DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you tell me about Asbury College?
Asbury College is one of Kentucky's vibrant independent Christian colleges. Our motto is academic excellence and spiritual vitality. Founded in 1890, Asbury College has a long-standing, rich heritage. We are not the new kid on the educational block by any means. The College is not supported by any denomination nor receives government funds, except for Student Financial Aid. Asbury College is accredited by SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) and licensed by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education to award bachelor's and master's degrees.
How can I contact the folks at the Achieve Program?
Call us at 859.858.3511 extension 2600 or toll free at 800.888.1818 extension 8. Write us at ACHIEVE Program, Asbury College, One Macklem Drive, Wilmore, Kentucky 40390. Fax us at 859.858.0221. Email us at achieve@asbury.edu. We look forward to hearing from you!
What should I know about Achieve students and professors?
ACHIEVE students are a lot like you. They have about 50 hours of college credit already. They are generally at least 25 years old, with the average age currently 39. They work jobs, have family responsibilities, and are just as busy as you. Like you, they have goals and want to be successful. ACHIEVE professors are specially trained to teach adult students. They are caring professionals who are experts in their fields. They will help you and mentor you, teach you and challenge you to learn as much as you can. They want you to succeed.
How long will it take to complete my college degree?
Generally, about two years. Students typically come into the program with about 50 hours credit.
How can I possibly afford to return to college?
How can you possibly afford not to return to college? Now is the time! Want proof? Tuition at colleges continues to climb, not get lower. College tuition is more affordable right now than it likely will be ever again. Your college tuition is an investment with an almost guaranteed high rate of return. Of Americans earning $75,000 or more a year, 14% have some college. However, 62% have a four-year college degree or more (Money Magazine, Fall 2002). Bachelor degree holders make 98% more than those with a high school education (U. S .Dept. of Commerce, July 25, 2003). And, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2008 there will be 2,563,000 new jobs requiring a bachelor's degree (World Magazine 1/29/00). Your college tuition is an investment with an almost guaranteed high rate of return!
Can I get tuition assistance?
Tuition assistance is available for many students in the form of Federal and state grants and loans, employer reimbursement, or a deferred payment plan. Contact the Asbury College Financial Aid Office at 859.858.3511 extension 2264 or email: financial.aid@asbury.edu to find out more. Call today as many Federal and state grants and loans have set application dates.
Can I really be successful after being out of school for so long?
Absolutely! Others are - so can you. With time, comes wisdom and maturity. In fact, you will likely be an even better student today than you were yesterday! You have built a wealth of experience and knowledge. You can manage your time better. You have clearer goals. This will serve you well as you restart your college education.
How can I possibly work, take care of other responsibilities, and attend school?
The ACHIEVE Program was actually designed with this key question in mind. Going to college just one night a week means you will spend less time away from work and home than you will in most other college programs. Moreover, tell your employer and family that you are taking on this new opportunity. They will share your enthusiasm and may help in ways you haven't imagined. Establish good time management strategies and let your spouse and children help. Write down your schedule. You will find time for college by making the most of your time! Achieve Program staff members stand ready to help you find creative ways to successfully manage your time and study better, not longer. If we can help, call on us.
What about parking, where are my classes, and when do they meet?
Parking at Asbury College is ample and close to all classrooms. A smaller campus means easier access - that's Asbury! Most classes are held in the Asbury College Kinlaw Library located at the front of the campus on N. Lexington Ave. Computer labs and library resources are right there for your convenience as well. Classes meet just one night a week from 6 to 10 p.m. A course is completed in only 5 weeks. This couldn't be easier!
When do classes start?
Each class is a student cohort-that is the same group of adult students are typically in each class together. A new cohort class begins at various intervals, and usually four times a year. You do not follow a traditional college schedule, which means no waiting for the fall or spring semester to begin. You can start your education earlier and finish sooner. The Achieve Program publishes its own schedule of classes. Each class lasts 5 weeks. Some classes have an extended break between classes for you. This course schedule means that most students finish a degree in just two years.
How can I find out more?
Call on the friendly Achieve Program staff at 859.858.3511 extension 2600, or toll free at 800.888.1818 extension 8, or email: achieve@asbury.edu. We would love to talk to you, answer your questions, and help you begin to achieve your dream of attaining your college degree. We will invite you to an information session and are happy to set up an appointment to meet with you day or evening at your convenience. We can send you information through the mail at your request.