Identity area
Type of entity
Authorized form of name
Parallel form(s) of name
Standardized form(s) of name according to other rules
Other form(s) of name
Identifiers for corporate bodies
Description area
Dates of existence
History
University College, formerly known as the College of General Studies, offers advising services to undecided students and provides programs that promote academic and professional success. Originally called the “Junior College” under Student Services, it served students who did not meet standard admission requirements. In 1949, it was renamed the “Office of Student Personnel and Terminal Courses,” with advising undeclared students formally added to its mission in 1969.
In 1970, admissions, records, and student personnel merged into the Division of Student Services. The Office of General Registration, part of this division, was designated a non-degree-granting college by the Board of Regents in 1974, under the leadership of Dr. Arnold Menning, and launched its first course, UC 101.
By 1984, the College of General Registration had merged with the Department of Placement and relocated to Medary Commons, serving around 600 students. In 2001, it became the “College of General Studies and Outreach Programs” and was authorized to offer Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Technical Sciences and Liberal Studies, as well as an Associate of Arts in General Studies. The college also introduced a leadership minor in 2008, along with specializations and pre-professional programs. Career Planning Services was added in 1977, and the Wintrode Tutoring Program was launched in 2005.
In 2011, the college shifted focus to supporting at-risk students and increasing first-year retention and graduation rates. That year, it piloted the Academic Success Program and transitioned to “University College,” with Career Planning Services moving to Student Affairs. The First-Year Advising Center (FYAC) and Supplemental Instruction component of the Wintrode Tutoring Program were also introduced.
Currently, the Wintrode Student Success Center houses the FYAC, Wintrode Tutoring (including Supplemental Instruction), the Academic Success Program, and a Peer Mentoring Program. West Hall hosts the University College Dean and faculty, delivering courses such as First Year Seminar, Academic and Career Exploration, Mastering Lifetime Learning Skills, and READ 041.
In spring 2013, University College launched the Exploratory Studies Program, offering students a structured path to explore academic fields and select a major with greater confidence and informed decision-making.