Adult Learners
Are you an Adult Learner?
- Do you work and need to fit learning around your job?
- Have you taken a long break from school and want to learn something new or change careers?
- Do you take care of your family and need to plan study time around them?
- Are you looking for classes you can take online or in the evening to match your busy life?
- Are you learning to get better at your job or to gain a particular skill, not just for a diploma?
Was your answer yes? Now is your time. Explore the options Riverland offers to help you begin or continue your college journey.
Flexibility
Wondering how to balance coursework with family and other responsibilities? Riverland provides the flexibility you need to pursue your career and college goals without compromising your current commitments.
Our courses come in different formats, like online, in-person, or a mix of both, to fit your schedule and learning style.
Online courses allow you to learn from anywhere through the internet, giving you the freedom to study at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Designed primarily for working adult learners, this twelve-month, one-course-at-a-time model includes one-course-at-a-time, sequential model of courses includes an accelerated format and flexible due dates.
Earned Credits
Starting from scratch might not be necessary! We'll check your past college courses to see which credits can transfer, and you might even get credit for your work and life experience.
There may be a way for you to earn college credits based on verifiable learning you acquired through your life, work or military experience. We call this Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).
Transferring credits means your previous college credits can count towards your current studies, helping you finish faster.
If you've been to Riverland before, find out how to use your Degree Audit Report (DARS) to see what you need to finish your degree or program.
Short-Term Programs
Worried about the time it will take to reach your career goal? Riverland has short-term programs (under two years) that lead directly to in-demand, well-paying jobs.
Get ahead fast with a short-term certificate! It's quick, practical, and made for adults like you who want to boost their skills and career in just a semester or less.
Transform your career in just one year with a diploma. It's your chance to learn more, earn more, and open new doors, all within a timeframe that works for you
Level up your career with a degree or diploma in under two years! Designed for adults like you, it's the perfect blend of speed and depth to give you the edge in today's job market.
Discover our A-Z programs to find your perfect fit.
Paying for College
Worried about college costs? We've got you covered with financial aid and scholarships to help you out.
Investing in your future at Riverland is a smart move. Our tuition is roughly half what you'd pay at four-year colleges in Minnesota and Iowa. Plus, we're here to guide you through financial aid, loans, and grants, making it all clear and simple.
Unlock college opportunities with Financial Aid and Grants - these are funds you don't have to pay back, designed to make education affordable and within your reach.
Scholarships can cut down your college costs, giving you free money based on your achievements or needs.
The North Star Promise Scholarship offers a helping hand by covering tuition and fees for eligible students, making your dream of college a reality without the financial stress.
Support for You
We've got free help and your own advisor to make sure you do great.
Our advisors are here to help you with your educational goals, whether it's improving job skills, getting ready for work, or planning to transfer to a four-year college.
Get free tutoring, both online and in person, to boost your learning whenever you need it.
Mental health support provides understanding and resources to help you manage stress and thrive in your studies.
TRIO can help you by giving them the tools and support you need to do well in school and reach your goals.
Accommodations allow you equal access to Riverland's programs, services and facilities.
Food pantry services offer free groceries and meals to help you stay focused and nourished while studying.
Bachelor's Degree
Looking to get a Bachelor's Degree? Start at Riverland to save money and easily transfer your AA Degree to any Minnesota State University.
Our Transfer Pathway degrees save you money by letting you start at Riverland and easily transfer to any Minnesota State university to finish your bachelor's.
A 2 + 2 bachelor's degree involves two years at Riverland followed by two years at a university to earn a bachelor's.
Are you a Veteran?
Unlock your potential with Riverland courses that value and build on your military experience.
Moving from military to civilian life can be hard, and going back to college is often a big challenge. In Minnesota, every University of Minnesota campus and Minnesota State institution must have a Veterans Assistance Office. This office helps student veterans and their families find help and resources from different places.
We encourage all eligible student veterans to apply for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits for all associate degree and certificate offerings. We're here to help you make the most of these valuable benefits.
Ready to apply?
Now is your time; explore Riverland by visiting or applying, and discover how we can support the start or continuation of your college journey.
The Admissions team helps you and your family explore everything Riverland. Meet staff in person Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or schedule Phone/Zoom appointments
Starting your college application is easy; just a few clicks and you're on your way to a brighter future!