Stetson has a new promise to students who make the commitment: a four-year plan for graduation and the academic advising they’ll need to get there. Plus, Stetson might even cover some tuition costs.

The announcement was made Feb. 16 by Stetson President Wendy B. Libby, Ph.D., at an Open House on campus.

Beginning with Fall 2019 semester, incoming first-year undergraduate students who choose to take advantage of The Stetson Promise will receive a Course Advising Plan for the timely completion of their education, along with the advising to support them in graduating in four years or less. Also, Stetson guarantees that if students are unable to complete their classes in four years, through no fault of their own, Stetson will cover the cost of tuition for the classes required to complete their degree up to one full semester or until they meet graduation requirements for their major, whichever comes first.

“This is our Promise — whether you already know your true passion or decide you want to explore new ideas through our Discovery program,” Libby said. “And we promise you will participate in distinctive academic programs with great faculty.”

In addition, Stetson promises that every student will have the opportunity to put “theory into practice” through internships or other high-impact, practical learning experiences — experiential learning through study abroad, community engagement, faculty-student research, field research, music performance and internships. 

“As a comprehensive university, Stetson prioritizes experiential learning in all of its schools and colleges, both graduate and undergraduate alike,” said Neal Mero, Ph.D., dean of Stetson’s School of Business Administration.

In essence, once a student declares a major, Stetson provides an academic plan of action plus the continual advising needed to stay on track. The Promise applies to both students who declare a major when they apply and enroll, as well as students who want a chance to “discover” the many different directions an education can take, and begin in the Discovery program. Either way, for participating students, Stetson will provide the necessary assessment and mentoring. And, if you fulfill all The Stetson Promise requirements and obligations, and get to the end of four years with unfulfilled requirements, Stetson covers up to a full semester of tuition for the courses needed to successfully graduate.

There are limitations, of course, plus many other details. But there is one big promise.

“Stetson stands alone in the quality of learning opportunities,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Noel Painter, Ph.D. “Every student has the opportunity to build an Advising Course Plan with their faculty adviser to meet the university’s general education, major and electives requirement. The plan is a guide, and as you explore different academic directions, the Promise allows you to move without forcing you into an inflexible education.”

“The plan is a multilane roadmap, and includes our unique ELE [Experiential Learning Experience] and distinctive programs to explore, guaranteeing you the opportunity to put ‘theory into practice’ through research, internships and study abroad,” concluded Tim Stiles, executive director of Stetson’s Office of Career and Professional Development.