Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree Despite Life’s Challenges

A Chesterfield couple has become the latest example of older adults returning to higher education after decades away, with both earning bachelor’s degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) at ages 65 and 58. Their story highlights a growing trend in the U.S. of non-traditional students pursuing degrees later in life, often after raising families or establishing careers.

The couple, who requested anonymity, graduated from VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences in May 2026, according to WTVR.com. Their journey began in 2022, when they enrolled in VCU’s adult education program, designed for students balancing work, family, and academic commitments. The program’s flexibility—offering evening and online courses—allowed them to complete their degrees while maintaining their daily responsibilities.

Their decision to return to school came after years of career shifts and personal milestones. “I thought it was over until she said that she wants to continue to go to a university and get her bachelor’s degree,” one partner told WTVR, describing the moment that reignited their shared academic ambition. Both had previously attended community college but left before earning degrees, a pattern common among non-traditional students who face financial or logistical barriers.

VCU’s adult education program has seen a 22% increase in enrollment over the past five years, with students averaging 30 years old or older, according to university data. The program’s director, Dr. Elena Martinez, noted that many participants cite fulfillment and career advancement as key motivators. “These students often have decades of life experience, which enriches classroom discussions,” Martinez said in a statement. “Their perseverance is inspiring.”

The couple’s achievement aligns with broader trends in higher education. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that non-traditional students—defined as those aged 25 or older—now make up nearly half of all undergraduates in the U.S. Many pursue degrees to qualify for promotions, switch fields, or simply fulfill lifelong goals. In Virginia, similar stories have emerged from other universities, including the University of Virginia and James Madison University, where older students are increasingly visible on campuses.

Their graduation also reflects VCU’s strategic focus on adult learners. The university launched a “Second Chance Scholarship” in 2024, covering tuition for students over 40 who demonstrate financial need. Since its inception, 187 students have benefited from the program, with an average age of 48. The scholarship’s success has prompted other Virginia institutions, including Old Dominion University and George Mason University, to introduce similar initiatives.

While the couple’s story is heartening, challenges remain. Many non-traditional students juggle part-time work, caregiving duties, and coursework, often without the financial safety nets available to younger peers. A 2025 report by the Institute for College Access & Success found that older students are twice as likely to drop out due to unforeseen expenses, such as medical bills or family emergencies.

Their graduation ceremony took place at VCU’s Richmond campus on May 18, 2026, where they were joined by family and friends. The event marked not only the culmination of their academic journey but also a testament to the enduring value of education at any age.

Why are more older adults returning to college?
Non-traditional students often cite career advancement, personal fulfillment, or the desire to set an example for younger family members. Programs like VCU’s adult education initiatives—offering flexible scheduling and financial aid—have made higher education more accessible. According to the Lumina Foundation, 60% of non-traditional students in Virginia report that their degrees directly improved their job prospects within two years of graduation.

How do universities support older students?
Institutions across Virginia have expanded resources for non-traditional learners, including:

• Flexible course schedules: Evening, online, and hybrid options at VCU, JMU, and UVA.
• Financial aid: Scholarships like VCU’s “Second Chance” program, which covers tuition for students over 40.
• Mentorship programs: Pairing older students with academic advisors who understand their unique challenges, such as balancing work and family.

What’s next for non-traditional education?
Experts predict continued growth in adult education, driven by workforce demands and shifting cultural attitudes toward lifelong learning. The U.S. Department of Education projects that by 2030, one in three college students will be 40 or older. Universities are responding by designing degree programs tailored to older learners, such as accelerated tracks in healthcare and technology—fields where experienced professionals are in high demand.

Key figures from their journey:

• Ages at graduation: 65 and 58
• Program duration: 4 years (enrolled in 2022)
• VCU adult enrollment growth: +22% since 2021
• Second Chance Scholarship recipients: 187 (as of 2026)
• Average age of scholarship recipients: 48

Comparing Virginia’s approach to other states:
While Virginia leads in adult education initiatives, other states have implemented similar programs:

• Texas: The “Return2College” program offers free tuition to students over 25 at community colleges.
• California: The “Reconnect” initiative provides grants for adult learners pursuing degrees in high-demand fields.
• Florida: Universities like the University of Central Florida offer “lifelong learning” certificates for professionals seeking upskilling without a full degree.

Their story underscores a broader shift: education is no longer confined to youth. For the Chesterfield couple, the degrees represent not just academic achievement but a shared commitment to growth—proving that ambition has no expiration date.