Quick Highlights:
- In 2022, 36.8 million U.S. adults under 65 had some college education but no degree, showing the large demand for degree completion programs.
- Degree completion programs offer flexibility through online, hybrid, and evening classes, allowing returning students to balance work, family, and education.
- Transfer credits from previous college experience, professional training, or life experiences help returning students save time and money.
- Universities like Arizona State University and Southern New Hampshire University provide top-ranked degree completion programs designed for adult learners.
Did you know that, in July 2022, there were 36.8 million US adults under 65 with some college? The good news: There are many degree completion programs for returning students.
And many returned as college students, too. During the 2022-2023 academic year, over 943,000 re-enrolled.
What are returning students in the first place? These are individuals who weren’t able to complete their bachelor’s degree but are resuming their studies. Their break ranged between a few months to several years.
Returning students give varied reasons for pausing their studies. Financial difficulties, family obligations, and military service are common. Adult learners, transfer students, and former dropouts are common returning students.
Regardless of their reasons, returning students say that it’s a challenging transition. You may become overwhelmed by the new college culture. The challenges that made you pause your studies may still be present, too. You may have to retake courses and tackle rigorous new courses.
Fortunately, degree completion programs for returning students have built-in mechanisms for success. You can transfer credits and access extensive student support services, among other benefits.
Best of all, these programs allow maximum flexibility and convenience. As a working adult, you’ll enjoy a good work-life balance.
Here, we’ll discuss the best degree completion programs for returning students. We’ll also discuss why these are your best options to earn your college degree finally.
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- Study Tips for Adult Learners
- Balancing Full-Time Work with Pursuing an Online Degree: Strategies for Success
- Navigating College Admissions as a Non-Traditional Student
- Maximizing Campus Resources as a Non-Traditional Student
What Are Degree Completion Programs?
On-campus and online degree completion programs have these main features:
- Intended for individuals who started but didn’t finish their bachelor’s degree programs. Many, however, also have associate’s degrees but want to earn bachelor’s degrees.
- Address the educational needs of non-traditional students. Working professionals and adult learners are common examples. Returning students usually have adult responsibilities, such as work and family obligations.
- Provide flexible schedules. Online programs are the best for flexibility and convenience. Students love the flexibility of asynchronous courses. Part-time and evening options are also available.
If you’re a returning student, choose a degree completion program. You will find that it fits your current life situation.
Benefits of Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
Yes, you can finish your degree as an adult, although it won’t be easy. As a returning student juggling many obligations, challenges abound. The good news is that degree completion programs make it easier.
Here are the best features that promote your academic success as a returning student.
Flexible Scheduling
Being able to balance your work, family, and academic obligations is a must. Otherwise, you can drop out again. Your best choices then are online and hybrid courses.
These provide maximum flexibility for these reasons:
- No set log-in times for asynchronous courses
- Attend classes from anywhere in the world for synchronous courses
- Set your schedule and learn at your own pace
You can then return and stay in school because your time is your own.
Credit for Prior Learning
Transfer credits save time and money on the cost of a college education. You can take fewer courses, thanks to transfer credits, usually in general education. With fewer courses to complete, you’ll spend less time earning your degree. Indeed, degree completion programs have a two-year duration.
You may apply for transfer credits with these requirements and qualifications:
- Completed college courses from an accredited college
- Associate’s degree
- AP, IB, and CLEP exam scores
- Dual enrollment credits from high school
- Military training and work experience
- Prior learning assessments from relevant work and life experiences
- Professional licenses or certifications
Be sure to talk to an admission officer for this purpose.
Career Advancement
Earning a college degree leads to better-paying jobs, too. According to BLS’ Education Pays, bachelor’s degree holders earn $1,493/week, on average. Those with associate’s degrees and some college but no degree earn less.
Meeting your current obligations while earning your degree brings many benefits. But you must meet the challenges head-on. Time management skills, drive, and persistence are a must.
Top Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
These are the best degree completion programs offered by accredited universities. Their student support services, among other features, make it easier for students to earn their degrees.
University of Maryland Global Campus
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