It’s no surprise that higher levels of education correlate to better jobs and better pay. What’s a little less known are the growing number of educational options available for non-traditional students (e.g. adult learners).

Whether you want to earn a GED or obtain an advanced degree, educational institutes and companies across the country offer the means to advance your education and career prospects.

GED Diploma
If you did not complete high school, then a General Education Development, or GED, Diploma is a great opportunity to advance your career. Why? The majority of all jobs require a minimum of either a high school or GED diploma . Getting there means passing the GED test and passing that test means practice and study. Luckily, several web sites offer practice tests and sample questions to help you prepare.

• 4tests.com and learnatest.com offers practice questions.
• StudyHelp offers time management and study skills.
• Passed.com provides preparation tips and tricks.

Associate’s Degree
A traditional Associate’s degree takes about two years to complete, making it a cost effective option, and can be earned in a wide range of fields. Additionally, you may be able to apply your Associate’s credits to earn a Bachelor’s degree.

Career Builder highlights eight in-demand Associates’ degrees with good job growth and promising career advancement.

• Cardiovascular Technician or Technologist Work with doctors to analyze various cardiac (heart) problems.
• Dental Lab Technicians Create crowns and dentures for dentists to use on patients.
• Veterinary Technicians Perform routine medical exams/tests on animals.
• Forensic Science Technicians Gather and analyze information from crime scenes.
• Occupational Therapist Technicians Help occupational therapists perform exercises with patients.
• Paralegals and Legal Assistants Perform research, close arguments, and assist lawyers in the preparation of legal cases.
• Physical Therapist Assistants Assist patients recovering from injuries.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Check and treat medical conditions using sonographic instruments.

Online Degrees
The explosion of personal computing propelled the growth of the online degree industry. Today, according to CBS, over four million people have taken an online or distance learning course. For someone trying to hold down a job, an online degree can ease the stress of going back to school. The conveinance, skills development and willingness of many employers to partially or fully cover tuition costs, make getting your degree online an attractive option.

If you are interested in pursuing an online degree, make sure to:

• Research several educational providers and ensure they are accredited.
• Familiarize yourself with your intended degree requirements.
• Talk to friends and family who have taken online classes to gather their opinions.
• Visit Online Education to research different online degree options to match programs to your interests and strengths.

Regardless of your educational pursuits, going back to school is a great way to realize your hopes of a better job and brighter tomorrow.