By Susan Jarosak
The landscape of colleges is changing by the student population. 61 percent of all undergraduate college students will be over the age of 24 or above by 2019. The Council on Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL.org) reports that “non traditional” students (those aged 24 years and older, who are employees and caregivers with multiple responsibilities), are the fastest growing population in higher education. This number is significant for corporations and organizations because their employees are likely in college or planning to pursue a degree in the near future. These employees are seeking advancement in their career and know a degree is necessary. It’s a win-win for employees and employers because education is essential for the economic development of the workforce.
But are colleges ready for them? Adult learners who are juggling work, family, and college have needs that traditional age students do not, namely: flexible course schedules, class locations that are convenient, advisers who can support them in their career pathways, maximum transfer credit policies, options for earning college credit for knowledge gained in the workplace, and accelerated course formats to complete the degrees in a timely manner. A limited number of colleges and universities fulfill these needs. Adult learners completing either their bachelor’s or master’s programs are succeeding due to getting their needs met at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.
Saidiyo Yusuf is a student successfully balancing her busy life with family and career while attending college. Saidiyo started the BS in Healthcare and Human Services Management program at Saint Mary’s University while working full time because she sought career advancement opportunities. She chose the program because of the flexible, accelerated course format and the convenient location near downtown Minneapolis. At Saint Mary’s, courses in the program are offered one night a week for eight weeks. Two of the eight class sessions are online which is an added bonus for students. “I was able to complete courses in 8 weeks and since the program was only 36 credits, I finished it in four semesters.” Saidiyo worked closely with a Saint Mary’s adviser prior to enrolling while attending a community college for maximizing her transfer credits. “I was concerned about time and money, said Saidiyo, but it worked so well because Saint Mary’s is geared for adult learners and understands our needs. I received personal advising throughout the program which was key to my progress.” Saidiyo completed her bachelor’s degree in December 2016 and is now a graduate student in the MA Health and Human Services Administration program with the goal of getting a promotion as an administrator in social services.
The realities of who goes to college today is changing – but so is higher education…and it’s paying off for Saidiyo Yusuf at Saint Mary’s University.