Utah Legislature approves three-year bachelor degree program at SUU
By Rachelle Hughes
Gov. Gary Herbert and the Utah State Legislature have approved and funded a three-year bachelor’s degree pilot program. SUU received $3.8 million ongoing funding for the project and will be ready to launch the program in January 2020.
“The legislature has been working with our higher education institutions to find innovative ways to allow students the opportunity to finish their education in a more timely manner, thus allowing them to enter the workforce sooner,” said Senator Evan Vickers. “Southern Utah University’s three-year bachelor degree program certainly fits that criteria. We have great confidence in SUU, as well as their president, his leadership team, faculty, and staff. We are eagerly anticipating the outcome and success of this program and hope to be able to replicate it in other state institutions.”
The three-year degree is an optional program for students to accelerate the traditional undergraduate process and enter the workforce earlier while still gaining the professional hands-on experiences needed for the job market. SUU administration, faculty, and staff members are reviewing the current academic model and will make significant adjustments to ensure student success.
“SUU has earned a strong reputation in Utah for being an innovative university and has gained the trust of policy makers,” said SUU President Scott L. Wyatt. “This initiative is a significant investment in SUU and our success in developing this program will benefit our students, community, and employees and may pave the way for other schools to follow our lead.”
The three-year degree program will reduce barriers to graduation making it easier for a student to save time and money. The program will include an adjustment to SUU’s academic calendar to accommodate three full semesters plus a reasonable summer break. New structural changes will also include robust online offerings and summer classes.
Rachelle Hughes is assistant director of public relations at SUU.
