[ ABOUT FRIENDS UNIVERSITY ]
Welcome to Friends University
Dr. Biff Green, |
In recent years, Friends University has developed a unique blend of a strong traditional program with that of strong nontraditional undergraduate and graduate programs for adults who work.
The foundation of Friends University has been and continues to be the traditional undergraduate program. More than 1,000 students enroll in the traditional undergraduate program and take courses on a semester basis for several years. They are actively involved in the life of the institution and live in the residence halls, provide leadership through student government, plan student events and activities, and participate in athletic and fine arts activities.
In addition, Friends offers several nontraditional undergraduate and graduate programs that deliver programs in a unique way to adults who are employed. Friends was one of the first educational institutions to offer these types of programs in Kansas. Adult students in the programs meet during the evening or weekends to complete their coursework for an associate, bachelors or masters degree during a specified time period. They are able to attend classes while they continue to work.
Outstanding Academic Programs
Friends was founded in 1898 with one primary goal: high-quality education offered in a Christian setting. Commitment to a strong liberal arts education has remained the top priority. In all areas, students will find curricula that are current and facilities that enable students to master techniques and technologies important to their field. The institution has strengthened academic programs in recent years by investing in new library resources, teaching tools and technology, hiring additional doctoral faculty, and creating comfortable classroom surroundings that enhance the learning process. Friends has improved general education requirements, basic competency courses and core curriculum courses. It has also carefully monitored its nontraditional programs to ensure that in addition to meeting students' needs, programs offer students a challenging, high-quality learning experience.
Experienced Faculty Who Provide Personal Attention
Faculty members at Friends are skilled professionals who truly care about their students and support them in ways not found in many institutions. Because class sizes are smaller at a private institution, faculty members can provide personal attention to students who may have trouble grasping difficult concepts. Faculty also can use class discussions, student presentations, and hands-on learning to give students a competitive edge. Unlike some research-focused institutions, teaching and serving students is the faculty's main job. Friends does not use graduate students to teach classes.
Innovative Spirit
The institution has been innovative in offering programs that are designed to accommodate the busy lives of its adult students. These programs are structured so adults can complete coursework in two years or less. Friends was one of the first educational institutions in the state to offer excellent degree completion programs for working adults. The Program for Adult College Education (PACE) offers working adults an opportunity to earn the first two years of college coursework by attending school in the evenings and on weekends. Graduate programs are structured to meet the needs of busy adults who have work, family, and other responsibilities while offering a balance of theoretical and practical study.
A Commitment to Students' Needs
Friends University is a place where students truly matter. The University has used a coordinated approach to place student issues and concerns at the forefront by providing prompt and personal attention to students. Staff and faculty have devoted time to get to know students and prospective students as individuals, not numbers. Friends listens to students' needs and concerns and responds with programs and solutions that meet those needs.
