<p>I am 40+ years old and figured, with the economy the way it is, I would go back to school. The first problem is, I am unemployed. The only chance at getting a job in my area (michigan) is to take classes. I have always wanted to be in the animal care field. So I decided on Vet Tech. I went to MichiganWorks, which is our local job bank, and was told this program was not a needed job. That was cleared up rather quickly. I am now accepted with Baker College in their Vet Tech program, 2 years and a solid graduation/job rate. MichiganWorks handed me a paper stating that the program costs $21,500 for everything (I assume books and supplies as well) yet Baker tuition is $6500 a year. They also say they charge $180 per credit hour. Not understanding the credit hour thing, I have 113 credit hours which doesn't equal out. I am not sure how these colleges state their costs. Is that $6500 a basic cost to going to college and then they add in the other stuff? Assuming that is the case, I recieved from FAFSA (haven't tried the other grants yet) $2500 to cover for the year. Now Baker is approx 70 miles from me and I was told I would be attending 3 times a week. That can be morning afternoon and evening depending on the class. I can take online courses as well. The other thing is am I doing the right thing. This is something I have always wanted to do but it is going to be hard doing it without a job. One person told me I could do one or the other. I cannot have a job if I am going to college. The good thing is, apparently, I do not have to pay for the classes until 6 months after graduation. Also, if anyone can tell me what the final exams are like...do they cover every course taken in the 2 years? Remember, I am totally new to this college thing. Everything is greek to me. Maybe I should go for courses to do with something else. The problem is, in my area, MichiganWorks either wants you to be a nurse or a truck driver.</p>