An economic slump doesn’t mean you have to put career goals on hold. Employers are always in search of experienced candidates and now may be the perfect time to go back to school to pursue an advanced degree. Part-time and distance learning make an advanced degree convenient, flexible, and affordable.

More and more full-time employees are choosing to advance their careers despite a shaky economy. In fact, an advanced degree can increase your salary, hiring potential and your chances of being promoted. A recession creates an opportunity to further your current career or make the change you have been waiting for.

Firefighters looking for promotion can make the most of the recession by returning to school for a Master of Public Administration (MPA). An MPA offers firefighting professionals from all backgrounds an advanced education that can be utilized in a variety of professions such as Assistant Chief, Fire Chief, and Administrator. Whether you are looking to move up in your current job or you want to switch careers, an MPA can give you the skills you need to make your dreams a reality.

This two-year degree can be done on campus or online, with both full- and part-time programs. Coursework includes classes in public policy, community development, information technology, and more, preparing you for any job in public service. MPA graduates currently serve in some important positions within the public sector, including UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, General David Petraeus, President of Liberia-Ellen Sirleaf, NYC Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, and Governor of Kansas-Kathleen Sebelius.

Ultimately, the money you spend on school will more than pay off faster than you expect. In fact, employees with an MPA can make up to $100,000 more a year than those with just a bachelor’s degree. When it comes to paying for school, grants, loans, and scholarships make it more affordable than ever. Money may be tight, but your education is the perfect investment.

Invest in your future, invest in yourself.