A graphic depicting happy and smiling students who have emotional intelligence in college.

Let’s talk about emotional intelligence, also called EI, EQ, or emotional maturity. In short, it’s the ability to understand and handle our own emotions and navigate the feelings of those around us. Emotional intelligence in college is a pretty big deal. Have you ever wondered why some college students seem to breeze through academics and social life while others struggle to find their groove? Could there be some hidden factor at play? Maybe. Emotional intelligence shapes how we connect with others, influences our decisions, and seriously impacts our overall well-being.

Emotional life is a domain that, as surely as math or reading, can be handled with greater or lesser skill, and requires its unique set of competencies. And how adept a person is at those is crucial to understanding why one person thrives in life while another, of equal intellect, dead-ends: emotional aptitude is a meta-ability, determining how well we can use whatever other skills we have, including raw intellect.


Daniel Goleman-Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ

So, how can you level EI to really shine in college?  This article will explore the relationship between college success and emotional intelligence. We’ll define emotional intelligence and why it’s so beneficial. Plus, we’ll give you some tips on how to get better at it so you can be successful at college and beyond. 

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is basically knowing how to deal with your own feelings and understanding what others are going through. If you have EI, you have a toolkit of skills that can help you handle the ups and downs of college life.

When you’re in tune with yourself and others, you’re able to keep your cool, show empathy, and make meaningful connections with people. These things all work together to make life smoother. This is true whether you’re dealing with school stuff, friends, family, or just everyday drama.

Unlike IQ, with its nearly one-hundred-year history of research with hundreds of thousands of people, emotional intelligence is a new concept. No one can yet say exactly how much of the variability from person to person in life’s course it accounts for. But what data exist suggest it can be as powerful, and at times more powerful, than IQ.

Daniel Goleman-Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ

Emotional Intelligence Benefits for Students

In college, emotional smarts can make a big difference in how well you do in class, how you grow personally, and how happy you are in general. So, it’s no surprise that learning to develop these skills can really level up your college game. From dealing with annoying roommates to acing difficult exams without having a meltdown, emotional maturity can make all the difference. Next, we’ll talk about five key pillars of emotional intelligence.

1. Developing Self-Awareness and Empathy

One of the most important EI skills for college students is being self-aware. Emotional intelligence in college does not come without self awareness. Do you understand your own feelings, thoughts, and actions? If you don’t, you’re not alone. Many people lack self-awareness. But it can be learned. Another way to cultivate EI is to develop empathy for others. Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes to really understand how they feel.

Getting to Know Yourself

Getting to know yourself involves discovering what makes you tick and why you react to stuff the way you do. For many people, this is no easy task. They would rather shut their eyes to the more challenging aspects of their personality. But if you can master self-awareness, you’ll have a valuable skill that will benefit you throughout life. Here are some easy ways to work on it:

  • Journaling: Grab a notebook and start scribbling down your thoughts and feelings. You don’t need to be grammatically correct or have perfect handwriting. Just get it all out on paper so you can start to see your patterns and triggers. This will give you some insights into why you do what you do.
  • Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves staying in the moment. It’s like giving your brain a break and focusing on what is happening here and now. You can practice mindfulness by meditating, taking deep breaths, or just chilling. It’s like hitting the mental reset button to help you feel more calm and centered. 
  • Getting Feedback: Usually, the people who know us the best can see stuff about us that we miss. Chat with your friends, family, or mentors and ask for some honest feedback. And try to listen to that feedback without being too defensive or thin-skinned. 
A graphic explaining self-awareness vs. empathy to illustrate emotional intelligence in college

Empathy: Understanding Others

If you have empathy, you can build better connections with those around you. It’s like a built-in radar for picking up on how others are feeling and being there to support them. Some people (you know who you are) are born with this radar. Others have to work at it. No matter what skill level you’re at, here are some activities you can do to foster empathy:

  • Practice active listening: When someone is talking to you, give them your full attention. Often, we are already focused on what we are going to say next before the other person is even done talking. Showing genuine interest in the thoughts and feelings of another is the key to active listening. 
  • Explore culture and diversity: Attend cultural events and activities to learn about different traditions and ways of doing things. Introduce yourself and begin to build relationships with people from all walks of life. This one action alone can broaden your understanding of different experiences and give you brand-new perspectives.
  • Engage in random acts of kindness (RAOK): RAOK refers to spontaneous, selfless gestures to bring joy, comfort, or support to others. They are meant to be done with no expectation of getting something in return. Random acts of kindness can range from small, everyday deeds like holding the door open for someone to more significant acts such as volunteering or community service. Once you begin practicing RAOK, you’ll be hooked! Check out the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation for some amazing ideas. 

2. Building Effective Communication Skills

Effective communication skills are essential to improving emotional intelligence in college. They enable you to express yourself clearly and understand others more effectively. But good communication skills are also indispensable for personal growth and career advancement after graduation. Here are some techniques to enhance your verbal communication:

Verbal Strategies

Use clear and concise language: Avoid using jargon or overly complicated language. Instead, strive to communicate in a straightforward and transparent manner that is easily understood by others. People appreciate simplicity and honesty. In the words of George S. Patton, “Say what you mean and mean what you say.”

Adapt your communication style: Recognize that different people and situations may call for adjustments in your communication style. For example, you wouldn’t converse with your five-year-old nephew the same way you talk with your professors. Learn to adapt to your audience to improve interpersonal connections.

Practice active listening: We already covered this when discussing empathy, but it’s important enough to repeat. When someone else is talking, pay attention. Actively engage in conversations by focusing on the speaker, maintaining eye contact, and nodding to show understanding.

 And so I had him thinking of me as a good conversationalist when, in reality, I had been merely a good listener and had encouraged him to talk.

Dale Carnegie
A graphic of a person crossing their arms with a list of ways people communicate non-verbally to illustrate skills to help with emotional intelligent in college.

Non-Verbal Strategies

Non-verbal communication also plays a huge role in establishing connections. Often, they shout louder than spoken words can whisper. Consider the following strategies to enhance your non-verbal communication skills: 

Pay attention to body language: Paying attention to body language can give you additional cues about a person’s feelings and intentions. For instance, if someone crosses their arms and avoids eye contact during a conversation, it could signal that they feel defensive or closed off. Similarly, if someone is leaning in and nodding while you speak, they are most likely engaged and receptive to what you are saying. 

Be aware of facial expressions: Along with body language, facial expressions can say a lot about how you (and others) are feeling. If your expressions aren’t appropriate to the situation, misunderstandings can result. If you’re grinning during a serious talk, it might seem like you’re not taking it seriously. And if you’re frowning when everyone’s joking around, it could give off the wrong vibe.

By recognizing these nonverbal signals, you can adjust your approach to make the other person feel more comfortable and open to communication. 

Few realize how loud their expressions really are. Be kind with what you wordlessly say.

Richelle E. Goodrich

3. Cultivating Good Relationships with Other Students at College

Late-night study sessions, dorm room parties, and joining clubs and organizations are all part of college life. They also have one thing in common: they involve other students. While these experiences can be memorable, they give you a sense of belonging and help you form positive relationships with others. Emotional intelligence in college can be developed far easier when students have strong relationships with their peers.

Why Is Building Strong Relationships with Other Students So Important?

The perks of hanging out with other students are pretty sweet. Making friends can make you feel more at home and confident at college, and having buddies to lean on can really help when things get tough. Plus, being tight with your classmates can also boost your grades. Research shows that students who feel connected to their peers are more likely to show up to class, join in discussions, and ask for help when they need it. So, what are some of the best ways to connect with other college students and build positive relationships?

Be Approachable

Being approachable means being friendly, open, and easy to talk to. An approachable student is the kind of person who smiles and says hi to people, listens when others talk, and makes an effort to include everyone.

On the flip side, an unapproachable student might come across as distant or disinterested. They might keep to themselves, avoid eye contact, or seem uninterested in talking to others. 

Join Clubs and Societies

Checking out a club or group that matches your interests is a cool way to connect with people who are into the same activities. These groups are about sharing what you love with others and can help you pick up new skills and make connections.

There are clubs and groups for all kinds of interests—music, drama, art, politics, community service, science, religion, language, comedy, gaming—you get the picture. There’s something for everyone! These groups usually host events, have meetings, and hold fundraisers, which give students chances to hang out with each other and get involved in the community.

Check out Sports and Recreation Groups

Playing sports or engaging in competitions is a great way to make friends with other students. It helps you work as a team and bond with others. Plus, it’s a great way to get active and stay in shape. 

Most campuses have a wide range of sports and activities you can try, such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, hiking, and yoga. Many colleges also have sports leagues where students can compete in a supportive and friendly environment.

Get Involved in Peer-to-Peer Learning

Another way to connect with your classmates is by bonding over your shared academic interests. This means teaming up with your peers to tackle course materials and concepts together. Peer learning can happen in different ways, like group projects, study groups, giving feedback to each other, or just talking about the stuff you’re learning. 

When you work together, you can really grasp the course materials better and pick up new ideas from each other. This can create a supportive vibe where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and getting feedback. And if there’s no group or study session for what you’re into, why not start one yourself?

Seek and Offer Guidance

One of the best ways to make friends with other college students is to ask for their advice. You can do this by getting help with your schoolwork, talking about personal stuff, or just having a casual chat. Students willing to share what they know can be really helpful to those just getting started.

Another way to make friends with other students is to offer YOUR guidance to THEM. You can be a mentor and help others figure out the ups and downs of college life. Mentoring can happen in different ways, like tutoring, coaching, or just being a good listener.

A graphic that discussing how to improve emotional intelligent in college if you are an introvert

Dealing with Conflicts and Misunderstandings

Misunderstanding and conflict are just part of having relationships. But for those who struggle with handling emotions, these situations can feel catastrophic. Although it may seem awkward, dealing with them right away is essential so they don’t get worse and mess up the relationship. Learning how to resolve conflicts is a big deal for college students, and it’ll also help you out in your work, personal, and domestic life. So, getting the hang of it now can make all your relationships smoother later on. Here are some tips to help you out:

Listen Up: When you’re having a conversation, really listen to what the other person is saying and try to get where they’re coming from. This can help avoid misunderstandings and show that you care about their point of view.

Speak Your Mind: It’s important to say how you feel in a way that’s not confrontational. Instead of pointing fingers at them, use “I” statements to explain how their actions made you feel. A few examples of “I” statements include:

  • “I feel disappointed when promises are not kept.”
  • “I feel frustrated when I’m interrupted while speaking.”
  • “I feel ignored when my opinions are dismissed.”

Find Common Ground: Look for things you both agree on. This can help lay the groundwork for working things out. Be ready to find a middle ground and come up with a solution that works for both of you.

Apologize When You’re Wrong: For many people, “sorry” is one of the hardest words to say. But sometimes, an apology is in order. When you say sorry, show that you understand how your actions affected the other person and ask them how you can make it right.

Forgive and Forget: Forgiveness means letting go of anger and hard feelings toward the other person. It doesn’t mean you have to forget what happened, but that you’re willing to move on and work on fixing the relationship.

Setting Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries serve as guidelines that define what is acceptable and what is not in terms of behavior, communication, and personal space. Every individual has their unique set of boundaries, which define their comfort levels and personal limits. Recognizing that everyone has the right to their boundaries is crucial in fostering healthy relationships in college.

Determine Your Personal Boundaries:

A graphic about personal boundaries to illustrate a skill for emotional intelligence in college

By setting and enforcing your own personal boundaries, you can ensure that your relationships are respectful and supportive. How do you go about setting healthy boundaries? Here are some practical strategies to consider:

  • Reflect on your values and needs: Take the time to understand your own values, needs, and limits. This self-reflection will help you identify what is important to you and what you require from your relationships.
  • Communicate assertively: Clearly express your boundaries to others in a respectful and assertive manner. Be honest about your limits and expectations, using “I” statements to avoid sounding accusatory or confrontational.
  • Be consistent: It’s essential to consistently uphold the boundaries you set. This means firmly but kindly reminding others of your limits and not allowing them to be crossed.
  • Recognize red flags: Pay attention to any signs of disrespect or disregard for your boundaries. If someone constantly ignores or violates your limits, it may be necessary to reevaluate the relationship.

Respect Other People’s Boundaries

Having healthy boundaries is a two-way street. When it comes to your college relationships, you also need to respect other students’ boundaries. The foundation of any successful and fulfilling relationship lies in mutual respect and understanding. By acknowledging and honoring the boundaries of others, you can create an environment that fosters trust, open communication, and emotional well-being.

4. Handling Stress and Building Resilience

Stress in college is like a snowball effect, right? First comes the burnout – staying up all night to cram for tests or finish papers. Then anxiety creeps in with thoughts like “Will I pass?” or “Am I good enough?” And if you don’t learn how to manage these emotions, depression might be next on the list. Not fun at all! Hence, it’s vital to master the art of bouncing back from adversity. Having a toolbox full of stress-handling tools can make a big difference when dealing with the intense demands and challenges thrown at you by college life. 

Understanding Stress and Its Impact

A graphic that lists some of the major stressors in college for a section that discusses stress-relieving skills for emotional intelligent in college.

Stress and anxiety in college can stem from all kinds of sources. These may include academic pressure, high workload, deadlines, financial concerns, social expectations, and adjusting to a new environment. The surge of obligations and obstacles can rattle your mental stability and physical energy. It muddles up your memory and screws with your decision-making skills, which can make academics a real struggle. It also throws off your sleep schedule and can make you lose your appetite. Your mood takes a hit, too, leaving you feeling down overall – not exactly the best for being at the top of your game. 

Coping Strategies for Building Resilience

Resilience is basically about bouncing back when life throws you a curveball. Resilient people can handle tough stuff, adapt to changes, and keep going even when things get rough. Everyone has challenges and setbacks. But those with high EI have resilience, so it doesn’t knock them down for too long. Want to learn how to roll with the punches and come back stronger on the other side? Here are some strategies and coping skills that can help:

Develop a support network: Surround yourself with friends, family, mentors, or support groups. We all need people who can provide emotional support and practical advice during challenging times.

A graphic of a female college student meditating to illustrate some stress-relieving EI skills for college students.

Focus on self-care: Too many students push themselves to exhaustion and experience burnout. To avoid this, you absolutely must prioritize your well-being. Don’t skip meals. Take the time to nourish yourself with healthy, nutritious food. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. And don’t skimp on sleep – make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye to tackle your day.

Get your body moving: Exercise helps you chill out by releasing natural mood lifters called endorphins. At the same time, it dials down stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. It’s a double whammy that leaves you relaxed and rejuvenated.

Practice mindfulness: Being mindful brings you back to the present moment and helps you manage your thoughts and emotions. Whether through focused breathing, meditation, or pausing to notice your surroundings, mindfulness is your superpower for dealing with stress. 

Have fun: If you’re stressed and don’t know why, you may simply not be enjoying your life enough. Having fun is a fantastic way to kick stress to the curb. Go to the movies, hang out with friends, play a favorite sport, or dive into a hobby you love. Doing things that bring you joy can work wonders for your stress levels. When you’re having a good time, your mind gets a break from whatever’s been weighing on you. Even if you feel too busy, never underestimate the power of a little downtime.

Manage your time: Prioritize tasks, create a schedule, and break down assignments into manageable chunks. Effective time management can go a long way in alleviating your stress. If you’re feeling too overwhelmed to get started, there are many helpful planner apps to help you stay organized in college

A graphic that discusses how students can have emotional intelligent in college by sharpening their skills

5. Mental Health Support When Needed

College life is exciting, challenging, and everything in between! So, it’s totally normal to experience a range of emotions during this time. However, it’s essential to recognize the signs of emotional distress and seek help when needed. Don’t forget, you’re not on this journey solo – reaching out is an act of bravery. Emotional intelligence in college is easier to find when you know you’re not alone.

I increasingly see students these days (PhD students I supervise, PhD students I observe and Masters students I observe) who have poor mental health.

It is, perhaps, the single most important factor that can make students struggle to succeed in their studies.

Stephen Westland-Professor of Color Science at University of Leeds

Spotting Emotional Distress Signals

 A graphic depicting a female student in emotional distress to illustrate the importance of EI for college students.

Understanding when you’re not feeling right emotionally can be tricky. But if stress and anxiety are taking over your life, or if you find yourself constantly down or overwhelmed – it’s time to pay attention. These could be signs that help is needed, and there’s nothing wrong with asking for it. What are some telltale symptoms of emotional distress?

  • Feeling totally swamped and overwhelmed
  • Finding it hard to focus on anything.
  • Not having an appetite or having trouble sleeping
  • Being super cranky or feeling on edge all the time.
  • Feeling anxious or fearful, sometimes even out of the blue
  • Not wanting to hang with your friends
  • Feeling sad and hopeless much of the time
  • Losing interest in things that used to be awesome
  • Dealing with random headaches, tummy troubles, or weird aches and pains that don’t make sense. 

These signs can vary from person to person. You may have several of the symptoms on this list or just one or two. But if you do, don’t brush it off. They may all be red flags pointing toward mental health issues that need addressing ASAP. Thoughts about hurting yourself shouldn’t be ignored either. If you’re noticing these signs in yourself or a friend, immediately reach out for help and talk to a pro about what’s happening.

Utilizing Campus Resources

Most colleges have got your back when it comes to mental health support. They’ve got counseling centers, support groups, and connections to mental health pros to help you out. If you’re not sure where to start, hit up your college’s counseling center – they can hook you up with information on what’s available and help you get set up with the right support. And remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. It’s an emotionally intelligent and positive move for your well-being and your academic success. 

A graphic that discusses how students lacking emotional intelligent in college are more prone to dropping out of school.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emotional Intelligence

What are some tips for college students who want to be emotionally intelligent?

To boost your emotional intelligence, start by getting to know yourself better and understanding your emotions. Work on managing your feelings and reactions and try to see things from other people’s perspectives to improve your empathy. It’s also important to brush up on your people skills, like communicating well and being a good listener. 

What are some common traits of highly emotionally intelligent people?

Highly emotionally intelligent people are great at understanding and managing their own emotions. They’re also skilled at empathizing with others and have strong interpersonal skills, such as communication and conflict resolution. They tend to be adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges and are good at building and maintaining positive relationships.

Do highly intelligent people lack emotional intelligence?

It depends. While highly intelligent people might excel in cognitive abilities, they may not always prioritize or develop strong emotional intelligence. The skills related to emotional intelligence are separate from those of cognitive intelligence. So, it’s possible for someone to be highly intelligent yet still have room to grow more emotionally intelligent.

Can emotional intelligence be measured?

Yes. There are many different assessments and tests designed to evaluate different aspects of emotional intelligence, such as self-awareness, empathy, social skills, and emotional regulation. These measurements can provide insights into a person’s strengths and areas for growth.

What are some good examples of emotional intelligence?

Examples of emotional intelligence include staying calm under pressure, resolving conflicts by understanding others’ perspectives, showing empathy and support to friends in need, communicating assertively but respectfully, and adapting to different social situations while maintaining a positive attitude. 

Why is emotional intelligence important for college students?

Emotional intelligence helps students handle the stress of academics, build strong relationships with peers and professors, and navigate the ups and downs of college life. It also plays a big role in decision-making, communication, and managing emotions, all of which are crucial for success in both personal and academic aspects of college.

Do people become more emotionally intelligent as they get over?

Usually. Through self-awareness, practice, and learning from experiences, people can become more emotionally intelligent over time. As individuals navigate various life situations, they often develop a deeper understanding of their emotions and how to manage them effectively, contributing to an overall increase in emotional intelligence.

tech essentials

Technology is an integral part of college life. From taking notes and staying organized to maximizing productivity and accessing information, there are countless tech essentials, including gadgets and apps, to enhance your college experience. Whether you’re a freshman embarking on your college journey or a current student looking to upgrade your tech arsenal, we’ll guide you through the must-have apps and gadgets every college student should consider. You’ll learn how to:

  • Choose the best laptop and accessories for college.
  • Stay organized with digital tools and apps.
  • Explore learning apps that can boost your academic performance.
  • Utilize tools to increase productivity and manage your time.
  • Safeguard your sensitive information with data security tools.

