Most universities' deadline for graduate study is in Feb or Mar. If you want to study in fall,2004, you'll need to prepare all the documents soon. Continuing education usually takes about 2 or 3 years. Some universities accept late application and you'll have to pay extra fee but there is no guarantee of your acceptance. As far as I know, if you are not exceptionally outstanding in the field you want to study, you'll be refused. Please check the universities' websites for detailed information. Good luck!