The Key with Inside Higher Ed Ep. 170: Voices of Student Success: Support for Adults of All Life Stages
Aug 22, 2025
Sean Armstrong, Dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies at Washington University in St. Louis, dives into the unique challenges faced by adult learners. He discusses how flexible education programs, including workforce-aligned credentials and community initiatives, empower these students. Armstrong emphasizes the importance of using positive language to uplift learners and highlights innovative options like prison education and career-focused tracks. The conversation also touches on coaching models that help overcome imposter syndrome and foster student success.
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Generous Transfer Pathway Example
- The BS in Integrated Studies accepts up to 85 transfer credits and targets some-college, no-degree students.
- WashU emphasizes writing and communication with assessments to place and support students.
Certificates As Stackable Pathways
- Certificates serve dual roles: quick skills for jobs and stackable credentials toward degrees.
- Growing certificate enrollments offer low-risk reentry to higher education.
Community Programs At CAPS
- CAPS runs community-centered programs including prison education, English language training, MAT, and lifelong learning.
- Prison programs include in-prison degrees and re-entry support for returning citizens.