Completing your bachelor’s degree can open doors you thought were closed, whether you’re aiming for a better job, more stability, or simply the satisfaction of reaching a long-held goal. But if you’ve been out of school for a while, starting over from the beginning can feel overwhelming.
That’s where a different kind of solution comes in. At The University of Olivet, you can pick up where you left off without retracing old steps. Learn what a degree completion program is and how it’s a smarter, more focused way to finish what you began.
What Makes a Degree Completion Program Different?
While a traditional degree program typically begins with the fundamentals, a degree completion program offers a more direct path to a bachelor’s degree for returning adults who have already been to college but have yet to graduate. These programs customize your curriculum according to what you’ve already learned. You’ll also have access to support services that address the unique needs of adult learners, such as external commitments, time constraints, and difficulty adapting to new technology.
If you’ve already earned an associate’s degree, a degree completion program can also be a faster track to your bachelor’s degree. Most associate’s programs cover about half of the total credit hours you need for your bachelor’s. If your associate coursework fits well with your intended bachelor’s program and your credits transfer smoothly, you’ll likely only need to complete the remaining 60 hours through upper-level courses specific to your major and any remaining general education requirements.
How Does a Degree Completion Program Work?
Degree completion programs work by recognizing and building upon your existing knowledge and experience and then filling in the gaps to reach your academic goals.
1. Transfer Credits Evaluation
The process begins with a review of your transcripts from accredited schools to determine which credits you can transfer to your degree completion program. However, there may be limits on the number of credits accepted and whether or not your credits have expired.
2. Accreditation of Prior Learning
Beyond traditional coursework, degree completion program enrollment often includes a prior learning assessment that recognizes knowledge gained through the following:
- Professional experience
- Military service
- Certifications
- Other nonacademic avenues
You can demonstrate your eligibility to earn credits through portfolio reviews, standardized exams, or professional certification evaluations.
3. GPA Considerations
While your previous GPA may influence admission decisions, it’s common for it to reset when you enroll in a new institution. This means you don’t have to worry about how your transfer credits will affect your GPA. Only the grades earned in your degree completion program will count.
4. Customized Degree Planning
You’ll typically work with an academic advisor to develop a personalized degree completion plan. This plan accounts for your previous education and experience and outlines the remaining courses and requirements needed to earn your degree.
5. Financial Considerations
By maximizing the use of transfer credits and prior learning assessments (PLAs), you can potentially reduce the total cost of your education. Additionally, many institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to support you in your degree completion program.
What Are the Benefits of a Degree Completion Program?
Unlike most traditional degree programs, degree completion programs often include online courses, evening or weekend classes, and accelerated terms to accommodate working professionals or those with family responsibilities. Other benefits include:
- Avoiding retaking classes to finish your degree faster
- Progressing faster with credit for life experience
- Graduating sooner with a plan that fits your goals and schedule
- Reducing the overall cost of your degree through recognition of prior learning
In addition, completing your degree can lead to better job opportunities, career advancement, higher salaries, and increased job security.
Finish Your Education in a Degree Completion Program at The University of Olivet
At The University of Olivet, we want your continuing educational journey to be as seamless as possible. Our dedicated admissions team will guide you through every step, from evaluating your transfer credits and nontraditional learning experiences to developing a customized degree plan that matches your goals and schedule. Explore our online degree completion programs today.