Campus News

Great Falls College MSU announces the 8-Week Advantage

The 8-Week Advantage creates fixed, more predictable course scheduling.

Great Falls—Beginning Fall Semester 2018, Great Falls College MSU will implement 8-week block scheduling throughout general studies courses, with all campus programs converted by fall semester 2019.

Designed using high quality, high impact practices, the 8-Week Advantage has a focus on increasing retention, on-time graduation and overall student success.

"Our goal is to help every student who attends Great Falls College MSU define their purpose, create a plan and stay on track to achieve their goals," said Dr. Susan Wolff, CEO and Dean.

The 8-week model is not new to GFC MSU. Over the last two years, the program served as a pilot initiative on campus before being brought to scale.

The Advantage gives students the opportunity to focus on two to three courses in each 8-week section, which will lead to earning more credits and faster completion, saving students both time and money.

Through more condensed scheduling, students will build stronger connections with their faculty and classmates, engage in more hands-on experiences in class and in the community, as well as have access to more research opportunities.

The 8-Week Advantage creates fixed, more predictable course scheduling, which brings consistency for students with jobs and families, and also for Dual Enrollment students who are involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities.

It's important to note the 8-Week Advantage is not a move to the quarter system. It is two, 8-week sections that make up one semester. This allows students to become fully immersed in the content of their classes.

"At the beginning and end of every day, it comes down to student success," said Wolff. "The 8-Week Advantage aligns with our students' lives and our communities' expectations."

For additional information on the benefits of the 8-Week Advantage, Great Falls College MSU is hosting open forum discussions for prospective and current students, faculty, staff and the community on the following dates:

• Friday, April 6—9:00 a.m. in room B139
• Monday, April 9—4:00 p.m. in room G45/46
• Tuesday, April 10—12:00 p.m. in room B101
• Wednesday, April 18—12:00 p.m. in room B139

Great Falls College MSU is located at 2100 16th Avenue South.

For more information on the 8-Week Advantage at Great Falls College MSU, contact:

Lewis Card
Executive Director—Development, Communications and Marketing
Phone: (406) 771.4412
lewis.card@gfcmsu.edu