Newman University's Adult and Professional Studies program (APS) offers flexible degree completion pathways with concierge advising and proven career benefits, including 140% potential higher salary growth. Designed for working adults, it transforms "maybe someday" into achievable goals through personalized support. To learn more visit: https://newmanu.edu/academics/undergraduate/adult-professional-studies
-- Newman University has unveiled a comprehensive new program designed specifically for adults who started but never completed their bachelor's degrees, addressing a growing need in today's competitive job market where degree completion can significantly impact career advancement and earnings potential.
The Adult and Professional Studies (APS) program offers individually tailored pathways to graduation that accommodate the complex lives of working adults, according to university officials who announced the initiative earlier this month.
"We recognized that many adults have their degrees sitting in the 'maybe someday' category because of life circumstances," said Teresa Wilkerson, Director of the APS program at Newman University. "Our program transforms that 'maybe someday' into today by removing the traditional barriers that prevent degree completion."
Research supporting the program's development reveals compelling financial incentives for degree completion. Adults who return to finish their bachelor's degrees can experience a 140% larger increase in average annual salary compared to those who don't complete their education. Additionally, approximately 75% of hiring managers report being willing to hire or promote workers over 45 if they have relevant new training or credentials.
"In today's economy, having that completed degree can be the difference between stagnation and upward mobility," explains David Cochran, Dean of the School of Business & Technology at Newman University. "Newman's program directly addresses this reality by creating flexible pathways that acknowledge the experience and prior learning that adult students bring to the table."
The APS program features two distinct degree completion tracks: a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership for those pursuing management roles, and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies for students seeking a more customized academic experience aligned with specific career goals. The university is currently looking at expanding APS options.
For those not yet ready to commit to a bachelor's degree, Newman also offers the "StepStone Pathway," allowing students to complete an Associate of Arts degree with a Business Communication Minor as an intermediate milestone.
What distinguishes Newman's approach from traditional degree programs is its focus on flexibility and personalized support. The program offers: 8-week accelerated online courses, traditional on-ground classes and year-round enrollment options with no minimum credit requirements.
A unique "concierge advising" model that assigns each student a dedicated advisor who serves as a single point of contact for all academic needs and the ability to temporarily pause studies without penalty if life circumstances require it.
"The concierge advising approach eliminates one of the biggest frustrations for adult learners—navigating the complex administrative systems of higher education," said Wilkerson. "When our students need anything—from course registration to financial aid guidance to tutoring support—they have one person they can call who knows their situation and can help immediately."
Financial considerations, often a major obstacle for returning students, are addressed through transparent pricing with a flat per-credit-hour rate. Advisors work with students to identify potential funding sources, including scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance programs.
Time constraints represent another significant barrier that Newman's program aims to overcome. The flexible scheduling options allow students to adjust their course loads based on work schedules, family responsibilities, and other commitments.
"Many of our adult students are balancing full-time jobs, family care responsibilities, and community commitments," noted Wilkerson. "Our program acknowledges that reality and provides multiple pathways to make progress toward degree completion without requiring them to put their lives on hold."
The university reports growing interest in the program, reflecting broader national trends showing increased educational pursuit among adults, with 23% reporting enrollment in some form of education. Research indicates that adults who return to school are 22% more likely to achieve upward mobility compared to peers who don't return.
Beyond career advancement and financial benefits, many adult students report significant personal satisfaction from completing their degrees. "The confidence that comes from conquering this challenge often spills over into other areas of life," explained Cochran. "Our graduates frequently describe a newfound sense of possibility that transforms their approach to work, relationships, and future goals."
Newman's initiative comes at a time when workforce demands are rapidly evolving, making formal credentials increasingly important for career advancement. The completed degree signals to employers that candidates possess valuable transferable skills—critical thinking, time management, communication abilities—beyond their specific area of study.
Newman University's APS program is now accepting applications, with multiple start dates throughout the year. Interested adults can schedule a no-obligation consultation with an advisor to evaluate their previous academic work and develop a personalized completion plan.
"Your 'maybe someday' can be today," emphasized Wilkerson. "The path to completing your degree begins with a simple conversation about your goals and aspirations. We're ready to help transform futures through education tailored to each student's unique needs."
For more information about Newman University's Adult and Professional Studies program, visit the university's website at https://newmanu.edu/academics/undergraduate/adult-professional-studies or contact the Newman's School of Business & Technology at 316-942-4291.
Contact Info:
Name: Clark Schafer
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Organization: Newman University
Address: 3100 McCormick , Wichita, Kansas 67213, United States
Website: https://newmanu.edu/
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89159667
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