There’s no question that the higher education experience is different for an adult learner. Unlike traditional students, those who are earning a degree a bit later in life are often juggling more responsibilities, like working full time and caring for a family. Completing a program in these circumstances is no easy feat, but the right school can help you on the path to success.
As you’ve researched institutions that are among the best online colleges for working adults, you’ve likely recognized that Bellevue University is a great option. The diverse student body, which includes many adult and nontraditional students, is testament to that.
“Bellevue University is a big school that feels like a small family,” says Chris Hopfensperger, Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions at Bellevue University.
So what is it about the school that helps foster this environment and ultimately enables nontraditional students to excel? According to Hopfensperger and a few of his colleagues, it comes down to a handful of key factors.
5 Elements that help adult learners succeed at Bellevue University
No matter their degree, Bellevue University alumni will mention at least a few of these factors as having played a role in their achievements.
1. Flexible programs make it possible to balance school and life
For adults who are working full time ¬— not to mention raising children — it can be challenging to make time for school. For these learners, attending traditional in-person classes several times per week just isn’t feasible. Bellevue University makes it possible for you to balance your studies with other responsibilities by offering flexible options that allow you to complete your degree fully online.
“Many students have families and work, so the ability to do their coursework online when they have the time is what they’re looking for,” says Amanda Angle, an undergraduate admissions counselor at Bellevue University.
While juggling school on top of everything else might sound intimidating, success is absolutely within reach. And you’ll be in good company.
“Most of your classmates will be other adults who are going through the same thing ¬— balancing classwork with their family and work life,” Angle notes.
Giving students the option to complete a program from home might not be unique, but Bellevue University’s online offerings are. The virtual learning experience provides students with the flexibility their busy lives demand and integrates an array of support resources, such as personalized coaching services and peer tutoring. Class sizes are also intentionally capped at 24 students, which helps encourage meaningful discussions with peers and instructors.
2. Students have options to finish their degree sooner
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current field or transition into a new career, it’s likely that you want to put your degree to work sooner rather than later. You actually have a number of options that allow you to finish your program faster than you may have thought possible. For starters, Bellevue University has a generous transfer policy that allows you to apply an entire 60-credit associate’s degree toward a bachelor’s degree.
“Students are usually so excited to see how their transfer credits apply toward a Bellevue University degree — and how quickly they can complete it,” Angle explains.
It’s worth noting that graduate students can transfer up to six credits. That might not sound like much, but it actually accounts for one-sixth of the credits you would need for a typical master’s degree program. You could also be eligible to translate learning that occurred outside the classroom into credits through military experience, Advanced Placement (AP) exams, and other options.
Depending on what you’re interested in studying, you may even be able to complete your education as part of a cohort program. These accelerated-degree tracks allow you to advance one course at a time with the same community of peers.
“Most students love being in the cohort programs,” says Elise Holdaway, an undergraduate academic advisor (also called a student coach) at Bellevue University. “You work with one instructor at a time and focus on one class at a time, so it’s more manageable. And you’re already enrolled in the program, so the courses go back-to-back without you having to re-register after each term.”
3. Career-focused programs help turn passions into professions
Busy adult learners aren’t interested in earning a degree for enjoyment’s sake — they have specific goals in mind. In fact, a report from Strada Education Network and Gallup shows that work-related outcomes are the main reason most students pursue higher education. You’re clearly not alone in wanting to advance your professional life, and you have plenty of options to do so.
“Bellevue University focuses on degrees that are industry relevant,” Angle says. “A lot of instructors come directly from the field they’re teaching, so they offer real-world knowledge to apply to the curriculum.”
Wanting to improve your job prospects doesn’t mean you need to set aside your interests, either. Bellevue University offers more than 85 career-focused programs in fields like healthcare, business administration, data science, and more, so you’re bound to find a program that aligns with your interests.
4. Students are supported every step of the way
Transitioning back to student mode isn’t always easy. There are a lot of components involved in the application and enrollment process, which is why Bellevue University guides students through every stage. It starts with responsive admissions counselors who make sure applicants have everything they need to become a student.
Once you’re enrolled, there’s a seamless handoff to your assigned student coach. Think of this advisor as your point person for questions about everything from financial aid to time-management tips.
“Many graduates express how much they love that their student coach stays in touch with them throughout their entire time at Bellevue,’” Holdaway says. “They’re very thankful for that.”
There are many other helpful resources available for learners as well. Students have access to writing assistance for all types of essays, career services that range from mock interviews to networking tips, and tutoring sessions in both group and one-on-one formats. Bellevue University is also one of the top military friendly schools in the country and provides an array of personalized services for eligible service members.
5. Instructors go above and beyond to help students succeed
When reflecting on their achievements, successful graduates often credit having great professors. This is just as true for the digital classroom. While technology and course design are important elements for a great online program, instructors really help engage students with the material and help them fill in any gaps.
“Instructors are always available to answer questions, offer guidance, and provide feedback for courses,” Angle says. “Even without a traditional lecture-style classroom, you’re never alone.”
Some students keep in touch with instructors long after they graduate as well. Not only do these relationships result in beneficial mentorship, but they also help students build their professional networks. Professors are often happy to provide career guidance and even write recommendation letters for students who later apply to advanced degree programs.
Continue your journey here
It’s never too late to pursue a degree. You just need to select a school that understands your circumstances, offers flexible options, and provides the necessary support. You’ll find all of this and more at Bellevue University.
If you’re feeling inspired to further your education, start planning for your next phase.
