Webster University Named a Designated 'Teach-Out' Partner with Fontbonne University

Webster University has been named a “teach-out institution” for Fontbonne University students to consider as they navigate the many uncertainties they face with the imminent closure of their college. As a “teach-out institution,” Fontbonne students will be able to transfer all their completed course credits to Webster and pay similar or lower out-of-pocket costs while they complete their degrees on time.

Fontbonne announced earlier this year that it would close in the summer of 2025 and announced a “teach-out” plan. “Teach-out” partnerships offer students more protection and a more seamless transition process than if a student followed a traditional path of transferring between institutions. While the goal of a “teach-out” plan is to offer a seamless transition for Fontbonne students and families, Webster aspires to further enrich their experience through offerings unique for Webster students.  

“Student and learning centeredness have always been among the key values of Webster University. We provide unique educational experiences that positions our students as leaders within their respective fields,” said Webster University President Julian Z. Schuster. “Along with ease of access and continued focus on a timely completion, Webster is focused on the students continued success long after their first job. As the demands on students and future graduates are constantly growing, we offer many robust services, such as the Reeg Academic Center, career advising and numerous partnerships with local industries to help students find internships or explore job opportunities after graduation.”

As Fontbonne students explore options for where to continue their academic journey, they will find many opportunities at Webster align with Fontbonne offerings. Fontbonne students in 29 majors, ranging from business administration and psychology to Webster’s MBA and master’s in education programs, can take advantage of Webster’s “teach-out” agreement as the programs at both institutions are similar.

“Students are always at the center of all we do, and Webster has a rich history of helping students find a way to earn the education they need and desire to build their future,” said Webster University Vice President of Enrollment Management Lisa Blazer. “Our heart goes out to the Fontbonne community. We empathize with students and families while they navigate the decisions for where to continue their degree. Our admissions, financial aid and academic affairs staff are here to answer any questions and navigate every step of the transfer process. We are confident that Fontbonne students will experience a similar place of community, connection and academic excellence that they experienced at Fontbonne.”

Beyond a robust list of exceptional academic programs and support resources, there are other parallels that may appeal Fontbonne students to Webster:

• Both are in the St. Louis area and are located within a few miles of each other and off the same road (Big Bend Boulevard). This would reduce the need for students to relocate.
• Both are NCAA Division III schools, which gives athletes the ability to continue playing at the same level that they previously had, including in the same athletic conference.
• Both have robust campus activities with a diverse selection of clubs and organizations.
• Both value diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
• Both have close-knit campuses where there is a sense of community and connection among students, faculty and staff.

When Fontbonne announced their decision to phase out of some of their academic programs, Webster was able to support some student transition at that time. Webster University and Fontbonne are both accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, so the program parameters align, which makes it easier for students to transfer credits between the two. The accreditation by HLC for both institutions is one of several reasons why Webster was selected as a “teach-out institution” for Fontbonne.

To learn more about Webster’s agreement with Fontbonne and to see a full list of all degree programs included, visit Webster’s Teach-Out site.