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Purdue Global is designed for adults who aren’t just going back to school — they’re coming back with purpose. Whether returning after time away or looking to finish what they started, students may find that Purdue Global meets them where they are. It offers flexible, career-focused degree programs tailored to working professionals. With support for credit transfer, prior learning, and multiple start dates, Purdue Global aims to make the return to education more manageable, especially for those balancing jobs, families or military service.
Part of the Purdue University system, Purdue Global offers an education experience tailored for adult learners. With approximately 35,000 students, the university serves a diverse student body — many of whom are over 30, balancing work and family responsibilities. Its mission focuses on helping students develop academic and professional skills through a flexible and supportive online model.
Students also benefit from the university’s connection to Purdue’s broader network, which can offer additional recognition and resources.
Purdue Global offers more than 175 online programs across several academic levels:
Areas of study include:
Many programs are designed to help students align their education with industry-specific credentials or job pathways.
The Purdue Global online experience is built around convenience, personalization and support. Students access classes through a user-friendly digital platform with tools such as message boards, virtual seminars and interactive course modules. The flexible format allows students to study on their own schedule — whether early in the morning or late at night.
For those seeking a self-paced experience, the ExcelTrack® option is available in select programs. This competency-based learning model gives students the ability to move quickly through material they already understand and spend more time where it’s needed.
Purdue Global also emphasizes wraparound support services:
With multiple term start dates throughout the year, students can begin when it works best for them.
Purdue Global is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) — an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation helps ensure that the university meets established standards of academic quality and integrity.
In addition to institutional accreditation, several Purdue Global programs carry programmatic accreditations, including those in:
Purdue Global is also approved to receive military tuition assistance and veterans educational benefits, and participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), which expands access to online education across state lines.
Purdue Global may be a strong fit for adults returning to school who need flexibility, want to apply prior learning and are looking for a respected degree tied to the Purdue University name. Its focus on working adults, open admissions, and support services aim to help students advance without pausing their lives. As with any university, it’s helpful to explore specific program details, but for many, Purdue Global could offer a practical path forward.
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