Gardner-Webb Online to Launch 8-Week Terms for Degree Completion Programs

Beginning in 2023 Fall Semester, New Format Allows Students to Complete Degrees in Shorter Time Frame

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University Online is launching eight-week terms for its undergraduate Degree Completion Programs. The new format delivers the same quality accredited education in redesigned courses that streamline content. This new schedule is set to begin in the 2023 Fall Semester.

Dean of Adult and Distance Education Dr. Elizabeth Pack observed that online students are excited and welcome the change. “We know eight-week terms is something Gardner Webb’s online students have wanted for some time, and I am so pleased to see it come to fruition in Fall 2023,” she stated. “I am forever grateful to the faculty, success coaches, and all the support staff who are working tirelessly to also insure a smooth transition for students for which this will be a new experience. It’s an exciting time to be part of GWU Online and the Degree Completion Program.”

Students benefit by finishing courses in a shorter time frame, making it easier to complete their degrees. Gardner-Webb will also support students in adjusting to the change of pace, while helping them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They will manage approximately two classes every eight weeks as opposed to three to four classes they’re currently taking every 15 weeks. The course load is intensive but more focused to achieve faster learning. Some students may complete more courses each semester than in a traditional 15-week course schedule.

The Hunt School of Nursing began offering the RN to BSN program with eight-week terms in the 2020 Spring Semester. RN to BSN Coordinator Tara Hayes noted that nursing students have been successful with the transition. “These are students who are typically working full-time as Registered Nurses in a difficult healthcare climate,” Hayes observed. “The eight-week delivery mode allows these students to focus on less classes at one time, if they prefer, so that they are able to complete their work to the best of their ability and truly retain the knowledge, while still completing all of their work requirements and having the chance to apply what they are learning on the job.”

Not only do online students have the support of GWU’s faculty, they also have a dedicated Success Coach or Program Advisor, who provides advising, support and mentoring. Plus, help is available from an online tutoring service, the GWU Writing Center, the University’s Center for Personal and Professional Development, and Noel Center Services. 

As plans are finalized to transition courses to an eight-week format, the University is committed to remaining financial aid compliant and being able to offer financial aid to eligible students. More specific information regarding financial aid eligibility will be released later this semester.

Students may also receive more information during upcoming online advising sessions with success coaches:

• Sept. 7 at noon.
• Oct. 13 at 6 p.m.
• Nov. 10 at noon.

Information may also be obtained by contacting [email protected].

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.