Adult Learners

Starting college for the first time or returning to complete your degree is a big step, especially for adult learners. Managing work, family obligations, community involvement and school work can be challenging, but the boost in your earning potential once you get your degree makes the balancing act worth it.

College is for YOU

If you think you’re not “college material,” think again. Regardless of your age or circumstances, college is within your reach. You may be surprised to learn that many college students are older than the traditional 18-22 year old. In fact, adults age 25 and over make up more than 40 percent of college students and that number is expected to grow to nearly 7.8 million by 2014. A recent report showed that nearly one in three Oklahoma community college and undergraduate students were at or over age 25.

Many adults return to school to support a career change or to update their job skills. Others may have experienced a life-changing event, such as a marriage, divorce or relocation. Whatever the reason, a college degree can truly change a person’s life.

A college graduate will make about $1 million more in a lifetime than a high school graduate. Beyond increased earning potential, there are many benefits to completing a degree, including:

• Greater job search success.
• Better opportunities for career advancement.
• An enriched knowledge base and new perspective for work and life.
• Access to new educational opportunities, such as earning an advanced degree.

A college degree will give you a competitive advantage in the marketplace and provide you the skills and knowledge valued by employers in business, government and organizations.

Work schedules, families and other obligations can make it difficult to go to college, but Oklahoma colleges and universities have flexible degree options that meet the job requirements of today's workplace, including:

• campus locations close to your home or office
• evening and weekend programs
• online course offerings
• accelerated degree programs

The State Regents offer many programs and services to help you return to college or begin your college education. For more information, visit the online Student Center for adult learners, e-mail StudentInfo@osrhe.edu or call 800.858.1840 (225-9239 in Oklahoma City).

Ready to Finish the Degree You Started?

Heading back to college can be a challenge, but Oklahoma's universities have expanded programs to fit into your busy life. The Reach Higher program is your second chance to finish your associate or bachelor's degree - while you keep your normal routine, maintain your normal work hours and still have time for your family. Learn more at ReachHigherOklahoma.org.

Looking for a Smart Way to Save for College?

It’s never too late to save for your college education, and the Oklahoma 529 College Savings Plan is a flexible savings program that allows adults to save for their own undergraduate or graduate education. The program offers an Oklahoma tax deduction, a choice of investment options and a low start-up investment of $25 or $15 per pay period through payroll deduction. To learn more, call 877.OK.4.SAVING (toll-free) or visit Ok4Saving.org.

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