It’s not too late. It’s your time.
You’ve been building a career, raising a family, and carrying responsibility. Allen’s adult program is built around that life, with evening and weekend classes and a cohort that moves through the program together.
- 3 yearsto finish a four-year degree
- Evenings & weekendsso you can keep working
- Every 6 weeksa new set of courses begins
- Your cohortmoves through the program together
We’ve heard every reason to wait. You don’t have to.
Going back to school as an adult takes courage. Here’s how Allen answers the questions adults ask most.
- You might be thinking“I work full time.”At Allen
Classes meet on evenings and weekends, so you don’t have to choose between your job and your degree.
- You might be thinking“I have a family to take care of.”At Allen
The program is designed for adults juggling work, family, and other commitments, with the flexibility to keep your life in balance.
- You might be thinking“I’ve been out of school a long time.”At Allen
You won’t be alone. You’ll join a cohort of adult students and move through the program together, in smaller classes with personal attention.
- You might be thinking“I don’t have years to spare.”At Allen
Complete your four-year degree in three years, with a new set of courses starting every six weeks.
- You might be thinking“Will my experience count for anything?”At Allen
Yes. Your professional experience is part of the classroom. You bring real-world insight, and your coursework connects directly to your work.
- You might be thinking“Is this a real Allen degree?”At Allen
Yes. You’ll earn an Allen University bachelor’s degree, taught by qualified faculty at an institution serving students since 1870.
Away too long? You’re not alone.
Self-doubt stops more adults than almost anything else. The truth is, you bring something younger students can’t: real experience, real goals, and the discipline you’ve built in life and work.
of U.S. adults surveyed said fearing they won’t succeed, or that they’ve been out of school too long, would be a challenge if they enrolled.
Source: Strada Public Viewpoint survey, July 2020- A cohort beside youStart with a group of adult students and move through the program together.
- Faculty who know your nameSmaller classes mean personal attention when you need it.
- Counseling supportConfidential counseling when life gets heavy.Counseling Services →
- Career supportHelp planning your next career move.Career Services →
Our heritageAdult learners have always been part of Allen’s story. After World War II, an influx of veterans came to Allen to pursue their studies.
Two degrees. Built to move you forward.
Kick-start or advance your career, update your skills, or enrich your personal and intellectual life.
Business Administration
For professionals ready to lead, manage, and grow, in the workplace or in a business of their own.
- Accounting
- Banking & Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Organizational Management
Religion
For those answering a call to serve, in the pulpit, in ministry, or in the community.
- Religion
- Pastoral Ministry
Cost is the #1 worry. Let’s make it clear.
Most adults say cost is their biggest barrier. There may be more help available than you think. Here are the places to look.
- Start here
See your estimated cost
Use Allen’s Net Price Calculator to estimate what you might pay after aid.
Net Price Calculator → - File early, every yearFederal & state aid
File the FAFSA
Most aid at Allen is based on financial need. Use Allen’s federal school code: 003417.
Applying for financial aid → - Ask your HR office
Employer tuition help
Under a qualified employer educational assistance program, up to $5,250 a year can be tax-free to you. Source: IRS Publication 970.
Use the email-to-HR tool ↓ - At tax time
Lifetime Learning Credit
Eligible students may claim a federal tax credit of up to $2,000 per return for qualified education expenses. Source: IRS Publication 970.
IRS details ↗ - Veterans & military
Veterans Assistance
Advising, aid guidance, career counseling, and wellness support. No academic penalty for deployment.
Veterans Assistance → - Make it manageable
Payment options
See the ways to pay your Allen balance.
Payment options →
Tax rules can change and eligibility depends on your situation. Talk with a tax professional and Allen’s Financial Aid Office about your options.
See your finish line. Then plan to pay for it.
When could you graduate?
Allen’s adult program is designed so you can finish a four-year degree in three years.
An estimate based on the program’s three-year design. Your timeline depends on transfer credits and how many courses you take. Admissions can map out your exact plan.
Request tuition help, in one click.
Many employers offer educational assistance, and up to $5,250 a year can be tax-free to you under a qualified program. Here’s a ready-to-send note to your HR office.
Your next chapter, in three steps.
Talk with Admissions
Ask about start dates, your schedule, and how your past college credits may apply. Call (803) 376-5735 or visit Admissions.
Explore financial aid
Every Allen student is assigned a Financial Aid Counselor. Start with the FAFSA, call the Office of Student Financial Aid at (803) 376-5791, and see ways to pay.
Apply online
Submit your application and take the first step toward your degree. Start your application.
Questions to bring with you
- How many of my past credits will transfer?
- When does the next cohort start?
- What will my class schedule look like?
- What will my total cost be after aid?
- Can I use my employer’s tuition benefit?
- I’m a veteran. How do my benefits apply?
The degree you’ve been putting off is closer than you think.
Allen’s adult program is designed so you can finish a four-year degree in three years. Let’s get started.