5 Ways Herzing Supports Non-Traditional Students

If you visit government websites, you’ll find the most current student demographics for colleges year over year. Overall, you will discover that in 2023, most college students were between the ages of 18-22, attending college full-time right after high school. However, that trend is slowly changing as more non-traditional students enroll in college. 

Non-traditional students are individuals who delay enrollment in college after high school. They may attend part-time for at least part of an academic year, work full-time while also enrolled in school, be financially independent, or have dependents (spouse and/or children). The Lumina Foundation states that over 34% of college students are 25 and older. 

Herzing University provides support for non-traditional students through a variety of personalized support, career programs and initiatives so that every student can find success at college. 

1. Flexible Learning Options

At Herzing University, we are committed to helping you graduate on time with the skills and credentials needed to advance your career. Our flexible learning options and convenient scheduling make it easier for you to complete your education and transition into the workforce. 

For many adult students, you don’t have the luxury of dedicating 40+ hours a week to school. You may have to juggle responsibilities as a parent or working a full-time job. Herzing’s flexible learning options and convenient scheduling allow you to achieve your educational and career goals. 

• Take classes during the day or evening at one of our 11 locations, or online. 
• Herzing grants undergraduate admission on a rolling, continuous basis with few wait lists, allowing you to start your degree when the time is right.
• Herzing prides itself on being a military-friendly institution. Our flexible online options help military members earn a degree while serving on active duty overseas
• Can’t attend school full-time? Many of Herzing’s programs have the option to enroll part-time.

2. Personalized Academic Support

Most colleges will provide you with an admissions advisor to help you navigate your application and enrollment process. Once you choose a program, you will also choose an advisor, or the university will assign one to help you with your specific program requirements. While these advisors help guide you throughout your college experience, Herzing also offers additional personalized academic support. 

In addition to a personalized admission advisor, you will also be assigned a financial advisor. Your financial aid advisor will explore various funding options and work with you to create a comprehensive funding plan. 

Herzing also provides 24/7 tutoring support with Knack. Knack is a learning platform that provides online tutoring for course-specific peer tutoring and mentorship. Whether you need assistance right after class or during a 2:00 AM study session after the baby falls asleep, support is always available. 

3. Career Services for Non-Traditional Students

We take your education and career goals seriously whether you are new to Herzing or graduated decades ago. Our Career Development staff are available from the start of your education as well as after graduation. There are so many reasons to connect with your career development coach from feedback through mock interviews, resume review, job searching and more. 

As a member of the Herzing community, you can access our Career Development resources, including but not limited to: 

• Career Center self-guided modules and tools such as the resume evaluation tool, interview simulation, and more through Canvas for students and through Career Connect for graduates 
• Access to an exclusive Job Board through Handshake 
• Gain insights into the job market by exploring career opportunities, job titles and salary through our Career Market Insights tool 
• Join our network of students, alumni and friends in the community through Career Connect to gain insight into employment, find or volunteer to be a mentor, or simply connect with the Herzing University community

4. Financial Aid and Scholarships

Funding is a major concern for many students starting college. Whether you are completing the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or pursuing alternative funding sources like outside grants and scholarships, military benefits, or loans, our Financial Aid team is ready to help. 

Many institutions, including Herzing University, understand that finding reliable childcare while attending classes is a significant challenge. The Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) grant, offered by the U.S. Department of Education, helps parents cover the cost of quality childcare.  

5. A Supportive Community

At Herzing University, you are not alone. At every program level, you will have a community of people who not only share your passion for learning and a common degree interest but also understand what it is like to be a nontraditional student. Herzing has a growing number of non-traditional students enrolled across all program levels. For example, at Herzing University in 2023, 60% of our students were older than 30 years old and 65% of students were from diverse populations. 

Your instructors are a significant part of your support community. Establishing open communication with your instructors is crucial. At Herzing University, your instructors are approachable and supportive. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them with questions or concerns. They want to see you succeed. 

Herzing’s resources are designed to help students balance education with other responsibilities. We strive to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students. Navigating your college experience doesn’t have to be a challenge and we are here to help you focus on your goals and achieve your educational and career goals.