Adult Learner
Congratulations on your decision to further your education! Georgia Southern University defines Adult and Non-traditional students as those who have been out of high school for at least five years or whose high school class graduated at least five years ago.
Whether you are beginning your higher education journey for the first time, rejoining us after some time away, or returning for another degree, we want to support you. The Academic Success Center’s team of professional staff can assist you in orienting to the higher education landscape, navigating the nitty gritty of time management, honing your academic skills, and remaining accountable to your goals. Consider joining us for an Academic Skills Workshop, signing up for an Academic Skills Consultation or Academic Success Coaching Session, or checking out our Semester Toolkit to make this your best year yet!
Psst! If you have a specific need or question about your status as an Adult Learner, connect with the Office of Adult and Online Learning.
Am I an Adult Learner?
Georgia Southern University defines Adult and Non-traditional students as those who have been out of high school for at least five years or whose high school class graduated at least five years ago.
Q: I began a four-year college degree or a two-year community college degree but never completed it.
A: You are an adult learner!
Q: I have never taken a college course and am seeking a degree for mobility in my career.
A: You are an adult learner!
Q: I am seeking an additional degree for continued mobility in my career.
A: You are an adult learner!
Q: I have retired and want to continue learning for the joy of learning.
A: You are an adult learner!
Common Challenges
Deciding to go back to school is very exciting. It can also be intimidating. Going back to school as an adult is a unique experience, and may look different than those entering higher education from high school (typically, those between the ages of 18 and 22). However, many challenges are surmountable with persistence, preparation, and support.
Below are a few of the most common challenges facing adult learners enrolling in a degree program for the first time, or returning to higher education after some time away. Consider how your academic commitments may require you to adjust your current routines, and then develop a plan to manage any changes or potential challenges. Speak with your family and employer to gain their support during this exciting time in your life.
- Time. Some adult learners may work full-time and/or have families to support. This can mean that most adult learners attend school part-time and need to find creative ways to fit their schoolwork into their schedules. Consider enrolling in a program with a flexible format or multiple course modality options.
- Money. Adult learners may have access to financial aid, which can offer federal student loans and grants, as well as suggest scholarships and financial aid packages that can lower the cost of tuition even further. Your employer may also offer tuition assistance – ask! If adult learners have previously attended a college, transfer credit opportunities can help them earn credits more quickly and affordably.
- Imposter Syndrome. It is never too late to earn a college degree. You can do this! Locate helpful resources and enlist others to support you during this time. Stay in touch with your dedicated academic advisor – every Georgia Southern University student has one! Your academic advisor will work closely with you the whole time you’re enrolled to ensure you stay on track through graduation.
By choosing a program that fits your needs and building your support network, you’ll find yourself in an environment that understands your unique obstacles, offers resources to overcome them, and is dedicated to your success.
Student Resources
Basic Needs Support
- Equal Opportunity & Title IX: Title IX protects pregnant and parenting students from discrimination. This includes pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, miscarriage, or recovery from any of these conditions. It is illegal to exclude a pregnant student from any part of an educational program due to their pregnant and parenting status.
- Food: Campus Food Pantries
- Housing: Off-Campus Housing Options
- Health: Counseling Center, Psychology Clinic and Health Services
- Financial: Office of Financial Aid and Open Educational Resources
Campus Resources
- Office of Advisement
- Academic Success Center
- Counseling Center
- Dean of Students Office
- Financial Aid
- Office of Career and Professional Development
- Office of Leadership and Community Engagement
- Office of Multicultural Affairs
- Office of Student Activities
- Open Educational Resources
- Student Accessibility Resource Center
- TRIO Student Support Services (Armstong/Liberty)
- University Libraries
Technology-Related Resources
Faculty and Staff Resources
Campus Resources
Other Resources
Last updated: 8/8/2023