Higher Education Adapts to the Needs of Adult Learners

National American University (NAU) has launched a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) – Focused degree program designed to address the specific challenges faced by adult learners. National research indicates adults continue to value bachelor’s degrees for career advancement, but often find traditional programmes too slow, costly, or disconnected from their professional goals.

The BSIT – Focused program is structured to be completed in approximately three years for full-time students, totaling 135 credit hours. It’s a fully accredited bachelor’s degree, reviewed and approved by the Higher Learning Commission, and is not intended as a shortcut or reduced-quality credential. The program aims to support students who may have navigated multiple institutions and credit systems while pursuing their degree.

Career-Focused Curriculum

The program offers four concentrations aligned with in-demand IT careers: cybersecurity, network administration, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. Coursework emphasizes practical problem-solving skills relevant to current IT environments, aiming to build career readiness while students are still learning.

NAU recognizes the importance of prior learning. Students who have completed NAU’s Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology program can transfer up to 94.5 quarter credit hours. The university also offers credit for prior learning through standardized exams, military training, and professional portfolios.

“When students come to us with prior learning, especially from military service or associate programmes, we believe it should count,” says Steven Balke, Ph.D., dean of the School of Business at NAU. “This program reflects that belief by honoring past achievement while focusing forward on real-world IT skills.”

Flexible payment options are available, including Federal Title IV Funding, VA education benefits, active-duty military tuition assistance, employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement, and out-of-pocket payment.

“We recognize that many of today’s students aren’t on a traditional four-year path,” says Cindy Mathena, Ph.D., president of National American University. “This program provides a more efficient option for learners who need a quality degree that fits their lives and careers, not the other way around.”

As higher education evolves, NAU’s approach reflects a broader trend of institutions adapting to the needs of a changing student population. The university has been supporting learners since 1941 and views this program as a continuation of that mission.

Did You Know? NAU’s BSIT – Focused degree program is intentionally structured to allow full-time students to complete it in approximately three years.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on transfer credits and recognising prior learning represents a significant shift in higher education. It acknowledges the diverse paths students take and aims to reduce both the time and financial burden of completing a degree, particularly for those with existing work experience or military training.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the career concentrations offered in the BSIT – Focused degree?

The program offers four concentrations: cybersecurity, network administration, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.

How many credit hours is the BSIT – Focused degree?

The BSIT – Focused degree is a 135-credit hour program.

What types of prior learning credit does NAU accept?

NAU accepts prior learning credit through standardized exams, military training, and professional portfolios.

How might the changing demographics of higher education impact the future of degree programmes?