Expert: Rolland Puckett - 7/3/2000

Question
Hello,

I am deep into the "college search" and I think that a "One Course At A Time" or block plan academic program would be very beneficial for me.  However, the only two colleges I have heard of with this academic schedule are Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa and Colorado College in Colorado Springs, CO.  It would be nice to have more colleges to pick from than that.  Are there others?
Thanks so much for your help!
~Katie

Answer
Katie,

I'm familiar with Cornell College in Iowa, which has been a good school for a long time.  I know nothing of the Colorado school.

For many years I've been hearing about schools which have degree programs tailored to the schedules of working people, especially those who are already entrenched in their job for some time, perhaps have a family, and have all the commuting they can do.  Many schools have evening and weekend classes.  That's not just community colleges offering the associate's degree, either.  One very prestigious university in this area has several degree programs as I've described.

Also, if you will look at the catalog of a school in which you're interested, there may be a description of a program which can be set up on an individual basis by a particular department.  For freshman entrance one would need to speak with a dean, or dean's assistant, and I have seen it done.  That kind of tailored program is, in other words, sometimes a result of the old dictum: If you ask, you get.

Other times, Katie, a school will make no exceptions whatever.  Go elsewhere.  First, however, be sure you've spoken with more than one person about your needs.  In any institution, as in any organization, there are those who know what they're talking about and those who don't.  Some care, but some don't.

State universities, these days, almost always have "adult degree programs" and they're eager to have people fill them up - even those who are in their late teens.  The university in my home state offers "remote learning" (used to be called correspondence courses) via videotape.  I've seen the lessons for a course, and they are of high quality.  Actually the assignments are adminitered and graded by a campus professor.  It is required that the degree candidate visit the campus for a short period each year, and the degree is a full credential conferred by the university.  It is a fact, however, that few individuals have the motivation and self discipline to apply themselves over the years in order to complete the studies.  Some do, though.

The best place to get acquainted with a number of schools' programs for studies on an other than full time basis is the public library, which will have many research resources providing fairly specific information on many schools.  Don't be shy about asking an experienced reference librarian to help you find the best such resources.  That's what they're there for.  Other than that source, any school's catalog is a great place to begin, and it's free for the asking.  Just call and have it sent to you.

Hope I've helped a little!  Get a good education, Katie.  Right now in your life NOTHING is more important.

Rolland Puckett