Factors Impeding Timely Graduation at Roosevelt University

Roosevelt University, a well-regarded institution, presents several challenges to timely graduation. Understanding these issues can be crucial for students hoping to complete their degrees on schedule. This article explores the main reasons why students at Roosevelt University struggle with staying on track and timely graduation.

Sequential and Required Courses

Many of the courses required for a degree at Roosevelt University are sequential in nature. For instance, a four-semester sequence of Music Theory must be completed in a specified order. Missing a single required course can significantly delay graduation. Students might have to wait up to a full year or more for the next offering of a missed course, thereby compromising their progress.

Alternating Course Offerings

Some courses are only offered during specific semesters. For example, a course that is only given in the Spring or Fall can leave students at a disadvantage if they miss it. This situation can potentially extend their academic journey by as much as a year and a half, requiring them to extend their studies well beyond the standard four-year period. Transitioning from part-time to full-time study due to missing a critical course can further delay graduation.

Prerequisites and Course Fulfillment

Non-sequenced courses often have prerequisites that need to be satisfied in a specific semester. Missing these prerequisites can cause significant delays in obtaining necessary credits, leading to a longer overall academic timeline. Students must be meticulously organized to ensure they don't miss these critical steps in their academic journey.

Variable Course Frequency

Several courses at Roosevelt University are offered infrequently, such as on a bi-annual basis. This irregularity can create significant challenges for students, as they may have to wait for an extended period before these courses are offered again. This factor alone can extend a typical four-year program to five or six years, depending on individual schedules and the availability of necessary courses.

Class Size and Course Availability

Some courses at Roosevelt University do not have a minimum required number of students. This can lead to courses being canceled abruptly, further complicating students’ paths to timely graduation. In the Music School, for example, courses that meet for extended hours, often four to six per week, receive only one credit. This approach can be challenging for students, as they must manage a heavier workload in a shorter period, potentially leading to increased stress and the risk of falling behind.

Personal Experiences

For myself, a graduate of Roosevelt University, the journey to completion was not without its challenges. A Finance degree program at a commuter school, where many students work full-time, added an additional layer of complexity. Balancing coursework with part-time employment required significant time management and dedication. Despite these obstacles, I managed to complete my degree in 4.5 years, including summer courses, by being persistent and adept at juggling my commitments throughout each semester.

From my perspective, persistence was key, alongside careful consideration and prioritization of coursework. Staying organized and informed about course offerings and prerequisites was essential for ensuring that I didn't fall behind. By closely tracking my academic plan, I was able to make informed decisions about how to manage my time effectively.

Conclusion

Roosevelt University, while offering a robust and valuable education, presents several challenges that can impede timely graduation. Understanding these challenges can help students better manage their coursework and make informed decisions. With the right strategies and persistence, it is possible to overcome these obstacles and successfully complete a degree in a timely manner. Whether it's managing sequential and required courses, dealing with alternating course offerings, or navigating infrequent and inflexible course schedules, students must be proactive and well-prepared to achieve their academic goals.

Keywords: Roosevelt University, Semester Course Sequence, Pre-Requisite Courses, Course Availability