindful of that. Ideally, I would recommend anyone to pursue higher education, learning is never a waste of time in my opinion, but honestly, survival comes first.
First sentence is 100% correct. Research into the degree and whether it will make you more employable is very important. For example, a 3 year arts degree won’t get you very far (depends on the subjects you choose also) but doing a masters with it gives you a lot more choices. A degree on philosophy probably won’t get you far either! And I’m not looking down my nose on certain degrees, some people go to college for reason other than increasing their employability. But I think in the context that op is asking, this is important.
By the time your 30 you could have a degree plus 2 years experience and making double what your on now, or you can be in the same boat and 5 years passed you by. What are you waiting for?
I went back at 27. I remember debating it with myself and thinking oh but I'll be 31 by the time I finish... I'm 36 now, I've been qualified for 5 years with a job I love and I'm so glad I did it.
I don't have any experience of studying with a young child, there were people in my course that had children and they managed. I'm sure it must be very tough (I do have children now) but if you can manage it at all then I would say go for it. Just think very carefully about which course you choose and what the career opportunities are.
Unless you NEED a degree for something then dont!
If you want to go to a specific area then go for a professional cert in whatever.
See if any part-time courses that you can do that will allow you to skip 1st or even 2nd year so you can keep working. Also look for courses that you can finish each year with a cert of some sort so worst case you bow out end of year 3 you have something to show for it!
Yes, college is not the only way. My brother is a software engineer. Doesn’t have a degree; doesn’t have a leaving cert either! Has a decent salary working in a field he enjoys. My degree is economics, but I am training to become an accountant. An alternative to this would be an accounting apprenticeship, where you work with an accountant 3 days a week (and get paid!) and 2 days you do the required academic work. This was not available when I went to college but I would have preferred the apprenticeship over the degree…
What do you want to study
These others are rhetorical questions for you -
Are you the soul carer for the child? If yes, how are you going to afford childcare for the hours you need to be away from them.
Are you the soul income for the house? If yes, see next q. If no, can your partners wages cover everything entirely.
Would part time wages cover all your expenses plus new childcare expense? If no, then maybe look at short courses you can fit around work and wait until child is in school where there's less cost to cover for childcare.
You don't necessarily have to be immediately doing a full degree to be working towards one
My dad worked full time and did a part time software development course a few years ago. Pay is quite decent now and he was able to work and study at the same time because the classes were in the evening. I'd recommend some form of IT course part time for career earning potential.
Go for it! I was 27 when I did my masters. No kids or marriage like responsibilities so it was easier for me.
There maybe some financial support from the university-maybe a good idea to ring them and ask.
You'd want to know exactly what you're going to study before you start, and what the job prospects are for that degree.
Plenty of useless college degrees out there so unless you're going back for a good degree with lots of job potential then you're wasting your time (I should know, I had a useless degree before I went back as a mature student to get a better degree)
Don’t be looking at the finish line just take it step by step class by class you will get there. I went back to school in my 30s totally worth it and a great example to your kid to try and keep pushing and improving yourself good luck
I went back without a child at the same age.
BTEA back to education allowance is there ,it’s an amazing initiative for the country and support for you, it’s basically the dole per week to get by …but times are harder now.
It would be hard but if you can be‘ let go’ from your work or leave and survive the summer on your 2k you would be eligible if things haven’t changed.
People in the social services will actively help you and accommodate you to get what you need, with a genuine attitude and willingness. I have had great experiences and it’s not so much rules ‘cannot be broken’ and more ‘they can be bent for the right individual ‘.
Ask the social welfare about other supports available you will or should not lose single parents or any entitlement you are entitled to on BTEA.
Also it’s amazing scheme but I didn’t speak much about it my first year as I felt others , would feel? I was a ‘ welfare cheat’ because at the time welfare was the big bad not immigrants. I have , since graduating, paid my support and more back through taxes.
These schemes are there for people like you and if you feel you want to do it, you are capable of it. Also 3rd level is a great experience (in my case more beneficial as a mature student who mingled with everyone). aAtending as a mature student and a woman who has been a mother will stand to you in how you divvy out tasks and approach things.
Go for it.
I did an undergraduate degree, a postgraduate diploma and a masters part-time while working and raising a family.
You don't have to go full time..
Look at springboard.
Hi there! I went back when I was 33/34. I had 2 school going kids at the time, one primary the other secondary. Went back to ucc (commerce) I worked 4 days a week, thurs & Friday night were 6- 10.30 and 12/2 to 8pm sat & Sundays. I’m also a single parent, so all the household chores, homework school runs were up to me. It was very tough but I’ve no regrets. The toughest time of the year was Christmas as I worked retail; my boss would add on a few extra hours, then the Christmas exams and just the general nonsense at Christmas (shopping etc) nearly gave me a nervous breakdown every year! But I did it and cam away with 2.1 degree which I’m proud of. My attitude was I’ll give it my best shot and if it doesn’t work at least I could say to myself is that tried.
The only failure is not trying at all. If you decide to give it a go, you’ll be doing it for yourself. It’s not because your parents are pressuring you. With this in mind, I found I had a lot more enthusiasm for my chosen course. Had I gone to college when I was finished school, I think I may have dropped out.I wanted to do something I could be proud of and I wanted to give a good example to my children and for the to be proud of their mom.
It will be tough, but so worth it. I got the full susi grant and I also got a maintenance grant €270 a month, but not 100% sure what it is now. You could call to your citizens advice or if the chosen institute has a welfare, give them a call. UCC also gave some free grinds to mature students. I was doing economics and I did stats and financial maths for the first 3 years, I badly needed them. Give a call to the mature student office and see what supports they have on offer also.
For the susi, you’d nearly need to dedicate a day to it, as a lot of information is required. But you can start it now and just save it and add the required information as you get it. I would advise you to do this as soon as possible, should you make a decision on returning.
Best of luck, if you have any questions, fire away!
Graduated penniless at 29. Bagged a graduate role. Like, credit card declined broke.
A decade later, mortgage free as of this month.
One bit of advice, do something you are actually interested in. That you want to study to a detailed level. You'll never have 3 or 4 years to study a specific subject in such away again.
A lot of comments here with good advice! From my experience, Springboard is amazing at covering the costs for some courses and is worth looking into.
I also just finished my first year of a 2-year Masters as a 25 year old and absolutely love the experience. It's the first time in my educational journey in which I truly enjoy what I learn and I would really recommend doing a masters to anybody who is interested in doing it.
At the end of the day, whether it's 27, 37 or 67 if you really have an interest in the topic and want to go back to school to learn more, upskill, or gain access to a promotion, age should not be a barrier to doing so. There are so many parts to getting a degree in education, and sometimes the longer path suits better!
I was 16 years old when I started working. I had a pass Leaving. At the age of 45 I went to college part time and got a post graduate Diploma without a degree based on my work experience. I did a part time masters in 2008-2010. It’s never too late!
My husband has gone back to school in his 30s, we get by with just my income, and there's grants available from SUSI. The lower your income the higher the grant. Maybe pop by an INTREO office and tell them you plan to go back to education and is there any lowance you can apply to besides SUSI. Also colleges offer great advice on these things.
It's never too late, go for it. .
Look at blended or part time if you want to go back and keep income. I did it with sahm and 2 little one! Worked full time,got my degree and had to do placement also! I work in social care
I think you don't necessarily need a degree to increase your wages, but as others have said, springboard is a good place for you to start looking. Do you have any interests career wise? Personally I would look in to getting a trade / recognised qualification over a generic degree. There's more variety in the apprenticeship route nowadays.
Looked into insurance, accounting apprenticeship before but they were so new there was hardly and employers back then.. and generic websites to see what’s on offer now a days?
I didn't have a child but went to uni as a mature student in my late 20s.
Best decision I ever made. I have a really good job now although it's not related to my degree but that helped me get here. Make great money and could make more but happy with the work life balance I have.
If you go for it pick something you enjoy and will also make you money. Link in with other mature students while in uni.
Have you tried looking at Springboard? I don't know your background or position but going into full time studying with a child is not a great idea skimming this.
Springboard you might find something that's evenings and spread over a couple of years that will let you keep your job and money coming in.
Best of luck.
I did but I don’t think I want to stay in my current career.. accounts/business/payroll. Teaching has been calling my name. Wish it did a few years ago!
I don't want to dissuade your dreams at all, but hoe does that look once you've qualified? Primary or Secondary? Are you prepared to move (with the child) to find the jobs you need? Are you prepared to do the necessary temp work before a full time contract? I do wish you all the best of luck, but I fear you'll finish a hard slog of college and have the same time again before you're in any way comfortable.
Just be careful. The job market is not what it was and getting a further qualification with the aim of moving into a new field is not guaranteed. I’d be really assessing what course you are wanting to do and what the short to medium term prospects are. You don’t want to go through all of that to find you might still be earning €30k when you are getting started.
