Lewis-Clark State College is a supportive higher learning environment, maintaining a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and the lowest tuition rate in Idaho. Lewis-Clark believes sincerely in community service and regularly involves itself in servicing neighboring non-profit efforts. LCSC has a vast range of degree options for non-traditional students, offering numerous programming and scholarships specifically dedicated to this portion of the student body; there is a non-traditional student scholarship designed for adults returning to college after a minimum break of five years. Lewis-Clark College additionally engages in non-traditional student recruitment efforts, showing support and recognition for special circumstances.
The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Nontraditional college students can earn a degree or career-focused certificate. The best schools for nontraditional students offer a wealth of majors.
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Updated June 7, 2023
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The Postsecondary National Policy Institute reports that nontraditional learners made up just over 33% of the college student population in 2019. Most of these degree-seekers enrolled in a public school and took more classes online than traditional first-year learners.
Returning to school offers many benefits, as a degree may qualify you for a promotion, raise, or career change. Graduating from a nontraditional college can also let you explore other educational opportunities, such as master's and doctoral programs in your field.
The five best colleges for nontraditional students offer majors in different areas. They may also feature career-aligned certificates and diplomas.
Featured Online Schools
Top Nontraditional Colleges Rankings
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, ID - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,982
Out-of-state
$20,238
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,856
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Portland State University
Portland, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in one of most dynamic cities in the country, Portland State University accepts non-traditional students of numerous kinds. This school is witnessing a rise in the average student age, currently 26; the non-traditional-aged student can benefit from PSU’s flexible degree programs, both on campus and on a distance-learning basis. Portland State’s urban setting lends to a great deal of diversity among its staff, student body, campus community, and curriculum; PSU’s degree-seekers are represented from over 80 countries. Residents from Oregon may qualify for PSU’s “four years free” award if they fulfill certain eligibility criteria.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,907
Out-of-state
$25,536
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,652
Out-of-state
$22,143
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
23,640
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in the heart of Texas, the University of Houston is an award-winning, large academic community that celebrates the variety of the many different applicants seeking degrees. There is a designated organization at this college for non-traditional students, many of whom include adult-learners returning to school or entering higher education for the first time; these students can join the Non-Traditional Student Organization (NTSO) at no cost. NTSO has a wealth of information and guidance for non-traditional students in need of added direction.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,449
Out-of-state
$20,665
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,539
Out-of-state
$17,681
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
47,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Eckerd College
Saint Petersburg, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Settled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Eckerd College is included in the selective education guide, 40 Colleges that Change Lives. Eckerd’s student body is respected for its commitment to the community, clocking in over 83,000 hours of volunteer service each year. Eckerd is a college that welcomes non-traditional students, particularly with regard to adult learners who are eager to complete their degree; EC’s “Program for Experienced Learners,” is an evening and weekend course series that provides needed flexibility for adult-learners. Eckerd’s academics are innovative and immersive, sending graduates into the world full-prepared for their chosen careers. Eckerd is celebrated for its mentor-based approach to learning, and students have given glowing feedback on the campus setting, close-knit community, and innovative learning practices.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$47,044
Out-of-state
$47,044
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
1,822
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 The 5 Best Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Granite State College
Concord, NH - 4 years
- Online
For over 40 years, Granite State College has provided top-notch degree options for non-traditional adult learners, in particular. The majority of Granite’s student body is online, transfer, military, or high school graduates who have chosen to wait for later in life to complete their degree. GSC is known to have progressive practices in valuing student life experiences; qualifying students can earn college credits through non-traditional means such has equivalency testing, experiential learning portfolios, non-credited training programs, and more. Granite’s flexible degree programs have earned consistent praise from current students, alumni, and U.S. News and World Report. Granite State has formed close partnerships with the Lifelong Learning Institute and Community College of New Hampshire, all in an effort to expand academics for non-traditional adult learners.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,536
Out-of-state
$8,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$10,620
Retention Rate
43%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,879
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
What Is a Nontraditional Student?
Nontraditional students include:
- Learners older than 24 years of age
- Students returning to school
- Degree-seekers with families
The term can also apply to learners working full or part time while in school. In comparison, traditional first-year degree-seekers have recently graduated high school and generally do not work.
Nontraditional colleges appeal to students by offering a flexible learning style, such as asynchronous education. Asynchronous classes let you view lectures and complete assignments at convenient times.
Why Do Nontraditional Students Go Back to College?
Nontraditional students go back to college for many reasons. You may need a degree to qualify for a promotion or change careers. Learning new skills can also make you more competitive in a recession or tight job market.
Nontraditional student programs can help you finish a degree you started many years ago, too. Your college may accept transfer credits or an associate degree. Transfer credits can reduce your time to graduation significantly.
What Should Nontraditional Students Consider Before Going Back to College?
You should consider many things before enrolling in a nontraditional university or college, such as your career goals. Knowing what you want to do with a degree, diploma, or certificate can save you money and time. Fortunately, many nontraditional student programs' websites feature in-depth guides, relevant careers, and graduate outcomes.
You should also consider how nontraditional college may impact your other responsibilities. You may need to reorganize your schedule significantly and put aside hobbies until after you graduate. Work with your nontraditional university advisors if you need help with time management.
Compare schools' prices. Typical public nontraditional colleges charge residents the most affordable per-credit tuition rate. However, these schools may offer in-state tuition to all online students.
Speak with family, friends, co-workers, and college admissions counselors before going back to school. These people can help you find the information you need to explore the best nontraditional student programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges for Nontraditional Students
Who is considered a nontraditional college student?
Many colleges use the term nontraditional college student to refer to first-year learners older than 24. Your school may also give you this title if you re-enter college after an absence, work while in school, or raise children.
The best colleges for nontraditional students feature highly trained advisors and other services to help you with your unique college journey.
What percentage of students are nontraditional?
Nontraditional college students comprise just over one-third of postsecondary schools' student bodies. Many public and for-profit schools feature a higher percentage of these learners. As a result, you should not feel out of place on a college campus or in a virtual classroom.
Which Ivy League school is best for nontraditional students?
As of May 2023, only Columbia University offers programs created exclusively for nontraditional students. Benefits include full- and part-time programs, online learning, and advisors who work only with nontraditional degree-seekers. You can also select from over three dozen majors, such as English, evolutionary biology, and mathematics.
How do nontraditional students afford college?
You can pay for college in many ways besides going into debt. Your employer may offer a tuition-reimbursement program. Your employer pays for your education if you agree to work for them for a specific number of years after graduation.
You may qualify for need-based federal grants. You apply by submitting the FAFSA, a financial document detailing your income and assets.
What are the struggles of nontraditional students?
Many potential struggles exist, such as balancing work and college. You may need to adjust your work schedule or find another employer before starting school.
You might struggle with coursework if you left high school or college many years ago. Use your school's academic counseling resources to find tutors and other support services.