Non-traditional students (non-trads), sometimes referred to as "adult learners," are an extremely diverse group. Those who feel they do not fit the "traditional college student" profile may be considered "non-trads," including undergraduate students who entered college a year or more after high school graduation, are working to support themselves or their families, have dependents in their care, are married or divorced, are serving in the armed forces, or are veterans.

Many graduate students may also identify themselves non-traditional. While the Seahawk Perch does not generally collect data concerning the graduate student population, we happily extend all of our services and programs to you, as well as to our esteemed faculty and staff members.

Nationally, non-trad students comprise a quarter of the undergraduate population. At UNCW, they make up approximately 20-25% of the undergraduate student population each semester. With their life experiences, non-traditional students add an exciting dimension to the classroom and college experience.

The Office of the Dean of Students has designated The Seahawk Perch, UNCW's Center for Commuter & Non-Traditional Student Services, as a point of contact for you. A professional staff member with the Seahawk Perch is your designated liaison within the University.

  Interesting Facts About Non-Traditional Students at UNCW

As of the Fall 2007 semester...

Over 2300 UNCW students, or at least 21.5%* of the undergraduate population, may consider themselves "non-traditional." This number represents undergraduate students 23 or older. Please note that this list is incomplete; it does not represent students under 23 who have children or other dependents in their care, are married/divorced, have military experience or who work full-time. It also does not include graduate students who may consider themselves "non-traditional." That is why we conservatively estimate our non-trad population at 20-25%, although we expect it could even be much higher.

The top 10 majors for undergrad non-traditional students are:

1. Pre-Business Administration (175)
2. Business Administration (146)
3. Pre-Teacher Certification (94)
4. Biology (89)
5. Pre-Elementary Education (88)
6. English (77)
7. History (74)
8. Pre-Psychology (74)
9. Communication Studies (62)
10. Elementary Education - Extension Program (60)

56.47% of non-trads are female; 43.53% are male

UNCW non-traditional students by age:

• 31.79% are 23-24 years old
• 34.96 are 25-29 years old
• 19.16% are in their 30s
• 8.73% are in their 40s
• 3.30% are in their 50s
• 2.04% are over 60 years old

  Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ) About Admissions for Returning Students

I am considering a return to college life after many years...where do I begin?

Check our "Helpful Links" section for links to various national websites that can assist you.

At UNCW, you will need to begin with the Admissions office. Since UNCW has is no formal "adult education" track or school, there is no special admissions process for non-traditional students. You are admitted under various categories such as "freshman," "transfer" or "special undergraduate" student into the same academic programs as traditional undergraduates, no matter what your age. For more information, visit the UNCW Admissions Web page.

What role does the Seahawk Perch play in the admissions process?

The Seahawk Perch collaborates with the Admissions office to ensure that new students receive information in their admissions packets about university services for commuters and non-traditional students. However, the Perch does not assist with admissions decisions and cannot refer students for admission.  In general, new students first hear about the Seahawk Perch either through this website, a letter in their admissions packet, or at their orientation session.