Pursuing an Online Degree: A Snapshot of UNW’s Adult Undergraduate & Graduate Studies Programs

At University of Northwestern, we offer online degree programs designed for busy, working adults. While traditional undergraduate degree programs meet on campus during the day, our “non-traditional” degree programs offer flexible, online options for an adult demographic. According to BestColleges.com, 24% of enrolled undergraduate students in the Fall of 2023 were above the age of 25 (frequently referred to as “adult learners”). They also reported in 2022, 2 in 3 adult learners were either working part or full-time while enrolled in school. With more adults pursuing college, whether undergraduate or graduate-level, UNW understands the importance of catering to this demographic of students.

Adult Undergraduate

UNW’s Adult Undergraduate programs offer a variety of online degrees for students to choose from that are designed to be both attainable and valuable. Students can complete an Associate degree (A.A or A.S.) and/or a Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) through an online, flexible format. Various concentration options for our Bachelor’s degrees allow students to customize their programs to better fit their ambitions. Our transfer-friendly policies allow students to transfer as many of their previously earned college-level credits as possible. With multiple start dates each semester, students can begin their studies when it works best for them. One of our online students shared, “[Online learning] was very convenient as I could do my coursework in a timeframe that worked for me and my schedule.”

All our courses are taught from a Christian perspective and designed for working adults. At UNW, we strive for our Adult Undergraduate students to learn foundational fundamentals through our core curriculum, gain professional skills through our major-specific courses, and grow in their relationship with God through our faith-infused classes. Our expert faculty are active professionals in their fields, offering helpful insight and support. Smaller class sizes also provide a strong network between professors and fellow students, even online. When asked about our online format, one of our online students explained, “I stayed connected whenever I could with my professors and classmates. Whether it was email, weekly calls, texts/phone calls with classmates, etc. There was a still a lot of opportunity to connect!”

UNW also offers online, accelerated pathways for students who desire to earn graduate-level coursework during their undergraduate degree. These graduate-level credits will count towards a student’s bachelor’s degree and a UNW graduate studies program. For students who are eligible for this pathway, this a great way to get a head start on their master’s degree.

Graduate Studies

Like our Adult Undergraduate program, UNW’s Graduate Studies (Master’s) programs are offered fully online to accommodate busy, working adult learners. Students can earn a full Master’s degree and/or a Graduate Certificate (credits earned through a Graduate Certificate can fully transfer towards a UNW graduate program). Course formats are online asynchronous, intended to advance career opportunities for students while working in their current jobs Students can choose to take one course at a time, at a pace that works best for their schedule. Our graduate curriculum will help students develop advanced leadership, research, critical thinking, and analytical skills. All our graduate programs allow students to customize their degree by declaring a distinct concentration, guiding students to better focus their expertise and passion.

Though online, many of our graduate programs hold weekly virtual meetings for networking, discussion, and connection. Students can check in with fellow students and faculty to build community and receive support within a Christian setting. When asked about his graduate studies experience, one student praised the support he received at UNW. He says, “Even in online classes, professors made the experience personal and meaningful. That kind of mentoring sticks with you.” Academic Advisors are also available in Adult Undergraduate and Graduate Studies to offer further support and encouragement.

In both Adult Undergraduate and Graduate Studies, discounts and partnerships are available to help with the cost of tuition. If a student has served or is currently serving in the US Military, currently employed as pastor/missionary/Christian educator, or has a family member currently enrolled at UNW, they could be eligible for a discount. We also have various corporate and church partnerships in place that provide tuition discounts. These partnerships are also beneficial for employers, allowing companies to equip their workplace with skills and knowledge, enhancing overall productivity and expertise; and for church partnerships, it allows ministry employees to easily pursue strategic training, strengthening their ability to serve effectively.

An important note regarding tuition for graduate students specifically: starting July 1, 2026, Graduate PLUS loans will be phased out. For students considering investing in a graduate education at UNW, this is a good thing. By taking 30 credits or less, UNW’s graduate programs cost under $20,500 per year. This means students can still cover their education expenses in full through the standard federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan program without needing Graduate PLUS loans. The main difference is that students won’t be able to borrow beyond the annual limit, which prevents students from taking on excess debt. This change encourages smarter borrowing, keeps loan balance more manageable, and supports long-term financial well-being while pursuing a UNW graduate degree.

At UNW, our goal is to equip students to fulfill their passions, gain valuable insights, learn professional skills, and grow in their relationship with God. In Adult Undergraduate and Graduate Studies Admissions, we strive to help adult students discern God’s calling for their education and purpose. We are here to offer unwavering support and prayer in your academic endeavors.

If an online program sounds like the right fit for you, be sure to check out our Adult Undergraduate programs and Graduate Studies programs.