In short
Parents changing careers do best with programs that offer evening, weekend or online coursework, and with clear dates for any required in-person labs or clinicals. Ask schools about child care on campus, and ask your American Job Center whether training funds can help with support costs. Pick a career whose working hours you can also live with long term.
Questions to ask every program
- When are classes, labs and clinicals, and how much notice do I get?
- Can I do the coursework online and only labs in person?
- Is there campus child care or a family resource center?
- What happens if my child is sick on an exam day?
Careers that tend to fit family schedules
Jobs with regular daytime hours, like medical billing and coding, dental hygiene in many offices, or medical office work, are easier for many parents than jobs with rotating nights or long-haul travel.
Help with costs
Pell Grants can help with the cost of attendance, which includes some living costs. American Job Centers can sometimes help with support services while you train, depending on local rules.
Questions people ask
Can I go to trade school as a single parent?
Yes. Look for evening or online options and ask about campus child care.
Are there grants for parents going back to school?
Pell Grants and some state and local programs help; ask the school's aid office.
What career is best for a stay-at-home parent returning to work?
One with predictable hours and short training, so you can start soon.