The Changing Landscape of Higher Education
Individuals may not be able to or even want to attend college immediately after high school for various reasons. Eventually, they discover that they need further education to advance in their careers, increase their salary, or become competitive in the marketplace. When they enroll in a college or university to get that needed education, they are considered nontraditional students, sometimes called adult learners.
In 2019, 33.4% of postsecondary education students were nontraditional, according to the Post Secondary National Policy Institute. The Lumina-Gallup 2024 State of Higher Education Study reveals that 37% of college students are 25 or older, and 24% of college students have dependents. This same study predicts that by 2031, 72% of jobs will require some type of education beyond high school.
The Unique Needs of Nontraditional Students
Nontraditional students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including work, family, and other personal commitments. This makes flexibility a crucial factor in their educational journey. Universities need to shift their focus and see their students as customers, providing excellent customer service. That’s what keeps people loyal to a product, in this case, an educational institution.
Institutions that see their students as individuals will have an impact on their lives, translating into growth in their student populations. Not every nontraditional student wants to further their career; some are driven by a passion for learning.
Flexible Learning Options
Flexible learning options are essential for nontraditional students who may have unpredictable schedules. Programs in business, leadership, education, health, and human services are designed to accommodate the unique needs of adult learners.
The Role of Online Education
Online education has become a game-changer for nontraditional students. eLearning courses and online training programs offer the flexibility that traditional classroom settings often lack. These programs allow students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, making balancing education with other responsibilities easier.
Career Advancement Through Skill Development
For many nontraditional students, the primary goal of returning to school is career advancement. Skill development is a key component of this. Online training programs and personal development training can provide the skills needed to move up in their current job or transition to a new career. Education consulting services can also help students identify the best programs and courses to meet their career goals.
The Importance of Support Services
Support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and financial aid assistance, are crucial for the success of nontraditional students. Universities offering robust support services are likelier to see their students succeed.
The Future of Higher Education
The landscape of higher education is changing, and institutions need to adapt to meet the needs of nontraditional students. This includes offering flexible learning options, providing excellent customer service, and offering robust support services. By doing so, universities can help nontraditional students achieve their educational and career goals.
Conclusion
Making higher education more accessible for nontraditional students is not just about offering flexible learning options. It’s about seeing students as individuals, providing excellent customer service, and offering robust support services. By doing so, universities can help nontraditional students achieve their educational and career goals, ultimately leading to a more educated and competitive workforce.
If you want help making sure your courses are accessible for nontraditional students, check out our education consulting services.