Ready for a new career? Consider going back to school! The options below offer flexible learning (often at a reasonable price) that can launch parents and caregivers into a new industry in about a year.
New Career Ideas
1. Real Estate Agent: Becoming a real estate agent is one of the more affordable education pathways and can be achieved in as little as a few months. The California Department of Real Estate requires 135 hours of pre-licensing classes, which are available through accredited in-person or online programs, including local community colleges. After passing state exams and finding a broker to work with, you’re ready to finalize the licensing application. Just know that realtors often work evenings and weekends.
2. Cosmetologist: A California cosmetology license allows people to work as hair stylists, makeup artists, nail technicians and estheticians. California requires 1,000 course hours in a board-approved program, which are offered at private schools (such as Bellus Academy and Paul Mitchell) or San Diego City College. Schedules are often flexible and can be completed in one to two years. The exam approval and scheduling process can take up to 12 weeks. Once licensed, renewal is required every two years. Becoming (only) a nail technician requires less money and time.
3. Radiology Tech: People with an Associate of Science degree in Radiologic Technology can perform diagnostic imaging exams (x-rays, CT scans and MRIs) and administer radiation treatments. Mesa College (Clairemont Mesa) offers a two-year program, but has prerequisites that must be completed five years prior to enrolling. Following classes, it’s necessary to get certified and licensed.
4. Medical Assistant: Becoming a medical assistant provides a foot in the door for those interested in the medical field. A medical assistant job entails administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals or physician’s offices. The career outlook is 15 percent growth over the next 10 years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A number of local schools offer medical assistant certification (including Poway Adult School), which can be completed in 12 weeks to two years, depending on specialty or focus.
5. Dental Hygienist: The amount of time it takes to become a licensed dental hygienist depends on previous education. Both two- and four-year degrees are accepted in the industry. Participants must complete a CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation)-approved dental hygiene program, pass three national and state exams and apply for a license. Local schools with accredited programs include Southwestern College and Concorde Career Colleges.
6. Dog Groomer: Love animals? Dog grooming school (such as San Diego Grooming Academy in North Park) teaches safety, breed standards, grooming styles, and proper use of tools in a hands-on learning environment. Certification can be obtained in a matter of weeks. Since dog groomers often split pay with shop owners, there is greater income potential for those who are self-employed.
7. Bookkeeper: A bookkeeper, also known as an accounts payable clerk or accounting specialist, assists business owners with general accounting procedures, payroll and tax preparation under the assistance of a CPA. Certification is available through several local colleges and online programs, which prepare participants for the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) exam. Completion takes between several months to two years, because on-the-job training is part of the process.
8. Computer and Internetworking Technologies: There are many opportunities in this field that often require less than a year for certification. The most common positions are in network design, security and management; these are the people who set up and maintain large computer systems and networks. Most local colleges offer a variety of technology and cyber security classes; you just need to figure out which track you want to pursue.
23 Home-Based Businesses
If you have the space, motivation, business savvy and patience to start a home-based business, check out this list of flexible business ideas that can work around a busy family schedule; some don’t require a return to school.
Personal Services
- Personal Trainer
- Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
- Daycare Provider
- Tutor/Music Instructor
- Lactation Consultant
Business-to-Business Services
- Accounting/Tax Preparation
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Virtual Assistant
- Consulting
Retail Sales (online or home-based)
- eBay
- Etsy
- Used Book Seller (Amazon/AbeBooks)
- Direct Sales (Pampered Chef, Avon, etc.)
Creative
- Photography
- Freelance Writing
- Sewing (Seamstress/Alterations)
- Home Staging
Home Services
- Computer Repair
- Gardening
- Home Organizer
- Babyproofing
- Home Inspector
Pam Molnar is a writer and mother of three. With the help of her supportive husband and family, she went back to school and started a new career in less than a year.
Back-to-school routines are important, especially when kids and parents are both in school. Need tips to help organize your family's time? Read our article "Back-to-School Tips Help Families Establish a Routine."
