Whitworth’s continuing studies program has shown considerable growth over the last eight years, expanding from 122 full-time students in 2000 to 178 this year, according to Whitworth’s fall 2008 Tenth Day enrollment report.
“We have actually already fulfilled our goal for growth according to our current strategic plan,” said Terry Ratcliff, dean for continuing studies.
Ratcliff’s position was created this year to accomodate the growth of the program.
Under the current strategic plan, Whitworth’s planned yearly growth for continuing studies is 10 percent.
The continuing studies program at Whitworth offers three degree programs for full and part-time students looking to extend their education with another major or by completing their first degree.
“We meet the same objectives, we just have a different way of getting there,” Ratcliff said. “Many of these people are working full time and either want to advance in the workplace or change careers.”
Ratcliff said some of the changes that may occur over the duration of Whitworth’s next strategic plan are a new hybrid online/face-to-face program, geographic expansion to another location and a large revamp of the program’s current curriculum.
Continuing studies has 284 enrolled students this fall. The program is Whitworth’s most ethnically diverse program, with a 23-percent student minority population.
In addition, 76 percent of the program’s students are female, according to the report.
“We have a lot of ‘empty-nesters’, people whose kids are gone and get to return to finish school,” Ratcliff said. “This includes many single moms and recently divorced women looking for more opportunities.”
Traditional students go to school instead of working or building a family, Ratcliff said.
“Our students go to school in addition to working and having a family,” Ratcliff said. “There is national growth in this market and traditional institutions don’t typically invest in it.”
Ratcliff, who has taught in similar programs at the University of Phoenix and DeVry University, compared Whitworth’s program to other local colleges and universities.
“Gonzaga [University]’s continuing studies program is more Internet-oriented, while Eastern [Washington University] only offers a one-major program,” Ratcliff said.
About 15 courses are offered every six weeks, he said.
Contact Ben Garves at ben.garves@whitworthian.com.
Program meets goal for growth, gets dean
Published: Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Updated: Saturday, February 28, 2009
 "Photo:")
Sue Connors (left) and Yavonne Brewer focus during a continuing studies class Sept. 24.
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