What working professionals should look for in degree programs

(BPT) - The college experience means different things to different people. An undergrad straight out of high school might consider Saturday football games and fraternity events part of the deal. But if you're a working professional heading back to school, chances are you're going to be a lot less concerned with the extracurricular aspects of college.

If you've already done the personal exploration that many associate with college, you're probably looking for a degree program that's focused strictly on your educational experience. Therefore, you may want a program that could disrupt your personal life as little as possible and offers a straightforward approach to furthering your education.

American InterContinental University (AIU) has designed many of its degree programs with these things in mind. Here are few amenities that the school offers to make earning your degree a no-nonsense proposition that you may want to look for as you consider different degree programs.

* Flexible schedules. If you have a job, or a family you need to take care of, attending the bulk of your classes in person isn't always an option. Consider a school that offers classes on nights and weekends, or better yet online classes so you can focus on your coursework even with your busy schedule.

* Mobile learning made easy. With mobile technology rapidly advancing, the possibilities for online degree programs continue to evolve. For example, AIU offers both an iOS (both iPhone and iPad compatible) and Android app to students that can allow them to view assignments, check grades and contact their instructors. They also provide 24/7 tech support for online students.

* Advisory support. While you might be taking most of your classes online, you may want to make sure you have the same amount of access to staff and advisors that you would if you were on campus. When looking at degree programs, it's a good idea to ask what kind of access you'll have to advisors, whether it's an admissions advisor or a career services advisor that can help you while you further your education.

* Program-specific training. While traditional undergraduate programs might work toward providing a broader educational experience, most students who decide to go back and pursue their degrees often have a narrower focus. Considering programs that could give you specialized training to pursue your career goals and hands-on training that may help you get the most of your educational experience.

Since you likely have a good idea of what you're looking for in your education this time around, asking the right questions as you search for the best program could help you get the education you're looking for. For more information about AIU's industry-focused degree programs, visit www.aiuniv.edu.

While not all programs are available to residents of all states, to learn more about available degree programs, visit www.aiuniv.edu. You can find disclosures on graduation rates, student financial obligations and more at www.aiuniv.edu/disclosures. AIU cannot guarantee employment or salary.