Should You Quit Your Job to Go Back to School?

At a time, I once found myself sitting in my tiny office cubicle, staring at the clock, wondering if this was really what I wanted for the rest of my life. I had a stable job, decent pay, and benefits... But I wasn’t fulfilled.

Then came the big question: Should I quit my job and go back to school? The thought of walking away from financial security to pursue a new career path felt terrifying. But at the same time, staying in a stagnant position for years sounded equally dreadful.

If you're wrestling with the same question, you’re not alone. Many people consider returning to school to upgrade their skills, switch careers, or increase their earning potential. But is quitting your job the right move? In this guide, I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons, explore alternative options, and make an informed decision.

What To Expect In This Post?

Thinking about quitting your job to go back to school? Weigh the pros and cons, explore alternative options, and make the best decision for your future.

• Going Back To School As An Adult
• Should I Quit My Job For School
• Best Ways To Go Back To School
• Balancing Work And Education
• Full-time Study Vs. Work
• Career Change Education

Why Do People Go Back to School?

People return to school for various reasons, but here are some of the most common motivations:

• Career Change: If you’re in a field that no longer excites you, additional education can open doors to new opportunities.


• Higher Earning Potential: Some careers, like law, medicine, or data science, require specific degrees to unlock higher salaries.


• Job Market Competitiveness: With industries evolving rapidly, having updated skills can make you more attractive to employers.


• Personal Growth: Some people return to school simply because they love learning and want to challenge themselves.


• Industry Requirements: If your field demands advanced degrees for promotions, further education might be necessary.

Whatever your reason, quitting your job for full-time education is a big leap... So let’s evaluate whether it’s the right move.

Pros of Quitting Your Job to Go Back to School

Quitting your job to fully immerse yourself in education has several advantages:

1. Faster Completion Time

When you're studying full-time, you can finish your degree or certification much faster. A master’s program that would take four years part-time could be completed in two years or less.

2. Full Focus on Studies

Balancing work and school can be overwhelming. Without a job demanding your time, you can dedicate yourself entirely to learning, networking, and excelling in your studies.

3. More Opportunities for Internships and Networking

Many educational programs require internships or hands-on training, which are hard to accommodate if you have a full-time job. Being a full-time student allows you to seize these opportunities, making career transitions easier.

4. Reduced Stress and Burnout

Juggling a job and education can lead to exhaustion. If your current work situation is already stressful, adding coursework into the mix might push you into burnout.

Cons of Quitting Your Job to Go Back to School

As tempting as it sounds to leave work behind and focus on learning, there are significant downsides to consider:

1. Financial Instability

Unless you have substantial savings or financial aid, quitting your job means losing a steady paycheck. Tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs can quickly add up, leaving you in a tight spot.

2. Student Loan Debt

Taking out loans to fund your education can burden you with debt that takes years to repay. Make sure your new career path justifies the financial investment.

3. Employment Gaps on Your Resume

If you leave your job for full-time studies, future employers might question your employment gap. Some fields value continuous work experience over additional degrees.

4. Uncertainty About Job Prospects

There’s no guarantee that your new degree will lead to immediate job opportunities. Before quitting, research the job market to ensure demand for your desired field.

It takes only 35 seconds to...

Get access to our exclusive contents!

Alternative Options: Do You Really Need to Quit?

If the risks of quitting feel overwhelming, consider these alternatives:

1. Part-Time or Online Study

Many universities offer flexible part-time or online programs, allowing you to keep your job while studying. This option provides financial security while still advancing your education.

2. Employer-Sponsored Education

Some companies offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs. Check with your employer to see if they can help cover costs while you continue working.

3. Transitioning to a Less Demanding Job

If your current job is too intense, consider moving to a less stressful or part-time role while you study. This way, you maintain an income without overloading yourself.

4. Certifications Instead of Degrees

Depending on your career goals, an online certification or bootcamp might be a faster and more affordable way to gain the skills you need without quitting your job.

How to Decide: Questions to Ask Yourself

If you're still on the fence, ask yourself these critical questions:

• Can I afford to quit? Calculate your savings, potential scholarships, and living expenses before making a decision.


• Is my career change realistic? Research job availability and salary expectations in your new field.


• Will I get a return on investment? Consider whether your new education will lead to significantly better career opportunities.


• Do I need a degree or just new skills? Sometimes, online courses, certifications, or work experience can be more valuable than another degree.


• Am I mentally prepared? Leaving financial security behind for school can be stressful. Ensure you're ready for the lifestyle change.

Don't Miss Anymore Great Contents Lke This!

Final Thoughts

Quitting your job to go back to school is a major life decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. While further education can open doors to better opportunities, financial risks and uncertainty must be carefully considered.

Before making the leap, explore alternative options like part-time study, employer funding, or certification programs. If you decide to quit, make sure you have a solid financial plan and clear career goals.

In the end, education is an investment in yourself... But it should be a smart, well-calculated investment.