College life can be hectic, with a never-ending stream of deadlines, assignments, and commitments. But these college tech essentials will keep you on top of your game. Read on to make the most of your college years with these apps and tech tools for students.


Choosing a Reliable Laptop and Accessories

tech essentials

Laptops and accessories top our list of must-have gadgets for students. These are the first—and most essential—tools you’ll need for college since the vast majority of the curriculum and resources you’ll need are online. When shopping for the best college laptop, keep four things in mind: portability, battery life, performance, and affordability.

Portability

Portability is an important factor for college students looking for a laptop. You’ll be hauling it around campus to classes, libraries, and study groups, so it should be lightweight and easy to transport. 

If you intend to pursue your degree online, portability may be less of a priority. However, if you’re enrolling in a blended or hybrid program where you must travel to campus periodically, opt for slim and compact laptops that fit comfortably in your bag without adding unnecessary weight.

Battery Life

As a college student constantly on the move, having a laptop with long battery life is essential. You don’t want to be tethered to a power outlet or constantly searching for one during classes or study sessions. Look for laptops with extended battery life to keep you productive throughout the day.

Performance

Performance is the most crucial consideration when selecting a laptop for college. If you opt for a cheap, low-performing device, your computer will be slow and glitchy, making your academic journey harder than it needs to be. A laptop with sufficient processing power and RAM ensures smooth operation. So, you should shop for laptops with adequate processors and ample memory to handle your tasks effortlessly.

  • RAM: Cheap laptops start at 4GB of RAM. This is alright for browsing the web and writing an essay, but most experts recommend that college laptops have at least 8GB of RAM. This will be sufficient for running a few programs simultaneously, like completing an assignment while conducting research and listening to music, for example. However, if you are a multitasker who also uses your laptop for work, complex spreadsheets, creating graphics, gaming, etc., you should look for one with at least 16 (or even 32) GB.
  • Processor: An Intel Core i3 or i5 or an AMD A-series A6 or AMD A8 should be adequate for a processor. But again, this all depends on your area of study. Suppose you’re a graphic design student or you’re majoring in video or film projection. In such cases, you may benefit from a higher-level processor like an Intel Core i7 or AMD A10 processor.

As you might expect, laptops with more RAM and higher-level processors also come with a higher price tag, which leads us to our final consideration—your budget.

Cost

If you’re like most college students, you’ll likely need to consider your budget when selecting the best technology for college life. It’s important to manage your money wisely at this stage of the game. So while opting for high-end laptops is tempting, you will probably do just fine with a mid-range machine. 

It’s crucial to find a balance between performance and affordability. First, set a budget. Ask yourself what you can reasonably afford. Then, explore laptops that offer the best value for your investment. 

Many big tech companies offer discounts to college students. For example, Apple, Dell, and Microsoft typically offer at least a 10% student discount. There are also a few colleges that offer free laptops to enrolled students.

Now that we’ve covered choosing the right laptop for college, let’s delve into a few key accessories you might want to invest in.

Laptop Accessories for College Students

You’ll likely need a few accessories to help you get the most out of your device. As with choosing a laptop, you’ll want to determine your budget beforehand. Then, look for the highest-quality products within your price range. 

Portable Laptop Charger: Depending on your device’s battery life, a portable charger can come in handy. Running out of juice during class is not fun. There are hundreds of laptop chargers to choose from. Most experts recommend you look for one that has at least 20,000mAh (milliamps per hour) or 60Wh. 

USB-C Hub: Some newer laptops don’t have many ports, which can pose a problem for those attached to their wired mice, keyboards, external hard drives, etc. A USB-C hub will ensure you have plenty of extra ports anytime you need them. Some hubs also include Ethernet, HDMI, and USB-A ports. So, take stock of your needs and choose a hub that will work for all your favorite gear. 

Laptop Privacy Screen: If you’re big into privacy (and even if you’re not), having someone nosing around you to see what you’re doing online is downright irritating. If you plan on using your computer in an airport, the school cafeteria, a coffee shop, or any other crowded place, you’ll want a laptop privacy screen. They are relatively inexpensive and will keep shoulder surfers from invading your personal space. 

External Hard Drive: Not all students will need additional storage. But for those working on audio or video projects, it’s likely. An SSD (solid state drive) or external hard drive is necessary if you want to save certain projects. The best part is you can find an external hard drive small enough to carry around in your laptop bag without adding much extra bulk or weight. 

Noise-Canceling Headphones: College campuses can be noisy, with distractions ranging from chatter in the library to construction outside your dorm. Noise-canceling headphones can help you block out these distractions.  EdTech asked students at colleges from all over the country a simple question. “If your university were to provide you with one piece of technology, what would you choose?” The most popular answer was—you guessed it—noise-canceling headphones. Headphones can help you create your own calm student environment without being disturbed by everything else that’s happening. 

Plus, with so many remote classes and online degree programs, many students are completing their assignments from home. Noise-canceling headphones can help them block out household noises so they can focus on their studies. 

Backpack: The last item on our list of tech gear for university students is a backpack. You’ll need something to hold your laptop, accessories, and other gear you have to schlep around campus. There are many excellent tech backpacks for college students, some with bells and whistles like built-in USB charging ports, hidden pockets, and even password-protected locks. But before you start shopping, nail down the specific features you’ll need. 

First, consider what you’ll be carrying. This will help you determine what size backpack to purchase. You’ll also want to consider comfort and support. Features like padded shoulder straps, waist belts, etc., can distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your back. Finally, the backpack should be made of durable, waterproof material to withstand inclement weather and daily wear and tear. 

College Organization Apps: Keeping Your Life in Order

tech essentials

College life is typically pretty hectic, with a never-ending stream of deadlines, assignments, and commitments. But there are some tech essentials that will effortlessly help you stay organized and on top of your game. The best organization apps are designed to help you streamline your schedule, manage tasks, and ensure you never miss a beat.

One of the top tools for staying organized is a college planner. You need somewhere to keep track of your class schedules and make a note of important dates. The idea is to create a centralized hub for all your academic and personal tasks. You can go the old-school route and opt for a physical planner or download one of these handy apps to handle the task. 

Notion

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

Are you super detail-oriented? Do you love the idea of a highly customizable planner with tons of features? Notion is an all-in-one productivity app that is ideal for detail-oriented folks. It allows you to customize workspaces to organize your schedule, projects, assignments, extracurricular activities, and anything else you’ve got on your plate. 

With Notion, you can create a weekly planner, a semester overview, task lists, and more. It also doubles as an excellent note-taking tool and lets you collaborate with your classmates for studying or group projects.

You can unleash your creativity and design a student planner tailored specifically to your life or choose from hundreds of pre-made templates created by students just like you. There are both free and premium versions. However, students can associate their accounts with their school email addresses and get the Notion Plus plan for free! 

I use Notion for storing notes from courses, saving articles with the clipper, journaling my thoughts, storing projects and ideas, and creating lists for shopping/food/travel. For me, it’s my life hub; it’s always loaded on my computer and ready for me to type on.

EducationalRat-College Student From the Notion Community on Reddit

Google Calendar 

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

If you want to keep things simple, consider sticking with Google Calendar. This popular and effective planning app is a favorite among college students. Here’s why: For starters, it’s free. There are no upgrades to access more features, so you can use all of them right from the get-go. It’s also user-friendly, with a clean interface that integrates seamlessly with other Google apps.

Google Calendar is accessible across all devices, so you can manage your schedule from anywhere. You simply input your class schedules into the app and color-code them, ensuring a clear overview of your daily and weekly commitments. You can also set reminders for upcoming events, classes, or deadlines to help you stay on top of things. And if you’re naturally forgetful, you can even automatically email yourself your agenda each morning.

Another excellent feature is the ability to coordinate schedules. You can share your schedule with other Google users. If you live with others or have a busy family, this can help you coordinate your schedules so you don’t miss any important dates or special events. 

Power Planner

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

Does college life feel overwhelming and chaotic? This next planning App will come to your rescue. Power Planner is a mobile and web-based app designed to help students organize their academic lives. Because it is designed specifically for the college environment, this app can help you track your academic responsibilities and stay on top of your studies. 

Power Planner allows you to input your class schedules, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments, providing a centralized view of your daily, weekly, and monthly schedules. You can also use it to store and organize course-related information, including syllabi, instructor contact details, and course materials. 

The app has some unique features that set it apart from others in this category. First, it lets you track your assignments, homework, and projects. You can set due dates, prioritize tasks, and receive reminders to avoid missing deadlines. The other unique feature is the grade tracking function. The app lets you input your course grades, monitor your GPA, and set academic goals to stay motivated and focused. If you’re feeling swamped, Power Planner is one of the best student planning apps to help you gain control over your time and commitments.

Power Planner is free unless you want to add more than one semester or five grades to each class. In that case, there is an upgrade of just $1.49 for the premium plan.

Key Takeaway: Apps like Notion, Power Planner, and Google Calendar turn chaos into order, making sure you’re on top of notes and deadlines. With these tools, stress less over class materials and assignments. They’re your digital sidekicks for a smoother college journey.

Study Apps for Students: Boosting Your Academic Performance

tech essentials

When it comes to studying, having the right tools can make all the difference. These tech essentials are study apps that are designed to help you optimize your learning process and transform your study sessions into productive and enjoyable experiences.

With these apps, you can study anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re waiting for a bus or taking a break between classes, they allow you to make the most of every spare moment. Gone are the days of carrying around bulky textbooks or stacks of flashcards. Now, all you need is your smartphone or tablet, and you have a portable study companion.

Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence.

Abigail Adams

Quizlet 

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

Our current favorite study app is Quizlet. This award-winning online learning platform offers a variety of study tools and resources to help students master any academic subject. The free version allows you to access interactive diagrams, practice questions, flashcards, and other activities. However, the upgrade for this app is truly impressive and well worth the price—just 2.99 a month with a yearly subscription. What does that get you?

  • Q-Chat: Q-Chat is a personalized AI tutor who will teach you, quiz you, and help you apply your newfound knowledge. 
  • Magic Notes: With Magic Notes, you can upload your class notes, lecture slides, readings, or documents, and Quizlet will magically turn them into flashcards, practice tests, and other study materials. You can even personalize your flashcards with images and audio.
  • Learn Mode: Quizlet Learn Mode will create a personalized study plan based on your familiarity with a topic. It will also chart your progress so you can see how you’re doing. 
  • Expert Solutions: Quizlet Expert Solutions gives you access to millions of step-by-step textbook solutions written and verified by subject matter experts. 

These are just a few features that make Quizlet a fantastic study app for college students. Other perks of Quizlet Plus include learning games, content sharing, the ability to collaborate with other students for study sessions, and more. Plus, you don’t need to be online to access most of the app’s study tools.

Anki 

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

Anki is a science-based flashcard app designed to help students study and retain information using spaced repetition. The name Anki comes from the Japanese word for “memorization”. Anki uses an algorithm to space out flashcards, ensuring that you review them right before you’re likely to forget, which can enhance long-term retention of the material. 

The algorithm also focuses on areas where you need the most help, optimizing your study sessions and making them more time efficient. You can enrich your flashcards with audio, videos, and images. You can also organize them into decks based on subjects or topics, allowing for personalized and targeted studying.

Anki is an open-source tool that syncs across all devices so you can study on the go. It’s free for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android users. However, for iOS users, there is a one-time payment of $24.99, designed to cover the maintenance cost. Serious scholars swear by this app. 

I love the app. It is honestly worth it just to support the developer for this incredible, powerful learning tool. You will make your money back 1000x over in all of the free decks that are available and the time you will save in your education.

Darby1001-College Student from the Anki Community on Reddit

For me, I would literally pay $500 for Anki (Windows and Android). I think of Anki as a source of my knowledge and everything I know, and the knowledge I gained through Anki is worth more as I gained more. I don’t have an iPhone, but intentionally bought the app just to show support.

hnous927–College Student from the Anki Community on Reddit

Evernote

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android

Evernote is a popular note-taking app that captures, organizes, and shares notes across various devices. While it wasn’t initially designed as a study hack, it’s become a favorite among college students for several reasons: 

  • Note-Taking: Evernote allows you to take and organize notes for different subjects, lectures, and study sessions. You can create separate notebooks for each course, making it easy to keep your notes organized. You can also save web clippings, PDFs, and other resources directly into your notebooks.
  • Multimedia Integration: You can include various types of content in your notes, such as text, images, audio recordings, and even handwritten notes if you use a digital pen. This can help you capture and understand complex information more effectively.
  • Collaboration: Evernote allows for easy collaboration with classmates on group projects and study materials. You can share notes and notebooks, facilitating teamwork and knowledge sharing.
  • Organization and Search: Evernote’s robust organization and search capabilities make it easy to find specific notes and information when you need it, saving you time and effort in your studies.

This powerful and versatile tool for college students has a robust free version with a wide range of features. The free version of Evernote is sufficient for many college students. Still, there are some limitations compared to the premium version. These include monthly upload limits and restrictions on offline access and collaboration. 

Purdue OWL

Availability: Mac/Windows

Purdue OWL, short for Purdue Online Writing Lab, is a free resource from Purdue University. This website has your back when it comes to all things writing. Whether you’re attending Purdue or another college, it’s there to help you with grammar, citations, academic writing, and research techniques. It’s like having a personal writing coach with step-by-step guides, examples, and exercises to guide you through the writing process like a pro.

Purdue OWL levels up your writing game with detailed tips on formatting citations in styles like APA, MLA, and Chicago. It also helps you understand how to responsibly weave research into your work. Additionally, it provides resources for grammar and mechanics to help you refine your language proficiency and make your writing shine.

The site isn’t just for native English speakers, either. The OWL has special resources for ESL students to boost their English skills. With its user-friendly approach, this site gives you the tools to become a better writer, which is vital for crushing it in college.

Productivity Apps for College: Making the Most of Your Time

tech essentials

Maximizing your productivity is crucial in college, where you have multiple responsibilities and limited time. These tech essentials are productivity apps that will help you stay focused, manage your tasks efficiently, and make the most of your valuable study time.

Forest

Availability: iOS/Android/Chrome

Forest uses gamification to help you stay focused and avoid distractions. This app is a game-changer for students who struggle with distractions. Picture this: you set a timer for how long you want to focus, and during that time, a cute little tree grows in your virtual forest. But here’s the catch—if you leave the app to check social media or goof off, your tree dies. It’s like a digital guilt trip that actually works! Plus, the longer you stay focused, the more diverse your forest becomes. It’s oddly satisfying watching your forest flourish as you tackle tasks. And It’s a fun way to hold yourself accountable and boost your productivity.

The free version of the Forest app provides basic functionality to help you stay focused and productive. You can also upgrade to a premium version for additional features and customization options. 

Cold Turkey

Availability: Mac/Windows

You’ve got a mountain of assignments to tackle. Yet, somehow, you keep finding yourself down the YouTube rabbit hole or endlessly scrolling through Instagram. Sound familiar? Enter Cold Turkey. This app is your answer to kicking procrastination habits to the curb. With Cold Turkey, you can block distracting websites and apps with just a few clicks. Say goodbye to the temptation of social media or binge-watching TV shows when you should be hitting the books. 

Cold Turkey offers both free and paid versions of its app. The free version provides basic functionality, allowing you to block specific websites and apps for a limited time. However, paid versions are available for those who want more advanced features and customization options. The only downside of this app is that it’s only available on Mac or Windows. Mobile devices are not supported.

Flipd

Availability: iOS/Android

An infographic explaining the Pomodoro technique to help students with tech essentials

Flipd is a simple mobile productivity app based on the Pomodoro Technique. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that aims to enhance productivity and focus by breaking work into intervals. You set the timer for 25 minutes, dive into your task, and give it all you’ve got. Then, when the time is up, you take a break and regroup before diving back in. Rated as the Best Time Management App for Students by Mashable, Flipd is surprisingly effective in helping to maintain focus and productivity.

While the Pomodoro Timer is the bread and butter of this app, Flipd also has other built-in task management features. For example, you can organize tasks by tag and color, join study rooms, and track your gains. Plus, with visual progress indicators and achievement badges, you’ll be motivated to stay focused and slay those study sessions like a boss.

Flipd is entirely free, although a premium subscription allows you to customize your experience with unlimited session lengths, additional music tracks, reminders, and more. 

In case you’re wondering, Pomodoro is the Italian word for tomato. The technique is named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that its inventor, Francesco Cirillo, used to organize his study time in college. 

Lock Down Your Learning: Must-Have Data Protection Apps for College Students

Today’s college students live in an era where their personal information is constantly at risk. From identity theft to data breaches, our sensitive data is vulnerable to cybercriminals who can wreak havoc on our lives. So, here’s the question: Can you stay one step ahead of cyber threats? Yes! There are plenty tech essentials that come in the form of tools and apps that can help you safeguard your privacy. Below are three of our favorites. 

Malwarebytes

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android/Chromebook

Malwarebytes is a powerful antivirus and anti-malware app that can protect your devices from malware, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other nasties. One of the best things about this app is its versatility – it works across multiple devices and platforms. It’s also super easy to use. You just download the app, run a quick scan, and let it do its thing. It’ll sniff out any suspicious files or apps lurking on your device and give them the boot before they can cause any harm. Plus, it runs silently in the background, so you can go about your business without even noticing it’s there. 

The free version of the app provides basic protection against malware and other online threats. But if you want to level up your security game and unlock additional features like real-time protection, scheduled scans, and automatic updates, you can upgrade to Premium for a monthly or annual fee. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. And it allows you to keep acing those exams and crushing those assignments without worrying about getting hacked or infected.

Bitdefender

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android/Linux

Like Malwarebytes, Bitdefender is designed to block viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, and phishing attacks. However, its newest feature, App Anomaly Detection, is the first of its kind and ideal for college students who download a lot of apps. 

With AI evolving so rapidly, cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect, and they go straight for your wallet. 

Did you know you can unintentionally install dangerous apps without noticing? These may run dormant in the background until they start messing with your device’s functionality. But how about seemingly trustworthy apps? These, too, can go rogue and become malicious after installing them. Some even act as delivery mechanisms for mobile banking trojans. Yep, they are after your login info, which is a pretty big deal. 

Bitdefender’s latest tool is like a digital watchdog on steroids. It features a combo of machine learning smarts, real-time behavior scanning, reputation systems, and other tech wizardry. Basically, it keeps a close eye on your apps and can spot the exact moment when one goes from harmless to downright nasty. 

You can download a robust version of Bitdefender for Windows at no charge. However, if you want to install it on your phone, it will run you $14.99 a year, which is a small price to pay to stay a step ahead of the bad guys, right? 

Surfshark

Availability: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android/Linux

If you ever use a hotspot, your campus Wi-Fi, or another public network, your online activity is out there for ANYONE to see, like it or not. That’s where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) service swoops in to save the day. 

Think of a VPN as a cloak of invisibility for your internet activity. When you connect to the internet without a VPN, your data travels straight from your device to the websites you visit, leaving a trail anyone can follow. But when you use a VPN, it’s like putting on that cloak. Because your data is encrypted, nobody along the way—not your internet service provider, not hackers, not even the government—can see what you’re doing online. 

Surfshark is a VPN service that enhances online privacy, security, and freedom. It works by encrypting internet traffic and routing it through remote servers located around the world. Besides the privacy and security benefits, Surfshark also lets you bypass those annoying geo-restrictions on websites and streaming services. Say you’re itching to binge-watch a show that’s only available in another country—no problem. Just fire up your VPN, connect to a server in that country, and you’re in! Plus, because it masks your IP address, it keeps third parties from tracking your data. This reduces the risk of targeted advertising, profiling, and data collection.

