Key points:
- Nontraditional students can thrive, but they deserve customized supports
- How do first-generation students fare in degree attainment?
- 5 ways to forge genuine connections with modern learners
- For more on nontraditional students, visit eCN’s Student Success & Well-Being hub
Nontraditional students–students who may be older than typical college age, work full-time jobs, support families, or are returning to education after a significant break–constitute a growing segment of the higher education population.
And despite how this demographic is growing on campuses across the country, institutions don’t always offer the flexibility and options necessary to support these students, leading to barriers to academic success that can also increase dropout rates.
To foster inclusivity and increase retention, colleges and universities should identify targeted strategies that address the specific and unique needs of nontraditional learners.
1. Flexible scheduling and course delivery
Nontraditional students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including work and family obligations. Offering flexible scheduling options, such as evening, weekend, and online classes, allows these students to integrate education into their busy lives. Hybrid models provide flexibility, enabling students to balance their commitments more effectively.
2. Recognition of prior learning and experience
Many nontraditional students bring professional and life experiences to their academic pursuits. Institutions can support these students by recognizing prior learning through credit for work experience, military service, or competency-based assessments. This approach validates their previous accomplishments and accelerates their educational journey, reducing time and financial investment.
3. Comprehensive academic advising
Effective academic advising is crucial for nontraditional students, who may require guidance in navigating institutional processes, selecting the right courses, and aligning their studies with career goals. Advisors trained to understand these unique challenges can provide personalized support, helping them develop realistic academic plans and connect with essential resources. Regular check-ins and outreach can further enhance student engagement and persistence.
4. Financial support and resources
Financial constraints are a significant barrier for many nontraditional students. Scholarships, grants, and emergency funds specifically tailored to adult learners all go a long way in helping alleviate cost-related obstacles. Funding sources for housing, food, childcare, and transportation, can directly address the financial challenges that could lead students to withdraw from their studies.
5. Accessible student support services
Providing accessible support services is essential for the success of nontraditional students. Tutoring centers, writing labs, career counseling, and mental health services should be available at times and through modalities that accommodate diverse schedules. Online resources and virtual appointments can ensure that all students, regardless of their time constraints, have access to the support they need. AI can play a pivotal role here.
6. Fostering a supportive community
Building a sense of belonging is vital for student retention. Institutions can create programs and spaces that encourage interaction among nontraditional students, such as dedicated student organizations, peer mentoring, and networking events.
7. Streamlined administrative processes
Navigating complex administrative procedures can be particularly daunting for nontraditional students. Simplifying application processes, offering clear pathways for enrollment, and providing dedicated support staff can ease these challenges. Efficient and transparent administrative practices help students focus on their studies rather than bureaucratic hurdles.
8. Career-relevant curriculum and credentials
Nontraditional students often pursue higher education to advance or change their careers. Offering programs that align with current industry demands, including microcredentials, can provide immediate value. These programs allow students to acquire specific skills and knowledge applicable to their professional goals without committing to extended degree programs.
9. Engaged and approachable faculty
Faculty engagement plays a significant role in student persistence. Professors who demonstrate care, provide timely feedback, and create inclusive learning environments contribute to higher retention rates. Institutions should encourage teaching practices that prioritize student well-being and foster strong student-faculty relationships.
10. Bridging programs and orientation
Transitioning into academia can be challenging for older students who have been away from or who have never enrolled in formal postsecondary education. Bridge programs and comprehensive orientation sessions can acclimate nontraditional students to the academic environment, refresh essential skills, and build confidence. These programs serve as a foundation for academic success and integration into the campus community.
These strategies can help colleges and universities create environments that not only attracts nontraditional students but also support them throughout their educational journey.
Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges these students face is essential in reducing dropout rates and promoting a diverse, inclusive, and thriving academic community.
- 10 ways to support nontraditional students on your campus - May 22, 2025
- Despite cost barriers, many have confidence in higher ed - May 21, 2025
- When it comes to microcredentials, students are all in - May 15, 2025