In the 21st century economic landscape, many argue the importance of a college degree, as entry into many occupations now requires advanced credentials. Pursuing a college degree costs time and money, often presenting barriers to those pursuing the dream. Prior learning assessment (PLA) offers a solution to spend less time and money earning a…

Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota, comprises three primary units that each serve a distinct population: the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is a residential college for roughly 2,800 traditional-age undergraduates; the College of Adult and Professional Studies and Graduate School (CAPS/GS) serves roughly 2,200 adult learners at both the…

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University--Worldwide serves more than 36,000 online students across the globe, many of whom are military and other non-traditional students, offering 34 undergraduate, graduate, and professional education/workforce certificate programs, presented both online and via blended delivery modes. The centralized model of online…

Presents the author's observations on the growth of continuing education, problems of definition, the identification of its constituency, and the status of continuing education programs in the academic world. (SK)

Prior learning assessment programs are characterized as having a highly individualized service or a more standardized pattern. Three model programs are described: Webster College in St. Louis, Adelphi University in Garden City, Long Island, and Sinclair Community College in Dayton. (Author/MLW)

Higher education institutions are creating academic centers or institutes run for and by older adults, often retired professionals. The organizations are quasi-independent and organize their own programs. While they are usually attached to continuing education divisions, they are also seen as a community service. (MSE)

As increasing numbers of adults approach postsecondary education, the financial aid community must research specific issues: adult student costs, resources, aid received and aid denied, perceptions of aid offices and services, information needs, expense budgeting, aid packaging, office staffing, and publications needed. (MSE)

The National University Consortium for Telecommunications in Teaching, the first national effort to provide high quality bachelor's degree programs for Americans who cannot attend college full-time on campus, is described. It is suggested that both institutional participation and enrollment projections may be exceeded. (MLW)

The history and development of Australia's first part-time undergraduate degree program, in Griffith University's interdisciplinary humanities program, are chronicled. Related issues are discussed, including administrative and legal considerations and problems unique to part-time students. (MSE)

Describes a survey conducted to determine full-time faculty perceptions of and involvement in community services efforts at selected Ohio community colleges. Responses from 249 instructors are discussed in terms of community services administration, instruction, programs, purposes, and students. Includes a review of related literature. (JP)

Examines issues in the development of campus programming for distance learners, including creating effective orientation programs, promoting participation in student government and student organizations, providing service learning opportunities, and offering wellness and recreational sports opportunities. (MSE)

A variety of programs at Ivy League colleges to attract and retain adult students are described. Issues to be addressed in establishing and administering such programs are outlined, including program organization, admissions policies, academic quality, faculty attitudes, management of student life, counseling, financial aid, and college mission.…

DePaul University (Illinois) has addressed the problem of delays in employer reimbursement of tuition costs by extending payment due dates and treating reimbursement as pending financial assistance. Since implementation, enrollment in courses designed specifically for adult students have increased, and withdrawals have decreased. One-third of…