This study examined motivators for and barriers encountered by non-traditional adult students in their efforts to access, persist in, and succeed in obtaining higher education. It surveyed four-year institutions to examine the extent to which different categories of four-year institutions are meeting adult students' needs and thereby promoting their success. This study drew conclusions about best practices, services, and policies at four-year institutions that promote or hinder the success of non-traditional adult students. The literature review examined access, persistence, and success and looked specifically at how a broader understanding of higher education applies to non-traditional adult students. Further, the study made recommendations about how institutional leaders can better serve this audience by promoting success through adult-friendly programs, services, materials, and policies. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]