Can you still study at 40?

[1n5piration]

I’ve been a sahm for a long time and am unlikely ever to get a job in my previous capacity or related to my degree. I’ve seen a job which is interesting but they ask for a MA or extensive experience. I don’t have extensive experience but will apply anyway. I’m thinking of registering for a distance learning MA if I don’t get the job. It’s pretty much the only field I think I would have a chance of getting a job in but I lack the piece of paper. But I’m really not sure my brain is sufficient to study again! I can’t remember most of my degree (hence not being able to get a job in this field) and I don’t know if I would be able to do it. It it possible to learn theory and new topics at 40?

Of course! I did a MSc in Technology Management in my 40s. Good luck!

Did an OU degree from 37-42 (mostly housebound) and a MA from 42-44. It's tough, especially when you have kids/jobs/other responsibilities, but if people are willing to support you, it's absolutely fine - go for it. You may have to give up weekends/evenings, but for me, it was doable during school hours, so it depends on your circumstances.

I got my degree at 39. I’m currently studying for a Masters at 50. Age is just a number.

I think a masters would want to see evidence of recent study before they accepted you. I know my second degree did (was buried in small print)

I found the degree tough at 46 as my brain doesn't work so much in an academic way compared to a business professional way so is hard to be all academic discussion over more practical discussion. Professional exams I'd find much easier than the degree.

DM just completed an HE maths diploma in her late 60s. She is now studying the stock market.

FWIW I think its more about making the schedule work. DM does her studying in the daytime and goes out to work in the evenings in a role that physically and socially rewarding but doesn't require mental effort.

Of course you can. I’m 44 and studying for my doctorate.

I’d suggest you build up though - I think the hardest parts are getting back in a routine of study time and reminding yourself about academic writing, so can you find a module or short course you can do and start getting into the mindset?

I have every confidence in your ability to do it.

I already had postgrad professional qualification. Then decided mid 50s to do an MA. Slightly interrupted by death of both parents () but otherwise straightforward and fun.
Main ‘problem’ I had was an absolute bullshit radar and total lack of patience for education-speak lingo etc so some research was basically me shouting ‘just say what you mean ffs!’

Good luck if you do go ahead. I don’t think there’s any age limit to learning unless dementia interferes. At ripe old ages you might slow down a bit but in your 80/90s who cares ?
Hope it goes well and helps with job search.

I'm 40 and just completed a distance learning masters.

The academic thinking and approach came back really quickly from the degree and my real life experience was so useful to informing my approach - compared to the others on the course I was so much more pragmatic with the theory

I was much more efficient and controlled with my time this time round and it was fine.....so relieved to finish it but it was fine!!

And I've gone from not getting interviews six months ago to getting interviews now to move up in jobs. The piece of paper is the only change!

I’ve been doing the job “unofficially” in all of my previous positions (18 month temp contract a couple of years ago for something else and the job I had before DC) but have no official piece of paper to say I can do it.

What is the ''job'?
Can you get any references, someone who confirms you did this job?
Real life experience counts for a lot
Fact you got a degree shows you can learn in an academic way

You're a very good applicant, OP.

Translation (into my native language). I can probably get references and confirmation of my role in the stuff that was published.