Frequently Asked Questions
Following are the most frequently asked questions by students and parents about the ADVANCE Program.
- Will I be better prepared if I take these classes?
- Will I take all of ADVANCE classes?
- Is it possible to test out of these classes?
- How are these courses graded?
- When is the program offered?
- Do these courses count toward athletic eligibility and financial aid?
- How will these courses assist me in earning my degree?
- How long will it take me to graduate?
- How many extra hours will I probably have on my transcript as a result of this program?
For further information contact:
Christine Pruitt
Director, ADVANCE Program
Harding University
Box 12254
Searcy, AR 72149-2254PHONE: 501-279-4054
FAX: 501-79-4051
cpruitt@harding.edu
Will I be better prepared if I take these classes?
Students completing the program have achieved higher grades and a higher retention rate than students admitted to Harding before the ADVANCE program began.
Will I take all of the ADVANCE classes?
The classes you take will depend on your individual ACT or SAT scores. For example, if you scored 18 or lower in English on the ACT, you would take English 100 (Basic English). If you scored 19 or higher in English on the ACT, you would take English 111 (Composition I).
Is it possible to test out of any of the ADVANCE classes?
You will be given the opportunity to test out of the reading program during Summer Stampede and Student Impact. An opportunity to test out of ENG 100 will be given on the first day of class. If needed, the change to your schedule will be made as soon as possible.
Grades in these courses are computed into the overall grade point average just like any other class. However, a student must make at least a 70 percent (C) or higher in order to pass an ADVANCE class. Any grade below a70 percent is not considered passing, and the class must be retaken.
The program is offered during the fall and spring semesters.
Do these courses count toward athletic eligibility adn financial aid?
Yes, just like any other college courses.
How will these courses assist me in earning my degree?
Some ADVANCE courses (PSY 100 and RDNG 101/103) can count toward a degree if a degree program allows free electives. All ADVANCE courses are included in GPA calculations and are used to determine academic standing.
How long will it take me to graduate?
The average college student in the United States spends more than four years in college. Many factors can contribute to the time it takes a student to graduate, i.e., a change of majors, retaking classes to raise your GPA, work, and health issues. For many students, most or all of the hours completed in the ADVANCE Program will be taken in addition to the hours needed to fulfill graduation requirements. Some students choose to take a class or classes during intersession and summer school which can decrease the length of time needed to earn their degree.
How many extra hours will I probably have on my transcript as a result of this program?It will depend on how many ADVANCE classes you need to take. The entire program consists of 15 hours, but some students will take fewer hours due to their test scores.
