Return to Learn @ Madonna University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Madonna University joins Governor’s call to“Return to Learn”

            LIVONIA, MI (Oct. 31, 2005) – Madonna University is partnering with the State of Michigan and other area colleges and universities to encourage Michigan residents to pursue college degrees or credentials. Recognized as a “Return to Learn” institution, Madonna University is easily accessible by freeway and offers flexible scheduling and a variety of course offerings to meet the needs of a non-traditional student. The average age of a Madonna University student is 31 and 50% of students attend on a part-time basis.
“Return to Learn” is a state-wide effort to address issues documented in Lt. Governor John Cherry’s Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth. The bi-partisan committee made a strong case that helping Michigan working-age adults complete post secondary degrees and credentials was a major priority for improving Michigan’s economic future. According to the Commission, Michigan has 1.5 million working age adults with some college experience, but no degree or credential. This number represents 23% of the state’s adult population, a greater share of the workforce than in other states.
Madonna University shares the Commission’s conviction that Michigan’s economic future depends on an educated workforce. “We have long championed the belief that higher education should be available to people throughout their lifetime and not just immediately after high school,” said Sister Rose Marie Kujawa, CSSF, Madonna University president. “Learning offers hope to many who are struggling – those who are unemployed, women, minorities, or workers whose jobs have become obsolete or eliminated through downsizing – so our doors are always open to those who want to learn.”
As this statewide initiative kicks off, with the month of November designated “Return to Learn” month, Madonna University Vice President for Planning and Enrollment Management, Frank Hribar, points out that the university is highly experienced in accommodating adult learners. “Throughout its history, Madonna University has focused on the non-traditional student.” said Hribar. “With programs like Weekend Pathways, Distance Learning, and Prior Learning, combined with online and telecourses, we can create an achievable plan of study for an adult student.”
Madonna University’s Weekend Pathways program offers a unique alternative to the typical weekend college by allowing students to finish selected certificate, bachelor, and master degrees by enrolling in a combination of weekend classes, telecourses, and online courses. Distance Learning at Madonna University consists of a blend of technologies to reach students at off-campus sites: at work or at home using online courses; email; BlackBoard; telecourses; audio tapes; videotapes; satellite video conferences; or, interactive television. The main objective of the University’s Prior Learning Program is to help adult students gain college credit for learning they have acquired through life and work experiences. Students at Madonna University also benefit from the services of the Career Services office, providing assistance to students seeking work experience, part-time or full-time employment, career counseling, testing and advising.
For more information, call the Admissions Office at (800) 852-4951 or visit www.madonna.edu.
          Madonna University is a liberal arts university for men and women. Conveniently
located at I-96 and Levan Road in Livonia, the University offers 70 career-oriented undergraduate majors and 22 master’s degree programs. Classes are also offered at he Orchard Lake Center and at the Downriver Center in Southgate.