The following dissertation utilized a case study methodology to study the social and educational experiences of part-time degree seeking students at a rural community college. Oftentimes rural community colleges have a large number of part-time students who do not always have strong persistence and completion rates. This study was designed to understand what students experiences were and how community colleges can create barriers or support services that affect these students. Common themes emerged which resulted in an understanding of part-time degree seeking students' need to have time to focus on their studies and the financial support necessary to be successful. After gaining an understanding of the two most difficult barriers, recommendations are made for higher education professionals to put into practice as well as suggestions on areas for future research that would lead to a better understanding of the barriers and support services that part-time degree seeking students face. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]