Planning Strategies

Training to meet demand

“I want to invest in my future — will education and training make a difference?”

Your education is a lifelong effort, and Texas offers plenty of options beyond your high school diploma. Whether you’re going back to school for vocational training or a degree, you can find plenty of help to make your dream a reality.

Higher learning means higher earnings

College graduates have nearly double the earning power of high school graduates, according to the latest U.S. Census statistics. And continuing your education can greatly expand your career options. It’s been estimated that 75 percent of all future jobs will require workers to have at least some post-high school training or education.

Changing with the times

Given the rapid advancement of technology and changing consumer demands, a single career path is not necessarily a lifetime commitment. Explore the trends and consider all the possibilities at the Texas Workforce Commission’s career planning Web site. Chances are you’ll find the tools you need to start on the path to a new career. Find a list of all degree programs offered by Texas’ public universities and colleges through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Check out these additional resources:

Paying and saving for school

The Texas College Savings Plan is a state-sponsored 529 plan that offers tax savings to any beneficiary – or you. In a few years, you could save enough to cover your educational costs. Ask your employer about its Tuition Assistance Program, a valuable but often overlooked benefit offered by many Texas companies. And don’t forget to tap into financial aid and scholarship resources.

Find the perfect fit

Say you’ve decided what you want to achieve and what you’ll need to get there. The next question is, where do you want to go to school? Check out these sites for the latest information on Texas educational institutions.

Work/school/life balance

Balancing school with a career and family is easier than ever now that many colleges and universities offer “re-entry” student services, campus childcare centers and flexible course scheduling. And distance learning, which allows you to attend classes via the Internet, offers the benefits of the education without the hassle of commuting to a classroom.

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