WSU Adult Learner Characteristics
Based on research both internal and external research, we have found several commonalities among adult learners.
What Our Adult Learners Need and Want
- Easier transfer of credit from institution to institution
- More flexible course, certificate, and degree programs
- Online, hybrid, evening, cohort, competency-based learning, and education in the workplace
- Credit for Prior Learning and less time to degree completion
- More flexible financial aid policies and more scholarship opportunities
- Adult friendly places and faces
The Emergence of Post-Traditional Students
Seven characteristics of post-traditional students defined by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
- Have delayed enrollment into post secondary education
- Attend part-time
- Are financially independent of parents
- Work full-time while enrolled
- Have dependents other than a spouse
- Are a single parent
- Lack a standard high school diploma
