Navigating Admissions as an Adult Learner at Regis College

Is Regis Right for You?

For many, returning to school can feel like stepping into an entirely new world. Regis understands the unique challenges and strengths adult learners bring to the table.

As Shelagh Tomaino, Dean of Graduate Admission at Regis College, explains, “We’re working with people who are coming back into a situation they haven’t been in a long time. The educational setting and learning modalities could look and feel very different from when they were last in a college environment and they’ve been in the workforce. So they’re also bringing a great deal of experience in addition to their perceptions about things.”

Regis’ programs are designed to meet the needs of professionals interested in transitioning into new fields. Many of the programs are offered in online or hybrid formats, providing the flexibility necessary to balance education with ongoing work and personal responsibilities. Whether you’re looking to transition into healthcare, education, or another field, Regis’ curriculum emphasizes career-oriented learning that prepares students for real-world challenges.

For those ready to take the next step, Regis pairs these tailored programs with robust support systems during the admissions process to create a smooth transition back into academia.

5 Ways Regis Supports Adult Learners During the Admissions Process

1. Accessible Admissions Process

Regis streamlines the admissions process for adult learners, focusing on accessibility and ease for working professionals.“We try to make it as easy as possible,” Tomaino says.

The application process includes the following steps:

• Submit an application online: The admissions process begins with an accessible online application designed to accommodate busy schedules.
• Provide transcripts: Applicants need to submit college transcripts to showcase academic history and determine potential credit transfer opportunities.
• Compile relevant documentation: Candidates should include a polished resume or personal statement to showcase experience and academic interests.

Regis goes beyond providing a checklist of requirements though, offering resources designed to support adult learners through the application process.

“We offer assistance including a guide to how to fill out an application for programs,” Tomaino explains. “We offer application completion workshops in the information sessions virtually at multiple times and often to accommodate adult learners' varying schedules.”

2. Dedicated Admissions Counselors

At Regis, dedicated admissions counselors play a vital role in ensuring adult learners feel supported and informed throughout the admissions process. These counselors specialize in working with individuals balancing a career, family responsibilities, and returning to school, offering guidance tailored to each applicant’s unique needs.

“We have a group of counselors that start talking to people as early as they tell us they’re interested,” Tomaino notes. “And they’re prepped early on about the admissions process, really from the get-go.”

Beyond offering general guidance, counselors provide opportunities for one-on-one meetings where applicants can receive individualized advice and ask specific questions. This is often important for adult learners because of the emotional component of going back to school.

“There’s a lot of trepidation for these learners, especially if they’ve been out of school for a while,” Tomaino adds. “So we offer as much individualized support as we possibly can.”

3. Credit Transfer Assistance

Regis values the prior experiences of its students, whether it’s gained through academic coursework or professional achievements. As a result, Regis diligently ensures these are reflected in the admissions process. Admissions counselors provide personalized evaluations of transfer credits from previous college-level education, helping applicants make the most of their academic history.

“We want students to know at the time of admission exactly what will transfer,” Tomaino says. “They also will know through the process what’s most likely to transfer so that they’re getting a pretty solid sense of how long a program is going to take them.”

This transparency enables students to plan their education more effectively, often reducing the time required to complete their degree.

In addition to academic credits, Regis recognizes the value of life and work experience. In fact, certain programs allow students to earn credit for relevant professional experience, certifications, or prior learning assessments to help further shorten the path to graduation.

“We like to put ourselves in their shoes,” Tomaino adds. “And since a lot of us on our team have been adult learners, we understand that these prospective students are looking for ways to expedite things.”

4. Financial Aid Guidance

Regis understands that financial planning is a critical factor for adult learners balancing education, work, and other responsibilities. To support its students, Regis offers comprehensive resources through its Center for Student Services.

“It’s equivalent to a one-stop shop,” Tomaino adds. “We have financial aid counselors devoted to just graduate students, which can make a big difference.”

From the very beginning, this unique and personalized financial aid guidance is tailored to individuals. According to Tomaino, this means “preparing students early on, even before they’ve applied.” This proactive approach helps students feel prepared and informed as they navigate available financial aid options.

Regis also connects students with scholarships and grants, some of which are specific to individual programs. For example, nursing students can benefit from the Nursing Faculty Loan Program, while other scholarships and grants are available based on need or merit.

5. Career Counseling and Long-Term Support

From the moment students express interest in a program through to graduation and beyond, Regis is committed to providing comprehensive career counseling. This holistic approach ensures adult learners not only succeed academically but also transition smoothly into their desired career paths.

“Regis is exceptionally strong at student support,” Tomaino notes. “From when you first contact us through your time as a student with us and beyond graduation, we provide support, encouragement, and guidance.”

Regis offers tailored career counseling services that align with the unique needs of adult learners, many of whom are balancing career shifts or advancing within their current fields. This includes assistance with job search strategies, resume and cover letter reviews, networking opportunities, and access to industry-specific resources.

By integrating career support into the student experience, Regis can help graduates feel more prepared to take the next step in their professional journeys.

Take the First Step Toward Your Career Goals with Regis College

Going back to school for your career is a bold step, but with the right support, it can lead to a fulfilling new chapter in your professional journey. At Regis, the admissions process is designed with adult learners in mind, simplifying every step to ensure you feel confident and prepared.

“Starting the process is key. Beyond that, I think many realize it's not that risky,” Tomaino concludes. “We will guide you throughout the process, even after you get into and begin a program.”

With Regis by your side, you’re never navigating this transition alone. So whether you’re looking to pivot to a new industry or advance within your current field, Regis is committed to helping you leverage your experience, build new skills, and achieve your career goals.