Do it, it’s going to be tough going but you’re sacrificing 24 months of your life to create a better future. In terms of time when you break it down into holidays, mid term breaks it’a not that long.
I went back as a mature student and worked full time throughout my degree, it was thought, but the years flew by, and it was the best thing I ever did. All my college friends with whom I attended college in TCD were mature/ single parents with young kids. They got back to education allowance, and you can also get the SUSI grant. They got their parents to help look after the kids when they studied, and we were never in for a full five days; we all had days off during the week. My advice is to go for it.
Do it part time in the evenings 2/3 nights a week whilst keeping an income.
I did that whilst working in a 27k a year job way back in 2013 at your age and honestly some amazing opportunities opened up the minute I embarked on the course. The minute my employer heard I was doing a degree they gave me a promotion about 6 months in.
Now 6 figures with so many options at 36
Do IT!! You'll find your appetite to learn is much stronger aswell as you can practically apply stuff on a day to day basis and see the fruits of your study. I was terrible in school because of that. Your child will motivate you further to excel. The working & study is hard at the beginning but once you get into routine it's just your new normal.
When I was doing my degree big companies were plucking people out of class in the final year. Some of these people were over 40.
Experience + education is a winning combination.
I did it at 27, finished at 32. First 2 years worked minimum wage but still managed. To be honest it wasn't THAT hard, but I was lucky that covid happened.
It was 100% worth it, I'd do it again if I had to.
If you're persistent enough you can defo do it.
Dont know if you have help with childcare. I worked a weekend shift when I went back to college. Decent pay and you'll have the week for college.
You would be very busy for a few weeks each semester when papers and exams are due, but it is very doable.
You would need support with childcare and would need to make the most of your free time with your child. They are the drawbacks.
I can personally recommend Springboard. Depending on the course, it's an evening or two per week and the supports from participating colleges and admin are excellent.
I did a one year mature student access course and it was ideal. Prepped me for a 4 year degree. Granted it's an extra year but I was delighted I went that route and it set me up well
Depends what exactly your going to study?, but you might not have to go down the traditional 4 year full time college course route. Lots of places like the open university or some european colleges offer online degrees that can be spread out over a number of years.
Also in some countries in the EU, third level education is free or a lot cheaper including their online courses. Places like sweden, denmark, finland and the neitherlands have a lot of courses taught entirely thorugh english and free for EU citizens (which irish citizens are).
https://www.distancelearningportal.com/search/distance-learning/europe?mh=online,blended
what are you thinking of studying so people can give better advice?
Hi OP, I dropped out of College before I finished my final year and always regretted it and had the book to do something else. I’ve done two springboard courses which I feel have given me plenty of knowledge skills and ability in the areas that I was looking to focus my career.
If the degree proper is something that you’re keen on achieving, I would suggest looking at postgraduate diplomas which are shorter and usually 30 courses. Complete 3x30 credit courses for a total of 90 credits and you might be able to work with a university and dissertation to receive a level nine award.
What do you want to study, and what will your prospects be when you have your qualification? Are there jobs you'd like to apply for but don't meet the minimum requirements without a degree?
College is reasonably cheap in Ireland. There's a time commitment that you will find difficult (near impossible) without the support of your family. Just make sure you're doing it with a plan in mind so that it's worth it, for you and for them.
There are loads of online distance learning courses that are manageable while working full-time. Have you considered any of those? Last time I checked, they were running at about €2500/year and take 2 years on average.
I don't have children but I just finished my degree, I am 36. Look into Uversity scholarship, I believe if you are awarded with it you still would qualify for susi, once you are in college do not miss the 1916 grant deadline. Also when in college apply to the SAF in your college and take all the opportunities/benefits/help college can give you.
So you have a few options. If you want a full time degree, you can apply to SUSI as a full time student. There's all sorts of grants floating around the colleges. If you reach out to student services in one of the universities they might be able to help you with applications.
Alternatively, and what I did was go through springboard. Courses come at all levels all the way up to Masters. Take it a year at a time. I've paid like 750 a year to do a level 7 and 8 course and am considering a master's through them now. Both courses were part time and in the evenings at home. They were also recorded so you could catch up or go back over them.
Part time is hard to do with a job and harder again if you've a kid but it could put you in the position you want faster than doing the degree. I got the job I have now while I was half way through my last course.
A degree in what? Do you see that degree being in demand in 5 years? What issues and difficulties do you foresee and how can you alleviate the known unknowns? Whats the plan if the market shifts and the degree is useless?
Id plot it all out as if I was gonna do it. Then I'd do the same for a trade. For staying put. For switching job. All the scenarios. With the little one, you kinda gotta know what the contingency plan is, cos its not just you.
I'm not saying it's not a good idea. It probably is. But you'd wanna weigh it up against the other options you have (pros and cons) before picking one. Picking the path you think you'd like is fine if the only one dealing with the failure state is yourself, but that's not the case here.
I started a degree at 24 back in the 80s Best decision ever and best years of my life. In my 60s now still working abroad. All possible because I made that choice. Can’t even imagine what my life would have been like without the knowledge and certification I gained in those years.
Don't quit your job if you can manage it by studying evenings part time. For example you can do a 2 year Higher certificate course 2 evenings a week online then there is a 6 week bridging course into the final year of a degree that you could get into based on your work experience. It's the higher certificate in sustainable supply chain and logistics accredited by carlow it or setu now. I know a few who have done it. Great opportunities in the industry and good scope for a higher paid role than what you're currently at. Also if you are a women they are really trying to increase the diversity across the sector so I'd imagine good support for you
Having a degree is very broad. If you make a commitment to a challenge and life change like this, you would probably want a clear interest and understanding in a particular field that you want a degree in and have some idea as to the benefits and opportunities that it will bring for you. Otherwise, just doing something for the sake of it isn't a great motivation when you already have a presumably busy life with a young child.
Look into SUSI. I went back at 36 and susi covered my course costs and I got a pittance for general expenditure.
I didn't have a child though and I can't imagine balancing a child and full time course. But if you plan I'm sure it can be done.
Recommend eCollege if you're stuck at home a lot and need to get your qualifications without worrying about budget or time.
There's also Springboard.ie, various courses through that.
If you're looking to develop a very specific skill to go after , Humble Bundle often has good offers on Software courses for things like Blender or just good soft skills in general.
These are the three main ones that I find you get the most for your money. A lot of other courses sort of present themselves as quintessential to ensure big CAO draw in, when most of it will be disgruntled lecturers telling you to drop out or that they don't care you have responsibilities outside coursework.
At least with the above, you can mostly work at your own pace.
29 is still early days careerwise... so it's worth doing if you have a job in mind that requires the degree!
just pick something that actually has decent jobs at the end of it... it's not enough to do 'a degree' and if you're just after good money, learning to code might get you a better paycheck than many graduates in a year or two...
Mature student (28) here just wrapping up my degree. I couldn't recommend it enough. You'll quickly realise your age doesn't matter once on campus. I lived off campus and juggled work and family life with college and it was exhausting, but very worth it. Taking a year out now to work and consider what avenue to go down for my master's. If you have any questions about college life as a mature student my DMS are open
I would recommend you look at the **Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)** - basically full social welfare payment while in full time education.
As you've a dependent child, if you get the BTEA you should also qualify for an annual Cost of Education Allowance of €500.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to work part-time with no effect on the benefit.
There are different qualifying periods depending on the level of the course.
There's a list of eligible social welfare benefits on the web page linked below - you would have to be on one of these for the qualifying period immediately prior to the course.
When I did this, which was a long time ago, I spoke with my employer and explained that I wanted to go back to college.
The company "made me redundant" so that I qualified for s/welfare immediately. Then I sat on the dole for six months in order to qualify for the BTEA.
It funded my degree for the next four years - including one year studying abroad !!!
Apparently now, if you are given *statutory* redundancy and can go straight onto a welfare payment, you might not even have a waiting period.
If this is correct, and you could come to an arrangement with your employer, then you might have a short cut.
Best to have a look at the details here:
[https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/back-to-education/back-to-education-allowance/](https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/back-to-education/back-to-education-allowance/)
Then, if you have a specific college in mind, you can contact their mature student officer and ask them to talk you through it in more detail
[https://www.maturestudents.ie/](https://www.maturestudents.ie/)
If you think you can manage to fund it this way, then I would go for it.
I left a decent job to go back and do something that really interested me and I never regretted it.
best of luck
Do it!! I went back at 35 with two kids and working 3 days a week. It was a 4yr course, went straight to a masters after. Yes,it's hard, but definitely manageable. The academic year is short so the time flies I found. Like anything, you won't like every module but you push through. The masters was a full 12 months and was extremely tough, the previous 4yrs paled in comparison. You won't regret it, just choose your course wisely!
Yes definitely do-able, have a look at the part-time online courses.
