Tips for Adults Attending College for the First Time or Coming Back, Part 2: Flexible Options

Adult learners starting or returning to college face challenges. In a previous post (January 12, 2024), Nashville State provided tips to increase the likelihood of success in school and post-graduation. The focus is now common issues that many new students think about as they begin their college journey.

Flexible Scheduling

Now that a decision has been made to enroll and join the Nashville State Falcons family, the next big decision is what classes to take. We realize that being a student makes up only one part of a person’s life, which is why Nashville State focuses on providing flexible scheduling options to  meet students’ needs.

Students have a wide array of scheduling choices for classes. These include traditional in-person classes offered on campus—with night and weekend options. A hybrid model of both online and in-person courses. And fully online options, as well as “virtual” classes, which meet through Zoom.

Different Course Terms

In addition to scheduling individual classes, a factor to consider is the length of the course term. At Nashville State, we offer two-term lengths for students (1) a traditional 15-week semester and (2) a 7-week format, which breaks the standard 15-week semester into two 7-week terms.

A 15-week semester is the traditional full-time or part-time course load.

The 7-week term splits the semester into two parts. With this option a student would take two classes during the first 7-week term. Once completed, students take two new classes during the second 7-weeks. The 7-week term allows students to break up a regular course load into more manageable pieces.

No matter which you choose, there is the right option for you at Nashville State.

Nashville State Online

Nashville State is home to a vast array of online-only courses. Our online choices provide students the opportunity to earn a technical certificate within a year, a fully online technical or college degree through our 2-year A.A.S. program, and even an option of a A.A. or A.A.S transfer degree for anyone looking to pursue their bachelor’s degree.

With nearly 50 degree and certificate options, Nashville State Online might be the right choice.

Workforce Programs

Nashville State is also home to professional advancement or personal enrichment classes without having to invest time in a full-credit degree program. The college provides a variety of professional and individual development courses through our Center for Workforce Development & Continuing Education.

Workforce development programs provide education and training opportunities for professional advancement and personal enrichment courses to individuals and employers. With specialized programs for businesses and individuals, Nashville State is here to support many needs.

Education at Nashville State is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but one that is student-centered and focused on helping you succeed.