Beginning in fall 2010, Wichita State University will offer a set of new adult degree completion programs called Finish Strong.

By completing a degree through WSU's Finish Strong program, students will add credentials to their resume that local employers overwhelmingly prefer, pay the lowest tuition rates in town and earn a degree in the same amount of time as those other programs.

Effective this fall, degree programs in business administration, criminal justice, sports management and general studies will be offered in a concentrated format during the evenings and on weekends to accommodate the schedules of working adults and those with family commitments during the day.

Most students who enter the program having already completed 60 hours of accredited college coursework will be able to finish their degrees in two years, according to Keith Pickus, associate provost at WSU. All courses will be held at WSU's West Campus, 3801 N. Walker Ave. in Maize.

"These are the same quality WSU programs that are available on our main campus," said Pickus. "The only difference is that these courses are in the evenings and on weekends and are completed in eight weeks."

Students in the Finish Strong program will usually remain in a cohort group that goes through the program together. Many returning adult students prefer learning in cohort groups for the support and camaraderie, according to Pickus.

Students may enroll in the fall (August), spring (January) or summer (June) semesters. Most program rotations will begin in fall 2010.

Finish Strong programs are eligible for financial aid awards. Students should complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what they qualify for. Financial aid counselors are available to help. Appointments can be made at (316) 978-3430.

Returning Adult Scholarships for adults are available for those seeking their first bachelor's degree.

The cost for Finish Strong courses is the standard tuition rate for undergrad courses at WSU.

Information sessions are the best way to determine whether the Finish Strong program is a good fit. At the sessions on the West Campus, representatives will be able to talk one-on-one with you and explore the possible paths to your degree. Information sessions are available at the following times:

• 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 10
• 6-9 p.m. Thursday, April 22
• 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 20
• 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 12
• 6-9 p.m. Thursday, June 24
• 6-9 p.m. Thursday, July 15

For more information about Finish Strong or to sign up for an information session, go to www.wichita.edu/finishstrong.

April sessions are filling quickly, so make your reservation online at www.wichita.edu/finishstrong.