7 reasons why you should take a short course

It’s a common misconception that the importance of formal education disappears after one has begun their career. We finish primary school, high school and university, assuming we have seen the last of teachers, classrooms and textbooks. While this is true for many, those who choose to pursue further study throughout their lifetime experience an abundance of benefits. Here are seven reasons you should undertake a short course.

1. It’s short
You guessed it! One of the best things about ‘short courses’ is their length. Usually lasting between a few weeks to a few months, short courses ensure you get the extra education and upskilling you need without the long-term commitment. This is particularly important for working professionals who often need to balance work with family commitments.

2. It’s convenient
Nowadays, many learning providers (university, TAFEs and private colleges) offer online courses. Studying online allows busy individuals who may be working full-time or have other responsibilities to learn in a convenient, flexible way. Since courses are delivered entirely online online, students can study anywhere, any time, which is perfectly suited to those in today’s mobile society. They can access study from their phone, tablet or laptop on the go – whether that is on their lunch break, while travelling or in between caring for children.

3. There’s something for everyone
Websites such as our own enable you to discover a wide range of short courses, spanning across multiple industries and interests. Whether you want to learn the basics of accounting software, need to know about digital marketing or would love to improve your photography skills – there’s a short course for you.

4. It impresses recruiters
Those hiring online are often inundated with applications. A short course in web design or business management could be the difference between yourself and another professional looking for a job on sites like Gumtree. Extra study is one way to stand out from the crowd!

5. It helps you stay ahead of change
New technology is changing the way we work. Although many university students and young workers have learnt to keep up with the trends, for older professionals it can be more difficult. If you fear falling behind and want to stay ahead, a short course may be the answer. There are a multitude of short courses out there that can teach you all about new technology and how to use it to improve productivity and results at work.

6. Improves your chances of landing that promotion
Staying in the same position over many years can be frustrating, but upskilling may be the key to being handed more responsibility. By undertaking extra study, you are demonstrating to your employer not only that you care about your industry, but also that you are willing to proactively seek the knowledge you need to improve. A willingness to adapt and learn is a very desirable trait in any job, and could lead to a promotion.

7. Let’s you pursue your passion
While we’re rushing around worrying about our professional and personal responsibilities, it is easy to push aside the passions that once excited us. A hobby can be a great way to escape from the stresses of everyday life, and may even turn to a profitable business! Dedicating yourself to an online short course with a set schedule will allow you to assign yourself ‘me time’ to enjoy your interests, and may be incredibly therapeutic.

So there you have it – a short course may lead you to a new job, a promotion or even let you pursue something outside of your career that you are passionate about.