Hawk Advantage will launch in fall 2026, with the completion of the merger of Hillyer College with the College of Arts and Sciences. Hillyer is known for its personalized academic support; now, the University will be able to offer that support to even more students.
According to the Education Recovery Scorecard, as of spring 2024, the average U.S. student remained nearly half a grade level behind pre-pandemic achievement in math and reading, and students are even further behind in reading than they were in 2022. Hawk Advantage aims to tackle those challenges head-on.
“By offering the hallmarks of Hillyer College—smaller class sizes, dedicated study and writing centers, and additional academic support—more widely throughout the University, we are demonstrating our relentless commitment to student success,” says University of Hartford President Lawrence P. Ward. “While other institutions may scramble to determine how best to support students whose high school learning may have been affected by the pandemic, UHart has a framework already in place. Students and families are making a significant investment in their future, and we equally want to invest in them.”
Benefits of Hawk Advantage will include:
- Small class sizes (maximum of 15 students)
- Distinctive general education course sections
- Guidance from both a Hawk Advantage advisor and a First-Year Advisor from the Center for Student Success
- Access to a dedicated study center staffed by full-time staff and peer tutors
- Workshops focused on study strategies, time management, and effective learning
- A writing center led by faculty from UHart’s Department of English and Modern Languages
Students participating in Hawk Advantage are first admitted to their chosen school or college at UHart and may be selected to join Hawk Advantage based on their application. Students in specified majors who wish to enhance their skills can also opt in to the program.
“Through Hawk Advantage, we’re giving more students the structure and support to reach their full potential,” says Josie Brown, dean of Hillyer College and the College of Arts and Sciences. “Our goal is to help students gain confidence in their academic abilities while providing the community and resources to help them succeed. We’re committed to guiding students through every step of their academic journey.”