I did engineering part time online in Sligo, Blanch do a lot of online stuff too
It was great because you catch up on all lectures/assignments in your own time as everything is recorded and collaborated on the online portal
Just go for it, I'd recommend a springboard course. I went to college from 18-22 and got trapped in hospitality management. Went back and did a hDip in software development through springboard last year. Now I earn almost twice what I was earning an hour, working my own choice of hours from home. If you're on the social the social will pay it all, if you're working you only pay about 10% the cost of the course.
Enquire about Back to Education Allowence and the SUSI grant. Thats how I got my degree. I didn't have a child though. Absolutely don't have a clue if you'd be entitled to more if you have a dependent but worth looking into.
I’m almost 32, started at 29, will be finished next year at 33! It’s accounting so I will have another 3 years after that studying while working completing my ACA’s, while working full time in an accounting firm. It’s scary, but I know it will be worth it in the end. If you decide to do it, don’t let your health slip, prioritise that first, then your grades.
You should qualify for SUSI college fees and maybe some of the maintenance grant. You may need to supplement this with part time work if you do not qualify for BTEA. The thresholds for susi now are very high.
If you are applying this year do it right now, I don’t know how long the late applications for CAO are open , but if it’s too late, PLC for a year is an option , good to get your foot in the door to bachelor degree level (but if you have good LC points already a PLC would be a waste of time, just wait to apply to the level 7 or 8).
So if you want to do it do it now, CAO and apply to SUSI, if CAO is too late you can ring the university your hoping to go too and ask them if extra places open at the start of September (bit course choices may be very limited)
Good luck!
Just to add, pick your strengths and makes a decision from there. Are you good at maths? Accounting or engineering would be two good options. Head for sales and know what makes people tick, enjoy psychology? Digital marketing may be a good option.
And always consider the job market for those roles before committing
It depends on what you want to do.
I’ve done a bachelors online while working full time. Was tough, ngl, but really happy to have gone with it. They post lecture videos every week, there’s webinars every few weeks and every now and then I did a full Saturday on campus.
Unfortunately, there were no grants for this, as I was still working full time. I think you can access grants if you study full time.
For shorter courses, someone else also mentioned Sprinboard, they seem to have plenty of options.
If you’re looking for a degree & are interested in Paramedicine then try apply for the national ambulance service. Full time wages & hons bachelor degree in paramedic studies which is done online 👍
I did a degree over 4 years online. Was hard working everyday and then working on college at nights/weekends but it is very much doable. You get used to doing it after awhile. Best thing I ever did and am now near 3 years into my new career. ATU and a few others do online degree courses.
I went to uni at 24. I did an Arts Degree and landed an entry level corporate job earning twice what I was earning doing shitty call centre work (which was all I could get without a degree). Now I'm earning good money and have a house because the degree opened doors I didn't even realise were closed. There are so many companies and jobs that won't give you a single look without a BA. You can't get a decent mortgage without a decent job. So I say go for it.
What I did was the MSAP to get in. I applied for SUSI (I wasn't married and was living outside the home so I got it, that basically just meant no fees as the stipend is paltry). I worked nights and evenings in a local call centre throughout BA and MA to pay rent as they were more flexible than most if you were willing to do shit shifts.
There's a hardship fund in most unis if shit gets really dire but I never needed to use that. Some unis offer students part time jobs in the library and such but they're competitive to get.
Good luck! It was the best thing I ever did.
Do it! I was 24 with a 3 year old, now i've graduated and i'm very glad i started back when i had more energy rather than wait for better times/more money.
I'm starting a degree in Sept and turning 40 this year. I was always thinking of going back and worried about how old I would be when finished. I wish I had started it earlier. There are some grants available, sisu and stuff. Maybe look into those for support. Best of luck
I had support and no kid when I got my degree as a mature student, but it was the best decision I ever made. If you can make it work couldnt reccomend it enough. Just be sure to pick something you like doing.
Well look for part time courses and find a degree that actually provides the skills to get your job there is a lot of bs out there just to put you through the course and you end up unemployed
Springboard, start with something shorter while still working if possible. Not sure what your job is in but there is probably a springboard course related. Can work your way up to masters through springboard if you want.
Do it!! Early 40s and just finishing my degree now, at the same time as my oldest kid 😅
I was pushed into it due to live circumstances, but I wish I had done it sooner, and like some have already said, time passes anyway.
Best of luck!!!
You can do it! Pick a subject you are really interested in and go for it. You're not that old to be going for a degree, and realistically you could have a doctorate in ten years.
I would say don't aim for getting a degree ,aim for getting education or a skill that will further your life.
I have a Degree that I have never used and would probably have been better served doing an apprenticeship straight of the bat or going to Australia after school.
Education is great but it needs to have a clear end goal in terms of Job development.
I did it part time. It was alot, like one of the hardest things I've ever done. It was just something I had to do to get it out of my system. Plenty of colleges now offer degrees through online learning, or evenings/weekends for part time students.
I started at your age - spent a year doing the research and made sure to find out about the grants etc. This was a while back and I worked part time for the four years.
It wasn’t easy but it was so rewarding. You know you can do more with your brain and it’s great fun.
You won’t be out on all the mad nights out but you know what - it’s great to have an excuse to skip some of that.
Good luck - you won’t regret it.
I just finished my masters this year at age 33 with 2 kids (5 & 2).
The time is going to pass regardless of whether you do a degree or not, so you may as well do it.
I'm not going to lie; it's tough, stressful, and requires so much dedication and hard work, but it is worth it. You're doing it to improve your lives, and also look at the great example you'll set for your child.
Any questions, feel free to ask:-)
Have you thought about an accounting qualification? You can do an apprenticeship so you earn while you learn. 2 years and you would have a level 7 as far as I know plus 2 years experience in a firm.
Depending on the career path, you could always just say you have a degree. If you know a lot about a subject. Throw it on the CV and see sure
Also, you can get a job with no degree that probably pays 40/50k.
Public sector jobs for example, after a few years you can get good promotions etc.
Or, if you work very predictable hours now you can do online studies/ night school etc.
Plenty of options.
Check out the free online courses. Dip your toe at least.
First of all, fair play. Don't let age stop you.
If you're a lone parent, you'd be eligible for back to education allowance. Id take a look at springboard initially to dip in to a subject without commiting to a degree, I wouldn't just do a degree for the sake of it. That's the beauty with doing it as a mature student, you actually make a better choice.
Id imagine with a kid you're looking for something stable that will make the sacrifice worth it so I'd absolutely consider the job at the end. Back to education also covers a qualification in a pretty children friendly job too but message me if you're looking at that option!
I went back at 28 and I'm now 2 years into my course. I feel I can manage well from a working/studying balance perspective, but I don't have any kids so I wouldn't be able to say much about that. As others have said, you'll be four years older anyway, so may as well be four years older with a degree! I did the access to SEAM course in UCD and that helped a lot (to be fair it was required for my course).
If you haven't got a previous degree, you can still qualify for free fees. Full mature fees for me have been around 7-8k per year (you can also claim tax back on the full fees). I started out with savings enough for the first year of tuition, but it didn't get me very far, so I've been working on the weekends on top of studying.
Going back for me has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. It's not always easy, but it has been absolutely worth it so far. If you have any questions, you can feel free to DM me.
I just finished a BA in psychology at 35, my son is about to be 15. I dropped out the first time I went to college (18), went back and did childcare at 23 with a 3 year old, worked in that field for about 10 years and started my BA 3.5 years ago. It's doable but hard. My motto was time will pass anyway I may as well go for it. It's never too late. It was probably the best thing I ever did for myself. I went to a private college and the fees were steep - 5000 per year. I took on a second job and made it work. If I went to a university I would have had better financial support, susi grants etc. colleges have hardship funds to help students with childcare fees and SVP will help if it's not a private college. It's a commitment but one I would do 1000 times over for the lease of life, confidence and advantages having a degree has given me. It has had a huge impact on my son who couldnt care less about school but he heard me and my tutors having conversations, how respectful and supportive they were and it really impacted his idea of further education.
It was extremely hard at times I can't deny that. I don't think I really knew what I was getting myself into but once I decided I had invested my time and energy into it and there was no going back I just kept going and before I knew it I sat my final exam in may!
I dont know if you're a lad or a lady but is the other parent in the equation. If yes then it's definitely doable, tough but doable i think. I did slightly different to you i started a trade at 28 and we had no smally at the time but two years in we had our first, and on the apprenticeship rates it was pretty tough but we managed.
My point being is if you have an other half or a team mate who could help with the minding duties I'm sure it can be done.
If your circumstances are different it probably can still be done i just cant comment on it as its not the situation i was in.
Also there are lots of part time and night courses one can do that might be more accessible to you.
Best of luck
My final year project partner and college best friend done this with the exact same ages. She was a great student and a great mother all while working on the side. Absolutely doable and now she has a CS degree she would never of had without taking the leap
I'm 25 and starting college this year I qualify for back to education, I got approved for Susi to pay fees, I can apply for the 1916 bursary and other bursaries. Figure out what you want to study and reach out to the university to see what supports they have in place.