Surfshark is one of the only college apps on our list that does not feature a free version. But students can try it out at no cost for seven days to see if it’s right for them. After that, choose from one of three plans ranging from only $2.29 to $4.49 a month. 

Key Takeaway: College students face numerous threats to their sensitive information in the digital landscape. However, many apps are available that are specifically designed to enhance data security. By combining the right tools with best practices, students can safeguard their privacy and enjoy a secure online experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gadgets and Apps for College Students

What is the best technology to have as a college student?

Tech essentials for students include a quality laptop, accessories like chargers, noise-canceling headphones, external hard drives, and other accessories. The tools will vary depending on your specific major and needs.

What are the best apps for organizing my schedule and assignments?

Some popular apps for organizing schedules and assignments include Google Calendar, Power Planner, and Notion. These apps offer features such as task lists, reminders, and calendar integration to help students manage their workload.

Which gadgets can help me take better notes in class?

Gadgets like tablets with stylus pens can help students take more interactive and organized notes. Additionally, apps like Microsoft OneNote or Evernote are popular for digital notetaking.

Which apps are best for studying and test preparation in college?

Popular apps for studying and test preparation include Quizlet (for flashcards and study games), Anki (for spaced repetition flashcards), Khan Academy (for educational videos and practice exercises), and Duolingo (for language learning). 

Are there any gadgets that can help improve my productivity and focus?

Gadgets like noise-canceling headphones can help students block out distractions. Additionally, productivity tools like Pomodoro timers or the Forest app (for focused work sessions) can improve concentration and time management.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has hooked you up with some great apps to level up your college game. But here’s the thing – there are hundreds of apps out there designed to help college students ace their studies, get organized, and boost productivity. So don’t be afraid to try out different apps until you find the ones that vibe with you the most.

Is choosing a major keeping you up at night? Making you wake up in a cold sweat? Don’t panic! Choosing a major can be overwhelming for high school juniors, seniors, and even first-year college students. But in this comprehensive choosing a major guide, we’ll lay out the steps that will show how to decide on a college major. 

Exploring Personal Interests and Passions

What do you love doing? What topics or activities grab your attention and make time fly by? Think about your hobbies, things you’ve volunteered for, and even dreams you had as a kid. Maybe you’re into understanding how the body works, or you enjoy playing with gadgets or drawing cool creatures. Your interests can help you figure out what majors might excite you.


But how do you figure out what you’re passionate about? Start by asking yourself a few questions:

  • What activities do you get lost in? Maybe you spend hours coding, writing stories, or studying animals. These are clues about what you’re good at and what you enjoy.
  • What problems do you really care about solving? Are you into protecting the environment, fighting for fairness, or exploring new technology? These values can guide you toward majors that match your interests.
  • What did you dream of doing when you were younger? Even if being a professional astronaut isn’t realistic, the things you dreamed about (like exploring, science, or adventure) can still help you choose a major.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking even more:

  • Hobbies: Are you a musician, athlete, gamer, artist, or someone who loves to tinker with stuff? Think about how these hobbies could connect to college subjects, like music, sports management, game design, art, or engineering.
  • Volunteer experiences: Did you feel happy helping out at an animal shelter, teaching younger kids, or organizing events in your community? These experiences show interests in things like animal care, teaching, or planning, which could match majors like veterinary science, education, or communication.
  • Childhood dreams: Did you dream of being a doctor, architect, lawyer, or even a superhero? Even if those careers changed, the interests behind them—like helping people, designing things, or fighting for what’s right—can lead you to majors that fit, like medicine, architecture, law, or social justice.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer here! It’s about discovering what you’re passionate about and finding majors that make your college journey really exciting.

advice and insights for college students choosing a major that is right for them.

Researching Potential Career Paths

Your ideal major doesn’t have to lock you into just one job. Every major offers a bunch of different job options. Look for a field that matches what you care about and enjoy, and you’ll find lots of career paths that fit naturally.

But with so many options, how do you begin? Don’t stress, we’ve got some ideas:

  • Look online: Check out websites like the Occupational Outlook Handbook, O*NET OnLine, and College Board BigFuture. They have tons of info about different careers, including what they involve, how much they pay, and what skills you need.
  • Go to college fairs: These events are full of helpful info. Talk to people from different colleges, see what programs they offer, and ask about jobs you can get with those majors.
  • Talk to professionals: Connect with people who work in fields you’re curious about. Ask them about their jobs, what they do, and what they like about it. Websites like LinkedIn or going to professional events can help you meet the right people.
  • Think beyond job titles: Don’t get stuck on specific job titles. Look for fields that match what you’re into. For example, if you like communicating, you might enjoy jobs in journalism, marketing, public relations, or teaching.

Remember, researching is something you’ll keep doing as you explore different majors and interests. Your career goals might change along the way, and that’s okay! Stay open to new ideas and enjoy the journey of figuring out what’s right for you.

Taking Introductory Courses in Various Fields

Your first two years in college mostly include introductory classes. Sign up for a few that catch your eye, even if they’re not what you’re used to. You might find out you’re good at something you never knew, or remember how much you love a subject you forgot about. Trying out different classes isn’t about finding the “perfect” major right away. It’s about getting info to help you decide.

Comprehensive Major Choosing Tips: Think of your first-year classes as:

  • Discovery adventures: Try out classes like biology, psychology, literature, or coding. You might discover talents for things like dissecting frogs, understanding people’s behavior, writing cool stories, or making websites.
  • Passion sparkers: Remember things you loved as a kid, like dinosaurs, ancient history, or space? Classes in things like paleontology, archaeology, or astronomy could remind you of those passions and lead you to new interests.
  • Decision-making helpers: Don’t think you know what you like until you’ve tried it! Trying different beginner classes helps you learn about fields you might not think are interesting at first. You might surprise yourself by loving stats or getting into philosophy.

Remember:

  • Try new things: Don’t stick to subjects you already know. Explore new stuff and see what you like. You might find talents you didn’t know about.
  • Hear different ideas: Each class gives you a new way to look at the world. Trying out different subjects makes you think in new ways and helps you learn how to think critically.
  • Enjoy the journey: Trying beginner classes isn’t about finding the perfect major right away. It’s about getting info, finding what you like, and making a smart choice about your college path.

Remember, trying stuff out is important! Enjoy the chance college gives you to explore different subjects and find what you’re really passionate about.

Consulting Academic Advisors

Your academic advisor is like your personal guide through college! Make sure to meet with them regularly. Talk to them about what you’re interested in, what’s worrying you, and what you’ve found out from your research. Your advisor can give you personalized advice, suggest majors and classes, and even introduce you to professors who can help you in specific areas. They’re experts who can help you navigate the big world of academics.

Here’s why meeting with your advisor is so important:

  • Sharing what you’re exploring: Tell them about your interests, what you love, and any worries you have about picking a major. Show them what you’ve found out and what you hope to do with your career. That way, they can give you advice that’s just right for you.
  • Getting personalized help: Your advisor knows a lot about the classes and programs at your school, as well as what the professors are good at. They can suggest things that match your strengths, goals, and how you like to learn.
  • Finding cool stuff you didn’t know about: They might suggest majors or classes you never thought of, opening up new possibilities for your academic journey.
  • Meeting the right people: Need to talk to a certain professor in a field you’re interested in? Your advisor can help you get in touch with them, so you can learn more and get advice from experts.

Remember, your advisor is there to help you, not judge you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your worries, or ask for help. The more you tell them, the better they can help you figure things out. And if they’re not helping – ask for another advisor! 

Shadowing and Interning

Do you want to get a sneak peek into different jobs? Shadowing and internships let you do just that! When you shadow someone, you follow them around for a day, asking questions and seeing what their job is really like. Internships let you do more hands-on stuff, like working on real projects and learning practical skills. These experiences can help you figure out what you’re into or find new interests you never knew you had.

Think of shadowing like this:

  • Get behind the scenes: Watch someone in a job you’re curious about. Follow them around, ask about what they do, and learn about their challenges and rewards. You’ll get a better idea of what the job is really like and what skills you need.
  • Reality check: Is being a coder as cool as it sounds? Does being a lawyer involve more paperwork than you thought? Shadowing helps you see if your ideas about a job match up with what it’s actually like.
  • Get inspired: Watching someone love what they do can be really motivating. Shadowing might make you even more interested in a field or show you something new you want to try.

Now, let’s talk about internships:

  • More than just watching: you’re actually doing stuff! Internships let you:
  • Use what you’ve learned: Put your school knowledge into practice in a real job.
  • Learn practical skills: Get better at things like talking to people, working in teams, solving problems, and managing time.
  • Make connections: Meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They could help you out later on or give you advice.

Remember:

  • Start early: Don’t wait until your last year of college to try shadowing or internships. Start looking early on, even in your first or second year, so you have more time to learn.
  • Take charge: Do your research, reach out to people or companies in fields you like, and show you’re excited to learn. Being proactive can help you find cool opportunities.
  • Think about what you’ve learned: After each shadowing or internship, think about what you liked, what you didn’t, and what surprised you. This can help you figure out what you want to do next.

Getting out there and trying new things can change your life. Take the chance to shadow and intern, and you might find the perfect major and career path that really excites you.

FAQs

How do I decide what to major in in college?

Choosing your major is a big step. Even if you’re not sure what to do with your life, there are a lot of things you can do in high school to get ideas. 
Think about your personal interests and passions – Are you not sure what you like? Take a personality quiz like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Strong Interest Inventory. While not definitive, these tests can offer insights into your strengths, preferences, and potential career paths.
Research future career paths – Attend workshops or information sessions offered by your school. These events can provide valuable insights into specific majors, career paths, and resources available to you.
Consult academic advisors – Besides going to your school counselor, there are many professional academic advisors who know the current job market and potential. 
Shadow or intern with a job you’re interested in – you can use online platforms and resources like LinkedIn, Idealist, and your school career center or counselor to find shadowing and internship opportunities relevant to your interests.
Students who choose a major aligned with their interests report higher GPA’s, greater academic satisfaction, and are more likely to graduate on time. So, it’s crucial to prioritize your passions!

How do I choose a major if I am undecided?

It’s not a bad thing to be undecided – 20-50% of freshmen enter college as undecided, depending on the school, and as much as 75% of students change their major! Many people don’t realize what they want to do until they get into college and explore. 

One of the best things you can do for undecided students major selection is take your freshman courses seriously. They’re not just hurdles to jump through – they can tell you a lot about yourself. 

Talk to your professors and classmates in introductory courses. Ask questions, discuss course content, and gain insights into specific fields. Their perspectives can be invaluable in shaping your understanding of different academic disciplines.

Keep an open mind! Your interests and goals may evolve throughout your college journey. Embrace the flexibility to explore new paths and remember, your major is not a life sentence. It’s a stepping stone on your exciting academic and professional adventure!

What is the best major to go to college for?

There’s no such thing as a “best major,” but there is a best major for you! Start by doing some research. Check out websites, go to college fairs, and talk to people who work in fields you’re interested in. Learn about what they do every day, what skills they need, and where they work. 
Use your skills: Think about what you’re good at, no matter what major you choose. Skills like problem-solving, talking to people, working in teams, and using technology are useful in lots of jobs.
Think about your life outside of work: Consider things like how much you want to work, if you’re okay with traveling for your job, and what kind of lifestyle you want.
Stay open-minded: You might discover new fields you didn’t know about before. Research can lead you to exciting jobs you never thought of.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over 60% of jobs created between 2020 and 2030 will require a college degree. So, researching careers before choosing a major is an investment in your future!

Does it look bad to colleges if you apply with an undecided major?

No, colleges won’t think badly of you if you apply without knowing what major you want. They understand that some students are still figuring things out. It’s more important to show that you’re curious and willing to explore different options. Colleges have resources to help the undecided students career path.

Choosing a major is a journey, not a destination. Don’t be afraid to explore, experiment, and even change course if needed. Embrace the process, utilize the resources available, and trust your inner compass. With dedication and open-mindedness, you’ll find the major that unlocks your unique potential and sets you on a path to a fulfilling future!

The first year of college can be one of the scariest, weirdest, most exhilarating years of your life. That freshman year is also one where many students go off the rails. For the first time in their life, they are independent, with no one to tell them what to do and what not to do. With parties, extracurriculars, nightlife, events, athletics, and all the other non-academic aspects of college, it’s easy for freshmen to forget there are also classes and homework. But I’ve been there, and the research team at Online College Prep wants you to know there are some tried and true college academic success tips in your first semester – and for all the ones after. 

Develop Effective Study Habits

In college, mastering effective study habits doesn’t just mean being a good student. Achieving academic excellence in college means really taking control of your learning. Here’s why:


  • Better Memory and Understanding: When you use good study habits, you remember things better and really understand what you’re learning.
  • Getting Better Grades: If you study in smart ways, you’ll do better on tests and assignments. That means you’ll get higher grades and do well in college.
  • Setting Yourself Up for the Future: By learning how to study well now, you’re preparing yourself for success in future classes and your future career.

Proven Study Methods to Learn for Your First Semester

Having a study schedule is like having a secret weapon for school! It keeps you organized and focused, which leads to better grades. A survey by the NSSE even showed that students with regular study habits tend to get higher marks.

Just listening in class isn’t enough to ace exams. A Journal of Educational Psychology study showed students who actively learned (think self-testing and explaining things in their own words) scored 6% to 30% higher than passive learners. So ditch the daydream and get active with your learning!

  • Pomodoro Technique: Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? It’s like a 25-minute turbo boost for focus! You study intensely for 25 minutes, then take a short break. This keeps your brain fresh and helps you retain information better.
  • Active Reading: Don’t just skim! Active reading involves asking questions, summarizing key points, and connecting the material to what you already know. This keeps you engaged and helps things stick.
  • SQ3R Method: SQ3R stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. It’s a game plan for attacking new material. First, preview the chapter, then come up with questions, then read actively, then summarize the key points (recite), and finally review everything to lock it in your brain.
  • Mind Mapping: Feeling overwhelmed by info? Create a mind map! It’s like a visual burst of ideas. Use diagrams, charts, or drawings to connect concepts and make everything easier to remember.
  • Practice Retrieval: Test yourself! Use practice quizzes, flashcards, or even make up your own questions. The more you try to remember things, the better you’ll recall them later.
  • Chunking: Break down big topics into bite-sized pieces. Think of it like separating a mountain of flashcards into manageable stacks. This makes studying less daunting and helps you understand information better.
  • Spaced Repetition: Don’t cram! Space out your study sessions over time. Reviewing things at intervals helps you remember them in the long run. There are even apps to help you do this!
  • Elaborative Interrogation: Don’t just memorize facts! Ask yourself “why” and “how” questions. The more you understand how things work, the easier it is to remember them.
  • Interleaved Practice: Feeling stuck? Mix things up! Study different subjects or types of problems in one session. This keeps your brain on its toes and helps you learn more effectively.
  • Peer Teaching: Team up with classmates! Teach each other concepts, compare notes, and discuss tricky topics. Explaining things to others helps you learn them better yourself.
  • Visual Aids: Use pictures, graphs, or illustrations! Visual aids can make complex information way easier to understand and remember.
  • Self-Testing: Test yourself regularly without looking at your notes. This helps you identify areas you need to work on and strengthens your memory.

College is all about learning, but there’s more than one way to master the material. These study strategies are like tools in your toolbox – use the ones that work best for YOU!

  • Mix it Up: Don’t get stuck in a study rut! Try different techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or mind mapping to see what helps you focus and retain information.
  • Boost Your Brainpower: The more strategies you use, the better you’ll learn. Active reading, self-testing, and spaced repetition are all ways to supercharge your memory.
  • Be Your Own Study Coach: Experiment and see what works! Some students learn best by doing practice problems, while others prefer creating visual aids. Find the techniques that help you understand and remember the material best.
success tips for thriving in your first semester of college

Use Campus Resources

College campuses are treasure troves of support, but with so many options, it can feel overwhelming. Here’s why tapping into these resources is a super-smart move for college freshmen:

  • Academic All-Stars: Feeling stuck in a class? Tutoring centers, study groups, and academic advisors are your personal success team! Get tailored help to overcome challenges and ace your courses.
  • Knowledge Building: Want to go deeper? Campus resources offer workshops, specialized services, and extra learning materials to help you truly understand even the toughest subjects.
  • Future-Proof Your Skills: Working with peers, mentors, and support staff hones your communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills – all essential for future jobs and success in the real world!

How to Use Campus Resources

All the resources in the world won’t help if you don’t use them. So what should you do to succeed? 

  • Visit Tutoring Centers: Tutoring centers are NOT just for students who are failing! They’re for students who want to succeed to their fullest, whatever level they’re at. When I was a Writing Center director, I found tutoring centers the be the most under-used resource on campus – and the most effective when it was used. Studies have shown the same: the Journal of College Reading and Learning found that students who used tutoring services experienced, on average, a full letter-grade improvement in their courses compared to non-users.
  • Attend Peer-led Study Groups: Joining peer-led study groups allows you to collaborate with classmates, share insights, and tackle challenging concepts collectively. Studies have shown that students who participate in study groups report higher levels of motivation, engagement, and academic achievement.
  • Talk to Your Academic Advisors: Academic advisors serve as valuable mentors who can offer guidance on course selection, academic planning, and career exploration. Schedule regular meetings with your academic advisor to discuss your academic goals, challenges, and aspirations, and leverage their expertise to navigate your college journey effectively.
  • Embrace a Growth Mindset: Recognize that seeking help when encountering academic difficulties is not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to your commitment to personal and academic growth. Embrace a growth mindset, and view challenges as opportunities for learning and development rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Build Relationships with Professors

Getting to know your professors is more than just talking in class; it’s a smart move for your school and future job. So why do you want to build a relationship with your professors? 

  • Get Help and Advice: Professors know a lot about their subjects and can help you with your studies. They can also give you tips and advice on your career path.
  • Mentorship and Career Help: If you connect well with a professor, they might become a mentor to you. They can help you plan your career and may even write you a recommendation for a job or grad school.
  • Learn More: Talking to professors outside of class helps you understand the material better. It also makes learning more interesting and fun.

How Do You Make Professors Like You? 

Professors are just like anyone – they want to feel valuable, helpful, and appreciated. 

Visit Office Hours Regularly: Make sure to go to your professors’ office hours often. This is a great chance to connect with them personally and get help with your studies. You can ask questions, talk about what you’re learning, and share your interests and goals. Studies show that students who go to office hours do better in their classes and build good relationships with their professors.

Show Real Interest: Be genuinely interested in what you’re learning. Participate in class discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and work hard on your assignments. Professors like students who are enthusiastic and engaged in their learning, and they’ll be more willing to help you succeed.

Look for Mentorship Opportunities: Take the initiative to find mentors among your professors. If you share similar interests or career goals with a professor, ask them for guidance and advice. Building a mentor-mentee relationship with a professor can give you valuable support throughout your college journey and beyond.

Say Thank You: Show your appreciation for your professors’ help and support. You can thank them in person, send a follow-up email after meeting with them, or write a thoughtful note of appreciation. Letting your professors know that you value their guidance strengthens your relationship with them.

Balance Academic and Social Life

Finding balance between your academic responsibilities and social life makes all the difference in your overall well-being and success in college. Here’s why finding equilibrium between these aspects of your life is essential:

Why Balance Matters in College

  • Feeling Good: When you balance schoolwork and having fun with friends, you feel better. Studies show that students who balance both are less stressed and happier with their college life.
  • Doing Well in School: It’s not just about studying all the time. Spending time with friends and doing activities outside of class actually helps you do better in school. Students who join clubs or hang out with friends tend to get better grades and stay motivated.
  • Growing as a Person: Having a balanced life helps you learn new things and develop different skills. By doing activities you enjoy and spending time with others, you become a more well-rounded person and feel like you belong in college.

