Nationwide, the trend of implementing adult degree programs has become the alternative educational approach for many universities. While continuing to service the traditional-age student, institutions are striving to provide ample opportunities for adult learners to meet the needs of business and industry. Across our country, colleges and universities are offering Evening Degree Programs that have awarded many thousands, possibly millions, of undergraduate degrees to adult students. These non-traditional students have used these degrees to fulfill a dream of a second career as a teacher, social worker, CPA, computer analyst or human resource manager, to name just a few. Those who have obtained an education while remaining with their current employers have gained an educational experience that benefits the individual as well as their employer.
Adult learners have many fears when returning to pursue a college education.
Time and personal constraints become cumbersome and rationale for never making the commitment. In making the decision to return to school, individuals should view this commitment as an investment in self, family and professional life. At times, adult students forget that they already possess skills that will enable them to be highly efficient learners. And because of their professional careers and work environment, these skills have been honed and perfected. Evening college classrooms are filled with the exciting interaction of working professionals and academia.