• Provide a straightforward, defined, and reliable path toward the baccalaureate degree for working adult students.
• Allow for exploration of, and development of an appreciation for, areas that integrate liberal and professional studies.
• Offer important professional skills and knowledge helpful in the workplace and in securing employment.

This bachelor’s degree builds upon the Associate of Arts degree currently offered at Valpo. As part of the AA degree, College of Adult Scholar students complete 40 credits of general education coursework and 21 credits in one of four possible concentrations:

• Culture & Humanity
• Social & Behavioral Science
• Communication & Expressive Arts
• Education Foundations

BLPS Academic Details
Valparaiso University’s Bachelor of Liberal and Professional Studies Degree (124 credit hours) incorporates all of the general education requirements from the Associate of Arts degree.  In addition to meeting the requirements for the Associate of Arts degree, students must complete the following:

FAQ's
How long does it take to complete the BLPS degree?
For a student who continually registers for 9 credits every semester – fall, spring and summer – the BLPS, including the Associate of Arts portion, can be completed within 4 ½ to 5 years.

Will I be the only adult in a classroom of 18-year-olds?
By the time you reach your junior year within the BLPS degree, you are going to be in upper-level courses, frequently cross-listed with graduate-level classes.

How much will this program cost?
2009-2010 tuition for College of Adult Scholars is $395*/per credit hour. Other yearly costs include a $105 parking pass (2009-2010 year), a $95 student fee, and textbooks.

Will VU accept transfer credit towards the BLPS?
Courses with grades of C- or above are accepted as transfer credit for graduation. Credits earned more than 15 years before application for admission are accepted towards graduation on a provisional basis, subject to validation by the first 30 semester hours completed at VU with a 2.00 (C) average.

College of Adult Scholars Application Process
Students interested in this program should:

• Contact the Office of Continuing Education by calling 219.464.5313 and request an application packet for the College of Adult Scholars program. The Office will also provide you with the name and contact information for the CASc Academic Adviser.
• Contact the CASc Academic Adviser, who then will answer questions regarding the program, admission, and classes at Valparaiso University.
• Submit a completed application packet, including high school and/or college transcripts, the $30 application fee, plus meet with the CASc Academic Adviser.

Why Valpo?  

• Strong Academic Reputation — Consistently ranked a top school in the Midwest and a great value by U.S. News & World Report. VU is also in The Barron's 300: Best Buys in College Education and Peterson's Competitive Colleges.
• Career Preparation/Results — Career decisions, opportunities, and success assisted through liberal arts and fully accredited professional programs, vocational retreats, professor mentoring, internships, leadership development, and alumni network. Overall job/graduate school placement rate for Valpo 2006 graduates = 97%!
• Hands-on/Active Learning — Small classes, undergraduate research, and use of Valpo-specific state-of-the-art technology, such as VisBox-X2™ 3-dimensional learning system, the Virtual Nursing Learning Center, and Weather Center with Doppler radar.
• Seeking & Serving — Grounded in a Lutheran heritage, Valpo connects faith to life and learning in a uniquely independent way that encourages questioning, exploration, and critical thinking. Emphasis on community service, global understanding, and civic engagement.

More than a classroom experience...Valparaiso Univeristy is...
The value of a Valparaiso University education is revealed in many ways.  The strong academic reputation and a supportive environment that fosters both spiritual and intellectual growth.  Still others include extensive activities, leadership opportunities, and learning beyond the classroom.  But perhaps one of the greates returns on a Valpo education is the preparation to make a difference by connecting your work in service to the world and its people.