UNR degree is a feasible option

Earning a college degree requires a commitment of time, energy and resources and it is an investment that results in a strong return. Data has shown that, on average, a college degree increases one's lifetime earning potential by $1 million. A degree can open the door to new career options and strengthen the marketability of a job candidate. For many career paths, an advanced degree means an advanced career. Beyond career enhancement, the college experience is life enhancing: the acquisition of knowledge, exploration of new ideas and perspectives and development of analytical thinking skills are enriching experiences.

There are altruistic reasons to earn a degree as well. I was particularly inspired by the story of Chad Peters, who lives in Winnemucca, where he owns a business and coaches a junior high basketball team. Whether at the gym with his team or at the dinner table with his own young son, Chad is encouraging the kids in his life to set their sights on a college degree.

More than just setting an expectation, Chad is setting an example. He previously attended the University of Nevada, Reno, but left before completing his degree to run the family business. Now, 12 years later, he is re-enrolled at the university and is on course to graduate in May 2010. Chad says he wants to show his son and his team that it is important to finish what you start.

Flexible Course and Degree Options

If you have ever toyed with the idea of going or returning to college, now is the time. There are more course options than ever to allow today's students to overcome the challenge of a busy day or work schedule. Like Chad Peters, you may find that completing a degree is more feasible and convenient than you thought.

The University of Nevada features many online courses and more than 920 late-afternoon and evening offerings. We also offer independent learning: Many of these courses are offered through the university's division of Extended Studies, and more information is available at www.extendedstudies.unr.edu.

There are 14 degree programs available through the university that can be completed entirely by taking "after hours" classes:

* Eight undergraduate degrees: Art, Business,

Criminal Justice, English, General Studies,

Geography, Political Science and Psychology.

* Six graduate degrees: MBA Program, Master of

Public Administration Program, Master of

Accounting, MS in Educational Psychology, MS

in Finance and MS in Information Systems.

A new degree program, General Business, launched last year through our College of Business, is proving to be popular and convenient for busy and working students. This major offers great flexibility. Students can choose from a set of classes to determine a course schedule that fits their individual interests and life. Best of all, the General Business major serves as a gateway to the university's MBA program, which was ranked 17th in the country by Business Week magazine.

Affordability Resources

For those who need financial assistance to achieve the goal of a college degree, there are a number of resources available. (Parents of college students take note: these resources are open to your children just as they are open to you.)

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, better known as the economic stimulus package, expanded and extended important programs:

* Funding for Pell Grants increased. These grants are available to eligible, low-income students. For this academic year (2009-10), the largest possible Pell Grant will increase by $500 to $5,350. The new legislation also increased Pell funding to reach 800,000 more students, for a total of about 7 million Pell Grant recipients nationally.

* The Hope Scholarship tax credit was modified to provide expanded eligibility criteria and a larger claimable credit for two years. The new credit, known as the American Opportunity Tax Credit, allows eligible taxpayers to claim up to $2,500 per year on their 2009 and 2010 tax returns. Through the expanded eligibility, families with incomes up to $80,000 ($160,000 for joint filers) will qualify.

Here at the University of Nevada, Reno, we are proud to offer Pack Advantage, a financial aid program that covers the cost of tuition and books for Nevada residents who are Pell-Grant eligible, enrolled fulltime and completed the federal student financial aid application by the university's March 1 deadline. We also offer a deferred payment plan that allows tuition and fees to be paid in installments over the first eight weeks of the semester with no service charges.

There is always the option to take out a loan. You are making an investment in your future by achieving a college degree.

As for scholarships, start looking and completing applications early, far ahead of deadlines. Be sure to check with your employer, as some offer scholarships or tuition reimbursement programs.

For more information about financial aid and scholarships, visit www.finaid.unr.edu. If you are a veteran of any branch of the U.S. military, please contact the university's Veteran Services Office at 775-784-4700 to learn more about educational opportunities available through the G.I. Bill, including new resources through the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill that went into effect in August 2009.

Chart Your Future Today Earning a college degree is not for everyone. However, for those who are ready, prepared and motivated, it can be transformative. You will be helping to set the foundation for Nevada's future and you may just inspire someone in the next generation to do the same.

For more information, please visit www.unr.edu.

Shannon Ellis is vice president of Student Services at University of Nevada, Reno.