Planning for Graduation
Viterbo University’s administration, deans, department chairpersons, academic advisors, faculty and staff believe student success and retention can only occur when the entire campus community works together. It is Viterbo University’s goal to promote student success and retention by guiding all full-time students to the completion of an undergraduate degree within four years.
Viterbo’s four-year graduation guarantee is a demonstration of confidence in our students, faculty, and advisors. By working together, we know we can make a big difference in students’ lives by helping them graduate in four years. Students who participate in the four-year graduation guarantee will work closely with an academic advisor on a clearly defined path to graduation.
If a student who complies with the terms of the guarantee is unable to graduate within four years, Viterbo will allow them to graduate by either substituting a different course, waiving a course, or not charging tuition for any major or required course for one semester.
Four-Year Graduation Guarantee FAQs
Which students are eligible for the Graduation Guarantee?
New first-time, full-time, first-year students are eligible for the four-year graduation guarantee.
Is the guarantee applicable to any major?
The Graduation Guarantee is applicable to most of Viterbo’s undergraduate academic programs. Students pursuing a program that is not eligible for the Graduation Guarantee will still work closely with advisors to create a plan that will support on-time graduation.
On the academic programs page, students will see that each program of study includes links to the corresponding departmental website, where a four-year sample plan can be found. Students should ask questions to their assigned advisor(s), the academic department, or the Academic Advising Office.
Four-Year Plan Notes
- Four-year plans can change. Always consult the catalog in effect upon your entry to Viterbo University for the most current information regarding your program.
- Certain courses have specific rotations and are not offered regularly. Work with your advisor to assure you stay in the proper sequence.
- Broaden your perspective and deepen your experience. Use your elective courses to try something new, something different.
What is the Graduation Guarantee process?
First-year students will begin building their graduation plans in spring semester of their first year. Once their graduation plan is complete, it will be reviewed and approved by the student’s assigned academic and faculty advisors. Once the plan is approved by both advisors, the student will be notified and invited to sign the contract.
What are the terms of the Graduation Guarantee Contract?
We invite you to review this sample student contract which outlines contract terms and student requirements to remain “on contract.”
If a student does not meet one of the terms of the contract, the Graduation Guarantee on file will become null and void. If a contract is terminated and the student can still complete their program requirements within the four-year time frame, they may be eligible to sign a new contract.
What happens after the contract is signed?
While the student is ultimately responsible for adhering to the contract stipulations, the students’ academic and faculty advisors help monitor the students’ progress toward degree completion and assist in making any required changes for the student’s plan. If a student who complies with the terms of the guarantee is unable to graduate within four years, Viterbo will allow them to graduate by either substituting a different course, waiving a course, or not charging tuition for any major or required course for one semester (a formal request must be made within the student’s seventh semester).
If students do not sign a Graduation Guarantee, can they still graduate in four years?
Students are encouraged to work closely with advisors to create a plan that will support on-time graduation. Most of the academic programs at Viterbo are designed to allow four-year graduations, though there are many factors that may influence a student’s time-to-graduation.
Where can questions be directed?
Current students are encouraged to reach out to their assigned academic advisors or the Academic Advising Office by emailing advising@viterbo.edu or calling 608-796-3084. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss the Graduation Guarantee with their admissions counselor or by contacting the Admissions Office by emailing admission@viterbo.edu or calling 608-796-3010.
Your Graduation Plan is a helpful tool. It makes registration simple, it ensures that you meet all degree requirements, and it confirms that you are on track to graduate. Each student should complete their Graduation Plan within their first year at Viterbo. After completing their Graduation Plan, students may sign the Four-Year Graduation Guarantee contract.