Friday, Mar 25, 2022
Discover how Rider ensures success for non-traditional students.
Non-traditional students are not so non-traditional anymore.
If you’re an adult considering a return to college, you’re in good company. Now more than ever, adults are pursuing higher education. In fact, according to financeonline.com, which referenced recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), almost 75% of college students are “non-traditional” who likely hold full-time jobs (59%).
Whether you took a break from school for financial reasons, to start a family or enter the workforce, or delayed your post-secondary education for other reasons, it is never too late to earn a college degree.
The continuing education program at Rider serves adult learners aged 25 and over, including veterans and active-duty military personnel, who seek to earn an undergraduate degree or certificate. Our educational pathways for adult learners are specially designed to help tailor their college experience to fit their lifestyle, financial needs and academic goals.
Discover the resources that Rider University offers to help adult learners pursue a higher education.
Advising from day one
As an adult returning to college, developing a strong support network from the start is important. Even before you apply, you’ll have one-on-one access to a continuing education counselor who will help you navigate your path. Your counselor will answer questions, connect you with financial aid resources and assist you to develop an education plan that’s customized to your educational and career goals.
Counselors are also available to discuss the various options available to fast-track your degree including information on accelerated courses and testing eligibility to receive credit for prior learning. Also, continuing education advisement does not end following enrollment — your dedicated counselor will be accessible to you throughout your time at Rider.
Flexible study options
Understanding that adult students often balance a full-time job, family and other life commitments with their learning, we offer flexible pathways to easily integrate your studies into your busy schedule. At Rider, continuing education students have the option to take online or in-person courses during the day, evening or on the weekend depending on the academic program. We also offer courses with variable start dates and accelerated lengths, and full or part-time study options.
An affordable education
When considering a college education, the question at the top of every student's mind is, “How am I going to pay for this?” For adult students, uncertainty about how to incorporate college expenses on top of other obligations can deter them from returning to school. While deciding to finance your education can be difficult, at Rider, you’ve got options.
Continuing education students can pursue any undergraduate degree program at a low, per-credit tuition rate. From the start, you’ll be paired with a financial aid counselor who’ll work with you to identify what you qualify for. We also offer scholarships and grants for adults returning to school and additional aid resources.
Students may also be eligible to receive tuition discounts if they are an employee or member of a Rider University partner organization, such as Bank of America, Capital Health, Church & Dwight, Princeton-Mercer Regional Chamber and the State of New Jersey.
Strong support resources
Building a strong network is crucial for all students, but for adult learners like you, having layers of support can encourage you to stay the course to your degree. Rider’s key support resources, offered both in-person and virtually, include the Academic Success Center which offers free services including tutoring and other resources to enhance student success, and the Student Navigation Office which provides individualized guidance during your transition to college. In addition, personalized learning accommodations are available based on student needs.
Networking and professional opportunities
Incorporating networking and professional opportunities into your studies can help you as a student and long beyond graduation. At Rider, we encourage students to establish connections and provide the support necessary to develop their network. Our Career Development & Success Center offers several free resources to students including career counseling based on major, resume review, interview preparation, career and internship opportunities, and in-person and virtual events to prepare students to launch their careers.
If you’re ready to learn more about how we can help you pursue your college degree, visit our continuing education webpage or contact a counselor for more information.
