LA GRANDE – Eastern Oregon University will launch a pilot program next fall that aims to help new students gain an upper hand in their college strategy.

Officials say the program – the Eastern Oregon Advantage – offers benefits including on-time graduation, fixed tuition rates, priority financial planning and career services support.

Jay Kenton, EOU’s interim president, is the driving force behind the new initiative.

“We’ve found that students want the ability to plan for their education,” Kenton said, “and by graduating in four years, they can be in the marketplace for employment sooner than most schools that require five or six years to finish.”

Any new student from Oregon, Idaho or Washington who applies as a freshman and enrolls on EOU’s main campus for fall 2015 is eligible to participate.

Eastern Advantage students will pay slightly more for tuition initially, but their rate is locked in to avoid any tuition increases implemented during their four years at the university.

Officials say students who know what major they want to pursue when they enroll have the most to gain. EOU will work with them to make sure the courses required for their degrees are available when they need them.

Participants also will receive individualized planning sessions on financing their education.

The promise of a degree in hand after four years could mean faster access to the job market, so the career services aspect ramps up when students become seniors. That will include help with conducting job searches and honing interview skills, creating resumes, preparing portfolios, and filling out graduate school applications.

Participants must maintain an acceptable grade point average, take the necessary number of credits each term and follow the university’s continuous enrollment policy are stipulations of the program. Summer term may be used to make up any missed credits.

Students also sign an agreement promising they will give back to the school after they graduate. Alumni can either donate to a scholarship fund to support future students, or contribute their time by assisting the alumni offices with recruitment activities.

“I’m not aware of any other schools that are doing this,” Kenton said. “There are similar programs out there, but we’re including financial aid and job placement services in addition to guaranteeing students will graduate in four years.”

For more information visit eou.edu/advantage or call the Admissions Office at 800-452-8639.