Herzing University offers degree and certificate programs that may appeal to seniors seeking career advancement, personal enrichment, or a return to school later in life. The main pros for seniors include flexible online options, career-focused curricula, and supportive services, while the cons can be higher tuition than public schools, limited non-credit senior-specific courses, and mixed transfer credit policies. Whether Herzing is a good fit depends on your educational goals, budget, and expectations for campus experience.
Background: Herzing University and Its Programs
Herzing University is a private, nonprofit institution with campuses in several U.S. states and a robust online program. Founded in 1965, it is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Herzing primarily targets adult learners, career-changers, and those seeking practical, job-ready degrees in fields like nursing, healthcare, business, technology, and legal studies. While not specifically a “senior university,” Herzing’s flexible structure and online offerings make it accessible to older adults, including retirees or those seeking a second career.
How Herzing University Works for Seniors
Herzing’s programs are designed with flexibility in mind, accommodating students who may be balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. This is particularly advantageous for seniors who may not want, or be able, to attend traditional on-campus classes. Key features relevant to seniors include:
- Online classes: Most degrees and certificates can be completed partially or fully online, allowing seniors to learn from home at their own pace.
- Accelerated options: Some programs offer accelerated tracks, letting motivated students complete a degree in less time.
- Support services: Academic advising, career counseling, and technical support are available, with some services tailored to non-traditional or returning students.
- Prior learning assessment: Seniors may be able to earn credit for prior work or life experience, subject to evaluation.
Pros of Attending Herzing University as a Senior
- Flexible Scheduling: With online and evening classes, seniors can fit education around other commitments or health needs.
- Career-Oriented Programs: Degrees in nursing, healthcare administration, business, and IT can help seniors start new careers or update skills.
- Supportive Environment: Herzing has experience serving adult learners, making it easier for seniors to adjust and succeed.
- Small Class Sizes: More personalized attention from instructors compared to large public universities.
- Credit for Experience: Potential to reduce time and cost by receiving credit for past work or military experience.
Cons of Herzing University for Seniors
- Higher Tuition: As a private university, Herzing’s tuition is generally higher than that of public community colleges or state universities. Financial aid is available, but not all seniors will qualify for grants or scholarships.
- Limited Non-Credit Courses: Unlike some colleges with “senior colleges” or lifelong learning institutes, Herzing does not offer a wide range of non-credit enrichment classes specifically for seniors.
- Transfer Credit Limitations: Not all prior college credits may transfer, which can increase time and cost for seniors with past coursework.
- For-Profit Perceptions: Although Herzing is now nonprofit, its history as a for-profit school can be a concern for some students regarding reputation or employer recognition.
- Campus Life: Seniors looking for a traditional on-campus social experience may find fewer opportunities, as most students are working adults.
Comparing Herzing to Other Senior Education Options
Herzing University is not a “senior college” in the sense of being designed exclusively for older adults. For comparison, here are other types of senior education programs:
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI): Non-credit, community-based programs for adults 50+, offering affordable enrichment classes but no degrees.
- Community Colleges: Often offer tuition waivers or discounts for seniors, with both degree and non-credit options.
- State Universities: Some states allow seniors to audit classes for free or reduced cost, usually without earning credit.
Herzing stands out for its accredited, career-focused degrees, but is less suited for those seeking inexpensive, non-credit lifelong learning or a purely social experience.
Cost Considerations and Financial Aid
Herzing’s tuition varies by program and location, but as a private institution, it is typically higher than public colleges. According to publicly available information, undergraduate tuition often ranges from $400 to $600 per credit hour, not including fees, books, or supplies. Some programs, especially in nursing or technology, may cost more.
Seniors may be eligible for federal financial aid, private scholarships, or Herzing-specific grants. However, Pell Grants and other need-based aid have age-neutral eligibility, and Social Security income may affect financial aid calculations. Some seniors choose to pay out of pocket or use retirement savings, so careful planning is needed.
How to Choose: Is Herzing Right for You?
