Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs

What is the history of Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs?

Whitworth University's Adult Degree Programs are part of Whitworth University, a private university in Spokane, Washington, rather than a separate institution. Whitworth began in 1890 as Sumner Academy in Sumner, Washington. It later operated in Tacoma, moved to Spokane in 1914 and changed its name from Whitworth College to Whitworth University in 2007.

The university's Presbyterian heritage remains part of its identity. Its adult-degree pathway serves students whose prior college study, employment and family responsibilities may make a conventional residential undergraduate schedule impractical. Applicants should distinguish the history and resources of the university as a whole from the particular courses and services available through the adult pathway.

What are the faculties and departments at Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs?

Whitworth's Adult Degree Programs draw on the university's academic offerings but are a narrower pathway than its full undergraduate catalog. Reported adult-program fields include business administration, accounting, liberal arts and teacher preparation. The precise majors, formats and start dates should be checked against the current adult-degree program listings before applying.

Across the university, academic work spans areas such as business, education, the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences. An adult applicant should compare the requirements of a specific major - not just its title - including upper-division courses, fieldwork or student teaching, and whether required classes are offered at times compatible with employment. Teaching credentials have additional state requirements beyond completion of a bachelor's degree.

What is the location of Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs?

Whitworth University is in Spokane, Washington; its main campus is on the city's north side. Adult-degree students should confirm the location and format of their particular courses, because access to a university campus does not mean every adult class meets there.

Spokane is a regional center for employment, healthcare and education. For students commuting after work, class meeting times, parking arrangements and travel between a job and any required in-person sessions may matter more than the residential-campus setting. Spokane International Airport serves the region, although most local students will make routine trips by car or public transit.

What is the mission and vision of Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs?

Whitworth describes its educational mission as providing an education of mind and heart within a Christian tradition. The university is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.); that affiliation is relevant to its stated values and campus programming, but it should not be mistaken for a requirement that every student share a particular faith.

For adult applicants, the practical question is how that mission appears in the curriculum: general-education requirements, opportunities for reflection and service, and any religious-study requirements that apply to a chosen degree. The adult-degree advisor and current catalog can clarify which university-wide requirements apply after transfer credits are evaluated.