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Understanding the Challenges Women Face in Higher Education

The University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies has released a significant white paper titled "Engaging the Overextended: Designing Higher Education for Women Balancing Care, Work, and Learning". Authored by Dr. Jessica Sylvester, this insightful document sheds light on the intricate challenges women face as they strive to balance their caregiving responsibilities, work commitments, and higher education.

Dr. Sylvester, who is a Senior Manager of College Operations and an associate faculty member at the university, draws from her extensive experience and research to address the unique barriers faced by the "sandwich generation" — a demographic often juggling the responsibilities of raising children while caring for aging parents.

The Reality of Overextended Lives

Many educational institutions design their programs with the assumption that students have predictable schedules and uninterrupted time, which does not align with the realities of many women who must manage multiple roles. According to findings from the 2025 University of Phoenix Career Optimism Special Report™, Moms in the Sandwich Generation, a shocking 59% of these women reported that their caregiving roles have hindered their professional growth. Furthermore, 51% disclosed having to leave jobs due to conflicts between work responsibilities and caregiving duties, while 62% felt that maintaining a career was merely a luxury, rather than a feasible goal.

Redesigning Higher Education

Dr. Sylvester emphasizes that the issues women face in engaging with higher education are fundamentally design problems rather than motivational ones. By reimagining educational structures and approaches, institutions can better serve these overextended learners. The white paper proposes several actionable strategies:

• - Flexible Learning Models: Creating frameworks that support asynchronous participation and allow for non-linear educational progress, which can help accommodate the unpredictable lives of working mothers.
• - Belonging as Academic Infrastructure: Developing cohort models, mentorship networks, and implementing relational teaching practices that foster a sense of community and support among students.
• - Stackable Learning Pathways: Offering modular learning opportunities that can translate into real-time career mobility, making it easier for women to integrate their educational pursuits with work advancements.
• - Credit for Prior Learning (CPL): Recognizing and valuing experiential learning can help reduce the cost and time required to complete degrees, aiding those with extensive life experience.
• - Thoughtful AI Utilization: Employing AI technology to provide timely supports and reduce administrative burdens can alleviate some of the strains on students.

Conclusion

The full white paper is accessible through the University of Phoenix Career Institute® webpage and on the Research Hub. By advocating for these essential reforms, the University of Phoenix aims to enable women to pursue their educational objectives without compromising their familial and professional responsibilities.

In a world that increasingly recognizes the importance of flexible and inclusive learning environments, Dr. Sylvester’s work serves as a crucial guide for educational institutions looking to adapt to the realities of today’s diverse student population.

About Dr. Jessica Sylvester

Dr. Sylvester has over 18 years of experience in higher education and serves multiple roles at the University of Phoenix. She holds a Doctor of Education specializing in Higher Education Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, along with a Bachelor of Social Work from Arizona State University. Her research focuses on how emerging technologies affect learning experiences and skill demands.

About University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix is dedicated to helping working adults optimize their careers through flexible education and relevant coursework. With its commitment to lifelong career services, the university tailors its educational offerings to fit the diverse needs of its students, ensuring they can balance their educational aspirations with their busy lives.

About the College of Doctoral Studies

The College focuses on addressing the complex challenges faced by today’s businesses and organizations. Its research program emphasizes real-world application, where students collaborate with various organizations to conduct impactful research.