Deciding to Attend K-State

Non-traditional students attend K-State for a variety of reasons. Not everyone has a definitive career goal. Some want to take a course or two; others decide they want a degree. If you are unsure about your career direction, consider enrolling as an "open-option student" while you explore your opportunities and think things over. You can use four campus services to assist you in identifying academic and career goals: Career and Employment Services, Counseling Services, academic advisors, and the Academic and Career Information Center.

Your decision about what to study determines the college, (i.e. Business, Ecology, etc.) in which you will be enrolled. However, being enrolled in a specific college does not limit you to taking only the courses within that college. If you are unsure of your major field of study, do not let this keep you from beginning your college education. It is not uncommon for many students to switch majors during their time as a college student.

Visiting the campus

Visiting the campus is your chance to see if K-State is a good "fit" for you. You can set up a campus visit with the help of the staff in New Student Programs (785-532-6250). The staff in this office can organize as many or as few activities as you would like. You can:

  • Meet with an admissions representative to take a tour of the campus and ask any general questions about housing, financial assistance, scholarships, and general college costs.
  • Meet with the Non-Traditional Student Services staff to learn about services provided for Noon-Traditional Students.
  • Talk one-on-one with an advisor or faculty member about a specific major, learn what classes are required for each major, find out what alumni are doing, post-graduation, and (if you have taken hours at another university or college) you can see which credits are eligible to be transferred.
  • Take a walking tour of the campus led by a student guide.

Most University offices are open from 8-12 and 1-5 p.m. weekdays. However, the Non-Traditional Student Services office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (including the noon hour) for your convenience. As with most campus offices, it is best to call for an appointment. If you cannot visit in person, call, write, or e-mail. Appointments after 5 p.m. with our staff are available upon request. Contact: Non-Traditional Student Services Director, 101 Holton Hall, K-State, Manhattan, KS 66506-1305, (785) 532-6434, or nontrad@k-state.edu .

Understanding academic competition

Most non-traditional students are successful. Perhaps it is the maturity, commitment, or the life experiences they bring to their studies. Almost without exception, "returning" students improve their grades over their earlier college performance.

In some classes, a non-traditional student may be the only person 25 years or older, including the instructor! In other classes, non-traditional students are more numerous. Your individual attitude is very important. If you consider yourself a student, have an open mind and are willing to make the commitment to learn, you will succeed. It is highly recommended that you create and be a part of study groups for each class. Studying with your fellow students will help you create friendships, further your network and help you succeed with your studies.

Using the catalog

The Kansas State University Undergraduate Catalog and the Graduate Catalog are the resource books prospective students can purchase at the K-State Union Bookstore. The catalogs are a reference for academic programs, policies, and procedures. They also include degree requirements, course descriptions, and an academic calendar.