How Working Adults Can Advance Their Careers with DeSales

For many adults juggling careers, families, and personal responsibilities, the idea of going back to school can feel daunting. But at DeSales University, earning your bachelor’s degree as a working adult isn’t just possible; it’s practical, flexible, and designed to help you earn more and move up in your career.

Whether you want to increase your earning potential, earn a promotion, or enter a new field entirely, a degree from DeSales can make a real difference. The university’s adult studies program offers flexible formats that work around your schedule, including online asynchronous classes that you can complete on your own time, or day classes if you work second shift or overnight. Our evening/weekend BSN program requires hands-on learning on campus, but still allows for students to work full time as it is completed.

“I chose DeSales because of their online program. I looked at several other programs and felt that DeSales best fit my needs. I’m already working in the field, so the curriculum helped me transition into a higher paying job,” says Amal Brown, who graduated in 2024 with her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Flexibility that Works with your Life

Nearly half of DeSales University’s student body takes courses online, reflecting the success and popularity of its proven online learning model. These online and hybrid course options make it possible for adult learners to advance academically without putting the rest of life on hold.

Ronald Nordone, associate provost for academic programs and adult studies at DeSales, emphasizes the timeliness of returning to school: “Now is the perfect time for working adults to continue their education. The job market is evolving, and employers are looking for candidates who not only have experience but the credentials to match. Our flexible programs allow students to gain those credentials while continuing to work and meet life’s demands.”  

Additionally, the adult studies tuition rate at DeSales is significantly lower than the traditional day program, and if your employer offers tuition reimbursement, our tuition deferment plan can reduce your out-of-pocket cost each session by allowing you to defer the reimbursable portion of your tuition. We also have many cost-saving partnerships with area employers, making obtaining a degree even more affordable!

Degrees that Open Doors

DeSales University offers a range of bachelor’s degrees that blend career relevance with schedule-friendly delivery. These programs are built to help adult learners increase earning potential and prepare for advancement. Here are a few of our highlighted programs that have helped DeSales graduates advance their degrees:

Nursing

Balance your busy life while preparing for one of the nation’s fastest-growing careers. DeSales University’s Evening and Weekend BSN program gives working adults hands-on training in cutting-edge labs and clinical placements. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting that nursing jobs will grow and median RN salaries in Pennsylvania topping $80,000, this degree sets you up for a rewarding healthcare career.

Business

Earn your business degree fully online with a program built to fit your life. Strengthen management and decision-making skills through real-world learning. With business and management roles offering a wide breadth of openings annually and median wages above the national average, you’ll be prepared to advance your career without sacrificing your responsibilities.

Criminal Justice

Elevate your earning potential and career prospects with a fully online criminal justice degree built for your schedule. Gain leadership, security, and ethical decision-making skills employers value, while enjoying the flexibility to balance work, family, and education. The criminal justice degree positions you for higher pay and stronger job stability in law enforcement and related fields.

Psychology

Advance your future with a fully online psychology program designed for busy adults. Explore human behavior and mental processes while developing analytical and communication skills that employers value. With counseling and human services careers paying above the national average and demand rising, you’ll be ready to step into a field where opportunity is growing.

A Degree That Fits Your Reality

DeSales University’s adult studies programs are built to help you earn your degree on your timeline. With flexible online courses, evening and weekend options where needed, and a supportive learning community, DeSales helps working adults turn academic goals into career progress.

Because when education works with your life, your future becomes easier to reach.