The rise of nontraditional students in higher ed

National Nontraditional Student Week is in November. Once considered outliers, adult students are enrolling in larger numbers and bringing much-needed perspective to college campuses.

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, 74% of students have at least one nontraditional characteristic. This includes anyone over 24, working full-time, or raising kids as well as students of any age who are military veterans, immigrants and first-generation college students.

If you feel like it’s too late or you don’t belong, the data tells a different story. Times are changing, and there are now more resources than ever for nontraditional and adult learners.

More ways to earn a degree 

In this era of economic uncertainty, students are apt to follow non-linear paths, take breaks, or enroll part-time while working.

These alternate paths are easier thanks to hybrid and online degree programs where students can complete coursework remotely. These days, the college experience isn’t defined by geography, but by curiosity.

For example, if you have some college credits already, you may be able to transfer to UW–Madison’s 100% online bachelor’s degree program and graduate as a full-fledged Badger. UW schools across the state, like UW-Platteville and UW-Green Bay, also have online programs, from associate to master’s degrees. Technical and community colleges may have evening and weekend options as well. 

Benefits of bucking tradition

Life doesn’t always go as planned, and it doesn’t mean you did something wrong or missed your chance. Sometimes it’s good to break from tradition because you can see the world from a different vantage point than your peers.

Whether you’re an adult who stopped out or a military veteran achieving their dreams after serving their country, your perspective is shaped by real-life struggles that most 18-year-olds can’t fully understand.

Everyone benefits from having nontraditional students in class because they challenge the status quo and raise the standards for accessibility and inclusion.

Resources for nontraditional students

With that said, let’s not minimize the barriers facing nontraditional students. When the budget is already tight, it can be hard to imagine that going back to school is within reach. And even if you find funding opportunities, you still may need to juggle work, childcare and daily life. 

The good news is, most colleges are committed to helping nontraditional students succeed. Review your intended school’s financial aid website and scholarship opportunities. You may be able to find scholarships specifically for nontraditional students. 

Once you’re enrolled, get connected with student support services, like the Basic Needs hub for UW–Madison students with information about food, housing, childcare and other important services. If you live outside of Madison, call or text 211 to get information based on your zip code. 

Going back to school as an adult can feel intimidating, but don’t sell yourself short. You have street smarts that can’t be taught in a book, and you bring a unique perspective that enriches the entire campus community.