If you’d like to finish your college degree in a classroom, not online — take a look at Point University. Founded in 1937 in East Point, this small, Christian-based, liberal arts college started an adult degree program called Access in 2009.
Access features small evening classes, individual advising and may give students credit for previous college work, on-the-job training, military service and other experiences, which could help them graduate faster.
“We now have more than 800 nontraditional students enrolled in Access, and the program is growing,” said Carolyn Cook, assistant vice president of adult and professional education at Point University. “Our growth mirrors that of the country. Mature students, many of whom already have work experience and families, are the fastest-growing population of people attending college right now.”
The economy has caused more people to go back to school to change careers or to qualify for promotions.
“For others, finishing a college degree has been a lifelong goal,” Cook said.
Point University is moving its traditional, residential campus to West Point this summer. About 500 college-age students will move to the new location in west Georgia.
“We felt like this area would blossom with a university in its midst,” Cook said.
The university will retain its historic East Point campus as the base for Access program students. Access education is offered in an accelerated format of three-credit, five-week courses. Most students complete 20 credits in 20 weeks by attending class one night a week for four hours. Some take two classes a week. Classes are offered year-round.
Access program students can take courses at the East Point campus, the new West Point campus and the university’s satellite locations in Peachtree City and Savannah. A few courses are offered online.
The university offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in Christian ministry, organizational leadership and human relations. A popular associate degree is in general studies, because it’s a good foundation for many bachelor’s degrees.
“Our students have found the human relations program to be good preparation for working in the nonprofit or profit arena. The organizational leadership program is an excellent preparation for business, because it teaches students theory and practical skills for the real world,” Cook said.
Point University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The tuition and fees average $325 to $405 per credit hour, and students may apply for federal or state financial aid.
“We find that many adult students want to learn in a real classroom, interacting with teachers and other students,” Cook said. “They want more of a college experience, so we keep adding student life activities.”
A leadership series brings professionals to campus to talk about their real-world experiences. Students can also participate in chapel, other small groups or the Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society.
“We’ve graduated over 300 Access students,” Cook said. “They’ve received a quality education and gone to compete well in the work force.”
For information, call 404-460-2478 or go to www.point.edu.
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