The Challenges of being a Nontraditional Student

Abstract

When nontraditional students return to higher education, they are faced with challenges from external forces as well as institutional barriers. This demographic of student is made up of first-time adult learners, parent students, military, and adults returning to move their careers forward or broaden their knowledge. The enrollment of this demographic has been growing at a significant rate with them becoming the majority within higher education despite the inequality and challenges they face from the institution. Negative factors such a needing financial help, lacking access to support options, and requiring flexible college schedules to fit into their busy lives. Despite the hurdles that they must jump to stay ahead, these adult students have high motivation from gained experience helping to fuel their academic success. Understanding the challenges this growing demographic faces in academic institutions can help develop appropriate support systems to help improve their outcome in higher education.

Keywords: Nontraditional Student, Higher Education, Diversity, Challenges, Support 

Year Manuscript Completed

Summer 2026

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan, Ph.D.

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Educational Studies

Document Type

Thesis

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