Montpelier, VT--
Union Institute & University (UI&U) today announced the launch of a new part-time option for learners enrolled in the university’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs. The part-time alternative is consistent with UI&U’s mission to provide flexible higher education opportunities for busy adults and will be offered starting Spring semester, which begins January 28 for the cycle (one week every six weeks) option, and February 20 for the weekend option. The Virtual Vermont online option offers a start date four times a year.
Dr. Victor Ehly, dean of the BA programs, says UI&U responded to suggestions to offer part-time options from the Montpelier community. “Based on learner’s requests, and given the ever-increasing pressure on the time of working adults, we are now prepared to offer the same programs with the same individualized process, but now with the option for a 9-credit semester study,” he said. “This is a chance for any current learner or beginning student, who is either unable to take on the work required of full-time study or is unable to afford the tuition for full-time study, to further their education and earn their degree.”
Since 1964, UI&U has redefined higher education by placing learners at the center of their own education by offering personalized undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs designed for the lifelong learner. Union’s BA program allows learners to major in liberal studies and focus on one of nine areas of concentration, in addition to teacher licensure preparation. Like learners who choose to enroll in the program full-time, those enrolled part-time also make use of a learning model that works best for them, choosing from low residency options at UI&U’s Montpelier or Brattleboro Centers, or through UI&U’s online option, Virtual Vermont.
“We are always on the lookout for creative ways to reach out to adults in Vermont, New England, and beyond,” said Ehly. “Our online learners hail from more than 20 states across the country, but also from right here in Vermont. This part-time option should be more attractive to many who are looking for ways to combine their degree completion with current job, family, and community commitments. We listened and we made the change.”
