Thursday, Nov 21, 2024
Rider鈥檚 participation will provide financial resources for adult learners
by Adam Grybowski
For the second year in a row, 小优视频 has received a grant from New Jersey鈥檚 鈥淪ome College, No Degree鈥 (SCND) initiative, which provides support to adult learners who previously started but did not complete their college degrees.
The $75,000 grant will enable Rider to deliver resources designed to eliminate barriers to re-enrollment and degree completion. These include financial assistance for bookstore purchases as well as urgent needs like rent, transportation, childcare and internet access.
鈥溞∮攀悠 is fully committed to ensuring these students have the resources needed to successfully complete their degrees,鈥 says Sean Levin, the director of Rider鈥檚 Graduate, Continuing Education Admission and University Partnerships. 鈥淲ith this grant, we鈥檒l be able to build on last year鈥檚 successful initiatives, making it easier for adult learners to overcome barriers to completing their education.鈥
Last year, Rider used the SCND grant to re-enroll 14 students, with some already reaching graduation and others on track to complete their studies by next year. This year鈥檚 funding, which will be in effect from Dec. 1 through June 30, 2025, aims to continue that momentum, with a planned outreach campaign targeted at SCND students within 12 credits of graduation.
We鈥檙e committed to supporting [adult learners] as they work to create more opportunities for themselves and their families by completing their education."
Rider鈥檚 participation in the SCND program reflects the University鈥檚 broader commitment to educational equity, supporting adult learners and fostering degree completion. Currently, 75% of Rider鈥檚 students hail from New Jersey, with significant representation from first-generation and historically underrepresented communities. These students, many balancing work and family responsibilities, often face barriers that impact their ability to finish their degrees.
鈥淎dult learners can face many challenges when returning to school, but we鈥檙e committed to supporting them as they work to create more opportunities for themselves and their families by completing their education,鈥 Levin says.
小优视频's continuing education program offers low per-credit tuition rates, a range of financial aid options and flexible course formats, including online, evening and accelerated courses, as well as part-time options.
Managed by the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE), the $1.6 million statewide SCND program is entering its third year. The state estimates that graduates with a bachelor鈥檚 degree could earn approximately $25,000 more per year in increased wages, and that the first year after earning their degree or credential, these graduates could contribute an added $81 million to New Jersey鈥檚 economy through taxes and consumer spending.
For more information about the 鈥楽ome College, No Degree鈥 initiative and support programs available at 小优视频, please visit rider.edu/cep-grant.