Continuing education programmes for adults actually increase during times of recession. There is a greater level of competition for fewer jobs and a focus on increasing your value to existing and potential employers.

Rising competition, emerging technologies and awareness of personal development all lead to an increased need to equip themselves with a new set of skills. Preparation is key when facing the prospect of a career change.

While many people understand the value of continued education, most overestimate the costs involved. Many adult education courses do not require you to leave work and study full time. There are many flexible, part-time or online courses available. There is also a wide range of funding and subsidization options. You can strengthen career prospects without destabilising your finances. Continuing education provides a return on investment and an opportunity to position yourself for when the economy recovers.

Funding Adult education courses:

Many employers recognize the value of continued education and will either fund adult education courses or offer onsite training. Employers are increasingly realising the benefits to their businesses. Check with your employer's human resources department to find out about the options available. You may need to consider what kind of education your employer is willing to pay for, as well as any grade requirements.

You could qualify for free adult education courses if you are unemployed or have recently been made redundant. There are government initiatives aimed at improving the skills, qualification levels and ability of those seeking work. In Ireland Labour Market Activation (LMA) is a government run programme that will cover course fees for those that qualify. You would be able to carry on claiming your job seekers allowance and benefit payments while attending adult education courses.

There may also be low cost or free adult education courses in your community. These courses usually focus on specific skills.

Many educational institutions offer scholarships, grants and tuition assistance programmes. Many are specifically aimed at those without work, or seeking adult education courses to improve their circumstances. It is worth finding out about the requirements of such assistance, as bursaries and grants differ depending on your circumstances and where you study. Banks offer interest free or cut rate loans to students seeking vocational training while at work. These loans will need to be paid back over an agreed period of time.

Distance Learning and Online Courses

Online learning has changed the face of adult education courses. The quality of online courses is improving, and many free or discounted courses can be found online. Online courses can be extremely flexible and cost effective and in some cases interaction with lecturers and other students is web-based.

Invest in adult education courses to upskill in a competitive job market and increase your career prospects. There are high levels of flexibility and so many options to subsidise and fund continuing education. There has never been a better time to discover the course that will give you a competitive advantage in your career, or unlock new opportunities for growth.