Returning to study as a mature-age student is a significant milestone. You might feel a mix of excitement and nervousness, and maybe even a bit of imposter syndrome.
But fear not! You’re about to embark on an enriching and important new adventure. In this guide, we’ll give you five top tips to help you feel confident and prepared when you join your first class.
Firstly, what is a mature-age student?
The definition of a mature-age student can vary across universities, but it typically refers to people who start their degree at an older age than those who enrol immediately after high school.
In Australia, students who attend university in the year after high school will be 18-21 years old while studying for an undergraduate degree. Based on this, individuals aged 21 and above can be considered to be studying as a mature student.
A good proportion of mature-age students have been in the workforce for some time. These are often individuals who want to change careers, gain new skills or pursue a passion.
Tip #1: Determine your motives
Going back to study is a big investment, particularly if you’re working full time and have family commitments. Understanding your reasons for starting a degree will help you stay motivated, ensure you use your time wisely and help you achieve your goals.
Whether you’re hoping to shift to a new career, earn a higher income in your current job, or simply follow your interests, being clear about your motives will keep you on track in your studies.
Tip #2: Do your research
The experience you have when returning to study can differ greatly depending on what you choose to study. You might like to make a list of your personal preferences for each of the points below to help you find the course that’s right for your lifestyle:
- Field of study: Your field of study will depend on your motives for studying in the first place. For example, if you’re hoping to gain an additional qualification for your current job, you’ll need to study a relevant subject area.
- Type of degree: Undergraduate degrees may give you the option of an undergraduate certificate or a bachelor’s degree, while postgraduate degrees may give you the option between a graduate certificate, a graduate diploma and a master’s degree.
Study mode: Read our guide about how to decide whether studying online or in person is for you.
Tip #3: Create a study schedule
During your first week of classes, you’ll likely receive a course schedule to help you prepare for the term ahead. This will give you an indication of the course workload, making it a good time to create a study plan.
Here are some tips for creating a study schedule if you’re returning to university as a mature student:
- Consider your commitments: Many mature-age students have work, family and other commitments that they need to balance with their studies. Understanding how many hours you need to allocate for each area of your life will ensure you create a realistic study plan that you can stick to.
- Identify your goals: Deciding what you want to accomplish academically will help you allocate an ideal amount of study time. For example, someone who wants to achieve high distinctions will likely need to allocate more study time than someone who simply wants to learn more about their passion or interest.
Pick optimal study times: There isn’t much point to a study schedule if you’re too tired when study time rolls around. It might take some trial and error, but figuring out when you’re most focused and energised will help you stay productive.
Tip #4: Be open to speaking to other students
It’s natural to feel daunted by the concept of connecting with your peers, especially as someone who is returning to study later in life. If you’re worried that you won’t have much in common with younger students, remember that you’re all there to study the same (or at least a similar) degree.
Talking about the course content, assignments, or their experience with a study topic are all great ways to break the ice with your fellow students. Regardless of whether a friendship forms outside of the classroom, having people you can talk to will make your study experience more enjoyable.
Tip #5: Connect with your Online Learning Advisors (OLAs)
If you’re returning to study as a mature student, you might feel hesitant to ask for help. But once you’re in the classroom, everyone is an equal regardless of their age, so it’s important to reach out to your OLA if you’re struggling or have questions.
Your Online Learning Advisors will be able to assist you with navigating your assessments, and help you find practical applications for the content you’re studying in the classroom.
Reasons why mature-age students return to university
There are many reasons why you might return to university as a mature student, including:
- To pursue a career change: Making a mid-life career change is becoming increasingly common and oftentimes requires gaining a new qualification.
- To gain new skills: Those wanting to stay ahead in the job market or to apply for a promotion might consider going back to study to gain up-to-date knowledge and skills.
- For personal growth: Completing a degree is a huge achievement and many mature students return to university for self-improvement and their desire to learn.
To follow a passion: Whether it’s psychology or nutrition, a degree is an in-depth way to pursue a personal interest.
Feeling inspired?
Ready to take the leap and study as a mature student? Explore the courses available at Federation Uni Online or chat with one of our friendly Course Consultants to chat about your options.
Keen to get started? Apply online today.
