OU law? Or psychology? For mature career.

[AGreatUsername]

I am 38, I have a good job. But, I don’t love my job and also don’t feel like I’ve pushed myself (had my children very young so never even had a job until early thirties and in that time have crept up the ranks to senior officer in the Civil Service).

I am thinking of signing up to do a law or psychology degree with the OU, around my other commitments. I’d really like to eventually be a family solicitor and was all keyed up ready to go for it but have become so disheartened after reading up more. I have no A-levels so worry no one would employ me even with a degree. And the average wage for a family solicitor seems to be around what I’m on now, but in getting there I’ll be many thousands out of pocket and also have to do a training contract for 2 years on 50% of that wage and those contracts seem like gold dust. Psychology (especially forensic) interests me too, would I be better off doing that, are career options better there?

Am I stupid for thinking of doing this? If there was financial gain I wouldn’t be hesitant but it seems like there is only financial loss, and while I don’t LOVE my job it is a great one, flexible and a known entity.

Anyone have experience in these fields who have thoughts?

I don't think you're stupid for dreaming, these are just two very very popular and therefore competitive paths so it may not be possible to achieve what you dreamed/imagined. Reality of law, especially family law, doesn't always match people's expectations - as your research has exposed.

You say you already have a great job.

What's the underlying ambition here? Or is it more about trying to "fix" some of the disappointment you feel about the past?

Would you think about doing an access course? That will give you the equivalent of a-levels and you could do it part time to get you back into the way of studying. Wouldn't be such a bit financial hit either til you see if you actually do want to be back in education. Was the best thing I ever did, I loved mine. I did a psychology degree afterwards and it was great but didn't lead directly into any kind of a career.
I get the feeling you feel you've missed out a bit by having kids young and not having the uni experience - I did too, didn't do my access course til I was in my 30's and now at 44 I'm coming to the end of my PhD

There's a lot to be said for having a secure job, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't do a degree on the side. It may or may not lead you on to bigger things, but there's no harm in pushing yourself if you can afford it. Good luck 🤗