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“This generation wants everything now and not 10 years from now,” he said.
Viterbo is shortening one leg of that educational journey by offering a specific degree in biology with a minor in chemistry that can be completed in three years instead of four.
The new Degree in Three program will begin in fall 2009 and is fairly selective. Only 10 students a year will be accepted and requirements include a minimum ACT score of 25 and a 3.5 grade point average.
“I think this is an attainable degree for the properly prepared student,” Nelson said.
The degree can save tuition and room and board costs but is no shortcut, he said. Students must meet all standard requirements for graduation. Their schedules, however, will be compressed, with 18 credits per semester as well as attending two summer sessions.
Student can earn degrees in three years on their own but “might lack the road map” and have difficulty getting into the right courses, Nelson said. In the program, each course is prescribed, he said.
Viterbo is one of the few universities to offer this option, which is expected to appeal to students who, in most cases, will pursue graduate school or medical school degrees. Students can also use their fourth year for volunteering or other service before going on to a professional school, said Ward Jones, associate professor of biology at Viterbo.
High school students are encouraged to apply before Christmas because of the limited number of spaces, Nelson said.
The early-decision deadline is Nov. 15. The second deadline is Feb. 28, if space is still available.
Find more information on Viterbo’s admissions Web site or the natural sciences page, or call (608) 796-3010.
