Greenville College Offers Three-Year Degrees

Published: April 13, 2021

Research continues to show that the lifetime earning power of college graduates far surpasses that of high school-only graduates. Still, financing the four-year journey toward a bachelor's degree puts a painful squeeze on middle class families in particular. Middle-class students do not qualify for low-income federal aid, and they often borrow heavily to earn their degrees.

Greenville College in south central Illinois has responded to the middle class squeeze with an affordable option that could shave about 20 percent or more off the cost of a traditional four-year bachelor's degree. It will offer a three-year bachelor's degree program in 16 majors beginning fall 2013. The three-year program does not compromise quality. Instead, it guides students to engage in fuller study schedules including summers to earn credits.

"I am excited about the new three-year degrees," said Greenville College Acting President Randy Bergen. "These programs of study provide the same quality and rigor of our four-year programs. By providing year-round instruction, students will save money and time. Because summer courses are offered online, students can live at home to further reduce their expenses."

In addition to saving money, the shortened degree path allows students to enter graduate school earlier, or the workforce, depending on their plans. Any student may embark on the shorter path, providing the student is committed to the fuller study schedule and focus it demands. Greenville College's plan requires students to participate in three-week January terms and complete two online courses each summer.

Study options offered in a three-year format include a variety of majors such as biology, business management, and mathematics. Students also have the option of combining certain majors with minors. To see a full list of degree options, visit www.greenville.edu/3_year_degree.

"We currently have 16 majors that are offered in a three-year degree format," said Dr. Vickie Cook, associate vice president of innovation and technology. "The faculty will assist students with advising plans to allow for the successful completion of a degree in three years for motivated students who are serious about working hard and completing a degree in an accelerated format."

Advanced placement and dual enrollment options in high schools today allow many high school graduates to arrive on campus as freshmen with college credits in hand. Greenville College's three-year degree program does not require students to enter with college credit. Those that do, however, may have a lighter course load or additional options for electives. All students pursuing three-year degrees will be able to participate in extracurricular activities such as athletics, music groups, and campus organizations.

The three-year degree option coupled with scholarships from Greenville College or external sources can provide significant relief to middle class families with college-bound students. For more information about the three-year degree program contact the Office of Admissions at 618-664-7100 or admissions@greenville.edu.

Greenville College is a four-year accredited Christian liberal arts school with more than 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Founded in 1892 and affiliated with the Free Methodist Church, the college is located in Greenville, Illinois, 45 miles east of St. Louis.