September 3, 1999

In Europe, Workers and Professionals Head Back to the Classroom

By BURTON BOLLAG

But universities must compete for market share in the continuing-education business

After working for 10 years at Aerospatiale, a French aerospace manufacturer, Jean-Luc Mathieu was sent back to school by his employer. Now pursuing an engineering degree in satellite communications at the University of Bordeaux I, Mr. Mathieu says that he has never had it so tough -- nor has he been happier.

"It's much harder than my work as a technician," says the 33-year-old student. "And I