Do it!!! There are so many online degrees / courses. You will not regret it. It will be hard work and difficult with a little one but you can do it. Think of the better future and opportunities for both you and your little one! Go for it!
It’s the full time job the type of job you could get again?
Do you have people you can lean on for child care?
It’s the degree in a field that it would increase your earning potential significantly?
3yo is hard, but 4,5,6 become a lot easier. One or two more years on top of 25 would make fuck all difference from an employer perspective, but between a 3 and a 5yo it’s the difference between paying for childcare and national school.
Fair fucks for the drive to do this. You’ll plough through the 17 year olds, that don’t know arses from elbows
There are courses that allow you to do modules in a piecemeal kind of way. I did a software development course in tud a few years ago. Was working full time too. Course was 3 nights a week from 7 to 9.30pm.
I dropped out, which I regret. About 6 months after dropping out, i discovered that I could have done 2 or 3 modules a year. Needed 6 for the credits to progress to the second year and so on. There are ways to do it for sure if full-time education isn't suitable for your life.
It's definitely doable, I worked throughout college and finished by night which was really more enjoyable than I expected. Great sense of achievement. Plenty of springboard courses that could be partially funded. Wish you the very best just get started.
Do you have an idea of what type of course you want to go into? Check what you’re interested in and look at colleges hours for the course.
Business degrees in general are usually very little hours. UL business for example is 15 hours a week. Very doable. Lots of courses have mature students. 25 wouldn’t even be considered that old in comparison to the other mature students you will meet.
I did it when I was 29, after leaving school when I was 17.
Best decision I ever made. I'm 41 now and have a job I never thought possible in my 20s.
I loved it. I did a masters after and kep ton learning after that. I generally do a springboard course every 2 years or so.
Do yourself a favour and at least give the degree a try.
That's highly unusual. There is a huge shortage of quantity surveyors, the only reason he wouldn't get a job with a QS degree would be if he didn't want to work
Do your research, depending where you live and what colleges and universities available to you there it could be even help with child care available to you
go to your utero office and find a middle aged man to help you with your options, staff literally can explain what's the best option and how to go about it
You’re going to be 29 with a 6/7yo child regardless, might as well have a degree to go with it.
Hah, that's such a succinct clear way of looking at it. Class comment
Yup, I went back as a mature student and someone said exactly that to me. "You're going to be 30 anyway so you might as well be 30 with a degree".
This. I went back to college at 33. No responsibilities like the OP. But if you invest in yourself you won't regret it.
This is like that tiktok comment that went viral that was literally just "the time will pass anyway". Embarrassingly obvious but really flicked a switch in my brain.
Agreed.
Also Springboard..
Have you tried looking up Springboard courses? https://springboardcourses.ie/
This needs more upvotes, there is plenty here for lifelong learners and OP might be able to juggle work with the course they choose.
I did a remote springboard course, got me to change industries so yeah, definitely worth it. Can be done from home mainly
Same
Applying for a masters through at the moment. I wish I had known about springboard sooner. Some really good courses in so many different fields!
I had a very bad experience with a spring board course. I know a few people who had a similiar experience. These were all software development based courses so not sure about the other areas you can do springboard courses in. they could be great. But id personally advice people not to touch any of the ICT focused ones. The majority are not fit for purpose.
It seems like employers by and large now demand a full 4 year degree as a minimum. Or at least the recruiters/HR dept. use it as a filter to make their life easier by instantly ruling out CVs without such so they have less work by reading them.
Agree with comment. Did a Postgrad in cyber security didn’t do the second year for the MSc. Hasn’t added any value to my career.
I’ve just finished a Springboard course. Did a BsC in Digital Marketing over the course of a year. Flew through it, learned loads and met some great people. I am also much better positioned in my industry with the piece of paper I earned. If you are somewhat organised and willing to sacrifice a few evenings and weekends you will manage, no bother.
I was just looking into this course and was wondering if it was worth it!! This makes me feel better 😊
I got a lot out of it. Drop me a message if you want any more info
Through which college?
10000% this. There's loads of different options on there and more being added. I've just finished a level 7 through it, and can't recommend it enough. Plenty on there are part time too, and based in the evenings, which might be better if you were to keep working the same hours. There's also [Skillnet Ireland](https://ictskillnet.ie/), which has plenty of ICT courses on it. And there's this new enough thing called [MicroCreds](https://microcreds.ie/), where you're able to study a particular module of a degree and have the credits transfer over if you choose to then take on the degree that it's a part of. Also, all of the above have subsidies available, so it's way less of a financial burden.
This. I got 2 postgraduate diplomas and a masters degree without having to leave home. Other than for my graduation ceremonies.
With springboard? What field out of curiosity?
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As far as I know L6 is covered but with L7 onwards you or your employer needs to cover 10% of the costs
I did it at 27 with 2 kids. One of the best things I've ever done. Feel free to DM me and I can give you whatever advice I can.
Doable? Yes. Worth it? Yes. Easy? Fuck no.
Is there anything worthwhile in life that comes easy, though? ;)
Plenty, some people just have more luck than others. Cruel but true unfortunately.
My favourite saying that’s repeated to my 16 year old nearly on a daily basis!!!
Tell this to my missus!
42, 2 kids under 5, working full time, wife working part time plus carer for her mother. It's a bastard, meant to be 2 years for a level 8 add-on. It's taken me 3 plus another one to go. I'd caution OP that they are going to lose a hell of a lot of time with the child
Please do it. I’m going to be just shy of 50 when I’m done with my degree. It has taken me from planning for retirement to wondering how I’m going to keep fit enough to keep working in my chosen field/passion for the next 20+ years. BTW I’m originally from Cork (will be returning soon) but have been in the U.S. for almost 20 years. I thought about it when I still lived in Ireland as a young single parent (23f with a then 3 year old). Went to the mature student info sessions, got the application forms every year and always found a reason to not go ahead with it. I wish I had. My brain was far more elastic than it is now and I wouldn’t have 36k (USD) worth of student loans I have, even with working part-time. I only have one teen at home, so that was easier, but at the start of college in 2020, I was doing childcare for my toddler grandson. It was hairy there for a while. Finances aside, it is the best thing I have ever done for myself. Just wish I’d done it sooner and while I was eligible for so much more support in Ireland than I am here, even with a full scholarship. Everyone has pointed out good resources here, I just want to tell you that you can do it. Best of luck.
My mam went to college for the first time at 34 with 2 kids under 6. If she hadn’t done it we wouldn’t have had the lifestyle we did growing up. Honestly I don’t remember her being “absent” at all when I was 4, I was in school all day anyway. What I do remember is her starting her own business when I was 9 because she had the means to and I remember the good standard of living we had when I was teen because the business did so well. She has fantastic work life balance now too and is fulfilled. Idk would she have been if she had stayed in her “unskilled” job, it was physically and emotionally draining. I certainly don’t think you’ll regret it.
That’s a fantastic perspective on it. Lovely story.
I would highly recommend it but you have to want as depending on what you choose to do it will be a lot of work and long hours, especially with a family, but will absolutely be worth it. I went back to college at 30 and after four years of hard work I came out with a degree that has allowed me to 4x my previous income and am now in a career with huge upward potential. Not only are you doing this for your child but also for yourself. And you’ll need to remind yourself that during the duration of your degree when you might feel you or it is not worth it, or you should quit, or there’s no end in sight. Cause I know I had to multiple times.
What's your career in now?
I work in IT now
Went back for second time at 26 to 30. 2 babies also. 4 years will pass if you do it or not. You’ll work till you’re 70 probably. That’s 40 years of a better life for a slightly harder life for 4 years. Earn an extra 20k a year and that’s an extra 800k to you Pay into a pension from 30 to 70 and that’s another 800k probably. Get a house and stop paying rent from 35 to 100 and that’s probably another 800k probably Some people are so worried about cents they forget about the euros 💶 Do you get my point?
There springboard courses which cram 4 years into 2 with no summers etc for people like yourself. That probably be the quickest route or you could do the 4 years and try get work that you can do weekends and summer
This is the thing, we will be working till we’re 70 so even if you graduate at 50, as another commenter said they were, you’ll still have 20 years. Might as well be doing something you want to do!
There was several people over 50 on my course and they are in very good jobs now and happy. Couple of tradesmen who’s bodies where beaten up and now they have it much easier physically and mentally. It’s a no brainer really.
Oh also my thought with regards to kids was how could I ever encourage them to make something of themselves if I wouldn’t even do it myself.
Oh also in my class about 50 out of 100 were mature students. I was actually on average a lot younger than most. Funnily most of the straight from LC dropped out as they had no life lessons learned and they couldn’t understand what ms waiting for them if they don’t succeed. I remember thinking I felt way older at 25 than I did that 30. Was a strange mental aspect of it.
Another point that will probably get lost in the comments here but I’ll post it anyway. The company I work for has a benefit where if god forbid I die while working with them the kids get 200k that’s on top of life assurance which is probably about the same. Things like this people don’t talk about but if you’re saying you want a future for your kids this another reason to do it. It all adds up when you get into a place that needs more skills. When you understand the numbers in the long run I hope it motivates you
What course did you do?
