Adult Workforce Education and Training Network

Ohio Education Resources for Adult Workers in Transition

Numerous sources show that the more education you have, the more money you earn (here's one chart). In a down economy, many Americans turn unemployment into an opportunity to return to school. The best time for a worker to start higher education or professional development classes is at the beginning of their unemployment benefits period.

The University System of Ohio can help you find a program that fits your needs, plus financial aid to help pay for your education or training.

Know the terminology

Glossary of Higher Education Terms for Adult Students - A handy list of different college types, degrees, and financial aid terminology.

Research the job market

Ohio Means Jobs - Search for job opportunities from Ohio employers, national commercial job boards and niche industries.
Ohio Labor Market Information - A useful list of career exploration tools and Ohio job market information.
Ohio Occupation Trends 2006-2016 - From the Department of Job and Family Services
Career Exploration (Ohio Labor Market Information) - Provides information for job hunters and those considering career changes. View job postings, training options, average wages, expected average openings and related occupations.

Choose a school or training program

University System of Ohio - This map shows all Ohio public colleges and universities, including 14 universities with 24 branch campuses and 23 community colleges, plus contact information.
Ohio's Adult Career-Technical Education and Training Network - This map lists all Adult Career-Technical Education programs throughout the state, by county.
OhioLearns! - A searchable list of courses and degrees offered at a distance by Ohio's colleges and universities (via OLN).

Find financial aid for education

Applying for Financial Assistance - Information about the FAFSA and a step-by-step financial aid checklist for new and transfer students.
Grants and Scholarships - University System of Ohio students have a number of ways to lower the cost of sticker price tuition. Grants and scholarships are awards that directly lower students' out-of-pocket education costs, and generally do not have to be repaid. Click this link to find out more.
Opportunity.gov - A list of financial assistance resources for students.
American Opportunity Credit - Parents and students may qualify for a tax credit to pay for college expenses.

Get personalized help

Financial Aid Offices Contact Information - Ohio college and university financial aid offices are available to help students complete the FAFSA, to answer any questions they may have regarding financial aid or eligibility.
College Access Information Hotline - University System of Ohio personnel can help guide you towards information on college preparation, financial aid resources, scholarship opportunities, credit transfer, and more.
Ohio's One-Stop System - Job seeking customers can expect services such as resource rooms, job-related workshops, supportive services, individual training accounts, and other activities that match job seekers to employment. You can also find out about Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding available for education and job training
The Benefit Bank of Ohio - Representatives can assist you in filling out the FAFSA, applying for tax credits and public benefits for workers, and more.

Information from the federal government

CareerOneStop ReEmployment Portal - General information about employment, training, and financial help during job transition.
Department of Labor Tools (via Opportunity.gov)