Archive · 13 Dec 2025
Workers in 40s Return to School
Many people in their 40s are going back to school.
They want better jobs, more money, and to feel safe in their careers.
Some change jobs completely, like from being a chef to a software engineer.
Others get higher degrees to stand out.
Going back to school is hard because they have to work, take care of family, and pay for school.
But many think it's worth it because they want to work for many more years.
Some learn trades like plumbing or butchering because these jobs are less likely to be taken by robots.
Others get degrees to get better jobs.
It costs a lot, but they find ways to manage.
Some even study from home.
Going back to school means they have to miss out on other things, but they believe it's a good investment for their future.
Workers in their 40s are returning to school for better job opportunities and higher pay.
Some are making radical career changes, such as from chef to software engineer.
Others are pursuing higher degrees to stand out in a competitive job market.
Skilled trade and apprenticeship programs are also seeing an influx, as these jobs are less vulnerable to automation.
Returning to school in their 40s is challenging due to work, family, and financial responsibilities, but many find it worthwhile for long-term career benefits.
- Who
- Workers in their 40s
- What
- Are returning to school for career changes, higher degrees, or to gain necessary qualifications
- When
- Currently, with increasing layoffs and AI advancements
- Where
- In various educational institutions, including colleges, trade schools, and apprenticeship programs across the U.S. and internationally
- Why
- To secure better jobs, higher pay, job security, and to adapt to changing industry demands and technological advancements
- Average cost of in-state public college
- $30,000 a year
- Cost of skilled trade programs
- as little as $3,000 a year
- Number of people in 40s in school
- More than 1 million
- Cindy Woody's age when she got her doctorate
- 47
- Victoria Miner's age when she enrolled in apprenticeship
- 48
- Kevin Korenthal's age when he got his bachelor’s
- 53
- Melissa Harkin's age during her studies
- 45
- LaToya Hall's age when she changed careers
- 40