Here are some tips to help you manage your time and take care of yourself in college:

  • Make a Schedule: Plan out your time so you have enough hours for studying, going to class, and doing assignments. Don’t forget to include time for hanging out with friends, doing things you enjoy, and taking care of yourself.
  • Focus on Schoolwork: Set goals for yourself and stay organized with tools like planners or calendars. This will help you keep track of deadlines and stay on top of your workload.
  • Build Relationships: Make friends and get involved in campus activities. Join clubs or attend events to meet people who share your interests and make you feel like you belong.
  • Try New Things: Explore different activities outside of class, like joining a club or volunteering. These experiences can help you grow as a person and learn new skills.
  • Take Care of Yourself: Make sure to take breaks and do things that help you relax, like exercising or meditating. It’s important to set limits on your time and say no to things that might make you feel stressed or overwhelmed.

In summary, by prioritizing your academic commitments, nurturing relationships, participating in extracurricular activities, and practicing self-care, you’ll create a fulfilling college experience that fosters personal growth, academic achievement, and lasting memories.

Manage Stress and Avoid Burnout

In the fast-paced and demanding environment of college life, It’s hard to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. But according to the American College Health Association (ACHA), nearly 60% of college students report feeling overwhelmed by their academic responsibilities, highlighting the importance of finding balance to mitigate stress and burnout.

Here’s why managing stress and prioritizing self-care are crucial:

  • Resilience: When you focus on your well-being, you become stronger and better at handling tough situations. People who practice self-care and deal with stress well are more resilient and can bounce back from setbacks.
  • Improved Academic Performance: Managing stress and balancing your life helps you do better in school. Students who take care of themselves tend to do better in their classes, concentrate more, and feel less stressed out.
  • Long-term Health Benefits: Taking care of yourself in college sets you up for a healthier life in the long run. By learning how to handle stress and taking care of your mental and emotional health now, you reduce the chances of having health problems later on.

How Do I Practice Self-Care in College? 

  • Implement Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation into your daily routine. These practices promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and enhance your ability to cope with academic pressures.
  • Prioritize Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also plays a crucial role in managing stress and improving mood. Incorporate exercise into your schedule, whether it’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, or participating in group fitness classes, to boost endorphin levels and reduce stress.
  • Establish Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Identify healthy coping mechanisms for managing academic pressure and navigating challenging situations. Seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when needed, practice effective time management strategies, and set realistic goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  • Practice Self-care Rituals: Make self-care a priority by carving out time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s indulging in a hobby, spending time in nature, or enjoying a relaxing bath, prioritize activities that replenish your energy and promote a sense of well-being.

Focusing on your mental and emotional health is not just essential for surviving college; it’s vital for thriving academically and personally. Remember, your body and mind are your greatest assets – nurture them with care and compassion.

FAQs 

How do you succeed in the first semester of college?

To succeed in your first semester of college, here are some first semester college strategies:
Stay Organized: Keep track of your classes, assignments, and deadlines using a planner or calendar.
Manage Your Time: Prioritize your tasks and make a schedule to balance studying with other activities.
Attend Classes: Attend all your classes and actively participate in discussions to stay engaged and understand the material better.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek help from professors, tutors, or classmates if you’re struggling with coursework.
Take Care of Yourself: Get enough sleep, eat healthily, exercise regularly, and make time for relaxation to maintain your physical and mental well-being.
Get Involved: Join clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities to meet new people and explore your interests outside of academics.
Stay Flexible: Be open to new experiences and willing to adapt to the challenges of college life.

How do you pass your first semester of college?

It would be easy to answer “Do your work,” but passing your first semester of college is not as easy as that. In your first semester, there are a lot of things vying for your attention. While completing assignments and studying are crucial parts of passing your first semester, success in college requires more than just academic diligence. It also involves managing your time effectively, navigating new social dynamics, adjusting to living away from home, and finding a balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. 

So the real answer is this: succeeding in your first semester doesn’t just mean doing your coursework. It also means prioritizing self-care, seeking support when needed, and staying focused on your goals despite the distractions and challenges that may arise.

Is it normal to struggle first semester of college?

Yes, it is entirely normal to struggle during your first semester of college. Transitioning from high school to college can be a significant adjustment, and many students experience challenges during this period. Some common struggles include adapting to a new academic environment, managing increased independence, navigating unfamiliar social dynamics, and balancing academic responsibilities with personal life. 

Additionally, the workload and expectations in college may be different from what you’re used to in high school, which can contribute to feelings of stress or uncertainty.
 
It’s essential to remember that struggling during your first semester is a common experience shared by many students, and it does not define your abilities or potential for success. Seeking support from peers, professors, advisors, or campus resources can help you navigate these challenges and develop strategies for academic and personal growth. With time, patience, and perseverance, you can overcome the initial struggles and thrive in your college journey.

Is first semester of college hardest?

The first semester of college can be tough for many students because it’s a big change from high school. You have to get used to new classes, more freedom, and meeting new people. It can be challenging to balance everything and figure out how to study effectively. But remember, everyone goes through tough times, and with time and effort, you’ll find ways to manage and succeed.

What is a bad GPA in college first semester?

Being shocked at your GPA the first semester in college is a totally normal thing. A lot of students – even students who got all As in high school – will get their first B or C in their first semester of college. When I was a professor, I had students in my office in tears when they got their first B. It happens. 

However, it’s essential to remember that GPA is just one measure of academic success, and many factors can influence a student’s grades during their first semester.

You have plenty of time to adjust to the workload and grading styles in college. There are ways to improve and get back on track. If you’re struggling, it’s important to reach out to someone for help, like your advisor or a tutor, so you can figure out how to do better next time.

Let’s be real – unless your family is very wealthy, no one can truly save enough to cover all of your college expenses. College tuition rates are higher than they’ve ever been – and they’ve been going up 12% every year since 2010. But with good planning, you can make the most of your college savings with good choices, from scholarships and grants to work-study and other money hacks. Read on to find out how to maximize your college savings. 

Disclaimer: Online College Plan does not provide financial guidance. This Student and Parent Savings Guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. All data and statistics were current at time of publication. 


College Savings Tips and Tricks

The earlier you save for college, the more time your money has to grow like a magic beanstalk! Even small amounts saved regularly can add up to a big pile of cash by the time your child needs it.

Get Your Child Involved: Spark your child’s interest in saving by opening a special college savings account. They can even contribute their own money from part-time jobs, birthday gifts, or allowances! This teaches them the value of saving and helps them feel invested in their future.

Account Options: Look into custodial savings accounts where your child can contribute their own money. This is a great way to combine your savings efforts and instill a lifelong saving habit in your child. By starting early, you can grow a college fund that will help your child reach their dreams!

In 2022:

  • 56% of parents said they were saving for their kids’ college
  • One-third of families used a 529 or similar savings plans
  • The average family had $18k in college savings
  • The average family’s savings could cover 10% of college costs

Explore Tax-Advantaged Accounts

College can be expensive, but there are special savings accounts to help you stretch your dollars further. These accounts are like secret weapons for saving for college!

Accounts like 529 plans and ESAs let your money grow tax-free. Plus, when you use the money for college expenses, you won’t owe taxes on it! Some states even give you extra tax breaks for using their own 529 plan.

There are different types of college savings accounts, so do some research to see which one works best for you. This way, you can save as much as possible while lowering your tax bill.

By using these tax-advantaged accounts, you can save smarter for college and keep more money in your pocket!

Maximize Financial Aid

Scholarships and grants are basically free cash for college. Fill out the FAFSA form to see what federal aid you qualify for. There are also tons of scholarship websites to find even more free money. Apply early – many scholarships have deadlines! This free money can help lower your college costs and reduce student loan needs.

Encourage Dual Enrollment or AP Courses

Dual enrollment and AP classes let you earn college credits while still in high school, often for less money. This can fast-track your graduation and save you money on tuition. Talk to your child’s school counselor and your local community college about these options. They can save money, give valuable learning experiences, and prepare your child for college success.

Consider Starting at Community College

Starting at a community college is a smart way to save money on college. They typically have much lower tuition than universities. You can knock out general education classes and then transfer those credits to a four-year college later. Many community colleges even have agreements with universities to make transferring credits smooth. This approach lets your child explore interests, save money, and make informed decisions about their future.

an explanation of the 1-3 plan for helping students with college savings.

Exploring Scholarship and Grant Opportunities for College Savings

Scholarships and grants are your best strategy to lighten the financial load of college. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants don’t leave you with debt. Here’s a closer look at how you can enhance your chances of snagging these financial boosts:

  • Be an Early Bird: Don’t wait! Start hunting for scholarships as soon as possible. Many have deadlines early in the year, so don’t miss out. Starting early gives you time to research, prepare, and apply without stress.
  • Cast a Wide Net: Look everywhere for scholarships! Don’t just focus on local ones. Explore national foundations, companies, and even your college itself. There are tons of awards out there to help you pay for school.
  • Craft Killer Applications: Every scholarship is different, so tailor your application to each one. Highlight your achievements, activities, community work, and anything else that shows you deserve the award. The more personal you are, the more likely you are to win!
  • Stay Organized: With all those applications flying around, it’s easy to miss deadlines. Use a system to track dates, requirements, and what you need to submit. Spreadsheets, calendars, or apps can help you stay on top of it all. Set reminders and prioritize tasks to make sure you submit polished applications on time.

By following these tips, you’ll be a scholarship-winning machine, ready to conquer college costs!

Comparing Financial Aid Packages for College Savings

When weighing your college options, it’s crucial to carefully assess the financial aid packages offered to determine which choice makes the most financial sense. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key factors to consider.

Grants and Scholarships

Take a close look at the amount of free money included in each financial aid package through grants and scholarships. Unlike loans, grants and scholarships do not require repayment, making them a valuable resource for reducing college expenses. Pay attention to both the quantity and quality of the awards offered, as higher amounts and renewable scholarships can significantly impact your overall financial outlook.

Loans

Delve into the details of the loans included in each financial aid package, including federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans, as well as private loans. While loans can provide immediate financial assistance, it’s essential to weigh the long-term implications of borrowing. Consider factors such as interest rates, repayment terms, grace periods, and potential future financial burdens. Aim to minimize reliance on loans and prioritize scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities whenever possible.

Work-Study Opportunities

Investigate whether each college offers work-study programs, which allow students to earn money while gaining valuable work experience. Work-study opportunities not only provide financial support but also offer practical skills and networking opportunities that can enhance your academic and professional growth. Consider the availability of on-campus and off-campus work-study positions, as well as the flexibility of work hours to accommodate your academic schedule.

Overall Cost

Calculate the total cost of attendance for each college, taking into account tuition, fees, room and board, textbooks, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. Use college cost calculators and financial aid award letters to estimate your out-of-pocket expenses after accounting for grants, scholarships, and loans. Compare the net costs of attending each college to determine which option offers the most financial value. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best fit academically or personally, so weigh all factors carefully before making a decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions about which college offers the most cost-effective and financially sustainable choice for your higher education journey.

Budgeting for Textbooks and Other Expenses for College Savings

Textbooks and other expenses can quickly eat into your college savings, but with careful budgeting and smart spending, you can minimize costs and make your funds go further. 

When I was a college student, I was able to use scholarship money to purchase books. However, some college bookstores no longer allow that, and some scholarships are only to be used for tuition. 

Textbooks are a significant expense for many college students, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing academic quality. Consider:

  • purchasing used or digital editions of textbooks
  • renting books for the semester
  • utilizing resources available at your campus library

Additionally, explore the option of sharing textbooks with classmates to further reduce costs and lighten the financial burden for everyone involved.

When it comes to other expenses, there are numerous opportunities to save money and stretch your college savings. 

For instance, many colleges try to limit the number of cars on campus by making parking extremely expensive. If you live off-campus, carpooling with classmates or utilizing public transportation can help you save on parking transportation costs. 

Managing textbook and surprise expenses wisely is essential for college students looking to make the most of their college savings. By prioritizing needs over wants, shopping smart for textbooks, and cutting costs where possible, you can minimize expenses and stretch your funds further. With careful budgeting and strategic planning, you can create a budget that works for you and helps you achieve your college savings goals.

What if I Just Pirate My Textbooks? 

In the digital age, textbook piracy offers an easy way to save. Textbooks present a financial burden for a lot of students, and frankly, college bookstores are often predatory – no discounts, paying a fraction of the cost when they buy back your used books, and marking up used books. 

The ethics of textbook piracy are a bit tricky. Some people say it’s a way to fight back against high textbook prices and unfair practices by bookstores. They argue that students should have easier and cheaper access to the materials they need for school. But there are concerns, too.

Pirating textbooks might seem like a smart way to save money, especially for students feeling the pinch. However, it can have consequences. It might not hurt the book publishers – big corporations that they are – but the people who wrote the books lose out on royalties and the motivation to write more books. Plus, there could be trouble at school if you’re caught. Some schools consider breaking copyright laws a student conduct issue. 

Some college professors take a “look the other way” approach to textbook piracy. When I was a professor, I openly told my students I didn’t care how they got the books for my class. I even told them the campus bookstore was overpriced and to order used books online. 

But it’s important to talk openly about the pros and cons. By having these conversations, we can work towards fairer solutions for everyone involved in education.

By implementing these college savings strategies, high school juniors and seniors, as well as current college students and their parents, can effectively manage the financial aspects of higher education. Remember to stay proactive, resourceful, and flexible in your approach to maximizing your education fund. With careful planning and perseverance, you can achieve your academic goals without undue financial stress.

FAQs 

What is the best savings plan for college?

The best savings plan for college depends on your individual circumstances and financial goals. However, popular options include 529 college savings plans and Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). Both offer tax advantages and flexibility in saving for future education expenses. It’s essential to research and compare different plans to find the one that best suits your financial planning for college.

What is the 1-3 rule for college savings?

The 1-3- rule for college savings suggests that families should aim to cover: 
one-third of college costs through savings
one-third through current income
one-third through financial aid
This guideline helps families balance their college savings efforts with other financial priorities and sources of funding. It may not be manageable for all families, but it is just a way of thinking about college savings. 

What is the 529 savings strategy?

The 529 savings strategy involves utilizing a 529 college savings plan to save for education expenses. This tax-advantaged investment account allows contributions to grow tax-free and can be used to cover qualified education expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and room and board. Families can choose from a variety of investment options and may be eligible for state tax benefits, making 529 plans a popular choice for college savings.

What is the quickest way to save for college?

The quickest way to save for college is to start early and save aggressively. Maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans, consider high-yield savings accounts or investment vehicles with potential for growth, and look for opportunities to cut expenses and increase savings. Additionally, explore scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options to supplement your savings efforts and reduce the overall cost of college.

Are 529 plans worth it?

Yes, 529 plans are often worth it for many families saving for college. These plans offer several benefits, including tax advantages such as tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. Additionally, many states offer additional tax incentives for residents who contribute to their state’s 529 plan. Furthermore, 529 plans typically offer flexibility in terms of investment options and contribution amounts, making them a versatile tool for college savings. However, it’s essential to carefully consider your individual financial situation and goals before deciding if a 529 plan is the right choice for you.
However, 529 plans have some potential downsides to consider:
Limited Investment Options: Although 529 plans typically offer a range of investment options, they may be more limited compared to other investment vehicles. This lack of flexibility could impact your ability to tailor your investment strategy to your specific needs and preferences.
Penalties for Non-Qualified Withdrawals: If you withdraw funds from a 529 plan for non-qualified expenses, you may be subject to income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal, as well as a 10% penalty. This penalty could significantly reduce the value of your savings if you use the funds for purposes other than education.
Impact on Financial Aid Eligibility: Funds held in a parent-owned 529 plan are typically treated as parental assets for financial aid purposes, which can have a moderate impact on eligibility for need-based financial aid. However, distributions from the plan to pay for qualified education expenses are not counted as income on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
State-Specific Considerations: Each state’s 529 plan may have unique features, benefits, and fees. It’s essential to research and compare plans carefully to ensure you select the one that best fits your needs and goals.
Market Risk: Like any investment, 529 plans are subject to market risk, and the value of your investments may fluctuate over time. While most plans offer age-based investment options that automatically adjust asset allocation based on the beneficiary’s age, there is still inherent risk involved.
Overall, while 529 plans offer significant advantages for college savings, it’s essential to weigh these potential downsides against the benefits and consider your individual circumstances before making a decision. Consulting with a financial advisor can help you make an informed choice.

Starting college is an exciting time filled with possibilities. However, worrying about finances can take a lot of the fun out of going to college. This guide is designed to help high school juniors and seniors, along with their parents, and current college students, navigate the complexities of financial planning for college students. From budgeting for tuition and living expenses to exploring scholarship opportunities and understanding student loans, let’s dive into the essentials of managing your finances effectively.

More than one-third of undergraduates are first-generation college students. I was a first-generation student myself, and like many students, I did not have my parents’ experience and knowledge to build on when I went to college. 


Plus, even if your parents went to college, higher education today is a very different world than it was 20 or 30 years ago. Their experience might not be totally relevant. It was very different for me. I could have used a guide like this, and that’s why it’s here for you. 

Disclaimer: Online College Plan does not provide financial guidance. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. All data and statistics were current at time of publication. 

Planning Your Budget

Planning your finances for college ahead of time will save you stress and help you make the most of your academic years. Whether you scrape by, paying your way yourself, or you have scholarships and grants that ease the burden, a budget is your best friend for college student money management. Here’s where to start budgeting for college succcess.

Find Out How Much College Costs:

  • Look up how much tuition and fees are for your college. You can find this info on their website or by asking the admissions office.
  • Also, think about other costs like books, lab fees, and any materials you might need for your classes.

Think About Where You’ll Live and What You’ll Eat:

  • Figure out how much it costs to live on or off-campus. Consider things like rent, utilities, and groceries.
  • Decide if you’ll buy a meal plan from the school or cook your own food.

Calculate Transportation and Personal Expenses:

  • Think about how you’ll get around, whether it’s by bus, car, or bike. Factor in costs like gas, bus passes, or bike repairs.
  • Remember to budget for personal stuff like clothes, toiletries, and entertainment.

Keep Checking Your Budget:

  • Your budget isn’t set in stone. Keep an eye on how much you’re spending and adjust your budget as needed.
  • Look for ways to save money or move money around to cover any extra expenses that come up.

By planning your budget carefully, you’ll be better prepared to handle the financial side of college and focus on your studies.

expert tips on helping students with financial planning for their college experience.

Exploring Scholarship and Grant Options: Your Key to Financial Aid

When I went to college as a first-generation student, my scholarships and grants made all the difference. My family could not have afforded college, but scholarships made it happen. There is ample money out there for students, if you know where to look. 

Look for Scholarships Everywhere:

  • Start by checking out scholarships offered by the colleges you’re interested in. Most schools offer their own scholarships based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and other factors.
  • Also look for scholarships from private organizations and community groups in your area. These scholarships can be based on things like your field of study, ethnicity, or community service.
  • There are many smaller, less competitive scholarships out there that few students may know about. Did you know there’s a Tall Clubs Scholarship just for tall people? A scholarship for musicians who want to learn to fly planes? Looking for these “under the radar” scholarships can increase your chances.

Check the Details:

  • When applying for scholarships, make sure to read the eligibility criteria carefully. Some scholarships have specific requirements, such as a minimum GPA or involvement in certain activities.
  • Keep track of application deadlines and make sure to submit your materials on time. Missing deadlines can mean missing out on valuable funding opportunities.
  • If you are a member of a minority group, have a special interest, or come from a disadvantaged community, look for scholarships that fit you. 

