Venture Program for Adult Learners

Published: August 15, 2012 | Read Time: 2 minutes

Southern Utah University is pleased to announce the continuation of the Venture Program in partnership with the Utah Humanities Council, for their third consecutive year. This is a multi-disciplinary college course offered free of charge to low income adults in Utah, modeled after the “Clemente Course” offered in the U.S. and around the world. The Venture Course is designed to develop critical thinking, intellectual confidence, and community engagement.

According to the Report of the 21st Century Workforce Initiative Steering Committee to
Governor Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Utah is ranked third in the nation in high school graduation rates, but 45th in high school graduates going into higher education. This falls 12.9% below the national average. Additionally, the report claims a more educated workforce is essential to meeting the needs of the 21st Century Workforce.

Many people feel that the college opportunity has passed them by. Whether it was a lack of support or resources, it can feel daunting to pursue higher education after the traditional time frame of graduating high school. Venture provides the open door for students to take courses for college credits in a collaborative environment.

The opportunity to learn and grow in this type of supportive environment is unique. The support structure has helped the graduates to leave the program feeling prepared to pursue better jobs, higher education, and persist in other life goals. Although students are not required to continue in higher education, 100% of the Venture graduates who have applied to SUU following completion of the program have been admitted as full-time students.

Students in the Venture Program take a series of five courses in the Humanities. The courses include Writing, Literature, Philosophy, Art History, and American History. Each year 25 students are admitted into this cohort to complete the courses together. Classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-8 pm on the SUU campus. Applicants must be 18 years or older, have a low income and a desire to continue their education. Tuition, books and child care (if needed) are provided free of charge to all participants in the program.

One graduate states, “Venture was a great experience. It expanded my mind through helping me see things differently. I really enjoyed the classes and the professors. Thank you for this opportunity.” Graduates agree this program increased their confidence and ability to accomplish their goals.

Applications for the 2012-2013 academic year are due Friday, August 17^th. Applications are available online through the Utah Humanities Council website.

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