Prepare for the Future Despite Rising Education Costs: Invest in Yourself


Image of a person budgeting money for inflation and education costs.

The cost of living has surged in the past few years. Inflation remains at a 40-year high and isn’t showing signs of dropping. The housing market is tighter than ever. Average wages aren’t able to keep up with these significant economic changes, putting many in tough situations during a global health crisis.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by making ends meet, you aren’t the only one. More than half of American workers suspect they’re underpaid for their work. In just March, a record 4.5 million workers quit to pursue better work-life balance and higher salaries. You can be one of them.

You deserve a lucrative career path that affords you better mental and financial health. But we know getting the skills and experience needed to be a viable candidate can seem daunting.

Invest in a cost-effective education that gets you in-demand skills with the American University Digital Skills Professional Programs. Learn from industry pros in a live, online environment. You can get the knowledge and hands-on experience employers want in just ten months.

Current Digital Career Trends

No one wants to change careers every few years to stay ahead of inflation. That’s why it’s so important to join an industry that isn’t just growing fast, but has rock-solid demand for years to come.

The world of tech is expanding rapidly and in need of good talent. 91% of businesses are engaged in some form of digital initiative. In fact, middle- to high-level digital skills have become a necessity for more than 70% of U.S. jobs.

But if there are so many people job hopping, why is there still huge demand in tech?

If you are among the 1 in 3 workers lacking foundational digital skills but you’re mindful of rising education costs, you aren’t alone. The American University Digital Skills Professional Programs are a cost-effective solution that can prepare you for a lifetime of success in a skyrocketing industry.

With our professional programs, you get so much more than in-demand skills. You can cultivate a professional network, get hands-on experience, and more. The best part: you can become the exact candidate employers need in just ten months.

Investing in Your Future Despite Rising Education Costs

Image of a person researching rising education costs and exploring their career options.

Imagine the following: you currently earn $50,000 a year and you’re ready to shift into a lucrative career. You invest $16,000 in an American University Digital Skills Professional Program and get the skills needed to land a job as a UX Designer. This role has the potential to earn $100,000 a year. In the first year at your new job, your ROI is $34,000.*    

*This scenario is hypothetical. Salaries vary based on a number of factors, including position, location, experience level, skills, as well as work, and personal history.

Return on investment (ROI) is a financial term used to measure how much you gain from your investment. Keep in mind, your investment continues to yield returns long after the first year. The longer you work in an industry, the more financial growth you stand to see over time.

We understand that spending money to make money can feel risky. However, the ROI from investing in a Digital Skills Professional Program is measurable beyond salary. Our programs provide invaluable networking opportunities with industry experts. Nurturing these connections can impact your professional growth for years after you complete the program.

Choosing to pursue a professional program can open the door to a wide variety of careers with excellent ROI. Here are some of the average salaries of entry-level roles our programs could set you up for:

It’s normal to worry about investing money when it might take a while to see returns. No matter which of our programs you invest in, the average salary in a digital skills career could offset your investment within the first year.

Invest in yourself with the American University Digital Skills Professional Programs to get the most bang for your buck.

Exploring the Benefits of Professional Programs

Are Professional Programs the Best Option?

Completing a professional program shows employers you’re trained with skills they want. There are always other avenues for achieving qualifications too, like self-training or earning a four-year degree. However, those options involve a significant time commitment and aren’t an option for many.

Our accelerated career-prep programs get you the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a new field in less than a year.

Despite popular belief, the path to a digital skills-based career is accessible to those without a college degree. Google, IBM, and other top companies are no longer requiring college degrees on their job postings. Instead, they want experienced professionals with strong skills.

American University Digital Skills Professional Programs provide interactive courses led by industry experts. In less than a year, you can get the skills and experience you need to qualify for a fulfilling career in tech.

Unique Program Features

Our professional programs are more than just training courses. They are comprehensive career-prep programs built for you to network, engage with tech experts, and grow professionally. They include benefits and personalized support from the moment you choose to invest in yourself.

  • Live and Online Learning

All our programs are fully online and taught in real-time. We understand commitments like work and family take up your valuable time. Learn from and network with industry pros on a flexible schedule from the comfort of your own home.

  • All Skill Levels Welcome

Starting fresh can sometimes be intimidating, but our curriculum is designed to meet you where you are. Whether you’re a beginner or an industry vet, our program can prepare you for a lucrative digital skills career.

  • Individualized Career Services

Our expert career services team is ready to provide comprehensive support for up to 6 months after program completion. Resume and LinkedIn profile optimization, along with career coaching, prepare you for success. Once you’re ready, our team can support you with personalized job placement assistance.

3 Steps to Finance Your Education

Financing your education with our programs is simple.

  1. Step one: Choose from a variety of American University Digital Skills Professional Programs
  2. Step two: Test-drive a 30 Hour Introductory Course for a taste of what you will experience as a learner. 
  3. Step three: When you’re ready to commit to the full program, choose your payment option.

To help you invest in your future, there are some payment and financing options offered. These programs do not qualify for federal financial assistance.

  • Pay in Full
    After completing the Introductory Course, pay tuition in full prior to starting your first class.
  • 0% Interest
    Monthly installments with no interest. Available to all learners.
  • Personal Financing
    Learners may qualify for personal or private education loans with qualified lenders.

Need more information on your payment options?

Our expert admissions advisors are ready to discuss all options so you can make the best decision for your individual needs.

Take the First Step Today

Image of a sign lit up with the words “do something great.”

You don’t have to walk the path to a meaningful career by yourself. The American University Digital Skills Professional Programs are designed to support you every step of the way. Our programs are designed to help you learn an in-demand skill set that employers want. Better pay, work-from-home options, and professional growth are just around the corner.

Our classes begin on a rolling basis. Even after program completion, rest assured you’ll still have comprehensive career services support for up to 6 months after you’re done.

Reach out to our dedicated admissions team for more information at (202) 888-4202. You can also fill out the form below to get started. We’re excited to hear from you!

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