Colleges that guarantee you’ll graduate in four years
March 9, 2012
While many people choose a college based on its reputation or whether or not it offers their major, some cost-conscious students may pick which college or university they attend based on the average time it takes students to earn a degree.
Why? Anyone who is considering pursuing their dream of becoming a college graduate knows that getting an education isn't cheap in this day and age. In fact, the College Board reports that the average cost at a private, four-year college in the U.S. currently stands at $28,500 per year.
While public colleges tend to be less expensive, they are by no means cheap. Tuition and fees for the 2011-2012 school year at a four-year, public college or university is $8,244 for in-state residents and $12,526 for those who live out-of-state.
In addition, a recent study conducted by U.S. News and World Report revealed that only about 40 percent of first-time, full-time students graduate with a bachelor's degree in four years on average.
And, since more time spent in school means more tuition to pay, many students are gravitating toward colleges and universities that offer them a guarantee that they'll graduate in four years.
The University of Buffalo is just one of many colleges putting a program like this into action.
Starting in the Fall 2012 semester, students entering the university can participate in the "Finish in 4" program that guarantees they will graduate in four years, otherwise the school will pick up the tab for them to complete their required courses without having to pay tuition and fees.
According to the university's website, the program will help students map out their education plan ahead of time. They'll also work closely with their academic advisors throughout their college career in order to make sure they finish their degree in as little time as possible.
Programs like this one require a commitment from students as well. They must meet requirements to qualify, such as earning good grades and completing sessions with their academic advisers.
Other schools with similar programs include Randolph-Macon College, Medaille College and Baldwin-Wallace College, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Moms can find colleges that offer four-year graduation guarantees with a simple online search. It's also important to remember that regardless of how long it takes to get a degree, mothers can get help financing their education with grants for parents, scholarships for mothers, single mother scholarships and other financial aid.