Consider the following when deciding if Herzing is a good fit:
- Goals: Are you seeking a job-ready degree, or personal enrichment? Herzing excels at the former.
- Budget: Can you afford private tuition, or would a community college be more cost-effective?
- Learning Preferences: Are you comfortable with online learning, or do you prefer in-person classes?
- Transfer Credits: If you have prior college credits, ask for an evaluation to see what will count toward your new degree.
- Support Needs: Do you want hands-on academic and technical support, or are you self-directed?
It’s wise to compare Herzing with other local and online schools, factoring in accreditation, program offerings, and student support.
Common Problems and Challenges for Seniors
Seniors returning to college may face unique obstacles, regardless of the school they choose. At Herzing, common challenges include:
- Technology Adjustment: Online platforms, digital textbooks, and virtual classrooms require basic computer skills. Herzing offers tutorials and tech support, but some seniors may need extra help.
- Balancing Commitments: Juggling coursework with family, part-time work, or health issues can be stressful. Flexible scheduling helps, but time management is crucial.
- Financial Planning: Paying for private tuition later in life can impact retirement savings. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended.
- Social Isolation: Online learning can feel isolating, especially for seniors used to traditional classrooms. Herzing offers discussion forums, but peer interaction may be limited.
- Transfer Credit Disappointment: Not all previous credits may count toward a new degree, potentially requiring more coursework than expected.
Safety and Accessibility
Physical campus safety is generally less of a concern for online students. For those attending in-person classes, Herzing campuses follow standard safety protocols, including accessible facilities for students with mobility challenges. Online platforms are designed to be user-friendly, and technical support is available for troubleshooting issues. Seniors with disabilities should contact the Office of Accessibility Services to arrange accommodations.
Alternatives to Herzing University for Seniors
Seniors have a wide range of alternatives if Herzing does not meet their needs:
- Local Community Colleges: Typically offer lower tuition, senior discounts, and both credit and enrichment courses.
- Online Public Universities: Accredited degrees at lower cost, often with robust support for adult learners.
- Lifelong Learning Institutes: Affordable, non-credit classes for seniors seeking intellectual stimulation without the pressure of grades.
- MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): Free or inexpensive courses from major universities, though not usually for credit.
Each alternative has its own strengths, so seniors should match their choice to their personal and educational goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Herzing University offer senior discounts or tuition waivers?
Herzing does not advertise specific senior discounts or tuition waivers. Some state or community colleges may offer these, but private universities like Herzing typically do not. Seniors should speak with admissions about possible scholarships or grants for older adults. - Can seniors audit classes at Herzing University?
Herzing’s programs are primarily for-credit and career-focused. Auditing (attending without receiving credit) is uncommon and not widely promoted. Seniors seeking non-credit learning may find more options at public universities or lifelong learning programs. - Is Herzing University accredited and respected by employers?
Herzing is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which is recognized by employers and professional licensing boards. However, reputation can vary by field and region, so seniors should research employer perceptions in their area. - Will Herzing accept my prior college credits or life experience?
Herzing evaluates transfer credits and prior learning on a case-by-case basis. Seniors should submit transcripts and documentation for review. Not all credits may transfer, especially if they are from unaccredited institutions or very old coursework. - How does Herzing support students who are not tech-savvy?
Herzing offers orientation, technical support, and tutorials for all students. Seniors who are new to online learning can access help via phone, chat, or email, and may receive extra assistance as needed. - Are there social or networking opportunities for seniors?
Most Herzing students are working adults, so campus life is limited. Online forums and group projects offer some interaction, but those seeking a traditional campus experience may prefer other institutions.
Conclusion: Is Herzing University a Good Choice for Seniors?
Herzing University can be a strong choice for seniors seeking a practical, career-focused degree with flexible scheduling and online options. The main advantages include support for adult learners, credit for prior experience, and a range of professional programs. However, higher tuition, limited non-credit offerings, and transfer credit policies may be drawbacks. Seniors should carefully compare Herzing to community colleges, public universities, and lifelong learning programs to find the best fit for their goals, budget, and learning style.
See the main Herzing University pros and cons.