Fill Out the FAFSA:

  • The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to federal grants and work-study programs. Even if you think you won’t qualify for financial aid, it’s worth filling out the FAFSA to see what you’re eligible for.
  • The FAFSA takes into account your family’s income and financial situation to determine your eligibility for federal grants and work-study programs. These funds can help cover your college expenses without the need for loans.

Every Dollar Counts:

  • Remember, every dollar you secure through scholarships and grants is one less dollar you’ll need to borrow in student loans. By maximizing your scholarship and grant opportunities, you can reduce your reliance on loans and graduate with less debt.
  • Keep applying for scholarships throughout your college career. Many scholarships are renewable, meaning you can continue to receive funding if you meet certain criteria each year.

By exploring scholarship and grant options, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of college and focus on your studies. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your school’s financial aid office for assistance or to ask questions about available funding opportunities. With a little effort and persistence, you can find the financial aid you need to achieve your academic goals.

Understanding Student Loans: Navigating Your Borrowing Options

When scholarships and grants aren’t enough to cover all your college expenses, student loans can help bridge the gap. But before you take out any loans, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Americans with federal student loan debt owe an average of $37,000 according to the Department of Education – enough to make a down payment on a pretty nice home in most areas. 

Federal Loans vs Private Loans 

Federal LoansPrivate Loans
Offered by governmentOffered by private lenders such as banks
Lower interest ratesHigher interest rates
Flexible repayment optionsStrict repayment options
Fixed interest ratesFixed or variable interest rates

There are two main types of student loans: federal loans and private loans. Federal loans are offered by the government and typically have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans.

Private loans, on the other hand, are offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders. They may have higher interest rates and less favorable terms than federal loans.

Federal loans have fixed interest rates, which means the rate stays the same for the life of the loan. Private loans may have fixed or variable interest rates, so it’s important to know which type you’re getting.

Because there are more protections for borrowers, federal loan programs, such as Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans, are often the best option for students. These loans offer benefits like fixed interest rates, income-driven repayment plans, and loan forgiveness options.

Plus, federal loans don’t require a credit check or a cosigner, making them accessible to students with limited credit history or income.

Borrowing Responsibly for Student Loans

While student loans can be a valuable tool for financing your education, it’s important to borrow responsibly. 

  • Only borrow what you need to cover your tuition and living expenses
  • Avoid taking out more loans than necessary
  • Don’t spend loan money frivolously 
  • Keep track of how much you’re borrowing and what your monthly payments will be after graduation
  • Aim to keep your total student loan debt as low as possible to avoid financial stress in the future

By understanding your student loan options and borrowing responsibly, you can minimize the financial burden of college and set yourself up for success after graduation. If you have any questions or concerns about student loans, don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s financial aid office for guidance.

Building Good Credit: Smart Money Tips for Students

As you journey through college and beyond, developing healthy credit habits is essential. Many, many young people get themselves into trouble with credit by making risky decisions early on. You can wreck your credit fast, and it takes much longer to build it back up than it takes to tear it down.  

If you don’t have a credit card yet, it’s actually a good idea to get one. Why? Because that’s the fastest method to establish credit if you don’t have it. You can establish credit by: 

  • Applying for a student credit card or a secured credit card.
  • Becoming an authorized user on a parent or guardian’s credit card.
  • Taking out a small loan or a credit-builder loan.

Then, once you have a credit card, the next easiest step is to put a recurring bill on that card – your phone plan, a utility, or even just Netflix. The reason is simple. If the credit card company sees that you pay your bills, on time, over and over, they see you as a good credit risk – and they report that to the credit bureaus. 

There are other handy rules of thumb to keep in mind if you want to build your credit:

  • Pay your bills on time
  • Keep your credit card balance low
  • Avoid unnecessary debt
  • Use a student credit card

Pay Your Bills on Time: One of the most important factors in building good credit is making timely payments on your bills. Late payments can negatively impact your credit score and make it harder to qualify for loans or credit cards in the future. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date.

Keep Your Credit Card Balances Low: Try to use no more than 30% of your available credit to avoid appearing overextended to creditors. High credit card balances can lower your credit score and increase the amount of interest you pay over time. 

Avoid Unnecessary Debt: Don’t buy anything with a credit card if you 1) don’t need it or 2) can pay for it now. Taking on too much debt can strain your finances and make it harder to achieve your long-term financial goals. 

By establishing good credit habits early on, you’ll not only build a strong credit score but also set yourself up for future financial success. Remember to pay your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, avoid unnecessary debt, and use credit responsibly. With time and discipline, you’ll reap the rewards of a positive credit history for years to come.

Balancing Work and Academics: Maximizing Part-Time Employment Opportunities

Finding the right balance between academics and work can be challenging, but part-time employment can be a valuable way to gain experience and supplement your income while in college. Here are some financial strategies for university students finding and managing part-time work:

Explore On-Campus Job or Work-Study Opportunities

Many colleges and universities offer on-campus job opportunities that are specifically tailored to students’ schedules and academic commitments. These positions can include working at the library, student center, campus bookstore, or dining hall.

On-campus jobs often offer flexible hours that can accommodate your class schedule, making it easier to balance work and academics. Plus, working on campus allows you to build connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students.

Consider Remote Work or Freelance Opportunities

In addition to on-campus jobs, consider remote work or freelance opportunities that allow you to earn money while studying from the comfort of your dorm room or off-campus housing.

Look for remote job opportunities in fields such as customer service, data entry, virtual assistance, tutoring, writing, graphic design, or social media management. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and FlexJobs are great resources for finding remote work opportunities.

Utilize Resources and Support Services

Take advantage of resources and support services offered by your college or university. These include career services, job fairs, and resume workshops. These resources can help you find job opportunities and develop professional skills.

Consider seeking guidance from academic advisors, faculty mentors, or campus counselors. You need people who can provide advice and support as you navigate the challenges of balancing work and academics.

By exploring on-campus job opportunities, considering remote work or freelance opportunities, managing your time effectively, and utilizing resources and support services, you can successfully balance work and academics during your college years. Remember to prioritize your academic goals while also gaining valuable work experience that will benefit you in your future career endeavors.

FAQs

How do I set myself up financially in college?

There are several ways you can set yourself up financially in college: 
Create a Budget: Start by creating a realistic budget that covers tuition, living expenses, and other costs. Track your income and expenses to ensure you’re staying within your budget.
Explore Financial Aid Options: Look into scholarships, grants, and federal student aid programs to help offset the cost of tuition and expenses. Fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid.
Minimize Debt: Borrow responsibly and only take out student loans if necessary. Consider federal loans with favorable terms and explore alternative funding sources, such as part-time work or work-study programs.
Establish Good Credit Habits: Pay bills on time, keep credit card balances low, and avoid unnecessary debt. Consider applying for a student credit card to start building credit responsibly.
Seek Financial Guidance: Take advantage of resources and support services offered by your college or university, such as financial aid offices, counseling services, and workshops. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance from trusted advisors.

What is a reasonable monthly budget for a college student?

Your monthly budget depends on your needs:
cost of living in your area
your housing situation
your personal spending habits
However, here’s a general guideline for setting up a monthly budget college student:
Housing
Food
Transportation
Utilities
Personal Expenses
Books and Supplies
Health Insurance
Miscellaneous (emergency fund, unexpected expenses)
Remember to prioritize essentials like rent, food, and transportation. Additionally, consider using budgeting tools or apps to track your expenses and ensure you’re staying within your budget each month.

How much money should you save before college?

The amount of money you should save before college can vary depending on factors such as your anticipated expenses, financial aid package, and personal financial goals. But you should consider: 
Emergency Fund: at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses
College Expenses: enough to cover upfront costs such as tuition deposits, textbooks, and any required fees for the year. 
Gap Year or Summer Expenses: enough to cover your living expenses
Ultimately, the amount you should save before college will depend on your individual circumstances and financial priorities. It’s important to start saving as early as possible and to regularly review and adjust your savings goals based on changes in your financial situation. Additionally, consider exploring opportunities for scholarships, grants, and financial aid to help offset college expenses.

How can you begin to manage your money to prepare for college?

If you’re in high school, it’s never too early to practice managing your money. In college, you’ll be on your own, with no one to blame when you’re broke. 
If you don’t come from a family that is good at saving, first and foremost, practice saving. 
Get a part-time job to practice responsibility
Get a student credit card to establish your credit 
Start researching scholarships early. Apply to everything you think you qualify for
Get financial education – from school counselors, community centers, and definitely not get-rich-quick YouTubers!

Is it normal to struggle financially in college?

Yes, it’s normal for many students to experience financial challenges during college. The cost of tuition, textbooks, housing, and other expenses can quickly add up, especially for students who are paying their own way through school. Plus, balancing academics with part-time work or other obligations can be stressful.

But remember – you’re not alone in facing these challenges. There are resources and support services available to help. Many colleges and universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and emergency assistance programs to assist students in need. Additionally, financial literacy workshops, counseling services, and peer support groups can provide guidance and encouragement.

If you’re struggling financially in college, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talk to your college’s financial aid office, academic advisor, or counseling center to explore your options and access resources that can help alleviate financial stress. Remember that with careful budgeting, smart financial decisions, and perseverance, you can overcome financial challenges and succeed in college.

If you don’t have experience – or someone to guide you – navigating college financial aid can feel like it’s written in code. Understanding the ins and outs of financial aid is crucial to making it through college. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential components of financial aid packages, helping you decode the terminology, calculate costs, seek additional aid, and plan for unexpected expenses.

Disclaimer: Online College Plan does not provide financial guidance. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. All data and statistics were current at time of publication. 


Financial Aid Basics: Grants, Loans, and Scholarships

When I went to college as a first-generation student from a working-class family, I knew nothing about financial aid – and no one could explain it to me. If you’re in the same boat, and need help deciphering financial aid offers Online College Plan is here for financial aid package decoding! 

Let’s break it down into three main parts: grants, loans, and scholarships.

  • Grants: Free money awarded based on financial need or merit. Examples include Pell Grants and state-specific grants.
  • Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest. Know the difference between federal and private loans, and their repayment terms.
  • Scholarships: Merit-based awards given for academic, athletic, or extracurricular achievements.

Grants are like gifts – they’re free money given to students who show financial need or do well academically. Examples include Pell Grants and grants from your state. They’re super helpful because you don’t have to pay them back, making college more affordable for you and your family.

Now, loans are a bit different. They’re like borrowing money that you have to pay back later, with interest. There are two main types: federal loans and private loans. Federal loans usually have lower interest rates and better repayment plans, while private loans might give you more money but can be stricter. It’s important to understand the terms before deciding.

Lastly, scholarships are like rewards for doing well. They’re based on things like good grades, sports achievements, or community service. You can find them from your college, outside organizations, or even local businesses. Scholarships can help cover your college costs, and like grants, they don’t have to be paid back.

LoansGrantsScholarships
Not need-basedBased on financial needMay be based on need
Must be repaidDo not need to be repaidDo not need to be repaid
Federal or privateFederal, state, or privateFederal, state, or private

Calculating the True Cost of Attendance: What Does College Really Cost? 

When you pack your bags and head off to college, don’t be surprised by the expenses along the way. Let’s break down the true cost of attendance into five main categories:

  • Tuition and Fees: Understand the costs charged by the college or university.
  • Room and Board: Consider housing and dining expenses.
  • Books and Supplies: Estimate costs for required materials.
  • Transportation: Account for travel to and from campus.
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Include personal expenses and entertainment.

Tuition and Fees:

The big one – tuition and fees cover the cost of your classes and any other mandatory charges from the college or university. This is where most of your money goes, so it’s essential to know exactly what you’re paying for and if there are any additional fees, like lab fees or technology fees.

Room and Board:

Where you live and what you eat can also impact your college expenses. Room and board include the cost of housing – whether you’re living in a dormitory, apartment, or off-campus housing – as well as dining expenses. Consider factors like meal plans and whether you’ll be cooking your own meals to get a clear picture of these costs.

Books and Supplies:

You can’t forget about the textbooks and other materials you’ll need for your classes. Textbooks can be expensive, so it’s essential to budget for them. Don’t forget about other supplies like notebooks, pens, and even a laptop if you need one for your studies.

Transportation:

Getting to and from campus can add up, especially if you’re commuting or living far away from home. Consider the cost of gas, public transportation, or parking permits if you’ll be driving. Don’t forget about travel expenses during breaks and holidays if you’ll be going home or traveling elsewhere.

Miscellaneous Expenses:

Last but not least, don’t forget about all the little things that can add up over time. Personal expenses like toiletries, laundry, and clothing are easy to overlook but can quickly eat into your budget. And of course, there’s entertainment – whether it’s going to movies, eating out with friends, or attending campus events, it’s essential to budget for some fun too.

By breaking down the true cost of attendance into these five categories, you can get a better understanding of what it will take to afford college. It’s not just about tuition – it’s about all the expenses that come with being a college student. So take the time to plan and budget accordingly, and you’ll be better prepared for the road ahead.

an easy to guide for seeing how financial aid packages determine eligibility for college students.

What are Some Other Financial Aid Opportunities?

When it comes to understanding college financial aid, sometimes the initial financial aid package isn’t enough to cover all your expenses. That’s where seeking additional financial aid opportunities comes in. Let’s explore four avenues to bolster your financial aid package:

  • FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): Complete this form to determine eligibility for federal aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
  • CSS Profile: Some colleges require this additional financial aid application, providing a more detailed picture of your financial situation.
  • Institutional Aid: Explore scholarships and grants offered directly by the college or university.
  • External Scholarships: Research opportunities from organizations, foundations, and businesses.

So what do each of these things actually mean? 

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):

The FAFSA is your gateway to federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. By completing this form, you provide information about your family’s income and assets, which is used to determine your eligibility for various types of aid. 

Grants like the Pell Grant, loans such as the Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and work-study opportunities can all be accessed through the FAFSA. It’s essential to submit your FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your chances of receiving aid.

CSS Profile:

While the FAFSA is required by all colleges and universities for federal aid, some institutions also require the CSS Profile for a more detailed assessment of your financial situation. 

Unlike the FAFSA, the CSS Profile takes into account additional factors such as home equity and noncustodial parent income. 

By completing the CSS Profile, you provide colleges with a comprehensive view of your financial need, potentially increasing your eligibility for institutional aid.

Institutional Aid:

Many colleges and universities offer their own scholarships and grants directly to students. These institutional aid opportunities may be based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or other criteria determined by the institution. 

By researching and applying for institutional aid, you can tap into additional sources of funding specific to your chosen college or university.

External Scholarships:

Beyond federal and institutional aid, there are countless external scholarship opportunities available from organizations, foundations, and businesses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or tied to specific fields of study or demographic groups. 

By actively seeking out and applying for external scholarships, you can further supplement your financial aid package and reduce the overall cost of your education.

By exploring these additional financial aid opportunities, you can maximize your chances of securing the funding you need to pursue your college dreams. Whether it’s through federal aid, institutional scholarships, or external grants, taking a proactive approach to financial aid can help make higher education more accessible and affordable.

Understanding Work-Study Programs

Many students offset their college expenses with work-study programs. What is work-study? 

Federal Work-Study

Federal Work-Study (FWS) offers part-time employment opportunities for students with demonstrated financial need. Through FWS, eligible students can secure on-campus or off-campus jobs, allowing them to earn money to help cover educational expenses. 

These jobs may involve work in various departments on campus, such as administrative offices, libraries, or academic departments. The earnings from FWS positions are typically subsidized by the federal government, so colleges get paid back for hiring you!

There are many jobs on a college campus that need to be done, and many of them are done by students on work-study. Some examples include: 

  • Administrative Assistant: Providing clerical support in offices, such as answering phones, filing paperwork, and assisting with data entry.
  • Tutor: Assisting fellow students with coursework in subjects like math, writing, or foreign languages.
  • Library Assistant: Shelving books, assisting patrons with research, and managing circulation desks.
  • Lab Assistant: Assisting professors or researchers in laboratory settings by preparing materials, conducting experiments, and cleaning equipment.
  • Resident Assistant (RA): Supporting students living in dormitories by organizing events, enforcing rules, and providing guidance and support.
  • Fitness Center Attendant: Monitoring fitness center activities, enforcing rules, and assisting patrons with equipment.
  • Dining Hall Worker: Serving food, cleaning tables, and assisting with food preparation and storage in campus dining facilities.
  • Event Staff: Assisting with setup, cleanup, and coordination of campus events, such as concerts, lectures, and conferences.
  • Research Assistant: Assisting faculty members with research projects by conducting literature reviews, collecting data, and analyzing findings.

Work-study programs offer valuable opportunities for students to earn money while pursuing their education. Whether through Federal Work-Study or other employment options, students can gain valuable skills, contribute to their financial well-being, and enhance their overall college experience. 

On-Campus vs Off-Campus Jobs

When considering work-study opportunities, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of on-campus versus off-campus employment. On-campus jobs offer several advantages, including convenient scheduling that accommodates your class schedule and extracurricular commitments. 

Additionally, working on campus allows you to build connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Moreover, on-campus positions may provide valuable career-related experience relevant to your field of study, enhancing your resume and skill set.

On the other hand, off-campus employment offers a different set of advantages. Off-campus jobs may provide a wider range of employment opportunities, allowing you to explore industries outside of the university setting. Additionally, off-campus jobs may offer higher wages or opportunities for career advancement, depending on the nature of the position. However, it’s essential to consider factors such as transportation costs and commute time when weighing the pros and cons of off-campus employment.

Planning for Unexpected Expenses

Almost one in four American adults – 22% – have no emergency funds saved. Think about it – that’s a quarter of us living paycheck to paycheck, who could be ruined by one bad break. 

Don’t be one of them. Even if you have your parents or someone else to fall back on as a young adult, college is a good time to start practicing. 

Emergencies can strike at any time, whether it’s a sudden medical expense, car repair, or unexpected trip home, having an emergency fund provides a financial safety net. Here’s how you can proactively plan for emergencies:

  • Set aside money specifically designated for unexpected costs. 
  • Aim to save enough to cover at least three months’ worth of living expenses. 
  • Save intentionally – set aside the same amount every month and pretend you never had it
  • Stay in your budget so you can roll with surprise expenses 

Colleges and universities offer a variety of student support services and resources to help students navigate financial challenges. Take advantage of these resources, including:

  • financial aid counseling
  • budgeting workshops
  • emergency assistance programs

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support – you’re not alone in facing financial challenges, and help is available when you need it most.

By proactively planning for emergencies, budgeting wisely, and utilizing available resources, you can build financial resilience and navigate life’s unexpected twists and turns with confidence. While emergencies may be unavoidable, your preparedness and proactive approach to financial management will help you weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

FAQs 

How should you compare financial aid packages?

Are you in the lucky position of being accepted into more than one college? Then you might wonder how to compare their financial aid packages. Obviously, you want the one that has the most advantages for you. These are the things to look for when you’re interpreting financial aid packages: 
The total cost, including everything from tuition to living expenses.
What types of aid you’re getting: grants, scholarships, loans, or work-study.
How much you’ll really pay after subtracting grants and scholarships.
Details about loans, like interest rates and how much you’ll have to pay back.
Other costs and perks, like housing and meal plans.
Any changes or surprises for future years.
And make sure the college fits your goals and preferences.

How can I get a better financial aid package?

There are ways to get a better financial aid package. Obviously, there are limits to how much you can improve your FAFSA results or cut expenses in college.

But to get the best financial aid package for you: 
Fill out the FAFSA early.
Apply for scholarships.
Be honest about your financial situation.
Talk to the financial aid office.
Keep your grades up.
Consider cheaper colleges.
Compare offers and negotiate.

How can you figure out your financial aid package?