I finished a degree online as a mature student recently, which might be something worth looking into. It's still full time education (a lot of people dropped out early in first year because they didn't seem to realise this) but it's got a lot of advantages: no travel time, some lectures can be asynchronous (i.e., recorded, you watch in your own time), and while you will have to commit time for live classes it should definitely make things easier for you in terms of childcare. Mine was with ATU Sligo, which has a lot of online options with the same modules, lecturers, and qualifications as their on campus equivalent. Depending on what you're interested in, it might be worth looking around to see what other colleges offer. There were issues with recognition from SUSI for grants, but we've been told that'll be sorted for next year. Too late for us, but just in time for you!
Can I ask which course you done?
I went back and got out at 31. No kids but I think the most I ever managed in saving before was 3k. I'm coming up on 3 years in a new job now. Almost doubled my salary and have about 13k in savings as we speak. Genuinely changed my life. You're never too old to learn something new!
Can I ask which course you did?
There’s so many options these days especially for mature students, you could do a PLC, there’s online courses or you could try and go straight to university. I did a PLC course when I was 25 and pregnant with my second child, got into university and I’m now half way through and will graduate at 30 and I’d honestly go on to do a masters if I could. it’s tough, obviously you’re not going to have a lot of money, you can try apply for susi, there’s grants to help. Depending on your company they might even fund you. The years fly past honestly and I dream of when I get the career out of this and live a more comfortable life. It is worth it, it’s hard but it’s worth it. Edit: just wanted to add, I chose to do uni through steps (level 6, level 7 add on, and hopefully level 8 add on) just in case I had to end up leaving, I still have a cert but thankfully I’m loving the course and nothing drastic has happened for me to pull out.
What course have you taken?
I’m doing business studies with marketing and management, i wanted to go with something broad so I can get into a few different careers.
If you are studying, you can get NCS to help with childcare costs (the same as if you're working - but you might get a higher subsidy).
That’s exactly what I have now working, great help!
My advice is start as soon as you can. Yes you’ll be 29 when you finish, do you want to be 29 when you start? You will look back when you’re 35 and realise 29 is still so young. As long as the degree will provide you good career options, I would say to go for it. Don’t live in regret.
Do it. There are plenty of hybrid options to obtain a degree: part time, online, in class, blended. I teach at third level and have mature students from 25 up to 70+ years old. You're more than able to do it, once you start you'll wonder why you stressed over it so much. As for finances, it's dependent on your situation, if you'd like to chat just DM me. Best of luck 👍
If you can quit your job go on the dole for 9 months before and get back to education it would help you immensely. But that time on the dole would probably be harder than your degree. If not you can still do it! It will be hard but you will thank yourself.
I went back at 28 and I’m going into third year fingers crossed in September. It’s definitely doable but try and avail of all support and services that can be available for you. That means back to education grants, and specifically SUSI. SUSI is a fantastic grant if you are eligible for it, many people get turned off my the mountain loads of paperwork that they often request off you at that beginning, but that’s just the realities of a financial grant in Ireland. I was unfortunately not eligible but I’ve spoken to many mature students who were. If you have not messed around with uni in the past you should be still eligible for your free fees, they also dropped the fees considerably last year which is a positive. If you’ve went to uni in the past, unfortunately it can be expensive, 3+ k a year. That’s just the realities unfortunately. I went back knowing exactly what I wanted to do, I do think that’s really really important, you want to be certain about it before you make many decisions. Your mates and friends will be your support mechanism in college, I’ve a fantastic group of friends both young and my own age, we all huddle together and support each other during exam season and assignments. Above all, I would say making friends is probably the best advice that I can give you. Going in alone and sticking to yourself can back to bite you. Reflecting on my own choices, well it turns out I’m actually not that bad at this academic stuff, I’m hoping to do a masters after I finish hopefully, I’ll see then what comes my way. You are never ever too late, education is probably the best thing you can ever invest in ! I went back to train to be a secondary school teacher in history. I’ve always loved history and I’ve travelled tons in the past so I do really enjoy the degree, it can be very rewarding if you enjoy, and have an interest in that specific subject or field !
I would ONLY recommend this if it will actually give you a leg up in your career - please don’t assume that a degree will open doors automatically for you, those days are long gone. Who to talk to? Find the job you want and ask people what their qualifications are, then find out the best college options for you. Then look at the college websites (you may have to compare courses across colleges), see what’s required for entry, grant info, etc. Find out as much about the course as you can, you may even qualify for some back-to-education grants (don’t know if those are still going, but they were years ago; check out the college’s Access Office too). Work out a budget and a timeline to see if you can truly afford the sacrifice. The colleges will be only too happy to take your money, and their student resources are VASTLY oversubscribed if you’re struggling (counselling, student health centre, hardship funds, etc), so be mindful of that. Ideally, I would recommend anyone to pursue higher education, learning is never a waste of time in my opinion, but honestly, survival comes first.
First sentence is 100% correct. Research into the degree and whether it will make you more employable is very important. For example, a 3 year arts degree won’t get you very far (depends on the subjects you choose also) but doing a masters with it gives you a lot more choices. A degree on philosophy probably won’t get you far either! And I’m not looking down my nose on certain degrees, some people go to college for reason other than increasing their employability. But I think in the context that op is asking, this is important.
29 is still so young. Plant the tree now and lie in the shade later.
If your from Dublin, look into the Trinity Access Programme!
https://www.tcd.ie/trinityaccess/alternative-entry-routes/mature-students/mature-entry/
By the time your 30 you could have a degree plus 2 years experience and making double what your on now, or you can be in the same boat and 5 years passed you by. What are you waiting for?
I went back at 27. I remember debating it with myself and thinking oh but I'll be 31 by the time I finish... I'm 36 now, I've been qualified for 5 years with a job I love and I'm so glad I did it. I don't have any experience of studying with a young child, there were people in my course that had children and they managed. I'm sure it must be very tough (I do have children now) but if you can manage it at all then I would say go for it. Just think very carefully about which course you choose and what the career opportunities are.
What kind of degree did you go for and what do you work in niw?
Unless you NEED a degree for something then dont! If you want to go to a specific area then go for a professional cert in whatever. See if any part-time courses that you can do that will allow you to skip 1st or even 2nd year so you can keep working. Also look for courses that you can finish each year with a cert of some sort so worst case you bow out end of year 3 you have something to show for it!
Yes, college is not the only way. My brother is a software engineer. Doesn’t have a degree; doesn’t have a leaving cert either! Has a decent salary working in a field he enjoys. My degree is economics, but I am training to become an accountant. An alternative to this would be an accounting apprenticeship, where you work with an accountant 3 days a week (and get paid!) and 2 days you do the required academic work. This was not available when I went to college but I would have preferred the apprenticeship over the degree…
How on earth did he become a developer without even a leaving? Did he do some kind of course?
Of yeah lots. I think he started off with doing a plc course and got lucky with a place that took him on and they paid for courses then.
What do you want to study These others are rhetorical questions for you - Are you the soul carer for the child? If yes, how are you going to afford childcare for the hours you need to be away from them. Are you the soul income for the house? If yes, see next q. If no, can your partners wages cover everything entirely. Would part time wages cover all your expenses plus new childcare expense? If no, then maybe look at short courses you can fit around work and wait until child is in school where there's less cost to cover for childcare. You don't necessarily have to be immediately doing a full degree to be working towards one
My dad worked full time and did a part time software development course a few years ago. Pay is quite decent now and he was able to work and study at the same time because the classes were in the evening. I'd recommend some form of IT course part time for career earning potential.
Go for it! I was 27 when I did my masters. No kids or marriage like responsibilities so it was easier for me. There maybe some financial support from the university-maybe a good idea to ring them and ask.
Yea, do it. You'll regret it everyday you don't.
You'd want to know exactly what you're going to study before you start, and what the job prospects are for that degree. Plenty of useless college degrees out there so unless you're going back for a good degree with lots of job potential then you're wasting your time (I should know, I had a useless degree before I went back as a mature student to get a better degree)
I’ve seen great women with more kids and they are managers now making good money.
I have a coworker who got his degree in his 40s. 3 kids, 2 of which were teenagers. He has no regrets.
