Kansas State University summer courses helping students graduate on time
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Get the scoop on summer by finding out about summer course options at Kansas State University that can fit in with jobs, internships and study abroad experiences. | Download this photo.
MANHATTAN — On average, only 36 percent of full-time students in four-year degree programs graduate on time, according to a report by Complete College America. Their research indicates that graduating even one year later can cost students nearly $70,000 in lost wages and school expenses.
Kansas State University is working to improve these statistics and help more students graduate on time. By making the most of the university's course options during the summer months, students can catch up or even get ahead toward graduation — without sacrificing their summer jobs, internships or study abroad experiences.
"Whether they need a course for their major or minor, or a few electives to count toward graduation, students can make progress no matter where their summer takes them," said Jo Maseberg-Tomlinson, program coordinator at K-State Global Campus. "On-campus or online summer courses are a great opportunity to make up time toward a degree by catching up on credit hours or working ahead to lighten their load for the next semester."
Students staying or working in Manhattan can enroll in daytime or evening courses on campus, while those going home or traveling can take online courses accessible from anywhere. Those who already have summer plans can still fit in an accelerated one- to three-week class during May or August intersession, counted as part of the summer semester.
"It's important for students to check with their advisor to make sure a summer course they plan to take will count toward their degree," Maseberg-Tomlinson said. "Advisors can also help ensure that each student meets their remaining requirements for graduation."
Kansas State University's customized schedule of summer course options and advisor support aren't the only ways the university is helping students get ahead. K-State's Office of Student Financial Assistance ensures students apply for all the summer financial assistance they're eligible to receive. The university's Housing and Dining Services offers rooms in increments between two weeks or the entire summer to accommodate students who need to live on campus.
"We want students to have all the resources to get ahead in their degree, and we also want them to enjoy their summer experience on or off campus," Maseberg-Tomlinson said. "Providing all the information they need to customize their K-State summer helps energize them to continue toward their degree and gives them confidence that they're on track for graduation."
At the All-University Open House on April 11, a booth will be available in the K-State Student Union about summer opportunities at the university so students and their families can learn more about making summer count.
View the Summer 2015 course schedule at http://courses.k-state.edu/summer2015/ or learn more about the university's summer options at http://www.k-state.edu/summer.
