CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new 2025 National Student Clearinghouse report shows more than 43 million Americans have attended college but left before earning a degree or credential.
Many cite financial strain, work schedules, or family obligations as reasons for stepping away.
Now, higher education institutions are expanding programs that make it easier for adults to return without starting over.
Through credit for prior learning and transfer credit policies, students can earn academic credit for previous coursework, workplace training, military service, or other professional experience.
At the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, students can apply for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), which evaluates college-level learning gained outside the classroom.
The university accepts credits from prior college courses, military service, and even professional portfolios, allowing some students to earn up to 60 semester hours toward a degree.
UTC also offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership program designed specifically for adults who have prior college experience but no degree.
The program accepts transfer credits and work experience, giving returning students a faster path to graduation.
Experts say programs like UTC’s are key to helping adults finish their education, advance in their careers, and fill critical workforce gaps, turning real-world experience into academic progress.