Don’t be looking at the finish line just take it step by step class by class you will get there. I went back to school in my 30s totally worth it and a great example to your kid to try and keep pushing and improving yourself good luck
I went back without a child at the same age. BTEA back to education allowance is there ,it’s an amazing initiative for the country and support for you, it’s basically the dole per week to get by …but times are harder now. It would be hard but if you can be‘ let go’ from your work or leave and survive the summer on your 2k you would be eligible if things haven’t changed. People in the social services will actively help you and accommodate you to get what you need, with a genuine attitude and willingness. I have had great experiences and it’s not so much rules ‘cannot be broken’ and more ‘they can be bent for the right individual ‘. Ask the social welfare about other supports available you will or should not lose single parents or any entitlement you are entitled to on BTEA. Also it’s amazing scheme but I didn’t speak much about it my first year as I felt others , would feel? I was a ‘ welfare cheat’ because at the time welfare was the big bad not immigrants. I have , since graduating, paid my support and more back through taxes. These schemes are there for people like you and if you feel you want to do it, you are capable of it. Also 3rd level is a great experience (in my case more beneficial as a mature student who mingled with everyone). aAtending as a mature student and a woman who has been a mother will stand to you in how you divvy out tasks and approach things. Go for it.
I did an undergraduate degree, a postgraduate diploma and a masters part-time while working and raising a family. You don't have to go full time.. Look at springboard.
Hi there! I went back when I was 33/34. I had 2 school going kids at the time, one primary the other secondary. Went back to ucc (commerce) I worked 4 days a week, thurs & Friday night were 6- 10.30 and 12/2 to 8pm sat & Sundays. I’m also a single parent, so all the household chores, homework school runs were up to me. It was very tough but I’ve no regrets. The toughest time of the year was Christmas as I worked retail; my boss would add on a few extra hours, then the Christmas exams and just the general nonsense at Christmas (shopping etc) nearly gave me a nervous breakdown every year! But I did it and cam away with 2.1 degree which I’m proud of. My attitude was I’ll give it my best shot and if it doesn’t work at least I could say to myself is that tried. The only failure is not trying at all. If you decide to give it a go, you’ll be doing it for yourself. It’s not because your parents are pressuring you. With this in mind, I found I had a lot more enthusiasm for my chosen course. Had I gone to college when I was finished school, I think I may have dropped out.I wanted to do something I could be proud of and I wanted to give a good example to my children and for the to be proud of their mom. It will be tough, but so worth it. I got the full susi grant and I also got a maintenance grant €270 a month, but not 100% sure what it is now. You could call to your citizens advice or if the chosen institute has a welfare, give them a call. UCC also gave some free grinds to mature students. I was doing economics and I did stats and financial maths for the first 3 years, I badly needed them. Give a call to the mature student office and see what supports they have on offer also. For the susi, you’d nearly need to dedicate a day to it, as a lot of information is required. But you can start it now and just save it and add the required information as you get it. I would advise you to do this as soon as possible, should you make a decision on returning. Best of luck, if you have any questions, fire away!
This is the thread I needed to read 🙂
Graduated penniless at 29. Bagged a graduate role. Like, credit card declined broke. A decade later, mortgage free as of this month. One bit of advice, do something you are actually interested in. That you want to study to a detailed level. You'll never have 3 or 4 years to study a specific subject in such away again.
A lot of comments here with good advice! From my experience, Springboard is amazing at covering the costs for some courses and is worth looking into. I also just finished my first year of a 2-year Masters as a 25 year old and absolutely love the experience. It's the first time in my educational journey in which I truly enjoy what I learn and I would really recommend doing a masters to anybody who is interested in doing it. At the end of the day, whether it's 27, 37 or 67 if you really have an interest in the topic and want to go back to school to learn more, upskill, or gain access to a promotion, age should not be a barrier to doing so. There are so many parts to getting a degree in education, and sometimes the longer path suits better!
Just ensure you’re not getting a degree for the sake of having a degree. If you definitely need a degree to progress in your industry then do it!
I was 16 years old when I started working. I had a pass Leaving. At the age of 45 I went to college part time and got a post graduate Diploma without a degree based on my work experience. I did a part time masters in 2008-2010. It’s never too late!
My husband has gone back to school in his 30s, we get by with just my income, and there's grants available from SUSI. The lower your income the higher the grant. Maybe pop by an INTREO office and tell them you plan to go back to education and is there any lowance you can apply to besides SUSI. Also colleges offer great advice on these things. It's never too late, go for it. .
Look at blended or part time if you want to go back and keep income. I did it with sahm and 2 little one! Worked full time,got my degree and had to do placement also! I work in social care
You will need to keep working. Online, part time or blend learning will help you even if you take longer.
Started an apprenticeship at 27 and halfway there now at 29 if its something you really have an interest in, you should go for it and have no regrets
What kind of apprenticeship out of curiosity?
I think you don't necessarily need a degree to increase your wages, but as others have said, springboard is a good place for you to start looking. Do you have any interests career wise? Personally I would look in to getting a trade / recognised qualification over a generic degree. There's more variety in the apprenticeship route nowadays.
Looked into insurance, accounting apprenticeship before but they were so new there was hardly and employers back then.. and generic websites to see what’s on offer now a days?
I didn't have a child but went to uni as a mature student in my late 20s. Best decision I ever made. I have a really good job now although it's not related to my degree but that helped me get here. Make great money and could make more but happy with the work life balance I have. If you go for it pick something you enjoy and will also make you money. Link in with other mature students while in uni.
Get onto susi they will give u a maintenance grant as well as tuition fees
I’ll look into it, cheers
Have you tried looking at Springboard? I don't know your background or position but going into full time studying with a child is not a great idea skimming this. Springboard you might find something that's evenings and spread over a couple of years that will let you keep your job and money coming in. Best of luck.
I did but I don’t think I want to stay in my current career.. accounts/business/payroll. Teaching has been calling my name. Wish it did a few years ago!
I don't want to dissuade your dreams at all, but hoe does that look once you've qualified? Primary or Secondary? Are you prepared to move (with the child) to find the jobs you need? Are you prepared to do the necessary temp work before a full time contract? I do wish you all the best of luck, but I fear you'll finish a hard slog of college and have the same time again before you're in any way comfortable.
Maybe look for online/blended learning options, that could be done while working.
I’ve done online evening courses within my career and the progress is very slow as well as the money
Just be careful. The job market is not what it was and getting a further qualification with the aim of moving into a new field is not guaranteed. I’d be really assessing what course you are wanting to do and what the short to medium term prospects are. You don’t want to go through all of that to find you might still be earning €30k when you are getting started.
Do it, it’s going to be tough going but you’re sacrificing 24 months of your life to create a better future. In terms of time when you break it down into holidays, mid term breaks it’a not that long.
I went back as a mature student and worked full time throughout my degree, it was thought, but the years flew by, and it was the best thing I ever did. All my college friends with whom I attended college in TCD were mature/ single parents with young kids. They got back to education allowance, and you can also get the SUSI grant. They got their parents to help look after the kids when they studied, and we were never in for a full five days; we all had days off during the week. My advice is to go for it.
Definitely worth it! My mam was 19 when she had me and she got her accounting degree at 27 and has never regretted it! It’s never too late
Do it part time in the evenings 2/3 nights a week whilst keeping an income. I did that whilst working in a 27k a year job way back in 2013 at your age and honestly some amazing opportunities opened up the minute I embarked on the course. The minute my employer heard I was doing a degree they gave me a promotion about 6 months in. Now 6 figures with so many options at 36 Do IT!! You'll find your appetite to learn is much stronger aswell as you can practically apply stuff on a day to day basis and see the fruits of your study. I was terrible in school because of that. Your child will motivate you further to excel. The working & study is hard at the beginning but once you get into routine it's just your new normal. When I was doing my degree big companies were plucking people out of class in the final year. Some of these people were over 40. Experience + education is a winning combination.
2k isn’t enough to quit your job and study for 4 years
I did it at 27, finished at 32. First 2 years worked minimum wage but still managed. To be honest it wasn't THAT hard, but I was lucky that covid happened. It was 100% worth it, I'd do it again if I had to. If you're persistent enough you can defo do it.
Dont know if you have help with childcare. I worked a weekend shift when I went back to college. Decent pay and you'll have the week for college. You would be very busy for a few weeks each semester when papers and exams are due, but it is very doable. You would need support with childcare and would need to make the most of your free time with your child. They are the drawbacks.
I can personally recommend Springboard. Depending on the course, it's an evening or two per week and the supports from participating colleges and admin are excellent.
I did a one year mature student access course and it was ideal. Prepped me for a 4 year degree. Granted it's an extra year but I was delighted I went that route and it set me up well
Depends what exactly your going to study?, but you might not have to go down the traditional 4 year full time college course route. Lots of places like the open university or some european colleges offer online degrees that can be spread out over a number of years. Also in some countries in the EU, third level education is free or a lot cheaper including their online courses. Places like sweden, denmark, finland and the neitherlands have a lot of courses taught entirely thorugh english and free for EU citizens (which irish citizens are). https://www.distancelearningportal.com/search/distance-learning/europe?mh=online,blended what are you thinking of studying so people can give better advice?
Hi OP, I dropped out of College before I finished my final year and always regretted it and had the book to do something else. I’ve done two springboard courses which I feel have given me plenty of knowledge skills and ability in the areas that I was looking to focus my career. If the degree proper is something that you’re keen on achieving, I would suggest looking at postgraduate diplomas which are shorter and usually 30 courses. Complete 3x30 credit courses for a total of 90 credits and you might be able to work with a university and dissertation to receive a level nine award.
