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Marian University’s commitment to adult and online learners goes far beyond coursework. Through a wide network of advising, academic support, tutoring, technical assistance, financial aid guidance, and career development, Marian ensures that students never navigate their educational journey alone.
This article explores how Marian’s Learning, Advising & Resources (LAR) ecosystem fully supports students from the moment they apply to long after graduation.
Marian understands the realities of balancing jobs, families, and education, and our adult learner support programs are designed to make higher education accessible and manageable for anyone who is interested in earning their degree. Every online program is structured with flexible pacing, compassionate support, and personalized attention. This student-first design helps learners return to school with confidence, no matter how long it has been.
Navigating the requirements of a degree program while balancing your existing responsibilities can be overwhelming, which is why it's important to choose a university that offers extensive online student resources. Marian provides academic advising online services for adult students who have enrolled in our online degree programs, ensuring that you receive the guidance and support that you need to earn your degree as quickly and efficiently as possible.
When you meet with an academic advisor, you will receive one-on-one support as you review your existing credentials and determine the best path forward toward degree completion. Academic advisors can help by:
At Marian, our academic advising team works with online students to guide them through course sequencing, registration, and degree requirements. Together with your advisor, you can set academic goals, understand transfer credits, and create a clear graduation plan.
Academic advising involves more than one meeting after you enroll — it's an ongoing process that continues throughout your program. You will have access to academic advising online every semester, allowing you to adjust accordingly if life changes or new career goals emerge.
Online degree programs appeal to adult learners because they provide them with the flexibility needed to complete their education on their own terms. However, it can be a bit more difficult to find an online program that offers the college success resources that are necessary to truly thrive.
Marian University sets itself apart with its extensive online student resources, which are available at any time. From tutoring for online students to technology assistance, our adult learners move forward with confidence knowing that they will receive the support and guidance that they need throughout their degree program.
Marian offers one-on-one tutoring, writing help, and subject-specific assistance designed for virtual learners. Many services are available outside traditional business hours, which is essential for students who are working full- or part-time while earning their degree online. These support services mirror the type of offerings that are available within traditional, on-campus programs, helping to bridge the gap that sometimes exists between online and in-person learning.
Marian's online degree programs are anchored by advanced technology, including learning management systems (LMS), videoconferencing tools, and content tools. Recognizing that students may encounter technical difficulties or may need assistance as they build their digital schools, Marian has designed a system for technology and online course support. Students have access to technical assistance, LMS support, and advanced tools, such as library databases and research systems.
One common misunderstanding about online degree programs is that some students do not realize that they have access to the same types of financial resources and support as students who are enrolled in a traditional, on-campus program. Financial aid for adult students is available, making higher education more financially manageable and attainable for them.
Financial aid counselors help students navigate FAFSA, tuition planning, employer reimbursement, and scholarship opportunities tailored to adult learners.
According to the Federal Student Aid office, every student — including those who wish to enroll in fully-online degree programs — who wants to qualify for financial aid needs to fill out the FAFSA form. Completing this form allows you to develop a better understanding of the types of financial aid that are available to you. Online students may qualify for scholarships, grants, or student loans, similar to students who enroll oncampus.
There are some adult students who are returning to college after previously completing coursework, which means that they may still be trying to manage outstanding student loan debt. To ensure that all students have the opportunity to earn their degree, Marian provides guidance for students with existing loan debt, helping them make informed decisions and stay aligned with long-term goals.
Enrolling in an online degree program provides you with a sense of flexibility and freedom, but you are still a valued part of the university community. Marian University is proud to have cultivated a culture in which student life exists in our virtual classrooms and digital settings. Our online student experience lets adult learners feel just as connected and engaged as they would if they were attending classes on campus.
According to EdTech Magazine, students who feel like they belong and feel valued as part of the larger campus community are more likely to enroll in and complete their degree program. Knowing the importance of community in online degree programs, Marian actively works to provide students with opportunities to interact with their classmates and get involved. Discussion boards, digital events, virtual mentoring, and access to student groups help online students feel connected to Marian’s values and culture.
Since 1851, Marian has been guided by their Catholic Franciscan values offering a holistic educational journey that meets academic and personal needs. Adult learners in our online
degree programs enjoy a well-rounded experience, in which they have access to academic advising online and online student resources that provide them with the comprehensive support that they need.
Marian University Online ensures every learner has the resources, tools, guidance, and compassion needed to succeed — academically, financially, and professionally. Whether you're starting fresh or returning to finish a degree, Marian covers every part of your educational journey.
The level of online degree student support that Marian offers is exceptional. Learn more about our online degree programs and request more information today.
