About Non-Traditional Student Organization

Mission

The Non-Traditional Student Organization (NTSO) strives to provide a support network, learning atmosphere, social activities, and an opportunity for non-traditional students to develop a place in the campus community. NTSO will be a leading participant in university pride and traditions events and a voice of support for non-traditional students. 

Students talking on a bench

What is a Non-Traditional Student?

Non-Traditional students are undergraduate students who have defining characteristics and lived experiences that set them apart from traditional undergraduate students as defined by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) and Texas State University. Those defining characteristics and lived experiences are: 

  1. Delaying entrance into college after graduating high school. 
  2. Students who attend school part time (less than 12 credit hours per semester). 
  3. Students with children.  
  4. Students who are married.
  5. Being financially independent from parents and family members. 
  6. Students who return to school after taking time off. 

If you identity with one or more of these characteristics or lived experiences, you qualify for membership in NTSO! 

Benefits of Membership

There are many benefits to being a member of NTSO. Those benefits include:

  1. Access to the Non-Traditional Student Lounge on the 4th floor of the LBJ Student Center. Access to the lounge includes the following:
    • Access to a study area equipped with couches, whiteboards, and plenty of room for group study sessions.
    • Access to a full-service computer lab with desktop computers and free printing. 
    • Access to a kitchenette with a full size refrigerator, toaster oven, and Keurig coffee maker. The kitchenette also has snacks and free coffee and tea for use when in the lounge. 
  2. Ability to participate in educational programs and service activities that are designed to aid in your success while at Texas State. 
  3. Scholarship opportunities for students who display academic excellence and financial need. 
  4. A community of peers who serve as a support network with similar lived experiences. 
Students gathering and having a conversation

Want to join NTSO?

Joining NTSO is easy! Click the button below to learn more about the membership requirements and how to join this great organization!