Adults looking to return to college to finish their bachelor’s degree or considering attending college for the first time will have the opportunity to have their questions answered by MTSU representatives this month at the Mary Lou Apple Building at Motlow State Community College in Smyrna.

As a part of the university’s Finish Now event series, representatives from MTSU’s University College will be on hand from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 19, at Motlow. The event is free.

In this file photo, Dr. Dianna Rust, left, professor and program coordinator for integrated and professional studies in MTSU’s University College, talks to a prospective student at a “Finish Your Degree” Q&A event held at Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce in Murfreesboro, Tenn. MTSU is hosting another event 4 to 7 p.m. July 19 in Smyrna in the Mary Lou Apple Building at Motlow State Community College. (MTSU file photo by James Cessna)

Degree coordinators, academic advisers and admissions counselors from MTSU will talk with attendees one-on-one to answer questions about transferring prior credits, choosing a degree program, getting admitted to MTSU, and enrolling in courses to get started.

Staff from Motlow State Community College will also be there to explain how students can start their journey from an associate degree at Motlow to a bachelor’s degree at MTSU and leveraging the growing transfer partnership between two institutions.

Those in attendance will also have the chance to win a partial scholarship as well.

MTSU offers several flexible degree options that are specifically designed for working adults with demanding schedules. The degrees can be completed online at the student’s preferred pace, and they can even get college credit for some of their previous work.

Cathy Delametter

Using Prior Learning Assessment, working adults may be able to earn college credit for learning acquired from work and training. In the PLA course, students create a detailed portfolio of their professional competencies, training and certifications, and other experiential learning. On average, qualifying students earn 22 hours of credit for the time and cost of a three-hour course.

“Prior Learning Assessment can be a huge advantage for our adult students,” said Cathy Delametter, PLA manager and instructor. “If a student puts in the effort and time in the PLA course, there’s no question they will find value in it and finish their degree faster because of it.”

To learn more about the event and to get updates, attendees can RSVP on the MTSU Online Facebook page. An RSVP is not required to attend, but is appreciated.

— Hunter Patterson (Hunter.Patterson@mtsu.edu)

University College open house for adults to gain information to finish their degree.