To gain expertise and a competitive edge in her quest for career advancement, Valerie Davisson chose University College for her master’s degree in human resources management. “Deciding to get my master’s really centered on the competitive market in the St. Louis area,” explains Davisson, now chief people officer for At Home (formerly Garden Ridge). “At the time, jobs were scarce and unemployment was high. I needed a competitive advantage when it came to making career choices, and I also wanted a strong foundation of functional expertise. I knew University College could supply both.”
University College, Washington University’s continuing education and professional studies division, offers a range of educational options, including part-time, evening and summer classes leading to undergraduate or graduate degrees; certification programs in specialized areas of study; and programs for students who want to pursue personal enrichment. “It provides a unique opportunity for adult students like me to experience the excitement of earning a degree or certificate from a world-class research institution,” Davisson says.
Instructors include many Washington University faculty as well as accomplished members of the St. Louis community, such as successful business, science, and health professionals, working journalists, writers and performing artists, and Washington University graduate students and recent Ph.Ds.
“The program at University College was great, but it was the faculty that really made a difference,” Davisson says. “They had diverse perspectives and experiences. They taught according to what was more relevant to the student and to the times, taking care to bring timely information to the classroom. They always took care to make sure each student had opportunities to share, be part of the dialogue, and feel connected to the coursework. They provided plenty of individual attention along the way. And they understood that working students have families and limited free time. Their accessibility and flexibility made a huge difference.”
Students who are enrolled in degree and select certificate programs and take a minimum number of credit hours each semester may qualify for both merit- and need-based scholarships. University College also offers donor-funded scholarships, made possible through the generous gifts of Washington University donors. It is also a Yellow Ribbon program participant, and eligible students can attend with no out-of-pocket expense for tuition and mandatory fees.
Current faculty, staff and students will answer questions about programs and financial aid at Preview Night, an Aug. 7 information session at Holmes Lounge in Ridgley Hall on the Danforth campus. “It’s an enjoyable way for prospective students to meet faculty and other students in a relaxed atmosphere, and to find out which programs meet your needs and interests,” says Elizabeth Fogt, director of advising and student services. Refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m.
“Earning a degree from University College opened doors for me that would not have opened otherwise,” Davisson says. “It allowed me to get my foot in the door with companies that might not have given me the time of day.
[Prospective students can learn more about University College programs and financial aid at Preview Night, Aug. 7 in Holmes Lounge, Ridgley Hall, on the Danforth campus. Refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m. Register online at ucollege.wustl.edu/preview.]
