This article provides a review of relevant literature and theoretical frameworks that support the inclusion of experiential learning in higher education programs. A brief discussion of experiential learning types is included. Experiential learning or experiential education refers to learning through experience, whether integrated in curricula or occurring through extracurricular program sponsored activities. Adult students, in particular, benefit from engaging in active learning experiences where they can put theory into practice. Transformative learning theory and cultural competence theories are frameworks helpful in program design. In addition, this article provides background for the two contributing pieces in this critical forum on experiential learning.