Reach Higher

RSU offers a second chance for working adults to finish their degree with the Reach Higher degree completion program.

A new statewide initiative called Reach Higher is Oklahoma’s degree completion program for adults who once attended college, but for one reason or ­another, did not complete their degree. The bachelor’s degree program is offered by nine Oklahoma State schools, one of which is Rogers State University. To ­participate in the degree ­completion program, you must have previously earned at least 72 college credit hours.

The program was spearheaded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, who found that there were approximately 69,000 ­individuals in the state of Oklahoma who had accumulated at least 77 college credit hours but had never completed their degrees. Representatives from nine Oklahoma state universities were asked to gather data from industry leaders and key employers in our state to find out what they would like to see in a degree completion program for working adults. In the spring of 2007, the curriculum was completed and the program was in place. Today there are more than 500 adults enrolled in the program statewide who are completing courses towards earning a ­bachelor of science degree that is versatile and in high demand by top employers.

Dr. Bruce Garrison, dean of the RSU School of Business & Technology, and Dr. Bert Tollison, RSU professor and head of the department of ­business, administer the program at RSU. They understand that most people have full-time jobs and families to support, and it’s difficult finding time to go back to school to attain a degree. “This program is available in eight-week mini-semesters throughout the year at RSU campuses in Claremore and Bartlesville,” says Dr. Garrison. “To complete the program of study, students will attend two classes on campus: foundations of organizational leadership and personal development, as well as a capstone project. The ­remainder of the degree program may be completed online at the student’s convenience.”

You can enter and start the program at any time and earn a bachelor’s degree in as little as 18 months. Reach Higher is a highly regarded academic program offered at RSU as well as eight other state schools that ­utilize the same curriculum. Having satisfactorily completed the course of studies, graduates receive a bachelor of science degree in organizational ­leadership, offered with options in business studies, ­communication strategies, liberal studies, or social studies.

When you enter the Reach Higher program, you will be placed in classes with your peers, allowing you the opportunity to study together and share ­experiences. Assignments may be completed online, offering lots of flexibility.  

“The purpose of Oklahoma’s adult degree completion program is to increase the number of state residents who have earned bachelor degrees,” says Dr. Tollison. “Having a degree can open doors to career opportunities that were not previously available to you, therefore increasing your earning power.” On average, during the course of a lifetime, a college graduate will earn $1.1 million more than a high school ­graduate will.

During your course of study, you will explore topics and skills that are important in today’s workforce. Studies will include organizational behavior, ethics, interpersonal skills, ­management, finance and ­communication. There will also be group projects along with the senior capstone course. If you haven’t been able to go back to school and attain your degree, there’s nothing stopping you now. Reach Higher, Oklahoma’s degree completion program, ­prepares adult students for a variety of careers including opportunities in education, ­government, corporate, and non-profit environments. Call (918) 343-6819 or email Rebekah King at eat0@eau0eav0eaw0 for more information.

 

For more information, contact

Rogers State University

(918) 343-6819

eat0@eau0eav0eaw0