How much time can you commit?
It's important that you are realistic when looking at hour many hours a week you can commit to your studies. There are courses with all different lengths and time requirements, find a course that suits your availability rather than trying to increase your available time to suit the course requirements. This is how you will achieve the best results and derive the most success from your course. Try and create a schedule for yourself, so the hours you study are planned out in advance.
How long would you like to study for?
Think about how long you would like to be studying. A few weeks, a few months, a few years? There are many different options available and you need to select the one that will work best for you. If you are in a career and you are looking for advancement you may want something that is across a year but low weekly study hours, so you can still focus on your full-time job while upskilling yourself to advance in the future. If you are looking at a new career, you may want something that is more hours per week and you can complete in 6 months, therefore entering the job market as quickly as possible. You may not have studied in a while, so doing a 4-week short course can give you a good idea if studying that subject long term would be enjoyable for you. Or you may find a new passion while completing a few different short courses.
How would you like to study?
Online, in-person or blended. Each has its pros and cons, you need to decide which is the best option for you. If you struggle to stay focused at home or are distracted easily, maybe in person would be your best option. If you are short on time and are good at allocating time to work, family or study at home, then an online course gives you complete freedom to study where and when you want.
Future Employment
What jobs will you be looking for at the end of this course? Are there jobs currently being advertised for that role? Is the course you are doing preparing you to work in a sector, industry or a specific job?
Passion
Motivation is one of the hardest things to maintain while studying, making sure you have a passion and drive for the career you are studying will help you achieve the best results and the most success from your course.