Iowa Central Community College is making it easier for students to balance college with work, family, athletics, and other responsibilities by introducing new 8-week general education course options beginning this fall.
The new course format allows students to complete the same general education requirements they would in a traditional 15-week semester, but by focusing on just one or two classes at a time instead of four or five.
“We recognize the challenges that come with earning a college degree. Focusing on multiple classes at one time, maintaining a steady income, and taking care of family members are just a few that we hear,” shares Dr. Stacy Mentzer, Vice President of Instruction. “With the 8-week courses, students can be done with class before noon and still go to work, pick up their kids from school, or help take care of family members. Most courses meet Monday through Thursday, giving students Fridays free while allowing them to make meaningful progress toward their degree. The flexibility with this course setup makes short-term goals possible.”
The 8-week courses offer the same classroom instruction, learning outcomes, academic expectations, and college credit as traditional semester-length courses. The difference is simply how the semester is structured. Classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday, with many meeting in the morning and wrapping up by early afternoon, giving students more flexibility throughout the rest of their day and week.
Students may enroll in one or two courses during the first eight weeks of the semester and another one or two courses during the second eight-week session. This allows students to maintain momentum toward graduation while managing a more focused course load.
The new format is designed to benefit a wide variety of students, from recent high school graduates adjusting to college coursework to working adults, student-athletes, parents, returners and anyone looking for a more manageable path to earning a degree.
At Iowa Central, students have always had options designed to meet them where they are. The addition of 8-week in-person courses continues the college’s commitment to helping students complete their education in the shortest amount of time possible, with the least amount of student loan debt, while preparing for successful careers and better lives.
Registration is now open for fall classes. Students interested in learning more about Iowa Central’s new 8-week course options can visit IowaCentral.edu/8week or contact the Admissions Office at 1-800-362-2793.