Embarking on an educational journey is an exciting challenge for anyone – but especially for nontraditional students, also known as post-traditional learners. If you’ve been out of school for many years or have significant life commitments that require your attention, you may be wondering if college is a viable option.
If you want to finish your undergraduate degree, but aren’t sure if it’s the right path for you, you’re not alone. The Postsecondary National Policy Institute states that nontraditional students comprised 33.4% of all college enrollments in 2019. There are many degree completion programs, such as the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program at California Lutheran University, that are specifically tailored to the nontraditional student experience.
What Is a Nontraditional Student?
Contrary to widely held belief, most college students are older adults — not recent high school graduates.
- Enrollment patterns: Nontraditional students enroll in college at least a year after graduating high school, or they attend college part time.
- Financial status: Full-time workers, financially independent adults and people with other financial challenges or constraints may also be considered nontraditional students.
- High school graduation status: Individuals who hold GEDs or certificates of completion, rather than standard diplomas, can also be considered nontraditional.
- Other criteria can include a student’s background (e.g., historically marginalized race or gender), type of residence (i.e., not on campus) and military affiliation or veteran status.
How Do Degree-Completion Programs Help Nontraditional Students?
Degree-completion programs allow nontraditional students to use previously earned credits so they can finish their degrees quicker and with less strain. These programs are particularly beneficial for individuals who have paused their associate or bachelor’s degree for any reason. Degree-completion programs save time and resources by enabling students to pick up where they left off and accelerating their path to graduation.
For example, many universities have established transfer credit policies to ensure that nontraditional students can apply their prior academic work toward a degree. This flexibility allows students to avoid redundant coursework and focus on the courses that suit their current circumstances and goals.
What Benefits Do Undergraduate Degrees Have for Nontraditional Students?
Nontraditional students return to school for a variety of reasons, including personal fulfillment, an interest in changing careers or to advance in their current field. If you’re a nontraditional student interested in returning to college, here are some benefits to consider:
- Job opportunities and industry demand
- Targeted career preparation
- Flexible learning formats
- Resources and support
Job opportunities and industry demand
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates approximately 3.3 million yearly job openings that require a bachelor’s degree, a level of job growth that is much faster than average. The BLS also notes that education level is a significant factor in salary, with bachelor’s degree holders earning median pay of $1,493 per week versus just $1,058 per week for associate’s degree holders and $899 per week for those with a high school diploma.
Indeed’s career development resource offers articles that highlight specific trends and future projections within a wide variety of sectors. Browsing this resource reveals that many roles in expanding fields require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Currently, the industries with the highest demand for college graduates include health care, technology, education and finance. Since these fields require specialized knowledge and skills, it is no surprise that hiring managers value the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities fostered by an undergraduate education.
An enduring skill set
Due to their versatility, bachelor’s degrees help professionals stand out in the workplace. Unlike a specific credential, such as a technical certification, a bachelor’s degree develops a wide range of advantageous skills. In a bachelor’s program, you’ll hone your ability to analyze information, construct arguments, communicate effectively and find creative solutions to problems. A curriculum rooted in the liberal arts can also heighten your appreciation for diverse perspectives and the human experience in general, improving your ability to collaborate with others, manage teams and navigate conflicts.
Interpersonal skills like these are in high demand among employers. They are also transferable, which can enhance career flexibility and help your skill set stay relevant amid changing technology.
Targeted career preparation
Programs dedicated to nontraditional students often have curricula focused on in-demand industries. For instance, the Cal Lutheran’s Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program offers majors in:
Accounting and Financial Analysis
The Cal Lutheran Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Financial Analysis teaches the essentials of accounting, auditing, taxation and financial analysis and reporting. Graduates enter the job market with a well-developed understanding of financial markets and instruments, as well as economic policy. Some careers available to graduates of this program include:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Certified public accountant (CPA)* | $79,910 |
| Tax advisor | $49,466 |
| Revenue agent | $58,531 |
| Financial analyst | $98,833 |
| Risk manager | $155,002 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
*Our curriculum prepares students to sit for the California CPA exam. However, other states may have differing requirements. Please verify the exam eligibility standards set by your state’s Board of Accountancy.
