FAIRHOPE, Ala. — For those worried about a shaky job market, now might be the time to hone your skills by going back to school. The U.S. Department of Labor says education is the best defense for staying employed during the current economic state.

The University of South Alabama Baldwin County (USABC) is helping out by offering a look at the university’s Adult Degree Program (ADP), which enables one to further their education while still handling the responsibilities of everyday life.

USABC will hold two information sessions — one on Tuesday, at 6 p.m. and another on Thursday at noon. Both will take place at the USABC Administration Building, 10 N. Summit St. in Fairhope.

“The Adult Degree Program helps people with interrupted educational goals,” said Dr. Vaughn Millner, chair of the University of South Alabama Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. “They start school, and their life circumstances force them to drop out.”

Even folks who delayed the start of higher education will benefit, she said, because the program is geared toward flexibility with the adult student in mind.

ADP was designed to give students many options in earning a bachelor’s degree tailored to their individual needs, educational goals and schedule. It is open to adults at least age 25, or those who have assumed the major responsibilities and commitments of adulthood.

ADP provides night classes and online courses that help nontraditional students work at a manageable pace toward their degree, according to Millner.

“The Adult Degree Program gives me a chance to finish a degree that I started years ago,” said Kathy Ferniany, a USABC employee and an ADP student. “I was excited to learn that I could tailor my degree to my specific interests. Instead of a traditional degree, I get to choose what I want. As an older student who has many responsibilities including a job, a family and an elderly parent, I appreciate the flexibility this schedule gives me. And, since it would be impossible for me to attend classes during the day since I work, I like the fact that I can attend evening classes once a week.”

Although the Baldwin County campus is currently utilized primarily for junior and senior coursework, technology currently being installed there will make possible lower-level, live ADP-specific courses via a remote link to the main campus in Mobile.

The information sessions, hosted by Dr. Christine Bogar, assistant director of student services in Fairhope, will lay out the possibilities, including individualized degree plans and student support services.

“The Interdisciplinary Adult Degree Program offers a flexible alternative to traditional college majors by allowing adults to design a major that best supports their academic and career goals,” Bogar said. “Adults with previous college credit can usually apply most of their past academic work to their Adult Interdisciplinary Studies bachelor’s degree. Attending an Information Session is a great way to learn more about the academic programs offered on the USA Baldwin County Campus.”

Millner said, “They can enroll in up to 30 departments in the university, depending on their concentration.” ADP students select areas of concentration based on their personal interests. She added, “Approaching something from more than one perspective is important.”

Academic advisors in both Fairhope and Mobile are the key in guiding students through the process, Millner noted. She pointed out that many dedicated faculty members also offer support, stressing, “We have so many great mentors and mentoring faculty here.”

Millner also noted that ADP students stay motivated while in the program. She said of the university, “There is a phenomenal energy associated with it. There is a positive energy that comes from being here. It’s a great place to be.”

If you’re unsure if USA’s tuition is within your budget, there are options, Bogar said.

Assistance for students who might otherwise not be able to afford to attend is available through financial aid, scholarships, student loans and financial loans. The recent federal stimulus plan will also provide low- and middle-income families with a $2,500 tax credit for students enrolled part-time.

Visit www.findtuition.com to learn more about financial assistance available to students.

In addition to the Adult Degree Program, USABC offers bachelor’s degrees in business administration, communication — public relations track, criminal justice, elementary education and nursing — BSN and accelerated track.

Master’s degrees are offered in elementary education, educational administration, counseling, special education and nursing — accelerated track.

To reserve your space at an information session, or to learn more about USA Baldwin County’s programs, call (251) 928-8133, or e-mail usabc@usouthal.edu.