How to Go Back to College After Dropping Out

Dropping out of college is a significant life decision that can come with feelings of failure and uncertainty. However, societal perceptions are changing. It's not uncommon for people to return to school at any age.

The prospect of restarting your college journey is a testament to your commitment to personal growth and your ambition to reach your full potential. 

This blog aims to demystify the process of returning to college, offering actionable advice to make your journey back to education smooth and successful.

Is a Bachelor’s Degree Worth it?

In today's competitive job market, having a bachelor's degree can provide a considerable edge. It unlocks doors to several job opportunities, making you a strong candidate to potential employers. Moreover, a degree is more than just a piece of paper. It's an investment in your future, accelerating personal development, and fulfillment, and helping pave the way to a higher income bracket.

The Benefits of an Adult Degree Completion Program

Adult degree completion programs are tailored to accommodate the unique needs of busy adult students, who like yourself, want to return to education. These programs offer flexibility, considering your previous academic experience and current lifestyle. ADC programs provide a framework that makes getting a degree as an adult a highly achievable goal. Going back to college as an adult starts with finding an adult degree completion program designed just for students like you.

How to Go Back to College As an Adult

Before you jump back into your bachelor’s degree, take a moment to reflect on your past academic experiences. Identify what worked and what didn’t. Use these insights as you plan your return to college. Then, when you’re ready, take our expert advice to plan actionable steps to return to college as an adult. 

How to Transfer College Credits

When returning to college, it's crucial to determine how many of your previous credits will transfer. Transferring credits comes with a lot of unknowns and confusion. Some programs accept your previous credits, some do not. Some schools access your professional or military resume for credit, while others do not. 

We’ve created a Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) toolkit to help guide this process. You can use our toolkit to help determine what credits you can transfer to your adult degree completion program at Southern. 

First, request your official academic transcripts from any previous institutions. It’s good to have these on hand while you plan your return to college.

Financing Your Return to Education

The thought of funding your education can seem daunting, but a range of financial aid options are available to adult learners. From scholarships and grants to flexible repayment of student loans, there are numerous ways of making the financial burden of education manageable. Don't overlook the possibility of tuition assistance programs offered by your employers.

We go in-depth about financing your bachelor’s degree in our Guide to Helping Working Adults Afford Their Degree Completion Program.

Balancing Life's Responsibilities with School

A huge part of making your comeback to college successful is finding the right balance between school and life's other responsibilities. Develop a time management plan encompassing all your activities—your job, family, and degree. Building a solid support system at home and within your learning community can also make a significant difference. Be sure any programs you are interested in are uniquely prepared to help adult learners complete their bachelor’s degree. 

Embracing Flexible Learning Opportunities

Online classes, night courses, or even weekend college options can provide the flexibility that adult learners need. By selecting an educational platform that accommodates your circumstances, you can balance your studies with your personal life more effectively.

At Southern, we recognize the dynamic nature of your schedule and lifestyle, giving you the ability to select the most convenient option for you, week by week. Tailor your online degree completion journey to match the demands of your hectic life, with the adaptability and balance you need. 

Southern Adventist University's Adult Degree Completion Programs

Recognizing the challenges nontraditional students face, Southern Adventist University offers five compelling program options to help adults complete their bachelor’s degrees. From flexible scheduling to online courses, Southern has designed solutions that address your unique needs. Our robust and involved support system is in place to guide you throughout your academic journey.

Explore our programs:

• Business Management, BS

• Communication, BS
• Integrative Studies, BIS
• Nursing, RN to BSN
• Psychology, BS

You Can Go Back to College After Dropping Out

There’s a proverb that says, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” This wisdom applies to education as well. It's never too late to return to college and earn your bachelor’s degree—no matter how long it has been.

Remember that the drive to improve is a powerful force, and with the right guidance and resources, you can confidently take the next step in your academic journey. We invite you to explore the opportunities available at Southern Adventist University.

Insights for the Adult Learner