There was a time when having a Leaving Cert qualification was more than enough to advance up the career ladder. Now, it seems, you need a Leaving Cert, College Cert, Diploma and a Degree.

Some career opportunities even require a Masters qualification. This all sounds very daunting and nigh unachievable to some, especially those who have put in the hard work and advanced up the career ladder, only to feel threatened by younger more qualified co-workers. But it's not as unattainable as it first appears.

Qualifications are now widely available to adults throughout Ireland, and it's not a case of falling off the ladder and starting all over again. Companies are realising the importance of further educating their staff, and often encourage the decision to return to the classroom.

The importance of education cannot be overemphasised, as no matter what the age of the student, furthering one's education can unveil countless opportunities. Full-time and/or part-time courses can facilitate a change in career direction or inject new life into an existing career, not to mention assist in giving that extra push in climbing the career ladder. Furthermore, adult education doesn't just cater to those returning to the classroom but also offers its benefits to those who never had the opportunity to go to college.

Adult education in Ireland manifests itself in many ways. With over 40,000 courses available, any one of these can be pursued by the full time busy worker at a time suitable to their schedule.

Part-time and full-time courses are available with a view to facilitate everyone's needs and the range of material covered by these courses is as broad as the reasons mature students have for returning to the classroom.

Career development is high on the list of reasons for adult learning and subject matter can include IT, marketing, sales and engineering - to name a few.

Others may simply feel they are lacking in the creative side of their lives and use night courses to pursue interests in music making, photography or creative writing. These creative studies may seem purely recreational, but the benefits of developing one's creative side can overflow into the workplace in the form of improving self confidence while providing stressed adults with an appropriate outlet to unwind.

Then there is the subject of how much your education will cost you.

When it comes to courses that could aid in career advancement, it is advisable to speak to your supervisor about taking on adult education - more and more companies in Ireland are willing to assist their employees financially in their education.

While the costs of courses may vary, it is important not to get too caught up in the figures and instead think of the long term benefits both financially and in terms of selfdevelopment and enjoyment. Paying for a course now could just be what you need to push yourself up into the next pay bracket. So your initial self-investment will be received back again and again while simultaneously helping you to reach your career goals. Take the first step and visit www. nightcourses. com where you can choose from over 40,000 courses to find the career to get you going in the right direction.