Continuing education refers to a wide variety of programs designed to help adults learn additional job skills, or assist in switching professions. Most continuing education programs focus on a particular topic or area of expertise, and allow the adult student to receive required certifications, associate or bachelor degrees, as needed by that particular profession.

Since most continuing education students are also working at least part-time, most programs center around weeknight or weekend classes, and now, more commonly through Internet or other online learning programs. Continuing education in any area - business, nursing, technical trades, and hundreds of more.

When researching possible continuing education programs, be sure to consider the following:

- Are the classes offered locally, or mainly through online programs? Which is your preference?
- What type of degree or certification does completion of coursework entail? Make sure this fits your professional needs if you are working towards a certain employment position.
- How much time committment is required to complete the required courses? Different programs and subjects will be of different study lengths. Make sure this timetable fits your needs.
- What is the cost of the continuing education program? There can be very large differences between different schools, in terms of pricing.
- Are you able to stop your coursework part way through, and resume at a later date without losing credit? Sometimes life or your current work intrudes on your plans to complete your educational plans. Make sure you sign up for a continuing education program that does not penalize you if you take some time off.