Why Colleges Should Support Non-Traditional Students (and How to Do It)

For some students, enrolling in college is the next step after high school graduation. However, for others, life takes a different turn, leading them to postsecondary education on an unconventional path. These students are called non-traditional college students, and they’re an essential part of your student population.

Non-traditional college students, typically 24 years old or older, may be full-time or part-time students, working professionals, adult learners, parents, or military veterans. Through their lived experiences, these students bring a unique perspective to the classroom.

As an institution, you should make it a priority to support these students on their academic journey. Here’s why (and how!).

Why Non-Traditional Students Are Essential to the Future of Higher Education

With more and more employers requiring employees to obtain a bachelor’s degree, many adult students recognize the value of completing their coursework. Non-traditional college students now make up over 30% of students enrolled in higher education institutions.

While the term “non-traditional college students” typically refers to anyone over 24, younger students may also fit the definition, especially if they are working to support their families or dependents. First-generation students, those returning after a long academic break, and students with different needs are also part of this growing demographic.

Your institution needs these students. Colleges and universities thrive on diverse experiences, ideas, and perspectives. Non-traditional college students bring new problem-solving approaches and enrich the college experience for all students.

Challenges Non-Traditional Students Face

To provide meaningful support services, institutions must first understand the challenges non-traditional college students face:

• Balancing Responsibilities: Many adult students juggle work, family obligations, and school deadlines. Some require childcare support to attend classes or complete assignments.
• Financial Barriers: The rising costs of postsecondary education can be a major obstacle. Financial aid and financial support options are essential for retention.
• Academic and Social Interaction: Many older students or online learning participants feel disconnected from their peers, making it harder to engage in campus activities.

Despite these challenges, institutions can implement initiatives to enhance the student experience and improve student support.

Strategies Institutions Can Use to Support Non-Traditional Students

Once you understand the unique needs of non-traditional college students, finding engagement strategies to support them is easier.

Flexible Learning Options

Offering online courses, hybrid, evening, or weekend classes allows students to fit education into their schedules. Many adult learners prefer online learning due to work and family commitments.

Financial Assistance Programs

Scholarships and grants specifically for non-traditional college students help ease financial burdens. Work-study and paid internships provide financial support while helping students gain relevant work experience.

Dedicated Student Services

Targeted student services and support services—such as tutoring, career counseling, and mentoring—can enhance retention.

Community Building and Mental Health Support

Institutions should provide inclusive spaces for first-generation and non-traditional college students to connect. Mental health resources are also vital in helping students manage stress.

Leveraging a Conversation Intelligence Platform to Support Non-Traditional Students

Increasing communication efforts is key to meeting the needs of non-traditional students. Many require targeted outreach, whether for childcare, course registration, or financial aid deadlines.

A multi-channel platform like Mongoose helps institutions communicate effectively with non-traditional college students by:

• Streamlining Communication: Whether students are full-time, part-time, or online learning, Mongoose enables direct engagement via Text, Chat, and WhatsApp.
• Personalized Messaging: By using segmentation, institutions can send targeted messages, such as event invitations for students with childcare needs.
• 24/7 Support Resources: Chatbots provide round-the-clock access to FAQs, deadline reminders, and academic guidance.

Reach Your Non-Traditional Students with Mongoose

Non-traditional college students are an essential part of your student population. They are parents, military veterans, and adult students balancing multiple responsibilities. Meeting the unique needs of these students is crucial to ensuring they stay on track with their educational goals.

Continuous communication helps students stay engaged, complete their coursework, and achieve success. Tools like Mongoose ensure timely, relevant communication that supports higher education institutions in improving retention and student outcomes.

Ready to improve your engagement with non-traditional students? Contact us today to learn more about Mongoose.

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