GREAT FALLS — Monday was the first day back to class for students and faculty at Great Falls College-MSU.
Classrooms are full, but physically distanced for face-to-face instruction. Masks or face shields are also required on campus.
"This is such an exciting day, something we planned for since last March to be honest, what we're we going to be doing in the fall. I just want to say it feels so good to have students back on campus,” said Dr. Susan Wolff, Great Falls College-MSU Dean and CEO.
Enrollment at two-year institutions tends to be delayed compared to four-year colleges due to the nature of the student population. Great Falls College MSU enrolled 72 students just last Friday, and student population may still grow for the fall semester.
"We're not going to be as strong as last fall, unless by the time concurrent enrollment and the second 8-week advantage, we may be even,” explained Dr. Wolff.
If students weren't able to join in classes now, the “8-Week Advantage” allows students to join in October as well.
"I think we've done remarkably well considering child care has been hard to find, people have had to adjust their jobs, right now we know the extra support for unemployment has been deceased, so we know a lot of changes are going on,” said Dr. Wolff.
Classes are underway a week early following recommendations from the state Commissioner of Higher Education to wrap up the semester before Thanksgiving.
Click here for information at the school website about the 8-Week Advantage program.
