Entering College as an Adult
Taking the leap to enter college as an adult student or returning to continue your education can be a daunting task, but rest assured, you are not alone. Did you know: During the 2021-22 academic year, approximately one in four students enrolled in Oklahoma's public colleges and universities were age 25 and older? That's right, many others just like you have made the decision to pursue their educational goals later in life.
A college degree can truly change a person’s life. In fact, national data show that someone with a bachelor’s degree earns a median income nearly 60% higher than someone with just a high school diploma.
At the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, we understand that being an adult student can come in many forms, including those who are 25 years or older, as well as those who may carry adult responsibilities, such as parenthood or full-time employment, regardless of their age. We are here to support you every step of the way with resources and programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of adult learners.
Work schedules, families and other obligations can make it challenging to go to college, but Oklahoma colleges and universities have expanded programs to fit your busy life and meet the job requirements of today's workplace.
Employer Tuition Assistance for Higher Education
Many agencies, organizations and businesses across Oklahoma offer tuition assistance benefits.
Show What You Know
Visit ShowWhatYouKnowOK.org to learn how previously earned college credit, licenses, certifications, military training, advanced standing scores, and knowledge gained through other learning experiences can be applied toward a degree program.
For more information, email showwhatyouknowok@osrhe.edu or call 800.858.1840 (405.225.9239 in Oklahoma City).
Reach Higher
A college degree will give you a competitive advantage in the marketplace and provide you the skills and knowledge valued by employers in business, government and organizations. The State Regents offer many programs and services to help you return to college or begin your college education, including Reach Higher Flex Finish and Reach Higher Direct Complete .
For more information, visit reachhigherok.org , email RHFlexFinish@osrhe.edu or RHDirectComplete@osrhe.edu, or call 800.858.1840 (405.225.9239 in Oklahoma City).
UpskillOK ‒ Career-Focused Credentials
Micro-credentials are alternative learning pathways directly aligned with Oklahoma’s most critical occupations. Check a list of micro-credential programs available to students and employees. The website site also enables employers to connect with candidates who have earned a micro-credential designed to meet evolving workplace needs.
For more information, visit upskillok.org , email badges@osrhe.edu or call 800.858.1840 (405.225.9239 in Oklahoma City).
Online Consortium of Oklahoma
OCO, a collaborative initiative involving 25 member institutions and the Council for Online Learning Excellence (COLE), aims to enhance the skills and growth of online higher education professionals in Oklahoma. Through advocating for policy, professional development, and resources, OCO empowers its members to promote online learning excellence and maximize the effectiveness of learning technologies in the state.
For more information, visit ocolearnok.org , email online@osrhe.edu or call 405.225.9166.
