Students and parents often ask me why it’s important to graduate in four years. It’s a good question and there are several reasons why I think it’s important to truly be a full-time student (15 or more credits per semester) and why it’s best to complete a degree, if possible, within four years.

Some students tell me that they are not in a hurry and it’s not unreasonable to ask “What’s the rush? What’s the hurry to get done in four years?”

The length of time it takes to earn your bachelor’s degree matters. No one should be deterred from seeking a college degree — no matter how long the process takes. But when there is a choice, being a full-time student taking 15-18 credits is the ideal.