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Cal Lutheran prepares graduates for roles in a myriad of industries. Students develop crucial skills in operations management, strategic planning, marketing, entrepreneurship and corporate ethics. Many individuals who major in business during their undergraduate degree go on to pursue an MBA to expand their job prospects (and earning potential) even more. Graduates with a bachelor’s in business pursue careers such as:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Business analyst | $99,311 |
| Marketing manager | $152,824 |
| Operations manager | $100,913 |
| Human resources manager | $135,553 |
| Consultant | $99,311 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
Criminology and Justice Studies
Cal Lutheran’s Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Justice Studies examines the dynamics of criminal behavior and the justice system. In addition to studying what drives people to commit crimes, students explore the principles behind our legal responses, the role of various justice agencies and the ethical questions facing institutions. This degree also teaches practical skills in forensic science, policy analysis, crisis intervention and much more. It is vital preparation for roles like:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Law enforcement officer | $72,266 |
| Corrections officer | $53,310 |
| Legal assistant/paralegal | $60,659 |
| Forensic technician | $64,924 |
| Victim advocate | $53,933 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
The Cal Lutheran Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership molds individuals into leaders who inspire teams and drive organizational success. The curriculum emphasizes leadership theory and practice, effective communication, productive team dynamics and other essential skills. Graduates of this program enter the job market prepared for careers that include:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Project manager | $98,407 |
| Training and development manager | $124,424 |
| Customer service manager | $63,314 |
| Management consultant | $99,311 |
| Entrepreneur | $100,913 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
Psychological and Behavioral Science
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Psychological and Behavioral Science from Cal Lutheran enter their field with a deep understanding of human behavior, plus interpersonal skills like empathy, communication and cultural sensitivity. Since many psychology students continue to graduate school, the program also offers preparation in core psychological concepts, research methods and other knowledge necessary for advanced study. Graduates are ready to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree or to enter careers such as:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Behavioral analyst | $54,080 |
| Psychology research technician | $56,361 |
| Drug and alcohol counselor | $41,500 |
| Case manager | $41,426 |
| Human resources specialist | $67,657 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
Clearly conveying ideas and information is critical in every industry. Cal Lutheran’s Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication teaches students how to develop and deliver cross-platform messaging to diverse audiences using concepts from communication theory, media relations, advertising, marketing, visual communication and digital media. With this degree, graduates pursue professional roles like:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
| Public relations specialist | $66,856 |
| Social media manager | $134,590 |
| Copywriter | $56,061 |
| Marketing specialist | $74,096 |
| Director of communications | $90,164 |
Source: Lightcast (July 2024)
Flexible learning formats
Degree programs typically follow one of these structures, each of which has their benefits and drawbacks for nontraditional learners:
- On campus: Ample face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers can foster a strong sense of community, but nontraditional students may not have the time or resources to attend a physical campus.
- Online: This format allows students to attend classes from anywhere and at any time, which can be ideal for those with demanding work schedules or family responsibilities. However, if an online program doesn’t feature much interaction with peers or faculty, it can feel isolating.
- Hybrid: These programs blend in-person instruction with online learning, offering a variety of benefits. Some students, however, find it challenging to manage the complexity of a hybrid schedule.
At Cal Lutheran’s School for Professional and Continuing Studies, students can choose between on-campus or online modalities. Students who choose the on-campus option are able to complete up to nine credits online, giving them some of the flexibility of a hybrid program. This convenience can be especially helpful for nontraditional students looking to fit their education in alongside other commitments.
“My favorite thing about being in the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program is that it gives me a chance to actively work on my career while I’m getting my bachelor’s degree. I’m making the most out of my time by gaining experience and working on my major.”
Resources and support
Most universities offer a wide range of career resources and support for students to aid in their professional development. These resources may include:
- Career counseling: These services provide students with personalized guidance on choosing a career path, building their resume and preparing for interviews.
- Job placement: Universities often connect students with potential employers and internships.
- Networking events: Universities may host career fairs and alumni meetups, where students interact with professionals and peers in their field of interest.
Cal Lutheran’s robust support systems, which include career services and academic counseling, guide students through graduation and into their professional lives. For example, the tailored career services resource helps students to consider their unique experiences and goals, preparing them for fulfilling roles in their fields. This support continues after you graduate: Cal Lutheran’s extensive alumni network allows graduates to make valuable industry connections.
Why Choose Cal Lutheran as a Nontraditional Student?
“Life doesn’t have to get in the way of you achieving your goals. The Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program made me realize it’s never too late and it can be done. As a first-generation student, it was important for me to set an example for my son and the rest of my family, because I believe that higher education is important and shows commitment.”
Cal Lutheran developed the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals for nontraditional students looking to reinvigorate their careers with a new credential. This program allows students with at least 24 credit hours from an accredited institution to pursue a major that not only maximizes their knowledge but also provides the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in a competitive job market. Prospective students can pick from five start dates throughout the year, which means returning students can embark on their program at the time that suits them best.
About the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals at Cal Lutheran’s School for Professional and Continuing Studies
Continue your education and transform your career with our Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals. This affordable degree completion program offers a variety of majors that are designed for working adults and lifelong learners with some college experience. If you’ve earned undergraduate credits in the past, you can apply these toward the degree program that best matches your career objectives.
Cal Lutheran’s School for Professional and Continuing Studies serves individuals who desire to grow educationally, personally and professionally. Our work is grounded in the assessment of students’ needs and expectations. We meet these individuals where they are in order to provide tailored programs and resources that will help them clarify and deepen their purpose so that they can transform their communities — and the world.
Download a program brochure or start your application for the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program.