If you know someone who attended college but never earned a bachelor\u2019s degree, Missouri Western\u2019s Back to Western\u00a0initiative may be the answer to help them earn that degree. The program began last fall, and utilizes the University\u2019s Bachelor of General Studies that was approved in 2012.<\/p>\n
Dr. Gordon Mapley, Executive Director and Dean of the Western Institute, noted that there are more than 700,000 adult Missourians who have credits toward a bachelor\u2019s degree they have not completed.<\/p>\n
\u201cAdults who have used options such as the Bachelor of General Studies to earn a degree advance their careers and increase their financial contributions to their family and community,\u201d he said. The Western Institute is directing the initiative.<\/p>\n
Missouri Western\u2019s BGS program is great for students who have a lot of credit hours. It allows those who enroll to choose two minors to create a custom major, typically using many credits they already have.\u00a0Dr. Mapley said at least three adults have been able to complete BGS requirements by taking four or fewer additional credits this spring semester. Additionally, many individuals who are working toward the BGS are able to complete the degree online.<\/p>\n
Between December 2013 and February 2014, the Western Institute advised more than 70 adults seeking to complete a bachelor\u2019s degree using the BGS.<\/p>\n
Dr. Mapley noted that participation in the program is not limited to former Missouri Western students, because adults may transfer credits from other institutions to participate and earn a degree.<\/p>\n