Cracking the financial aid code can be challenging, especially if you’re the first in your family to go to college. Here are some simple steps to understanding your offer. 
Start by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form online.
After you submit your FAFSA, colleges will use the information to determine your financial aid eligibility.
Review your financial aid offers carefully. They typically detail the types of aid you’re eligible for, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.
Contact the financial aid office at each college for on your package. That’s their job! 
Compare the offers from different colleges to see which one provides the best combination of aid to help cover your costs.

How does FAFSA determine how much financial aid you get?

FAFSA determines your financial aid eligibility based on:
Your family’s income and assets.
The number of family members in college.
Any special circumstances you report.
The cost of attendance at the colleges you’re applying to.
Your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.

How will I know how much financial aid I can expect?

The main way to know how much financial aid you can get is through FAFSA. 

The Department of Education offers a very handy estimator that will give you an idea of your Estimated Family Contribution and other factors. 

Managing your money in college has always been a struggle, but in the 2020s, it’s harder than ever. The economy is more turbulent, college costs are historically high, and a lot of the old safety nets – like grants and work study – are harder to come by. In this guide, I’ll talk about essential money management tips tailored specifically for college students. 

Disclaimer: Online College Plan does not provide financial guidance. This College Student Budgeting Guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. All data and statistics were current at time of publication. 


Budgeting and Tracking Expenses

When I was in college two decades ago, scholarship and grants, plus a part-time work-study was enough for me to pay for tuition, fees, and even have a little left over for fun on the weekend. 

Sorry to burst your bubble, but it’s not like that anymore. Financial literacy for college students is more important than ever before.

Coming up with a budget is simple on the surface. It’s basically about making a plan for your money so you can manage it better. 

  • Calculate your income
  • List your expenses
  • Set spending limits
  • Use budgeting tools

Easier said than done! 

First, you have to figure out how much money you have coming in each month. This includes things like your job, any financial aid you get, money from your parents, and scholarships.

Next, think about where your money goes. There are two main types of expenses: stuff you really need (like rent, groceries, and tuition) and stuff you want but don’t need (like going out with friends or buying new clothes).

After you know what you’re working with, set limits on how much you can spend in each category. This helps you make sure you have enough for the important stuff and maybe save some for later.

To keep track of your spending, you can use apps or spreadsheets. These tools help you see where your money is going so you can make changes if you need to.

Remember, budgeting is something you do all the time, not just once. It’s about staying on top of your money and making sure you’re using it wisely.

tips for money management in college and information on credit card debt.

Understanding Credit Scores and Reports

Financial education for university students should include an understanding of credit scores and reports, as they play a crucial role in your financial future. Here’s what money management tips for students you need to know:

  • What is a credit score? Your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, ranging from 300 to 850, with a higher score indicating lower credit risk.
  • How is it calculated? Factors such as payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, new credit accounts, and credit mix influence your credit score.
  • How do I check my credit report? Obtain a free copy of your credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and review it for errors or fraudulent activity.
  • How do I build credit responsibly? Establish good credit habits by paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low, and avoiding excessive debt.
Credit ScoreStatus
300-579Poor
580-699Fair
670-739Good
740-799Very Good
800-850Exceptional

Understanding credit scores and reports is really important because they affect your ability to borrow money in the future. Here’s what you need to know:

A credit score is like a grade that shows how good you are at managing money you borrow. It’s a number between 300 and 850. The higher your score, the better. A good credit score makes it easier to get loans, like for a car or a house, and it can even affect things like getting a job or renting an apartment.

Your credit score is calculated based on a few things:

  • Payment history: Do you pay your bills on time? Late payments can hurt your score.
  • Credit utilization: This is how much of your available credit you’re using. Using too much can lower your score.
  • Length of credit history: How long have you been borrowing money? Having a longer history can be good for your score.
  • New credit accounts: Opening lots of new accounts at once can make you look risky to lenders.
  • Credit mix: Having different types of credit, like credit cards and loans, can be good for your score.

You should check your credit report regularly to make sure everything is accurate. You can get a free copy from each of the three big credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—once a year. Look for any mistakes or signs of identity theft, like accounts you didn’t open or debts you don’t recognize.

Building credit responsibly means using credit wisely. That means paying your bills on time, not maxing out your credit cards, and only borrowing what you can afford to pay back. These habits can help you build a good credit history and improve your credit score over time.

Exploring Student Banking Options

At 17 or 18 years old, you might never have thought about a bank. You might have a vague idea about banking, since your parents probably have a bank account. Maybe they even set up a savings account for you. 

But now your bank account is yours, and unfortunately, you have to think about it now. College students should care about their bank account for several reasons:

  • Managing Expenses: A bank account helps students manage their day-to-day expenses. With a checking account, they can easily pay for groceries, rent, textbooks, and other necessities without relying solely on cash.
  • Security: Keeping money in a bank account is much safer than carrying cash. If cash is lost or stolen, it’s gone for good. But if a debit card linked to a bank account is lost or stolen, the funds can often be recovered or the card can be canceled to prevent unauthorized transactions.
  • Convenience: Having a bank account offers convenience in managing finances. Online banking allows students to check their account balances, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks from their phone or computer, saving time and hassle.
  • Building Credit: Many college students may need to borrow money in the future, whether it’s for a car loan, renting an apartment, or buying a house. Having a bank account and responsibly managing it can help build a positive credit history, which is essential for obtaining loans and favorable interest rates in the future.
  • Financial Education: Opening and managing a bank account provides valuable financial education. Students learn about concepts like budgeting, saving, and the importance of managing money responsibly, setting them up for financial success in the long run.

Overall, a bank account is a tool. It’s what you use to manage you finances, protect your money, and build a strong foundation for your financial future.

Selecting the right bank account is a big deal for college students who want to manage their money wisely. Here’s what to think about:

  • Student checking accounts: These are tailor-made for students. They usually come with perks like no monthly fees, low minimum balances, and easy access to ATMs. Look for a bank or credit union that offers these kinds of accounts.
  • Online banking: Going digital can make handling your money a breeze. With online banking, you can deposit checks using your phone, pay bills online, and even use tools to track your spending. Check out what online features different banks offer to see what suits you best.
  • ATM accessibility: Having plenty of ATMs nearby is super handy, especially when you’re on campus. Look for a bank with a wide ATM network close to your college to avoid extra fees when you need to get cash.

By picking the right banking option, you can make managing your money simpler and avoid unnecessary fees. Take your time to explore your choices and find the account that fits your needs best.

Building an Emergency Fund

Building an emergency fund is like having a safety net for your finances. It’s there to help you out when unexpected expenses pop up, giving you peace of mind in tough situations. Here’s how you can start building one:

  • Set Savings Goals: Figure out how much you need to save – at least three months of living expenses is good. 
  • Start Small: You don’t have to save up your emergency fund all at once. Start by setting aside a small amount of money from each paycheck, even if it’s just a few dollars.
  • Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account on payday. This way, you won’t even have to think about it—the money will be put aside for your emergency fund before you have a chance to spend it. 

By following these steps, you can start building an emergency fund to protect yourself from financial emergencies and unexpected expenses. Remember, it’s not about how much you save at once, but about making saving a regular part of your financial routine. Over time, your emergency fund will grow, giving you greater financial security and peace of mind.

Avoiding Common Financial Pitfalls in College

Avoiding common financial pitfalls is one of those essential money skills for college students to maintain financial stability and avoid unnecessary stress. Here’s a deeper dive into some of these pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

Overspending: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of college life and overspend on non-essential items like dining out, entertainment, or trendy gadgets. However, overspending can quickly drain your bank account and leave you struggling to cover essential expenses. 

Credit Card Debt: Credit cards can be a convenient way to make purchases, but they can also lead to high-interest debt if not used responsibly. Avoid carrying balances on your credit cards whenever possible, since the interest charges add up and make it harder to pay off your debt. If you do use credit cards, pay your balances in full each month to avoid interest charges and only charge what you can afford to pay back.

Impulse Purchases: Impulse purchases can derail your budget. Almost half of all college students with credit card debt in 2023 admitted it was because of impulse buying. Before you buy, stop a second. Ask yourself if it’s something you truly need or if it’s just something you want for now and will regret later. By practicing mindful spending and resisting impulse purchases, you can avoid wasting money on unnecessary items and stay on track with your financial goals.

By being aware of these common financial pitfalls and taking proactive measures to avoid them, college students can establish healthy financial habits and set themselves up for long-term financial success.

FAQs

How can I be financially stable in college?

Staying financially stable in college means having a plan. Keep that plan simple – no get rich quick schemes or risky investments. Go with what works: 
Make a Budget: Keep track of what you earn and spend. Plan for your college expenses like tuition, books, and food.
Cut Costs: Find ways to spend less money. Buy used books, cook at home instead of eating out, and share living expenses with roommates.
Earn Money: Get a part-time job or look for work-study programs. Choose jobs that fit with your class schedule.
Apply for Aid: Apply for scholarships, grants, and loans to help pay for college. Fill out forms like the FAFSA to see what aid you qualify for.
Save Smart: Save some money for emergencies, like unexpected bills. Also, start saving for future goals, like grad school or a trip.
Get Help: Take advantage of resources at your college for financial advice. Learn about managing money and planning for your future.

How many college students struggle financially?

Many college students have money problems. Research shows that a lot of students find it hard to pay for things like tuition, books, and housing. Look at the stats: 
In 2020, 14.3% of college students experienced food insecurity at some point during the year (Hopewell Foundation, 2020).
In 2022, 73% of students had reported financial difficulty.
57% percent of students said they would struggle to find $500 in cash or credit for an emergency 
⅔ of students were afraid they would have to drop out of school if a financial emergency happened
This happens because college costs are going up, and sometimes financial aid isn’t enough to cover everything. Also, working part-time might not bring in enough money, so some students end up borrowing money or facing tough financial situations. Basically, a bunch of college students have a tough time with money, which is why it’s important for colleges to offer support and help students manage their finances better.

How much debt do most college students have?

The media talks a lot about college graduate and student loan debt. But many students start accumulating debt well before graduation:
43.3% of first-time, full-time students borrowed federal student loans in 2020-2021, with an average annual borrowing amount of $6,501 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023).
This means some students may have multiple years of debt accumulation before graduating.
A U.S. News & World Report survey found:
42.1% of college students have credit card debt
28% owed more than $2000
46% admitted getting into debt for nonessential and impulse buying 
The good news in that survey – credit card debt had actually gone down from the previous year. The bad news – it’s that banks and other lenders had tightened up credit because of low credit scores and high debt.

How do you manage stress about money while you’re in college?

Managing money stress in college can be tough, but you’re not alone! Preventing money problems is the single best way to manage your stress. Here are some tips to help you navigate this common challenge:
Awareness and Budgeting: Track your spending, Create a budget, and Set realistic goals
Building Financial Resilience: Explore income options, Apply for scholarships and grants, and Negotiate bills
Developing Healthy Habits: Compare prices, Limit impulse purchases, and Seek support
Taking Care of Yourself: Prioritize mental health, Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms, and Celebrate small wins

How many people don’t go to college because of money?

Determining the exact number of people who don’t pursue college solely due to money is challenging, as individual reasons are often complex and multifaceted. However, several studies and surveys shed light on the significant impact cost plays in educational decisions:
Money is the biggest reason why adults without a degree haven’t enrolled in post-secondary education: 55% of respondents cited program costs as a “very important” reason (Money, 2023).
Affordability concerns are rising: 45% blamed concerns about affordability due to inflation for not enrolling (Money, 2023).
34% of young adults who aren’t currently enrolled say it’s a “waste of money”: This points to potential financial discouragement, though other factors might be involved (Intelligent, 2023).

While an exact number isn’t available, financial concerns undoubtedly play a significant role in many individuals’ not pursuing college. Addressing accessibility through financial aid reform, affordability initiatives, and promoting awareness of various educational pathways can help bridge this gap and ensure wider access to higher education.

Can online college students get the same scholarships as those who attend on-campus programs? Absolutely! In fact, online students may even be eligible for more scholarship opportunities! That’s because there are more scholarships than ever for online students. This article covers the details about scholarships for online students, including:

  • How to find the best scholarships for attending college online
  • The best way (and time) to apply for scholarships
  • The benefits of online degree programs
  • How to know if an online school is legit or not
  • Other financial assistance available to online students

We’ll give you a wealth of resources about scholarships for online students. And that includes a list of over 50 scholarships to pursue right now! Plus, we’ll give you a list of sites to visit to help you find hundreds more!

Our editors first published scholarships for online students in June 2023. This ranking was updated February 2024.

If you’re a student wondering how to pay for your online college education, bookmark this page for future reference. 

BEST SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE STUDENTS

Table of Contents

50 Best Online Scholarships

1. Study.com Online Undergraduate Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Scholarship awarded annually to any student pursuing an undergraduate degree online, regardless of their area of study.

2. Robert L. Schulke Memorial Scholarship 

Amount: $500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Scholarship awarded to students who are cancer survivors or have immediate family members who battled with cancer. Special consideration given to those entering a medical or law enforcement degree program.

3. Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program 

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Any student enrolled in an accredited online college is eligible for this scholarship provided they can write a 500-word essay, as well as provide transcripts and tax information. 

4. College Raptor Scholarship 

Amount: $2,500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Awarded to students who are enrolled or are enrolling in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher learning. Must be a resident of the United States, District of Columbia, or a U.S. Territory and at least 16 years old.

5. $1,000 All Star Verified Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Three times a year

Who It’s For: All high school, college, graduate, or adult students and parents of high school and students enrolled in or planning to enroll in college. You have three opportunities per year to apply. Fill out the online form and answer the question, “What is the best or worst part about finding or applying to scholarships?” 

6. College JumpStart Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Twice a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship recognizes students who are committed to bettering their lives through education. It is open to 10th-12th graders, college students, and non-traditional students.

7. Luigi Iori Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $1,800

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Arizona State University students with a demonstrated financial need. Must be pursuing your first undergraduate degree in civil engineering. Minimum GPA of 3.0.

8. Amanda Creation $1000 Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is available to any resident or nonresident attending or planning to attend Arizona State University. Applications will need to submit an essay on “How do you convey the value of art and music education to those who wish to discontinue these subjects in school?“ 

9. AAUW’s Re-Entry Scholarship 

Amount: $2,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is intended to help women over the age of 23 who are returning to school to complete their education. It is awarded once a year to three female students.

10 . Berklee Online Music Scholarships 

Amount: $1,545

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for students who are pursuing a certificate at Berklee, and it is sponsored by several celebrities. You must have a GPA of 3.7, as well as have a recommendation from your instructor.

11. Niche’s $2,000 “No Essay” College Scholarship™

 Amount: $2,000

How Often: Once a month

Who It’s For: All students who register for an account on niche.com are entered and eligible to win this $2,000 scholarship with no other strings attached. Scholarship gets awarded monthly, and you can enter each time.

12. Western Governors University Master Your Future Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship provided by Western Governors University gets awarded to aspiring graduate students pursuing one of several degrees and programs offered through the school. 20 students each year get this award.

13. WGU Back to School Scholarship 

Amount: $2,500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship provided by Western Governors University gets awarded to new students in any of the more than 60 undergraduate degree and master’s degree programs offered at the school.

14. WGU Resiliency Grant

Amount: $4,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for students at the Western Governors University WGU Teachers College, College of Business, College of Information Technology, and the College of Health ProfessionsBusiness. Multiple grants are awarded based on the student’s academic record and readiness for online study at WGU. Students also must demonstrate financial need.

15. Career Education Scholarship Fund 

Amount: $500 to $2,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Applicants must be currently enrolled or scheduled for future enrollment at Colorado Technical University to receive this scholarship. You must demonstrate financial need and you can apply at any time through the school’s financial aid office.

16. HelpTeaching.com Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This is a one-time scholarship awarded to a student who can write a short story or informational article (400-800 words) for children. A winner is then chosen by a team from HelpTeaching.com. 

17. Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship 

Amount: $1,000 to $2,500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for women who serve or have served honorably in the US Army, or the daughters of a woman who has served. They are based on merit, academic excellence, potential, a personal essay, letters of recommendation, and community service. Students must also demonstrate financial need.

18. Christian College Scholarship 

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: First-time students enrolling in a Christian college can use this website to look for information about different schools and will be automatically entered to win this scholarship.

19. AFCEA STEM Major Scholarships for Undergraduates

Amount: $2,500 to $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for undergraduate degree candidates. You must be at least a second-year college student enrolled as a sophomore or junior full-time in a four-year college or university at the time of application. It is specifically for those who are active duty or honorably discharged from the military and pursuing a degree in a STEM field.

20. AL Diablo Valley Community College Scholarships

Amount: $500 to $6,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Students must be residents of Contra Costa County, California to be eligible for these scholarships offered by the Assistance League Diablo Valley. They are for graduating high school seniors applying to four-year colleges, community college students transferring with junior-level status to four-year colleges, and to current and former foster youth applying to four-year colleges, community colleges or vocational training programs. There are several scholarships available.

21. Amish Descendant Scholarship

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: The Amish Descendant Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students coming from Amish communities who want to pursue a higher education. Students need to have their GED or high school diploma provide proof of enrollment/acceptance into a community college or a university.

22. Rainbow Business & Professional Association Scholarship 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is provided to students who have shown exemplary effort in fostering diversity, ending bullying, and fighting against discrimination of LGBTQ+ students in their schools and communities. It is only available to students in New England.

23. James H. Davis Memorial Scholarship 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is awarded to Florida residents striving for a horticultural degree or similar pursuit; it is aimed at those students who have a passion for the field who are without many financial resources. Similar scholarships for students in horticulture are also featured on the website.

24. Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Scholarship 

Amount: $4,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This is awarded to students who show academic excellence and who have demonstrated strength and dedication to their future; applicants must have directly battled cancer, or have a family member who has battled cancer (not limited to Mesothelioma). Students must also demonstrate financial need.

25. ACS Scholars Program 

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for underrepresented minorities such as African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans that are pursuing a degree in a chemistry-related field.

26. PHCC Educational Foundation Scholarship 

Amount: $2,500

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a degree in a field directly related to the plumbing-heating-cooling industry. There are dozens of scholarships available from various donors. 

27. Nitro College Scholarship 

Amount: $2,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Nitro is a website dedicated to helping students learn as much as possible about loans and other means of financing their education. They award this scholarship to any US student that applies, and you can also participate in their referral program for additional opportunities.

28. Education Matters Scholarship 

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship gets awarded to any citizen of the United States that will be enrolled before Fall of that year. Applicants must write an essay about why education is important to them.

29. American Indian Science and Engineering Society 

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for Indigenous students who are interested in an aerospace career and are pursuing a degree in the state of Washington. Associate, bachelor’s, and graduate students can apply. Assistance is also available for students with dependent children.

30. eQuality Scholarship 

Amount: $6,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is awarded to California students that have demonstrated exemplary service to the LGBTQ+ community. students of any gender and orientation are eligible.

31. The JSSA Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: JSSA offers need-based scholarships to students who have completed their high school’s community service requirements as well as participated in volunteer service within the Jewish community. Several scholarships are featured each year. To stay up-to-date, join the organization’s mailing list.

32. CITe Incoming Student Tuition Scholarship

Amount:  $500+, up to $6,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for outstanding students who want to enroll in the University of Akron’s Information Systems program. It is an academic excellence scholarship. So students must have a GPA of at least 3.0 and an ACT score of at least 22 or SAT score of at least 1010, and be an Information Systems major.

33. Sacramento Press Club Journalism Scholarships 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: The Sacramento Press Club provides this scholarship once annually to several students who are from, or now reside or study in the Sacramento region of California. The recipient gets selected based on academic achievement and career promise.

34. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)

Amount: $500 to $2,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is provided to single mothers who are survivors of abusive relationships and who want to pursue higher education. Funds are provided for tuition, books, and fees and are paid directly to an accredited educational institution.

35. The Gladys Carol Scholarship Program, Inc.

Amount: up to $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: High school seniors, high school graduates, and current undergraduate students who are United States citizens or permanent residents. You must be accepted to or enrolled in a full-time STEM program at an accredited, non-profit public or private four-year college or university in the US. 

36. Pride Foundation Scholarship 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: LGBTQ+ students or allies that reside or plan to study in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington can complete one application to be considered for over 60 scholarships.

37. Unigo $10K Scholarship 

Amount: $10,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is awarded yearly to the selected applicant. All you have to do is write a 250-word (or less!) essay and be a legal resident of the United States enrolling before Fall of that year.

38. Adobe Research Women in Technology Scholarship 

Amount: $10,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is for female full-time undergraduate students studying in the field of computer science, computer engineering, or another related area of study.

39. Google Lime Scholarship for Students with Disabilities 

Amount: $10,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is intended to help students with a disability either visible or invisible pursue a degree in the field of computer science. The selected applicant also receives an invitation to the Google Scholars’ Retreat.

40. Raytheon Patriot Scholarship 

Amount: $10,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship will be awarded to a veteran of the US Army or active-duty member that is in good standing with your branch. To be selected, you must demonstrate passion in your field, and be an example of leadership. There will be two recipients of the award.

41. Cancer for College General Scholarship

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship is awarded to current or former cancer patients, on a one-time or recurring basis. Scholarships range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

42. Greenhouse Scholars Scholarship 

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Students preparing to enter your freshman year of college that live in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, or North Carolina can apply for this renewable need-based scholarship. Applicants must possess excellent leadership skills, an ability to persevere through difficult circumstances, and a strong interest in and commitment to their community.

43. Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois 

Amount: up to $23,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This scholarship for online college is awarded to a vast array of students throughout Illinois that are aspiring teachers. The idea of the scholarship is to promote ethnic diversity among the teaching community.

44. Gordon Hay Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: This is a merit-based scholarship for students in the Charlotte region who are pursuing a non-performing career in theater. Examples of eligible programs include set/lighting/sound/costume design, stage management, arts administration, arts education, etc.

45. Scholarships Through the University of Maryland Global Campus

Amount: Varies

How Often: Varies

Who It’s For: The University of Maryland Global Campus offers several scholarship opportunities for students who want to pursue one of the school’s many remote programs. Programs change frequently, so check back often.

46. Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Formerly known as the Leopold Education Project Scholarship, this opportunity is for students pursuing a career in a natural resource field and live in a varied selection of counties throughout Illinois. It is available once a year. 

47. Colorado Garden Show Scholarships 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: Colorado Garden Show Inc. awards a number of different scholarships to students attending a college or university that is based in Colorado to study fields relative to horticulture and agriculture each year. These scholarships are generally a full ride for one year, with one being a four-year award.

48. Cal Grant A & B Competitive Award Program 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Once a year

Who It’s For: These grants help students attending or planning to attend a Cal Grant qualifying post-secondary school. They can exceed $15,000 for some recipients.

49. Penn State’s World Campus Student Fund 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Varies

Who It’s For: Penn State has a wide selection of scholarships available to all students. For undergraduate and graduate students, help is available. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. 

50. K-State Global Campus Scholarships 

Amount: Varies

How Often: Varies

Who It’s For: Kansas State University offers a variety of need- and merit-based scholarships specifically to their distance-learning undergraduates.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAMS

What Are Scholarships?

Scholarships are financial gifts to help students pay for their education. These gifts do not need to be paid back. Thousands of companies and organizations offer scholarships. Some get presented once a year, while others are awarded more often. Scholarships come from many sources:

  • Religious organizations
  • Employers
  • Social groups and clubs
  • Nonprofit charities and other organizations
  • Private corporations
  • Private individuals and family foundations
  • Universities and colleges
  • Community service groups

Students receive scholarships based on factors like gender, age, grades, academic promise and leadership, nationality, race, and more. 

The Myth About Scholarships for Online Students

Many students think scholarships are only for students enrolled in on-campus programs. But this is a myth. Now that reputable schools exist online, scholarships for online colleges are plentiful.

More colleges than ever offer online undergraduate or graduate degree programs to prospective students. And more students seek flexible online degree programs. So in most cases, you’ll have the same opportunity for scholarships as any other student. Moreover, when you’re attending an accredited online university, you’re a real student, regardless of where you take classes. As long as you meet the requirements, you have the same chance as anyone to be awarded scholarship money. The same goes for financial aid, which we will talk about later on.

When you think about it, students enrolled in online college are the students who need scholarship money the most. Many students attend online undergraduate or graduate degree programs because they are typically cheaper than traditional programs. In addition, many work full-time and take care of families. For these nontraditional students, financial assistance for college is essential.

If money is a deciding factor for attending an online degree program, don’t let that stand in your way. Plenty of scholarships for students enrolled in online programs exist! And there are many other ways to help pay for college if you know where to look. We’re going to show you some of those ways.

The Benefits of Online Degree Programs

If you’re wondering about the benefits of pursuing an online degree, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s talk about the many perks of attending a university or college online. Yes, the global pandemic changed the face of higher education—perhaps forever. Millions of students had to switch from learning on campus to the digital classroom. But even before COVID-19, students were gravitating in great numbers to online learning. There are a couple of reasons for this.

Technology has progressed so that we now have state-of-the-art online learning platforms. As a result, a college education is more accessible than it has ever been. At one time, if you had a family and a career, it would be nearly impossible to go to college and attend to your responsibilities at the same time. But thanks to digital advances, it is possible for more people than ever to earn a college degree. 

The benefits of online degree programs are numerous, but the main ones include:

1. Flexibility

Whether you’re a young person just graduating from high school or an adult learner, you can find the ideal online degree program. Do you need to study on your own time and on your own schedule? A synchronous degree program can give you this flexibility. Are you someone that needs more structure and discipline? A synchronous degree program could meet your learning needs. Do you wish to attend campus periodically yet do most of your work online? Then a hybrid college degree program might be your best bet. So, what do these terms mean?

Asynchronous Online Programs

Asynchronous programs have the least amount of structure and the most flexibility. Assignments and lectures are prerecorded, and you can log on and listen when it is convenient for you. You do not need to show up at a specific time for class. And although you will have a few deadlines, most of your studies will take place on your own time. An asynchronous degree program is ideal for those with many other responsibilities and who need to fit classes around jobs and family. 

Synchronous Online Programs

With synchronous programs, all the students access the course materials online simultaneously. It’s a lot like being in the classroom, but the class is conducted online. There is a schedule to adhere to, and you must stick to it. A synchronous degree program is an excellent option for students who want to attend class online yet need to be held accountable. 

Hybrid Programs

Hybrid programs are a mix of in-person and online learning. Sometimes, these programs are called “blended” programs. With a hybrid degree program, there are many possible learning combinations. Often, students can create the one that works best for their learning style. 

For example, you may want to attend campus once a week and do the rest of your work online. Or you may wish to go to in-person classes four days a week and have one day of online studies. Since each school is different, you’ll need to check to see if the college has a degree program that meets your needs. Hybrid programs are best for students who need an online schedule but would like to be involved on campus. They are also ideal for those who want occasional in-person interaction with their instructors and fellow online students. 

 2. Affordability

Is an online degree program cheaper than a traditional program? Sometimes. Some schools charge the same for each degree program, regardless of residency. Other schools have lower tuition prices specifically for online students. And some only charge online students the in-state tuition costs. 

However, one thing is certain, attending online programs will save you money. First, there’s the matter of transportation. You can save a bundle on a vehicle when accessing coursework right from home. That includes car payments, insurance, maintenance, and repairs.

Of course, not having to live on or near campus can save you thousands of dollars as well. And you won’t need to pay for a meal plan or snacks if you eat at home. Additionally, sometimes online programs also offer digital books at no charge. So you can save on book fees, too.

You can also get financial assistance, scholarships, and grants with online programs. And this can reduce your education costs significantly. 

3. Program Quality

Today’s online degree options are not an afterthought. On the contrary, they are planned with care from start to finish. In almost all cases, classes get taught by the same esteemed faculty members that teach on campus. 

The curriculum is identical and just as rigorous. It is adapted for online learning and, in many cases, improved upon during that process.

Finally, online students who graduate from a distance college program earn the same degree as those who graduate on campus. 

4. Career Advancement

Another benefit of remote college is advancing or changing careers. If you’ve been considering switching your career path or have an eye on a promotion, online programs can help. These programs can automatically position you to advance at work. Sometimes, your employer may even reimburse your educational costs.

It can be hard to move through the ranks of any company if you don’t learn new skills. But the flexibility of an online degree online students to return to college without sacrificing their current jobs or income. 

There are many online undergraduate and graduate degrees that can help you learn more skills. And increasing your skillset can lead to increased earning potential. The more skills you learn, the more advantages you have over other candidates in your field. 

5. Accessibility

While this might seem the same as flexibility, it even goes a step further. Making your own schedule is one of the main reasons people choose to be online students. But where you will live during your studies can be another factor. 

Suppose you want to attend Harvard University, yet you live in Idaho. At one time, you would need to move to Massachusetts to make that dream come true. Now, you can get a Harvard education (or one from any other dream college) from anywhere on the planet.

As long as you have an internet connection, you can study from anywhere. Feel like going camping? You don’t need to wait for a long weekend to hit the road. As long as you have Wifi, you can complete your studies and enjoy any adventure whenever and wherever you choose. Online students can even earn a degree from another part of the world!

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE STUDENTS

Are Online Degree Programs Credible?

Now that we’ve talked about the benefits of online degrees let’s discuss their credibility. Are these degree programs legit? The programs we feature on Online College Plan are legitimate, credible online degree programs. But if you can’t find your preferred school on our list, how can you tell you’ll be getting a quality education? There are several ways to know, and we’ll run through them quickly:

Accreditation

When a school is accredited, it means that an external accrediting body has approved it. These organizations look at a school’s programs and other factors to determine whether they offer quality programming or not. For example, they examine graduation rates, costs, faculty, curriculum, and more. So, if you want to find the best online degree program, make sure the school you are considering is accredited. 

Non-Profit or For-Profit Status

Tuition varies considerably among colleges. But regardless of how much a school costs, find out if it operates as a non-profit or for-profit entity.  

Nonprofit colleges do not make money off student tuition fees. Instead, they funnel each year’s earnings back into high-quality programs for the school’s students. So regardless of how much the tuition is, you can be assured that the revenue continues to support student programs. 

On the other hand, for-profit schools exist to make money off tuition. Instead of developing newer and better programs, many line their own pockets and that of their shareholders. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, it does not put the student before profits.

Additionally, students attending for-profit institutions have a financial disadvantage. While these programs may initially appear cheaper, the net price tells a different story. That’s because students usually dont qualify for scholarships at for-profit schools. Nor are they eligible for federal financial aid. 

And often, the degree you earn at a for-profit college will not be accepted by some employers. So before you determine whether a school is legit or not, look at its status. 

Graduation Rates

Even the top colleges in the nation don’t have 100 percent graduation rates. Typically averages are around 60 percent. When you see schools with extremely low graduation rates, it could indicate that they do not offer quality programming. They may not be supporting their on-campus or online students as well as they should. So looking at graduation rates can uncover some clues about the legitimacy of a school.

Physical Campus

While it is not always the case, you should be wary about schools with no physical campus. If a school is operating out of the back of a warehouse or office park, there’s a good chance it’s a for-profit school.

The best online programs come from established colleges that already have a physical campus. Suite numbers—or no physical address at all—should be a red flag that you might be dealing with a diploma mill and not a credible college. 

What Are The Best Scholarships for Online Students

ONLINE DEGREE SCHOLARSHIPS

This article features 50 of the best scholarships for online students attending remote degree programs. But there are thousands (yes, thousands!) of other scholarships up for grabs. There are scholarships for everything you can think of, including:

  • Scholarships for single parents
  • Scholarships for women
  • Athletic scholarships
  • Financial need scholarships
  • Scholarships for men
  • Essay Scholarships
  • Scholarships for students who grew up in foster care
  • Scholarships for foreign students
  • Scholarships for veterans
  • Scholarships based on academic merit
  • Community service scholarships
  • Trade School Scholarships
  • Minority scholarships
  • Scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students
  • Academic Excellence Scholarships

This list is but a fraction of the available scholarships. There are scholarships for average students, weird and unusual scholarships, and more. But how do you find them? And what do you do when you are ready to apply? We’re going to go into more detail about this next. 

How to Find the Best Scholarships for Online Programs

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE COLLEGES

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single place to find the best scholarships. Fortunately, there are several great sites to help you find and apply for college scholarships. There are also resources to help find great scholarships for high school students planning to go to college.

There are several other reliable websites for seeking out scholarships for online programs. Here are some of our favorites:

Chegg

You can search a database of over 25,000 scholarships on Chegg. The mission of this site is to “Help students learn more in less time and at a lower cost.” Chegg has a user-friendly platform where you can search for scholarships using several criteria.

Scholarships.com

Another great place to look for online school scholarships is Scholarships.com. All you need to do is type in your criteria, and the site will match you with the most relevant scholarships for you. 

College Board

Most high school students aspiring to college are familiar with College Board. This site runs the national SAT program and features dozens of valuable resources. However, they also have a searchable list of over six billion dollars worth of scholarships and student aid.

Fastweb

Another reputable source for online scholarships is Fastweb. This site boasts over 1.5 million verified scholarship opportunities. They also have some great tools for keeping track of those you have already submitted applications for. 

Another Way to Find Scholarships for Online Students: Ask!

ONLINE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS

Sometimes, the best way to find scholarships that would work for you is to ask around. Many community groups, organizations, and businesses have scholarship opportunities. But many of them are not well-publicized. 

Sit down with a directory of your town or county, and start asking around. You can make direct phone calls or send out emails to the human resources director of each corporation. Introduce yourself and briefly state your goals. For example:

Good afternoon,

My name is Jane Smith. I go to Gorham High School right here in town. I plan to attend the University of Southern Maine next fall. I am reaching out to you to find out if your company offers college scholarships for local students. And if so, how may I apply? Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Jane Smith

You can do this same thing with other places in your area. Some ideas include clubs, churches, charitable groups, and more.

Ask Your Guidance Counselor and Teachers

Another idea is to reach out to faculty members at your school. Your teachers, academic counselor, and other staff members may have scholarship information. These people want you to succeed and will almost always go out of their way to help you.

Ask the College Directly

Almost all colleges have their own scholarships to offer. Some schools even have several. Contact the financial aid department if you know the school you want to attend. Find out about any scholarships and financial aid the school offers. If you’re having trouble deciding between two or more schools, this information can be helpful in making your decision.

BEST SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

When to Apply for Scholarships

If you are applying for several scholarships, it can get overwhelming. The deadlines can vary from scholarship to scholarship, so you might want to create a spreadsheet or note to keep track of all the important dates.

Usually, students complete scholarship applications during their junior and senior years of high school. The sooner you get going on this project, the more chances you’ll have to help fund your online education. 

Be absolutely sure to get your application(s) in on time. It would be best if you tried to submit them well before the due date to ensure they are received before the deadline. 

How to Apply for Scholarships

The biggest thing to remember when you apply online for college scholarships is to follow the directions exactly. Go to the scholarship website and read the instructions carefully. Be sure you meet the criteria needed to be eligible for the scholarship. 

You may be asked to do one of several things. Often, all you need to do is fill out a simple online form. Other times, you will need to print and mail the form. In addition, you might need to write an essay, demonstrate a skill, or create a video. Whatever you are asked to do, do it to the best of your ability. 

Other Financial Assistance Available to Online College Students

FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ONLINE STUDENTS

Throughout this article, we’ve mentioned other forms of financial aid. In this final section, we’ll discuss those. In addition to the millions of dollars available in scholarship money, you may qualify for one or more of these sources.

Many students wrongly assume they won’t qualify for financial aid because they make too much money. Or, they have the misconception that online students can’t get federal aid. Both of these assumptions are false.  So always fill out any applications, including the FAFSA form. You might be pleasantly surprised at what you are eligible for.

Paying For College

When you look at the tuition costs on an online school’s website, you might get sticker shock. The published tuition prices are often beyond what the average student can afford. However, most students do not end up paying the published price. Instead, most qualify for some type of financial aid. Many even qualify for assistance from several sources. The amount due after all financial aid, grants, and scholarships are applied is known as the “net price.

If you’re trying to be financially savvy about paying for college, you’ll want to get your net price down as low as possible. 

Financial Aid comes in many forms, but the most common include:

  • Financial aid from the federal government
  • Financial assistance from individual states
  • Student loans
  • Work-study programs
  • Grants
  • Special assistance from a university or college
  • Other types of financial aid

Financial Aid From the Federal Government

Financial help for college from the US government comes from the Department of Education. This can come in the form of loans, grants, and more. These programs are for undergraduate and graduate degree programs. To get federal financial aid, students need to fill out the FAFSA form. 

Financial Aid From the State

Financial aid from your state is also an option. Most states have funding for grants and scholarships. Often, you’ll discover what’s available simply by filling out the FAFSA form. Other forms of assistance have separate application processes. You can see what’s available in your state by visiting the National Association of Student Aid Administrators.  

Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs allow students to work a job to help them pay for school. These jobs are often on campus and are related to the student’s major. 

Assistance From the University or College

Some colleges maintain financial aid programs separate from those offered by the government. These, too, may come in the form of grants and other sources. Contact your school’s financial aid department for more information. 

Grants

Grants for online college are a lot like scholarships. But they are usually awarded based on a student’s financial need. Grants can come from state or federal governments, individuals, or private organizations. Online colleges with grants are now very common. to find out more about grants for online colleges, visit studentaid.gov.

Student Loans

The Department of Education maintains the federal student loan program. With student loans, the government acts as a bank, loaning money to students to help them pay for their education. Usually, these loans come with a lower interest rate. And students often don’t need a specific credit score to qualify. There are several types of student loans. For more information, you can visit the Department of Education.

Miscellaneous Financial Aid

There are many other miscellaneous programs to help students pursue a college degree.

  • Special aid for military members and their families
  • Special aid for veterans
  • Special assistance for international students
  • AmeriCorps community service grants
  • Tax benefits for families and students

For more information about these programs, visit the Federal Student Aid website. 

Related Articles:

Easy Scholarships! Quick College Cash

Finding and Applying for College Scholarships

The Best Scholarships for Single Parents

When To Start Applying for Scholarships

This concludes our article on the Best Scholarships for Online Degree Programs

HBCU Texas

If you are looking within the state of Texas for a good college, you should consider the state’s HBCUs. There are nine HBCU colleges in Texas.

After the American Civil War, the Freedmen’s Bureau began implementing educational opportunities for the newly freed slaves. And it was around then that many HBCUs were founded in the southern states, providing African Americans with accredited higher education experiences for over a century. The Black colleges were even designated to provide elementary and high school education at the time. And although this was phased out by the mid-1920s, the HBCUs lived on.


Our editors first published HBCUs in Texas in June 2023. This ranking was updated February 2024.

If you live in Texas, there many advantages to attending a college or university within the state, including:

  • In-state tuition: In-state tuition is much more affordable than out-of-state tuition, although some private colleges and universities do not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition.
  • Short commute and travel fees: Even if you are taking online classes, it can be helpful to visit campus to meet with professors or take advantage of campus resources and technology.
  • Quality field study, internship, or employment opportunities: Many colleges and universities are well connected with companies and businesses in their area.

