Why Polymath University's 3-Major Model Will Transform Higher Education - with Dan Futrell, Founder, Polymath University
It's YOUR time to #EdUp
In this episode, President Series #349, (Powered By Ellucian),
YOUR guest is Dan Futrell, Founder, Polymath University
YOUR host is Dr. Laurie Shanderson, Host, EdUp Accreditation Insights
This episode highlights the innovative approach to higher education at Polymath University, a new nonprofit institution designed to be interdisciplinary, apprenticeship-based, & debt-free.
Founder Dan Futrell shares his vision for a university that addresses both accessibility & effectiveness challenges in higher education through a unique model where students pursue three non-adjacent majors while working as apprentices with employer partners.
The conversation explores how Polymath's approach differs from traditional higher education by focusing primarily on instruction rather than facilities, athletics, or research.
Students will earn a bachelor's degree in three years through a year-round program with eight-week course blocks, developing breadth, depth, & integration across disciplines that prepares them to solve complex problems in an interdisciplinary way.
Polymath University demonstrates a compelling value proposition through its ROTC-inspired model for the private sector, where students work as paid apprentices with employers who cover the $9,500 annual tuition.
This partnership helps fill high-vacancy, high-demand roles while providing students valuable applied learning experiences & career pathways without debt.
The institution's early-stage development includes standalone remote courses beginning April 2025, a master's level certificate program launching Fall 2025, & plans for the full bachelor's degree program in 2028.
Futrell emphasizes the importance of finding both employer partners & faculty who prioritize teaching, coaching, & mentoring students
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