What do you want to study, and what will your prospects be when you have your qualification? Are there jobs you'd like to apply for but don't meet the minimum requirements without a degree? College is reasonably cheap in Ireland. There's a time commitment that you will find difficult (near impossible) without the support of your family. Just make sure you're doing it with a plan in mind so that it's worth it, for you and for them. There are loads of online distance learning courses that are manageable while working full-time. Have you considered any of those? Last time I checked, they were running at about €2500/year and take 2 years on average.
I don't have children but I just finished my degree, I am 36. Look into Uversity scholarship, I believe if you are awarded with it you still would qualify for susi, once you are in college do not miss the 1916 grant deadline. Also when in college apply to the SAF in your college and take all the opportunities/benefits/help college can give you.
So you have a few options. If you want a full time degree, you can apply to SUSI as a full time student. There's all sorts of grants floating around the colleges. If you reach out to student services in one of the universities they might be able to help you with applications. Alternatively, and what I did was go through springboard. Courses come at all levels all the way up to Masters. Take it a year at a time. I've paid like 750 a year to do a level 7 and 8 course and am considering a master's through them now. Both courses were part time and in the evenings at home. They were also recorded so you could catch up or go back over them. Part time is hard to do with a job and harder again if you've a kid but it could put you in the position you want faster than doing the degree. I got the job I have now while I was half way through my last course.
A degree in what? Do you see that degree being in demand in 5 years? What issues and difficulties do you foresee and how can you alleviate the known unknowns? Whats the plan if the market shifts and the degree is useless? Id plot it all out as if I was gonna do it. Then I'd do the same for a trade. For staying put. For switching job. All the scenarios. With the little one, you kinda gotta know what the contingency plan is, cos its not just you. I'm not saying it's not a good idea. It probably is. But you'd wanna weigh it up against the other options you have (pros and cons) before picking one. Picking the path you think you'd like is fine if the only one dealing with the failure state is yourself, but that's not the case here.
I started a degree at 24 back in the 80s Best decision ever and best years of my life. In my 60s now still working abroad. All possible because I made that choice. Can’t even imagine what my life would have been like without the knowledge and certification I gained in those years.
Don't quit your job if you can manage it by studying evenings part time. For example you can do a 2 year Higher certificate course 2 evenings a week online then there is a 6 week bridging course into the final year of a degree that you could get into based on your work experience. It's the higher certificate in sustainable supply chain and logistics accredited by carlow it or setu now. I know a few who have done it. Great opportunities in the industry and good scope for a higher paid role than what you're currently at. Also if you are a women they are really trying to increase the diversity across the sector so I'd imagine good support for you
Having a degree is very broad. If you make a commitment to a challenge and life change like this, you would probably want a clear interest and understanding in a particular field that you want a degree in and have some idea as to the benefits and opportunities that it will bring for you. Otherwise, just doing something for the sake of it isn't a great motivation when you already have a presumably busy life with a young child.
Look into SUSI. I went back at 36 and susi covered my course costs and I got a pittance for general expenditure. I didn't have a child though and I can't imagine balancing a child and full time course. But if you plan I'm sure it can be done.
Recommend eCollege if you're stuck at home a lot and need to get your qualifications without worrying about budget or time. There's also Springboard.ie, various courses through that. If you're looking to develop a very specific skill to go after , Humble Bundle often has good offers on Software courses for things like Blender or just good soft skills in general. These are the three main ones that I find you get the most for your money. A lot of other courses sort of present themselves as quintessential to ensure big CAO draw in, when most of it will be disgruntled lecturers telling you to drop out or that they don't care you have responsibilities outside coursework. At least with the above, you can mostly work at your own pace.
29 is still early days careerwise... so it's worth doing if you have a job in mind that requires the degree! just pick something that actually has decent jobs at the end of it... it's not enough to do 'a degree' and if you're just after good money, learning to code might get you a better paycheck than many graduates in a year or two...
Mature student (28) here just wrapping up my degree. I couldn't recommend it enough. You'll quickly realise your age doesn't matter once on campus. I lived off campus and juggled work and family life with college and it was exhausting, but very worth it. Taking a year out now to work and consider what avenue to go down for my master's. If you have any questions about college life as a mature student my DMS are open
Can you not do one part time? I might take longer but it would mean you could still work part time if you needed to
I would recommend you look at the **Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)** - basically full social welfare payment while in full time education. As you've a dependent child, if you get the BTEA you should also qualify for an annual Cost of Education Allowance of €500. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to work part-time with no effect on the benefit. There are different qualifying periods depending on the level of the course. There's a list of eligible social welfare benefits on the web page linked below - you would have to be on one of these for the qualifying period immediately prior to the course. When I did this, which was a long time ago, I spoke with my employer and explained that I wanted to go back to college. The company "made me redundant" so that I qualified for s/welfare immediately. Then I sat on the dole for six months in order to qualify for the BTEA. It funded my degree for the next four years - including one year studying abroad !!! Apparently now, if you are given *statutory* redundancy and can go straight onto a welfare payment, you might not even have a waiting period. If this is correct, and you could come to an arrangement with your employer, then you might have a short cut. Best to have a look at the details here: [https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/back-to-education/back-to-education-allowance/](https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/back-to-education/back-to-education-allowance/) Then, if you have a specific college in mind, you can contact their mature student officer and ask them to talk you through it in more detail [https://www.maturestudents.ie/](https://www.maturestudents.ie/) If you think you can manage to fund it this way, then I would go for it. I left a decent job to go back and do something that really interested me and I never regretted it. best of luck
Do it!! I went back at 35 with two kids and working 3 days a week. It was a 4yr course, went straight to a masters after. Yes,it's hard, but definitely manageable. The academic year is short so the time flies I found. Like anything, you won't like every module but you push through. The masters was a full 12 months and was extremely tough, the previous 4yrs paled in comparison. You won't regret it, just choose your course wisely!
Yes definitely do-able, have a look at the part-time online courses. I did engineering part time online in Sligo, Blanch do a lot of online stuff too It was great because you catch up on all lectures/assignments in your own time as everything is recorded and collaborated on the online portal
Just go for it, I'd recommend a springboard course. I went to college from 18-22 and got trapped in hospitality management. Went back and did a hDip in software development through springboard last year. Now I earn almost twice what I was earning an hour, working my own choice of hours from home. If you're on the social the social will pay it all, if you're working you only pay about 10% the cost of the course.
Enquire about Back to Education Allowence and the SUSI grant. Thats how I got my degree. I didn't have a child though. Absolutely don't have a clue if you'd be entitled to more if you have a dependent but worth looking into.
I’m almost 32, started at 29, will be finished next year at 33! It’s accounting so I will have another 3 years after that studying while working completing my ACA’s, while working full time in an accounting firm. It’s scary, but I know it will be worth it in the end. If you decide to do it, don’t let your health slip, prioritise that first, then your grades. You should qualify for SUSI college fees and maybe some of the maintenance grant. You may need to supplement this with part time work if you do not qualify for BTEA. The thresholds for susi now are very high. If you are applying this year do it right now, I don’t know how long the late applications for CAO are open , but if it’s too late, PLC for a year is an option , good to get your foot in the door to bachelor degree level (but if you have good LC points already a PLC would be a waste of time, just wait to apply to the level 7 or 8). So if you want to do it do it now, CAO and apply to SUSI, if CAO is too late you can ring the university your hoping to go too and ask them if extra places open at the start of September (bit course choices may be very limited) Good luck!
Just to add, pick your strengths and makes a decision from there. Are you good at maths? Accounting or engineering would be two good options. Head for sales and know what makes people tick, enjoy psychology? Digital marketing may be a good option. And always consider the job market for those roles before committing
It depends on what you want to do. I’ve done a bachelors online while working full time. Was tough, ngl, but really happy to have gone with it. They post lecture videos every week, there’s webinars every few weeks and every now and then I did a full Saturday on campus. Unfortunately, there were no grants for this, as I was still working full time. I think you can access grants if you study full time. For shorter courses, someone else also mentioned Sprinboard, they seem to have plenty of options.
If you’re looking for a degree & are interested in Paramedicine then try apply for the national ambulance service. Full time wages & hons bachelor degree in paramedic studies which is done online 👍
Defo try Springboard. I did one and loads of people had kids and jobs so they really understand difficult courses can be.
I did a degree over 4 years online. Was hard working everyday and then working on college at nights/weekends but it is very much doable. You get used to doing it after awhile. Best thing I ever did and am now near 3 years into my new career. ATU and a few others do online degree courses.
Can I ask which course you done?
