While many high school graduates are still pursuing postsecondary degrees, the majority of degree seekers are nontraditional students with multiple commitments outside the classroom. Many of these same students say that online education would improve their chances for successful completion of their degrees, according to a new study from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Specifically, results from the study found that more students than ever are working while they pursue a degree. Currently, a total of 45 percent of individuals attending a four-year university work more than 20 hours per week and 23 percent of all college students have dependent children, according to the report.

In fact, researchers found that only 25 percent of today’s degree seekers are traditional students – meaning they attend school full time while living on college campus and hold part-time jobs or work over the summer.

The financial responsibilities of adult life are the primary reason many students do not graduate, as many individuals are forced to postpone their education to begin or maintain full-time employment. In many cases, working students cannot afford the cost and time commitments necessary to complete a full-time degree program.

Study respondents noted they would like to return to school but need flexible, inexpensive learning options, such as those offered by online degree programs. Researchers report 57 percent of students surveyed felt they would be more likely to succeed in a college degree program if institutions of higher learning offered more online courses.

Accordingly, many students are seeking convenient online programs that may help them further their education while they keep up with their career and family commitments.