Colleges exchange students programs

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LYNCHBURG, Va. (AP) -- Sweet Briar College and Virginia Tech have started an exchange program to allow undergraduates to study at the other school.

While the schools have had faculty research collaborations in the past, this is the first student exchange, said Jonathan Green, Sweet Briar's dean of the college.

Mr. Green said Sweet Briar students will have the advantage of choosing from a wide variety of classes available at a large school such as Virginia Tech, while visiting students to Sweet Briar likely will enjoy smaller classes.

David Ford, Virginia Tech's vice provost for academic affairs, said the exchange program is part of a strategic plan that includes developing relationships with other colleges in the state.

A maximum of 11 credit hours may be taken at each participating school.

"It's now officially in place. Now we just have to see if the students are going to take advantage of it," Mr. Green said.

The exchange is not unique.

Randolph-Macon Woman's College participates in the Seven College Exchange Program, which includes HampdenSydney College, Hollins University, Mary Baldwin College,Randolph-Macon College, Sweet Briar, and Washington and Lee University.

The program is designed primarily for juniors, but sophomores and seniors may also be considered for part-time study.

Sweet Briar President Elisabeth Muhlenfeld said she hopes Virginia Tech students will participate in what she called a "rare opportunity" at the private women's college.

"I know for students at an institution like that, there's no such thing as a classroom with eight to 10 students in it," she said.

Male Virginia Tech students wishing to participate in the program will work with Sweet Briar College officials to find appropriate housing off-campus.

Students will pay tuition and fees according to the college they are attending.

At Virginia Tech, that's $3,486 per semester for in-state residents. Tuition and fees at Sweet Briar College are $16,510 per semester.

"I think for many students, it's intellectually advantageous for them to be able to sample what's on the other side of the fence. This will allow them to do that," Mr. Green said.