Western Edge
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The Western Edge™
What is the Western Edge?
The Western Edge is a strategic plan for promoting student success and keeping the quality of education offered by WMU affordable. Designed by WMU President John M. Dunn, the Western Edge reflects Western's commitment to
building a culture that puts students first. The plan began
with the entering class for fall 2007.
"We're making some strategic investments in how we carry out our core mission--helping students excel academically and prepare for successful lives," Dunn said of the plan. "The Western Edge will have a long-term effect on our ability to do that."
Learn more about the Western Edge
There are five independent components to the Western Edge. Students are encouraged to select the components that work best for them—we realize that no two students are the same. Some students will want to enjoy the benefits of each component. Others may want to utilize advising services, received a retention scholarship, or fixed room and board rate.
The only component of the Western Edge that requires students to sign up is the graduation compact. You get all the rest of the benefits of the Western Edge just by being a student at WMU.
- A retention scholarship - students who maintain a 3.0 or better GPA who earn 30 credits from WMU in their first year on campus will receive a $500 scholarship when they return the following fall to WMU. That financial incentive, coupled with the University’s commitment to keep tuition affordable, can keep students in school.
- Enhanced academic advising - will help mitigate the impact of major changes and move students smoothly and quickly through their degree programs.
- Graduation compacts - will help to ensure courses are available when students need them to prevent delays in completing programs.
- Fixed room and board costs - for up to four years for students who opt to stay in campus residence halls.
- Academic opportunities - a number of other for-credit opportunities will be offered to help students graduate with the skills and experience they need and will help keep them academically involved and excited about preparing for their future.