Are you ready to embark on your academic journey and earn your Bachelor's degree at Vanguard University? It's an exciting time, and understanding the requirements is the first crucial step. Let's break down exactly what you'll need to do to cross that graduation finish line!
Step 1: Get to Know the Magic Number!
Did you know that every university has a "magic number" of units you need to complete to graduate? At Vanguard University, this number is a fundamental part of your academic plan. So, what's the big reveal?
The minimum number of units required to earn a Bachelor's degree at Vanguard University is 120 units.
This is a key piece of information you'll want to remember. While 120 is the minimum, some specific majors may require more units due to specialized coursework or accreditation requirements. It's essential to check the specific catalog for your chosen major.
Step 2: Understand the Components of Your Degree
Think of your degree as a puzzle with three main pieces: Core Curriculum, Major Requirements, and Electives. You need to complete all three to see the full picture.
Sub-heading: The Core Curriculum - Your Foundational Knowledge
The Core Curriculum, also known as General Education, is designed to provide you with a broad liberal arts education and to ground your studies in the Christian mission of Vanguard University. This is where you'll take classes in a variety of subjects, from English and math to theology and history.
Cornerstone and Capstone Courses: These courses, typically taken at the beginning and end of your academic career, help you acclimate to university life and then synthesize your learning before graduation.
Diverse Subject Areas: You'll be required to take courses in several categories, including:
English and Literature
Communication
History and Political Science
Fitness and Wellness
Mathematics
Theology (a significant component at Vanguard)
Social Sciences
Fine Arts
Science with a Lab
Sub-heading: Major Requirements - Your Area of Expertise
This is the heart of your degree! These are the units directly related to your chosen field of study, like Psychology, Business Administration, or Nursing. The number of units required for your major will vary, but you can expect it to be a significant portion of your total 120 units.
Upper-Division Units: A crucial requirement is completing a certain number of upper-division units (courses numbered 300 or higher). These are advanced courses in your major that you typically take in your junior and senior years. At Vanguard, you must have a minimum of 39 upper-division units to graduate.
Completing Half the Major at VU: It's also important to note that you must complete at least one-half of your academic major at Vanguard University. This is a common residency requirement for degree completion.
Sub-heading: General Electives - Your Path to Exploration
Electives are a fantastic opportunity to explore subjects outside of your major or to pursue a minor. These units give you the flexibility to take classes that interest you and round out your educational experience. The number of elective units you need will depend on how many units are required for your Core Curriculum and your Major.
Step 3: Consider Transfer Credits
Thinking about transferring to Vanguard? This is a great way to save time and money.
Sub-heading: How Transfer Credits Can Help
Vanguard University has clear guidelines for accepting transfer units.
Community College Units: You can transfer up to 70 units from a regionally accredited community college, as long as you earn a grade of "C-" or higher.
Four-Year Institutions: There is no maximum limit on the number of units you can transfer from a regionally accredited four-year institution, but you must still meet the residency requirements for your major and upper-division units.
Other Credits: Vanguard also accepts credits from nationally recognized testing organizations like AP, CLEP, and IB, as well as military service.
Pro-Tip: Check out Vanguard's Transfer Credit Quick Guide or use a tool like Transferology to see how your previous credits will apply!
Step 4: Stay on Track and Plan Your Course Load
To ensure you graduate in a timely manner, it's essential to work closely with your academic advisor.
Sub-heading: Full-Time vs. Part-Time Enrollment
Full-time enrollment for a traditional undergraduate student is 12 units per semester.
To graduate in four years, you would typically need to complete an average of 15 units per semester. This keeps you on pace to reach 120 units.
Sub-heading: The Importance of the Academic Catalog
The Vanguard University Academic Catalog is your ultimate resource. It provides detailed information on:
Course descriptions and prerequisites.
Suggested programs of study for all majors.
Academic policies and procedures.
It is absolutely vital to consult the catalog for your specific major and year of entry to confirm all requirements.
10 Related FAQ Subheadings
How to transfer units from a community college to Vanguard? You can transfer up to 70 baccalaureate-level units from a regionally accredited community college with a grade of "C-" or higher. It is recommended to use a tool like Transferology to see how your specific courses will transfer.
How to calculate my total required units? Your total required units will be the sum of your Core Curriculum units, Major Requirement units, and any remaining units needed to reach the 120-unit minimum (which will be filled with electives).
How to know if a course counts as an upper-division unit? Upper-division courses are typically numbered 300 or 400. You can confirm the course level by checking the course description in the academic catalog.
How to find the specific unit requirements for my major? Visit the Vanguard University Academic Catalog online, navigate to your major's program page, and you will find a detailed breakdown of the required units for the major, core curriculum, and electives.
How to get credit for AP or CLEP exams? Vanguard accepts credits from nationally recognized testing organizations like AP and CLEP. You will need to submit your official scores to the Registrar's Office for evaluation.
How to register for classes at Vanguard? You can register for classes online during designated registration periods. It is highly recommended to work with your academic advisor to select the right courses and stay on track with your degree plan.
How to complete the Christian Heritage and Christian World View courses? These courses are part of the required Theology Core Curriculum. CHIS-400C Christian Heritage can only be taken after completing at least 90 units, and THEO-300C Developing a Christian World View can only be taken after completing at least 60 units.
How to ensure I meet the residency requirement? To meet the residency requirement, you must complete at least 24 of your last 30 units and half of your major at Vanguard University.
How to apply for graduation? Once you are on track to complete all of your unit and course requirements, you will need to formally apply for graduation through the Registrar's Office. Be sure to check the application deadlines in the academic calendar.
How to get help with academic planning? Your assigned academic advisor is your best resource for academic planning. They can help you create a course plan, track your progress toward graduation, and answer any questions you have about unit requirements.