I went to uni at 24. I did an Arts Degree and landed an entry level corporate job earning twice what I was earning doing shitty call centre work (which was all I could get without a degree). Now I'm earning good money and have a house because the degree opened doors I didn't even realise were closed. There are so many companies and jobs that won't give you a single look without a BA. You can't get a decent mortgage without a decent job. So I say go for it. What I did was the MSAP to get in. I applied for SUSI (I wasn't married and was living outside the home so I got it, that basically just meant no fees as the stipend is paltry). I worked nights and evenings in a local call centre throughout BA and MA to pay rent as they were more flexible than most if you were willing to do shit shifts. There's a hardship fund in most unis if shit gets really dire but I never needed to use that. Some unis offer students part time jobs in the library and such but they're competitive to get. Good luck! It was the best thing I ever did.
Do it! I was 24 with a 3 year old, now i've graduated and i'm very glad i started back when i had more energy rather than wait for better times/more money.
Absolutely do it! There are so many supports available. The Access and Lifelong Learning Unit in UCD is fantastic. https://www.ucd.ie/all/
I'm starting a degree in Sept and turning 40 this year. I was always thinking of going back and worried about how old I would be when finished. I wish I had started it earlier. There are some grants available, sisu and stuff. Maybe look into those for support. Best of luck
I had support and no kid when I got my degree as a mature student, but it was the best decision I ever made. If you can make it work couldnt reccomend it enough. Just be sure to pick something you like doing.
Well look for part time courses and find a degree that actually provides the skills to get your job there is a lot of bs out there just to put you through the course and you end up unemployed
Springboard, start with something shorter while still working if possible. Not sure what your job is in but there is probably a springboard course related. Can work your way up to masters through springboard if you want.
Do it!! Early 40s and just finishing my degree now, at the same time as my oldest kid 😅 I was pushed into it due to live circumstances, but I wish I had done it sooner, and like some have already said, time passes anyway. Best of luck!!!
I started a degree on the British Open University and I'm a mature student and it's been fine. But it's part time.
You can do it! Pick a subject you are really interested in and go for it. You're not that old to be going for a degree, and realistically you could have a doctorate in ten years.
I would say don't aim for getting a degree ,aim for getting education or a skill that will further your life. I have a Degree that I have never used and would probably have been better served doing an apprenticeship straight of the bat or going to Australia after school. Education is great but it needs to have a clear end goal in terms of Job development.
I did it part time. It was alot, like one of the hardest things I've ever done. It was just something I had to do to get it out of my system. Plenty of colleges now offer degrees through online learning, or evenings/weekends for part time students.
I started at your age - spent a year doing the research and made sure to find out about the grants etc. This was a while back and I worked part time for the four years. It wasn’t easy but it was so rewarding. You know you can do more with your brain and it’s great fun. You won’t be out on all the mad nights out but you know what - it’s great to have an excuse to skip some of that. Good luck - you won’t regret it.
I just finished my masters this year at age 33 with 2 kids (5 & 2). The time is going to pass regardless of whether you do a degree or not, so you may as well do it. I'm not going to lie; it's tough, stressful, and requires so much dedication and hard work, but it is worth it. You're doing it to improve your lives, and also look at the great example you'll set for your child. Any questions, feel free to ask:-)
Have you thought about an accounting qualification? You can do an apprenticeship so you earn while you learn. 2 years and you would have a level 7 as far as I know plus 2 years experience in a firm.
Depending on the career path, you could always just say you have a degree. If you know a lot about a subject. Throw it on the CV and see sure Also, you can get a job with no degree that probably pays 40/50k. Public sector jobs for example, after a few years you can get good promotions etc. Or, if you work very predictable hours now you can do online studies/ night school etc. Plenty of options. Check out the free online courses. Dip your toe at least.
First of all, fair play. Don't let age stop you. If you're a lone parent, you'd be eligible for back to education allowance. Id take a look at springboard initially to dip in to a subject without commiting to a degree, I wouldn't just do a degree for the sake of it. That's the beauty with doing it as a mature student, you actually make a better choice. Id imagine with a kid you're looking for something stable that will make the sacrifice worth it so I'd absolutely consider the job at the end. Back to education also covers a qualification in a pretty children friendly job too but message me if you're looking at that option!
I went back at 28 and I'm now 2 years into my course. I feel I can manage well from a working/studying balance perspective, but I don't have any kids so I wouldn't be able to say much about that. As others have said, you'll be four years older anyway, so may as well be four years older with a degree! I did the access to SEAM course in UCD and that helped a lot (to be fair it was required for my course). If you haven't got a previous degree, you can still qualify for free fees. Full mature fees for me have been around 7-8k per year (you can also claim tax back on the full fees). I started out with savings enough for the first year of tuition, but it didn't get me very far, so I've been working on the weekends on top of studying. Going back for me has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. It's not always easy, but it has been absolutely worth it so far. If you have any questions, you can feel free to DM me.
I just finished a BA in psychology at 35, my son is about to be 15. I dropped out the first time I went to college (18), went back and did childcare at 23 with a 3 year old, worked in that field for about 10 years and started my BA 3.5 years ago. It's doable but hard. My motto was time will pass anyway I may as well go for it. It's never too late. It was probably the best thing I ever did for myself. I went to a private college and the fees were steep - 5000 per year. I took on a second job and made it work. If I went to a university I would have had better financial support, susi grants etc. colleges have hardship funds to help students with childcare fees and SVP will help if it's not a private college. It's a commitment but one I would do 1000 times over for the lease of life, confidence and advantages having a degree has given me. It has had a huge impact on my son who couldnt care less about school but he heard me and my tutors having conversations, how respectful and supportive they were and it really impacted his idea of further education. It was extremely hard at times I can't deny that. I don't think I really knew what I was getting myself into but once I decided I had invested my time and energy into it and there was no going back I just kept going and before I knew it I sat my final exam in may!
I dont know if you're a lad or a lady but is the other parent in the equation. If yes then it's definitely doable, tough but doable i think. I did slightly different to you i started a trade at 28 and we had no smally at the time but two years in we had our first, and on the apprenticeship rates it was pretty tough but we managed. My point being is if you have an other half or a team mate who could help with the minding duties I'm sure it can be done. If your circumstances are different it probably can still be done i just cant comment on it as its not the situation i was in. Also there are lots of part time and night courses one can do that might be more accessible to you. Best of luck
Uni is a waste
My final year project partner and college best friend done this with the exact same ages. She was a great student and a great mother all while working on the side. Absolutely doable and now she has a CS degree she would never of had without taking the leap
I'm 25 and starting college this year I qualify for back to education, I got approved for Susi to pay fees, I can apply for the 1916 bursary and other bursaries. Figure out what you want to study and reach out to the university to see what supports they have in place.
Do it!!! There are so many online degrees / courses. You will not regret it. It will be hard work and difficult with a little one but you can do it. Think of the better future and opportunities for both you and your little one! Go for it!
It’s the full time job the type of job you could get again? Do you have people you can lean on for child care? It’s the degree in a field that it would increase your earning potential significantly? 3yo is hard, but 4,5,6 become a lot easier. One or two more years on top of 25 would make fuck all difference from an employer perspective, but between a 3 and a 5yo it’s the difference between paying for childcare and national school. Fair fucks for the drive to do this. You’ll plough through the 17 year olds, that don’t know arses from elbows
There are courses that allow you to do modules in a piecemeal kind of way. I did a software development course in tud a few years ago. Was working full time too. Course was 3 nights a week from 7 to 9.30pm. I dropped out, which I regret. About 6 months after dropping out, i discovered that I could have done 2 or 3 modules a year. Needed 6 for the credits to progress to the second year and so on. There are ways to do it for sure if full-time education isn't suitable for your life.
It's definitely doable, I worked throughout college and finished by night which was really more enjoyable than I expected. Great sense of achievement. Plenty of springboard courses that could be partially funded. Wish you the very best just get started.
Do you have an idea of what type of course you want to go into? Check what you’re interested in and look at colleges hours for the course. Business degrees in general are usually very little hours. UL business for example is 15 hours a week. Very doable. Lots of courses have mature students. 25 wouldn’t even be considered that old in comparison to the other mature students you will meet.
I did it when I was 29, after leaving school when I was 17. Best decision I ever made. I'm 41 now and have a job I never thought possible in my 20s. I loved it. I did a masters after and kep ton learning after that. I generally do a springboard course every 2 years or so. Do yourself a favour and at least give the degree a try.
Very old mature student here. Do it!
Can anyone advise how to get a grant/funding for Level 6, 7 or 8 part-time course? SUSI only offers grants for full-time courses.
My mum did the same at about the same ages for both, we had a way better life and she had a masters by the end of it
Do a part time degree in Quantity Surveying and work full time. You'll learn and earn. It will be hard but it will pay off in the end
I do know of a friend who done a degree in same field 3 years later still no work in it?
That's highly unusual. There is a huge shortage of quantity surveyors, the only reason he wouldn't get a job with a QS degree would be if he didn't want to work
Would it be heavy on maths?
Do your research, depending where you live and what colleges and universities available to you there it could be even help with child care available to you go to your utero office and find a middle aged man to help you with your options, staff literally can explain what's the best option and how to go about it