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A Lifelong Learning Journey through Virginia Wesleyan University
From Traditional to Non-Traditional, Virginia Wesleyan University Opens Doors to Lifelong Learning
University News | October 5, 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Virginia Wesleyan University stands as a beacon, inviting learners of all ages and backgrounds to embark on a lifelong educational journey tailored to their unique needs and schedules. 
"Traditional students enter Virginia Wesleyan through the front door," says Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, professor of biology and dean of VWU Global Campus. "But there's a huge community around us that also needs affordable learning options. So we put out the welcome mat for non-traditional students at our back door."
Today, VWU caters to a diverse range of learners through its VWU Global Campus, seamlessly integrated with the university's academic program. This inclusive approach extends to online courses, evening classes, weekend sessions, international programs, early enrollment options, and non-credit courses, ensuring accessibility for all.
In 2015, Virginia Wesleyan University ushered in a new era of education under the leadership of then-new President Scott D. Miller. His vision introduced innovative learning paths such as early enrollment, online courses, graduate programs, and continuing education. The transformation culminated in 2017, with Virginia Wesleyan College becoming Virginia Wesleyan University, marking the expansion into online and graduate programs, including the esteemed Batten Honors College.
The following years brought even more milestones, including the introduction of the Westminster Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute, the collaborative campus in Tokyo known as Lakeland University Japan / VWU Global Campus, and the establishment of the David R. Black Institute for Professional Practice, encompassing all continuing education programs and partnerships with local entities like Virginia Beach Economic Development and the Virginia Beach Police Department.
The results of these initiatives speak volumes. In the 2022-23 academic year, 2,609 learners completed courses through the David R. Black Institute for Professional Practice, while the traditional College of Arts and Sciences enrolled 1,600 students. Altogether, over 4,200 learners of all ages embraced VWU's offerings across locations and formats.
VWU recognizes that the right educational path varies for each individual. Whether pursuing career-related certificate programs, no-cost professional development workshops, attending programs at retirement communities like Westminster-Canterbury, or completing university-level classes while in high school, VWU ensures a flexible and accommodating approach to learning. 
For working professionals like Emily Amland, VWU's online MBA program with its ten different concentrations provided the perfect fit. Amland expressed her relief at finding a program designed for full-time workers with years of experience, allowing her to advance her professional journey.
VWU extends its reach beyond typical boundaries, facilitating law enforcement professionals' educational advancement through a unique partnership with the Virginia Beach Police Department. By recognizing the value of police academy coursework, VWU provides credit towards associate's or bachelor's degrees, offering officers like Matt Thompson and T.X. Hughes the flexibility to balance their demanding careers with education.
Moreover, through VWU's David R. Black Institute for Professional Practice, similar programs are in development with other Coastal Virginia police and fire departments, underscoring the university's commitment to serving the community.
Traditional VWU students also reap the benefits of innovative partnerships. The university has established ten agreements offering early decisions, early admissions, or priority admissions for students aspiring to medical school, law school, divinity school, and other graduate programs not previously offered at Virginia Wesleyan.
In a testament to VWU's global reach, a creative international partnership with Lakeland University in Wisconsin resulted in the first VWU graduates from Japan. This partnership allowed students to complete their bachelor's degrees after graduating from the Tokyo campus's two-year program.
Addressing Coastal Virginia's shortage of K-12 teachers is another vital mission for VWU's David R. Black Institute of Professional Practice. Collaborating with Virginia Beach City Public Schools, VWU enables education majors to intern in local schools and work as paid substitutes. Additionally, the university supports working teachers in completing coursework required for licensed status.
Dr. Miller underscores the university's commitment to the community, emphasizing the importance of returning support to Coastal Virginia residents and organizations. He encourages corporate and municipal leaders to collaborate with VWU, ensuring that the university continues to provide tailored educational programs that meet the region's evolving needs.
As VWU paves the way for lifelong learning, the stories of its students and the impact of its partnerships serve as a testament to the transformative power of education. Through dedication and innovation, Virginia Wesleyan University remains a cornerstone of learning in Coastal Virginia.
(Portions of this article have been excerpted from the Fall 2023 edition of Virginia Wesleyan University magazine)