What Qualifies as a Non-Traditional College Student?
A non-traditional college student is any student over the age of 25 that enrolls on a college or university program. Sometimes called adult students, non-traditional students (or mature learners), they make up a significant proportion of the undergrad population — nearly half of the nation’s student body are defined as adult learners, of which 38% are enrolled on a higher education program. The non-traditional college student designation includes a diverse mix of people including veterans, working parents, adults with aging dependents, and lifelong learners. Whether it’s for career advancement, a complete change of professional direction, or simply for personal betterment, millions of adult learners have benefited from studying in colleges across the country.
It’s a Great Time to Be an Adult Student
The increase of mature student enrolments has resulted in significant investment in services for this demographic. Colleges across the country have established specialist adult education programs that build flexibility into the syllabus, allowing non-traditional students to shape their course around their needs and to participate in classroom-based study, online learning, or blended programs. The increased usage of online learning due to the Covid-19 pandemic has also resulted in significant improvements in this study format; there’s never been a better time to consider distance learning.
Online study, or distance learning, is by far the most popular choice for adult learners as it offers a more flexible solution for those with external commitments such as work, raising children or looking after aging parents. And there are currently more colleges offering online undergraduate courses than ever before, from small local community colleges to world-renowned Ivy League universities.
Why Are Record Numbers of Adult Students Returning to Education?
One of the largest determinants between those who have financial security and those who do not is education attainment beyond the high school diploma.Gallup’s 2020 Great Job Survey found that having a post-high school qualification resulted in better earnings, a steady income, stable hours, and higher job security; those without post-high school qualifications were more likely to be laid off, to have unpredictable hours, and to have less job satisfaction. Adults looking to secure better futures for themselves and their families are seeing the benefits of returning to education.
The good news is that a post-high school qualification does not necessarily mean a four-year degree; research from the Lumina Foundation shows that associate degrees, industry-specific certifications and other short programs can have a hugely positive impact on a person’s professional prospects.
What Financial Support Is Available for Adult Education?
Financing a higher education program is often the biggest barrier for a prospective mature student to overcome. However, there are many grants and scholarships specifically designed for adult learners, all of which do not have to be repaid; students can combine these with loans to greatly reduce the financial burden of studying.
Additionally, State departments throughout the country have set targets to increase student numbers from low participation backgrounds, one of which is adult learners; this means, as well as popular Federal Grants available for mature students, there are also financial support channels available through States departments. Individual colleges and universities also allocate grants, scholarships and other financial support programs for adult learners.
Considering a return to education? At the Degree Builders, we help adult students find courses that match their professional goals. Contact the team today to find out more.