The upcoming summer semester is a great opportunity for students to stay on track or even get ahead in their degree programs.
Most undergraduate programs at TROY are 120 hours and can be completed in four years by taking 15 hours in the fall and spring. But for a variety of reasons, including financial aid requirements, many students opt to take 12 hours, extending the time it takes to finish a degree.
However, taking just six hours during the summer will keep students on track to finish on time, said Dr. Hal Fulmer, Associate Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Studies.
“The summer is a great time to recalibrate your efforts and progress,” Dr. Fulmer said. “The classes tend to be smaller and it’s a little less formal because its summertime. It’s a great opportunity to engage courses, get a great experience and do well in a relatively short time and launch yourself back into the fall semester.”
Extending the time it takes to complete a degree has financial implications.
“In addition to the tuition and living costs, because you don’t graduate you’re not in the job market, so now there’s lost wages,” Dr. Fulmer said.
Summer semester may be a viable option for even more students because Federal Pell Grants are again available for summer classes, Dr. Fulmer said. Students are advised to talk to a financial aid advisor to determine their eligibility.
Registration for the summer starts April 4 and includes a wide variety of class options, including general studies and major classes in various programs. For more information, visit the Summer Sessions website, and check out Dr. Fulmer’s full interview with TrojanVision:
