Ben

Why not look into graduate studies where the university will pay you? Although it is preferred for a person to have a Master's degree before going for a PhD, it isn't essential. It would be serious studying which would go against what you were saying originally, but you would get the best of both worlds - taking classes, earning money (albeit a small amount), and your fees paid for you.

Sometimes, but not always, some colleges will wave the out-of-state fees for graduate studies if you choose to just take one or two courses.

Community colleges do some great courses, and sometimes will have classes available off campus. Also, though, the local schools have night classes available. You can find out about these through your local town hall. We get a brochure through each half year telling us what is being offered. Just like in the UK you can do anything from pottery to learning another language.

Bob

big question would be what do you want to study? some subjects are more cheaper, liberal arts and the like can vary a fair bit though...and if it's a masters or not....get it done online or not also makes a difference.

Masters for what the missus is doing, North Eastern were wanting $20K a year over 2 years for tuition as we would have been out of state. As it is, she's doing the same sort of masters through Kings College London, much better course, more kudos in the field, but the exchange rate is a munter, but it is around $8K a year over 3 years part time.