The NDSU degree completion program last summer and fall helped 13 students return to school and earn a bachelor’s degree within one semester.

The program is for adults with some college credits who are looking to use their prior credits and return to school to finish their bachelor’s degree. Students who have been out of school for two or more years, have earned a minimum of 60 credits and a 2.0 GPA qualify. These are largely students who are working full-time and have family or other obligations.

“Bumps in the road prevented me from completing my degree. There always was something missing, undone and something that I knew I wanted to finish. It was my degree,” said recent graduate Kelly M. Philipps. “Graduating after many years is an amazing feeling. It’s a true sense of accomplishment. I am so grateful for my instructors, assistants and their availability throughout the semester. It was such a positive experience for me.”

Many students choose to complete the new general studies option of NDSU’s Bachelor of University Studies program. University studies uses all of a student’s previously earned credits towards graduation.

The degree completion program had 24 students enrolled during fall semester.

“It has been a privilege to work with these students,” said Jessica Bauer, senior academic and career adviser at the NDSU Career and Advising Center. “I love hearing their life stories and seeing the excitement when they realize how close they are to finishing their degree.”

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