Urban Adult Learner Institute (UALI)

Impact

• Led by APLU and the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, UALI equips higher education leaders with the expertise to support the experiences, transitions, and career pathways adult learners.
  
• Upon completion of each module, UALI participants will earn digital badges, and upon completion of all four modules, participants will become certified Adult Learner Advocates.

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Adult learners—many of whom enroll at public research institutions—represent one of the fastest-growing student populations in higher education today. These undergraduate learners bring a wealth of lived experience and motivation to campus, while also often navigating work, caregiving, and financial responsibilities. To support their success, institutions must adopt intentional, evidence-based strategies that reflect the unique journeys of adult learners into, through, and beyond college.

The Urban Adult Learner Institute (UALI) is a professional development program led by APLU and the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities (USU). UALI is designed to build awareness, share best practices, and spark innovation to improve outcomes for adult learners, particularly those between the ages of 25 and 64 attending public research institutions in their communities.

UALI is a four-module, self-paced learning experience that equips faculty, staff, and administrators with research-backed insights and tools focused on adult learners’ transitions, support needs, and career pathways. While the content draws from the experiences of urban adult learners, the lessons are applicable across a wide range of institutional contexts.

Participants earn a digital badge for each completed module and become certified Adult Learner Advocates upon finishing all four. Completion of UALI connects you to a growing network of professionals across the country working to ensure equitable access, persistence, and completion for adult learners.

APLU members receive a discounted rate of $300 (regularly $500) by using the code APLUMEMBER2025 at checkout. To get started, click here to register using your APLU member university email.

If you have questions or would like support bringing UALI to your campus, please contact Jimmy McClellan.