The Postsecondary National Policy Institute reports that nontraditional learners made up just over 33% of the college student population in 2019. Most of these degree-seekers enrolled in a public school and took more classes online than traditional first-year learners.
Returning to school offers many benefits, as a degree may qualify you for a promotion, raise, or career change. Graduating from a nontraditional college can also let you explore other educational opportunities, such as master's and doctoral programs in your field.
The five best colleges for nontraditional students offer majors in different areas. They may also feature career-aligned certificates and diplomas.
Featured Online Schools
Top Nontraditional Colleges Rankings
What Is a Nontraditional Student?
Nontraditional students include:
Learners older than 24 years of age
Students returning to school
Degree-seekers with families
The term can also apply to learners working full or part time while in school. In comparison, traditional first-year degree-seekers have recently graduated high school and generally do not work.
Nontraditional colleges appeal to students by offering a flexible learning style, such as asynchronous education. Asynchronous classes let you view lectures and complete assignments at convenient times.
Why Do Nontraditional Students Go Back to College?
Nontraditional students go back to college for many reasons. You may need a degree to qualify for a promotion or change careers. Learning new skills can also make you more competitive in a recession or tight job market.
Nontraditional student programs can help you finish a degree you started many years ago, too. Your college may accept transfer credits or an associate degree. Transfer credits can reduce your time to graduation significantly.
What Should Nontraditional Students Consider Before Going Back to College?
You should consider many things before enrolling in a nontraditional university or college, such as your career goals. Knowing what you want to do with a degree, diploma, or certificate can save you money and time. Fortunately, many nontraditional student programs' websites feature in-depth guides, relevant careers, and graduate outcomes.
You should also consider how nontraditional college may impact your other responsibilities. You may need to reorganize your schedule significantly and put aside hobbies until after you graduate. Work with your nontraditional university advisors if you need help with time management.
Compare schools' prices. Typical public nontraditional colleges charge residents the most affordable per-credit tuition rate. However, these schools may offer in-state tuition to all online students.
Speak with family, friends, co-workers, and college admissions counselors before going back to school. These people can help you find the information you need to explore the best nontraditional student programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Who is considered a nontraditional college student?
Many colleges use the term nontraditional college student to refer to first-year learners older than 24. Your school may also give you this title if you re-enter college after an absence, work while in school, or raise children.
The best colleges for nontraditional students feature highly trained advisors and other services to help you with your unique college journey.
What percentage of students are nontraditional?
Nontraditional college students comprise just over one-third of postsecondary schools' student bodies. Many public and for-profit schools feature a higher percentage of these learners. As a result, you should not feel out of place on a college campus or in a virtual classroom.
Which Ivy League school is best for nontraditional students?
As of May 2023, only Columbia University offers programs created exclusively for nontraditional students. Benefits include full- and part-time programs, online learning, and advisors who work only with nontraditional degree-seekers. You can also select from over three dozen majors, such as English, evolutionary biology, and mathematics.
How do nontraditional students afford college?
You can pay for college in many ways besides going into debt. Your employer may offer a tuition-reimbursement program. Your employer pays for your education if you agree to work for them for a specific number of years after graduation.
You may qualify for need-based federal grants. You apply by submitting the FAFSA, a financial document detailing your income and assets.
What are the struggles of nontraditional students?
Many potential struggles exist, such as balancing work and college. You may need to adjust your work schedule or find another employer before starting school.
You might struggle with coursework if you left high school or college many years ago. Use your school's academic counseling resources to find tutors and other support services.
