A recent article in Ball State University's student newspaper discusses the growing popularity of online degrees.

"With the popularity of distance learning growing among on-campus students and more students of all ages buying into online courses, [Pam] Wilson [coordinator for distance learning at Western Kentucky University] predicts a shift in the demographic profile of distance education students.

'The definition of a traditional student will change," she said. "Even traditional students are non-traditional. They still have to work, they get married, they have children - their status can change.'

Still, distance learning provides an opportunity for older students to continue learning, Wilson said."

She can say that again.

Did you know that 47% of all students enrolled in colleges and universities are 25 and older? I'll bet that you didn't know this either: while the average age of the undergraduate adult learner is 38, more than 45% are 40 or older.

Translation: You are NOT too old to go back to school. It's NEVER too late to finish the degree you started. Don't believe me? Ask Steve - he's a successful, 40-something assistant vice president for one of the nation's top credit unions and he recently decided to go back to college, after dropping out twenty-five years ago, to pursue his associate's degree online. If you need some inspiration, check out his blog!