FORT SMITH, Ark. – The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith will host an open house for its Adult Degree Completion Program (ADCP) on Tuesday, March 28, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Center for Business and Professional Development at the Bakery District in downtown Fort Smith.

The event, aimed at helping working adults achieve their academic goals in a flexible, supportive environment, is free and open to the public.

“Of course, there are professional benefits to completing your degree,” Dr. Tina Root says. “There are promotion opportunities, salary increases and a wealth of knowledge that can prepare someone for a higher level or a new career. But the thing I hear most from my ADCP students is the profound personal satisfaction they get from finishing what they started. That translates to so much pride, and to a satisfaction in knowing they are role models for their families and their children. I hear that all the time.”

The ADCP provides a streamlined education experience for non-traditional students in the local workforce to earn a bachelor’s degree. Using a nationally recognized method of awarding college credit for experience gained outside the classroom, ADCP students can shorten their time to degree completion by adding their work experience, military education, training, and certificate programs to their degree plan.

The open house, hosted by Dr. Root, will provide attendees with an opportunity to learn more about the program and meet current ADCP students and mentors. A dedicated advisor will be available to guide students through the program from their first course to the moment they earn their degree.

To be eligible for the ADCP, students must be at least 25 years of age, have at least five years of work experience, and have more than 30 hours of college credit. However, UAFS will consider those interested in the program who do not meet all eligibility requirements on a case-by-case basis.

The ADCP has earned the prestigious Malcolm Knowles Award for outstanding adult education program leadership. It offers affordable completion options and a mix of in-person and online classes to fit students’ goals and schedules.

For more information about the Adult Degree Completion Program and Tuesday’s open house, visit uafs.edu/adcp.