Prospective Students

Frequently Asked Questions

I want to apply to QUEST but I am not currently admitted the business, engineering or CMPS colleges, what should I do?

QUEST can only admit students who are currently admitted to one of these schools. If you have applied to one of these colleges and are waiting for acceptance, you can still apply to QUEST. however admission is contingent upon admission to one of these colleges. Please make sure to include an explanation in your application if you are in this situation.

How much of a time commitment is QUEST?

Like any academic program, you will need to prepare for and complete all QUEST coursework and group work. There are also additional enhancement programs that QUEST students are expected to attend throughout the semester. Effective time management is the key to success with all academics, and QUEST is no different. QUEST is a five course program that is completed over three years. We expect that you take one QUEST class each semester while you are in the program.

Can QUEST students participate in other academic, athletic and social programs at the University?

Absolutely! Many QUEST students also participate in Gemstone, Honors, Scholars, Greek Life, Community Service organizations, and social and academic clubs. We encourage students to explore and engage within all of their interests as undergraduates and we support their efforts to do so.

If I am admitted to QUEST, can I still graduate in four years?

Yes, QUEST is a five course program and some of the courses students complete for QUEST also fulfill major requirements. Again, time management is key for students. Most QUEST students graduate from a four year track.

Can sophomores apply to QUEST?

Sophomores can apply, however freshmen are encouraged to apply. QUEST is a three year program and it can be difficult for sophomores to complete QUEST requirements in under three years, and can take away from the community experience. Sophomores or transfer students who intend to stay at the University for an extra semester or additional year have a better chance at admission. The QUEST Selection Committee reviews all applications and makes determinations for admitting non-freshman.

Does QUEST help students with gaining scholarships and finding internships?

Many scholarship providers and employers contact QUEST specifically to recruit from our student base for opportunities. QUEST ensures that the communication about these opportunities is posted for students to resource. QUEST does not provide scholarships or place interns and employees with organizations.

QUEST is a three year program, do students work on a different project each year or is it a continual three year project?

Each project that QUEST student teams complete during class is a semester long. In each class, you are given a new and different project to complete. Some student teams opt to continue working on a QUEST project after the semester has ended because of their interest in taking the project to the next level. Sometimes they work on their own and sometimes they ask QUEST to help support the forward movement of the project.

What does QUEST look for in an applicant?

Students who are applying to QUEST should be motivated and enthusiastic individuals who have familiarized themselves with the program and who have a desire to engage in the type of learning that we focus on. This information is more specifically addressed at the QUEST Open Houses each spring semester.

Do the QUEST courses that are Honors (H) versions count toward a University Honors Citation?

Yes! You can count your QUEST "H" courses toward your University Honors Citation.

How many credits do you receive in QUEST and what do you receive upon graduation?

Including QUEST required courses and electives, students will complete 16 credits with QUEST. Upon meeting the course requirements and fulfilling the extracurricular requirements, students in QUEST will graduate with a QUEST citation.

How many students are accepted into the program each year?

QUEST accepts between 60 - 75 students annually. QUEST will accept approximately 60 students to cohort 16, this is the group of students who are currently applying to begin QUEST during fall 2008.