The Western Edge

The Western Edge is a strategic plan for promoting student success and keeping the quality of education offered by WMU affordable. Designed by WMU President John M. Dunn, the Western Edge reflects Western's commitment to building a culture that puts students first. There are five independent components to the Western Edge:

• Retention scholarship - students who maintain a 3.0 or better GPA and who earn 30 credits from WMU in their academic first year on campus will receive a $500 scholarship when they return the following fall to WMU. That financial incentive, coupled with the University's commitment to keep tuition affordable, helps support students to degree completion.
• Enhanced academic advising helps move students smoothly and quickly through their degree programs.
• The Graduation Compact helps to ensure courses are available when students need them to prevent delays in completing programs. Students can begin the process of signing up for the graduation compact by meeting with an academic advisor in their college academic advising office.
• Fixed room and board rates for up to four years for students who opt to stay in campus residence halls.
• Academic opportunities - a number of other for-credit opportunities will be offered to help students graduate with the skills and experience they need and will help keep them academically involved and excited about preparing for their future. These opportunities include internships, co-ops, and field experiences appropriate to the student's discipline.

Besides the graduation compact, students do not need to sign up for the Western Edge; the benefits are automatic just by being a WMU student. For any questions or comments about the Western Edge, please call (269) 387-2000, e-mail ask-wmu@wmich.edu, or the visit the Web site at www.wmich.edu/edge.