Frequently Asked Questions for Adult Students

I have been out of school for a long time. Can I really do this?
Yes, you can do this! Our academic advisors recommend that students who have been out of school more than a year enroll in a limited number of classes during their first semester. Advisors will work with you to plan a schedule in conjunction with your life and your responsibilities.

How can I afford to return to school?
How can you afford NOT to return to school? Attaining an education is the most important thing an individual can do for themselves. Contact the Admissions or Financial Aid offices at Meredith to obtain the appropriate forms to apply for financial aid.

What is the average age and adult student at Meredith?
Adult students at Meredith have ranged from 23 to 72.  Currently, the average age of an adult student is 32.

How long will it take me to earn a bachelor's degree?
It depends on how many hours you take in a given semester. You may acquire your degree more quickly if you attend summer school. Generally, you can complete it in 4 years if you take about 15 hours a semester.

What type of support is available for adult learners?
Our advisors form close relationships with the adult learners they assist. They help students plan and pursue their academic goals. The advisors offer study skills sessions and organize special events for adult students. In addition, adult students can join a student organization, WINGS (Women In New Goal Settings).

Will I be able to earn my degree solely in the evening?
While there is not a degree students can earn solely in the evening, some of the general education requirements may be completed in the evening over the course of four years.  Students should expect to attend daytime classes while completing their degree at Meredith.  Adult students often take early morning, lunchtime, or late afternoon classes to accomodate their scheduling needs.

I did not take algebra in high school and I do not like math. May I still earn a degree?
You must have passed at least high school Algebra I or an equivalent course at a community college with a grade of C or higher to be accepted for conditional admissions.  If Algebra I is the highest math class you have completed, you will be required to take a non-credit Algebra I and II course to remain in the adult program.

Math is a part of all students' general education requirements at Meredith regardless of their major.  In order to earn a degree from Meredith, all students must eventually take either Statistics or Calculus.

How will I learn how to study again?
The Academic & Career Planning office offers study skills sessions at the beginning of each semester. Advisors help students develop their test-taking skills, note-taking skills and time management tactics. Contact the Academic & Career Planning office for more information at (919) 760-8341.

When do I register for classes?
As a new student, the Academic & Career Planning office will assist you with registration information.  For the fall semester, students need to set up an appointment with their advisor beginning in March.  Pre-registration begins in April. 

For the spring semester, students need to set up an appointment with their advisor beginning in October.  Pre-registration begins in November.

Do adult students participate in the laptop program at Meredith?
Full-time students participate in the program, part of the Meredith Technology Initiative. Part-time students are not required to participate in the program, however laptops are available for check-out at Carlyle Campbell Library.