HBCUs in Texas 

SchoolLocationTuition (in-state)
Huston-Tillotson UniversityAustin, Texas$14,703
Jarvis Christian UniversityHawkins, Texas$11,720
Texas Southern UniversityHouston, Texas$9,173
Wiley CollegeMarshall, Texas$13,500
Texas CollegeTyler, Texas$10,008
St. Philip’s CollegeSan Antonio, Texas$6,742
Paul Quinn CollegeDallas, Texas$13,798
Prairie View A&M UniversityPrairie View, Texas$11,299
Southwestern Christian CollegeTerrell, Texas$12,030
In-state tuition collected from the most recent data published by NCES – College Navigator.

What Is An HBCU?

Are There Any HBCUs In Texas?

An HBCU is a historically black college or university established to help African American students achieve a high-quality secondary education. In addition, HBCUs aim to offer students an opportunity to grow and achieve their dreams regardless of race. 

 HBCUs In Texas

HBCUs exist all around the country, but around 10% of the HBCUs in the United States are in Texas. States like Alabama and Georgia are a couple of other states where HBCUs are common. HBCUs only comprise around three percent of the United States’ total educational institutions but make up more than 25% of all African American students graduating with a college degree. The vast majority of HBCU students are African Americans. However, enrollment is not limited to African Americans. Students of any race can attend, as long as they meet the requirements for admission and are accepted.

Nine HBCUs In Texas

What Are The Nine Different Texas HBCU Schools?

There are nine HBCU schools in Texas, and each has its own qualities, programs, student body, and sports teams. Within one of these nine universities, you could find a place that fits you perfectly. In the next section, we will talk about each Texas HBCU individually and let you know about some of the unique and exciting facts about them. If you have further questions about any of the Texas HBCU universities on this list, be sure to contact the school and make an appointment with an admissions counselor. 

Huston-Tillotson University

Austin, Texas

Website

Founded in 1875 in Austin, Texas, Huston-Tillotson University is a private HBCU that provides an intimate educational experience with a student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1 and a total enrollment of just over 1,000. 

The average cost of attendance $14,703 a year, which is affordable for many families with financial aid. In addition, Huston-Tillotson is renowned for its music and education departments and accepts most students, on average, with a GPA of 3.07 or higher. 

Some of the unique majors at Huston-Tillotson include Educational Leadership, African American Studies, Religious Studies, and Environmental Studies. 

Pros

  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Adult degree programs with online options (one course at a time)
  • SAT/ACT scores not required for admission
  • Women’s and men’s athletic teams and sporting community

Cons

  • Less majors/minors than most larger universities
  • Small student population (1025 students)

Jarvis Christian University

Hawkins, Texas

Website

Located in Hawkins, Texas, Jarvis Christian University provides educational quality at an affordable tuition rate of $11,720 per year. However, a full 99 percent of students receive financial aid, so most get a break on tuition rates. As a result, JCU is often considered one of the most affordable and competitive colleges in Texas, and not only within the sphere of HBCUs. 

JCU is known for its teacher certifications and its Bachelor of Business Administration program, which features concentrations in accounting and cybersecurity. 

JCU offers prospective students the opportunity to schedule a virtual appointment with an admissions advisor, an excellent idea for those looking to attend. 

Pros

  • Generous financial aid awards
  • Highly affordable tuition costs
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1
  • Minors and concentrations available

Cons

  • Limited number of program offerings
  • Low graduation rate (16%)

Texas Southern University

Houston, Texas

Website

Texas Southern University (TSU) is one of the biggest and most widely-known Texas HBCUs, with over 8,600 students and more than 100 academic programs and degrees. The average cost for a TSU student (in-state) is just over $9,100 a year. According to the United Negro College Fund, TSU generates $530 million in economic impact on the regional economy.

To get into Texas Southern University, you’ll likely need a GPA of 2.5 or above, an ACT score of 17 or above, and a minimum SAT score of 900. TSU has a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, so each student is assured individual attention.

Texas Southern has a student population of around 60 percent women and 40 percent men, with 80 percent of their total student body being Black. Nearly 85 percent of TSU students are from Texas, but many others choose to come from around the country. Some of the most popular majors at TSU include biology, business, law, and psychology. 

Pros

  • Competitive in-state tuition
  • Diverse selection of programs and degrees
  • High acceptance rate of 97%
  • Large career services center with job fairs and workshops
  • 138 student organizations and over 4,117 events annually

Cons

  • Higher tuition cost for out-of-state students, non-residents of Texas

Wiley College 

Marshall, Texas

Website

Wiley College is a private HBCU located in Marshall, Texas. Founded in 1873, the college has a religious affiliation with the Methodist Episcopal Church. Wiley College is one of the oldest HBCUs to the west of the Mississippi River and has a cost of $13,500 a year. The college aims to serve not just Black students, but students from a variety of different cultural and economic backgrounds without limiting their dreams or education. 

Currently, the college is split up into four different divisions: 

  • Sciences
  • Education
  • Business and Technology
  • Social Sciences and Humanities 

Another non-degree-granting division handles the college’s general education requirements. Some of the most popular majors at Wiley College include Criminal Justice, Mass Communications, Business Administration, and Biology. 

Pros

  • 25% of the student body are athletes
  • Recognized for its academic stewardship
  • Three degree pathways – residential, adult learner, and online

Cons

  • Small student population (less than 700 students)
  • No graduate degree programs

Texas College 

Tyler, Texas

Website

Texas College, located in Tyler, Texas, is an HBCU founded in 1894 by a group of ministers. Similar to Wiley, Texas College is also closely affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The college aims to provide an environment for not only educational development but also social and cultural development. Some of the core values of the school include academic excellence, integrity, social responsibility, and tolerance. 

Texas College offers a 1:17 ratio of faculty to students with 12 degree programs in four divisions, including:

  • Business and Social Sciences
  • General Studies and Humanities
  • Education
  • Natural and Computational Science

The college also offers intercollegiate competitive sports teams for football, baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more. So if you’re looking for a small school with a very tight-knit community and a lot of opportunity for growth, Texas College might be a great choice for you. 

Pros

  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1
  • Strong athletics programs
  • Tight-knit community

Cons

  • Small student body population of less 642 students
  • No graduate programs

St. Philip’s College 

San Antonio, Texas

Website

St. Philip’s College is a historically Black community college located in San Antonio, Texas. Founded in 1898, this school is part of the Alamo Colleges District and has a student body of more than 12,653 who are pursuing more than 70 different degree programs. 

The average cost for students to attend the university (as in-state residents) is just over $6,700 a year. St. Philips is one of the most affordable colleges on this list, so this could be an excellent option for those looking to come out of school with little or no debt. 

Some of the unique majors that students can pursue while at St. Philip’s include Health Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Hotel Management, and Baking and Pastry Arts. Most students attending have a GPA of 2.0 and above, and there are many student apartments in the area to serve your housing needs despite the college not having dorms of their own. 

Pros

  • Career readiness programs
  • Low cost tuition for in-state and in-district residents
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1
  • Open admission policy (100% acceptance rate)

Cons

  • Limited number of bachelor’s degree programs offered (currently only one)
  • Higher out-of-state tuition

Paul Quinn College

Dallas, Texas

Website

Founded in 1872, Paul Quinn College is a private HBCU located outside of Dallas, Texas. The school is one of the smallest HBCUs in the country, with an enrollment of 938 students. The college is the oldest HBCU to the west of the Mississippi River and was the first Urban Work college in the nation. PQC is closely affiliated with the African Methodist Church, making it a tightly-knit community of students and faculty. 

As one of the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation, Paul Quinn College aims to shake up the normal boundaries of college tuition. The school believes that you should not need to take on additional financial burdens just to get an education.

Since the school is based in the Dallas metropolitan area, there are many opportunities for connections and jobs with Fortune 500 companies nearby. In addition, Paul Quinn College focuses on experimental and faith-based education, so if this interests you, you should definitely apply. 

Pros

  • Access to internships and career opportunities in the greater Dallas area
  • Diverse program offerings
  • Generous financial aid offerings and awards
  • Tight-knit community

Cons

  • Lower acceptance rate than some HBCUs (57%)
  • Small student population (938 students)

Prairie View A&M University 

Prairie View, Texas

Website

Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University is an of the most well-known Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the U.S. The university offers over 50 baccalaureate degrees, 37 master’s degrees, and four doctoral degrees. The university is located in Prairie View, Texas, and offers competitive tuition rates for in-state students who pay $11,299, compared to out-of-state students who paid $26,874.

Prairie View prides itself on being a place that students can go to be fully, one-hundred-percent themselves. In addition, Prairie View is the second oldest higher education institution in Texas, meaning they have long-standing traditions that go back for decades and even centuries. 

The current student body of the university exceeds 9,000, and while many are from Texas, students come to attend Prairie View from all around the country. Nearly 6,000 degrees have been awarded from the university over the past five years!

Pros

  • Affordable in-state tuition for residents of Texas
  • Geographically diverse student body
  • High research activity (R2 Carnegie Tier)
  • Large number of academic programs and offerings
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1

Cons

  • Higher out-of-state tuition costs

Southwestern Christian College

Terrell, Texas

Website

Located in Terrell, Texas, Southwestern Christian College was founded in 1948 and is one of the best private Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Texas. The college offers associate’s and bachelor’s degrees that primarily aim to prepare students for full-time ministry. 

It is one of the “younger” schools on this list, with an annual enrollment of about 88 students. While small, the school has popular degree programs, such as their Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies, a degree that prepares students for various careers working in the church. 

The college also prides itself on having a thriving acapella chorus and several athletics teams for students to enrich their on-campus lives. If you have been hunting for a tight-knit, small school environment that will prepare you for a religious career upon graduation, look no further than Southwestern Christian College. 

Pros

  • Internship opportunities and career-focused courses
  • Specialized degrees for ministry work
  • Tight-knit community
  • Unique extracurricular activities

Cons

  • Limited number of diverse degree offerings
  • Very small student population
Texas HBCUs

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to an HBCU in Texas?

If you are a Black student looking to get a high-quality education in Texas, you should feel confident searching for your home at one of these Historically Black Colleges and Universities. But there are things to consider before choosing your school. Make a list of what you’re looking for. Consider things like:

• Geographic location
• Internship opportunities
• Program offerings (degrees and majors)
• Research opportunities for undergrads
• School size
• Student-to-faculty ratio

Is Texas A&M a HBCU?

No. Texas A&M is not an HBCU. It’s a public research university in College Station, Texas. But Prairie View A&M University is an HBCU. Some prospective students mix up these two Texas schools.

What is the #1 HBCU in Texas?

Prairie View A&M University is often considered the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Texas. It has a large student body and diverse program offerings.

Can you go to an HBCU in Texas if you’re white?

Yes. If a white student meets admission criteria, they can get accepted to a Texas HBCU. Some HBCUs enroll up to 30-40% non-Black students, though the majority is Black.

Are HBCUs in Texas easier to get into?

Like other institutions, HBCUs have diverse admission standards, including academic requirements, standardized test scores, and other factors. Some HBCUs are highly competitive, while others have more accessible admission standards. It is not accurate to universally categorize an HBCU as easier or harder to get into.

What GPA do you need for HBCU in Texas?

Typical GPAs for HBCUs in Texas range from 2.75-3.0. Some HBCUs want higher GPAs, while others offer access to students with lower GPAs. But the average GPA for acceptance into a Texas HBCU is 2.75.

Related Articles:

Are There Any HBCUs in Alabama?

Do any HBCU Colleges Offer 100% Online Degree Programs?

What is the Top HBCU Graduate School?

Top 20 Best Historically Black HBCU Colleges with Online Programs

This concludes our article on the top HBCU Colleges Texas

HBCU Georgia

There are hundreds of colleges in Georgia, but not all are HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Prospective students looking for a Georgia HBCU will be pleased to know that there are many higher education options to choose from.

Many of the HBCUs in Georgia are excellent schools. In fact, several are considered among the best online HBCU colleges in the nation. This article will help you sort out the best HBCU colleges in Georgia for you.


Our editors first published HBCUs in Georgia in June 2023. This ranking was updated February 2024.

Which institutions are an HBCU in Georgia?

Attending one of the best HBCU colleges within your state of residence has advantages, including:

  • Affordability: Georgia HBCU schools (especially public colleges) offer great tuition rates for in-state students.
  • Accessibility: Being able to travel to your campus easily will allow you to meet with other students and professors.
  • Opportunity: The best HBCU colleges have working relationships with local companies and employers, which gives students more opportunities for high-quality internships and job placement.
 HBCU colleges in Georgia

Many of the best HBCU colleges started in southern American states after the Civil War to provide Black students with quality educational opportunities without discrimination. As a result, many HBCUs in Georgia are well known to their local communities, giving graduates stable and lucrative employment opportunities after graduating. This article will provide you with some helpful information on the best HBCU colleges in Georgia.

10 Best HBCU Colleges and Universities in Georgia

SchoolLocationIn-state TuitionAcceptance Rate
Albany State UniversityAlbany, Georgia$5,934100% (open admission)
Fort Valley State UniversityFort Valley, Georgia$5,83243%
Savannah State UniversitySavannah, Georgia$5,498100% (open admission)
Clark Atlanta UniversityAtlanta, Georgia$24,73056%
Interdenominational Theological CenterAtlanta, Georgia$14,000N/A
Morehouse CollegeAtlanta, Georgia$29,46860%
Morehouse School of MedicineAtlanta, Georgia$23,513N/A
Morris Brown CollegeAtlanta, Georgia$9,558100% (open admission)
Paine CollegeAugusta, Georgia$14,59652%
Spelman CollegeAtlanta, Georgia$28,88528%
In-state, undergraduate tuition collected from the most recent published data at NCES – College Navigator.

Albany State University

Website

Our first HBCU in Georgia, Albany State University, is one of the best HBCU colleges in the state. This public university offers a larger online catalog of courses and degrees than other HBCUs in the state. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition for in-state students (undergrads) is $5,934. The school is small, with an undergraduate enrollment of just over 5,800 students. The current acceptance rate is around 73 percent.

Some of the most popular majors include Nursing, Business, and Liberal Arts. Around 28% of the students graduate. While the graduation rate may seem low, students stay connected. The alumni network is a viable resource for many graduates.

Pros

  • Diverse program and course selections
  • Low in-state tuition for Georgia residents
  • Online degree pathways
  • Open admission
  • Small city campus setting with access to metro areas

Cons

  • Low graduation rate of 28%

Fort Valley State University

Website

Founded in 1895, Fort Valley State University is a public university that offers a wide range of bachelor’s programs, plus master’s degrees in education and counseling. Located in the Macon area of Georgia, with a relatively small undergraduate enrollment of around 2,300, it it one of the best HBCU colleges in the state. 

But to get in is a challenge, as the acceptance rate is 43%. However, tuition is low for in-state students. Undergrads pay $5,832/year. So, if you’re looking for an affordable Georgia HBCU, it’s worth applying.

The school has an athletic accreditation of NCAA Division 2, and they have a variety of sports teams at the university, including football. In addition, the school has some of the best student dormitories in the country. Popular majors include Family Studies, Psychology, and Consumer Sciences. 

Pros

  • Access to bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs
  • Diverse selection of majors and courses
  • Low in-state tuition for Georgia residents
  • Small student population (2,360 undergraduates)

Cons

  • Lower acceptance rate than other HBCUs (43%)

Savannah State University

Website

Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is the oldest HBCU public university in the state of Georgia. It is well known for its prestigious science and engineering degrees, though the school offers a number of programs across various disciplines. The undergraduate enrollment is 2,740 students.

Tuition for in-state students at SSU is $5,498. While the school offers open admission, you will still need to prove your abilities. A 3.0 GPA is the minimum requirement for acceptance.

Student life at Savannah State is lively outside of the classroom, and Savannah is also well known for its Greek Life. Some of the most popular majors include Journalism, Biology, and Liberal Arts. 

Pros

  • Access to Savannah culture and nightlife
  • Affordable in-state tuition for Georgia residents
  • Small campus environment
  • Open admission

Cons

  • Higher out-of-state tuition for non-residents of Georgia

Clark Atlanta University

Website

Formed in 1988 with the consolidation of Clark College and Atlanta University (both of which were founded in the 1860s), Clark Atlanta University is a private Historically Black University that offers over 40 degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Tuition is $24,730 for both in-state and out-of-state students.

The school is great for those looking for HBCU colleges in Atlanta since you’ll have plenty of connections in the city. Plus, the university is right in the heart of downtown. CAU has an undergraduate enrollment of around 3,400, making it a small yet tight-knit student community. The admission rate of CAU is 56%, making it a bit more competitive than some of the other college options on this list. 

Around 46% of students who attend CAU graduate. Some of the most popular majors include Criminal Justice, Radio and Television, and Business. 

Pros

  • Access to Atlanta area businesses and culture
  • Diverse selection of programs and courses
  • Generous financial aid awards
  • Located in the heart of the Civil Rights Movement
  • Small, tight-knit student community

Cons

  • More competitive for admissions than other colleges (56% acceptance rate)

Interdenominational Theological Center

Website

The Interdenominational Theological Center is a graduate HBCU located within Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. Since the center is situated in CAU, you have the added benefit of getting your master’s degree in the heart of the city. Tuition at this HBCU school is $14,000.

The undergraduate enrollment at the theological center, is under 200 students, making this Georgia university a tight-knit community. There are only a few programs of study at the Interdenominational Theological Center. Some of the most popular ones are Theological Center & Divinity and Pre-Theology & Religious Vocations. 

Pros

  • Access to Atlanta businesses, nightlife, and culture
  • Low cost graduate degree programs
  • Small, tight-knit student community

Cons

  • Limited number of program offerings
  • No undergraduate programs available
  • Small student population of 193

Morehouse College

Website

Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is a private, all-male HBCU located in Atlanta. It was the alma mater of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The college is renowned for its academic quality, as it is one of two Historically Black Colleges and Universities to produce Rhodes scholars. 

Tuition at Morehouse College is $29,468, although about 90% of students receive some form of financial assistance. In addition, Morehouse admits around 60%, making it moderately easy for students to get in. The student body is just over 2,500.

Fifty-nine percent of students who attend Morehouse go on to graduate. Some of the most popular majors at Morehouse College include Biology, Business, and Political Science. 

Pros

  • Access to Atlanta area businesses and culture
  • Diverse selection of undergraduate degrees and courses
  • Generous financial aid assistance and awards
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1

Cons

  • More selective than other colleges
  • Small, all-male student body

Morehouse School of Medicine

Website

The Morehouse School of Medicine is a graduate HBCU within Morehouse College that focuses explicitly on medical studies. It is a graduate school, with only around 890 students. 

There are six different graduate programs offered at the Morehouse School of Medicine, but the most popular ones include Public Health and Medical Science. The MSM, as it is commonly abbreviated, employs 250 faculty and staff members, and the ratio of students to faculty is nearly 2:1. 

Many of the nearly 1,400 alumni of MSM choose to serve underprivileged communities using their medical degree knowledge. In addition, many alumni are distinguished leaders who have been recognized in Georgia as well as internationally. 

Pros

  • Access to Atlanta area medical facilities and laboratories
  • Ideal for students interested in public health and medical sciences
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 2:1
  • Research opportunities
  • Small, tight-knit student community

Cons

  • Limited number of degree programs and offerings

Morris Brown College

Website

Morris Brown College, another HBCU in Atlanta, is one of the smallest schools on the list with about 250 students. Morris Brown is a closely connected community with several unique majors, including Global Management, Applied Leadership ESports, and Organizational Management. 

More than half of its enrolled student body is from Georgia, but students come from all over the country to experience the small class sizes and southern HBCU life. In addition, MBC’s tuition is $9,558 before financial aid, so the school is affordable to attend for most students. Many students enrolled receive some form of financial aid assistance.

Pros

  • Access to Atlanta area business, culture, and nightlife
  • Approved for international student enrollment
  • Diverse selection of program and course offerings
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1
  • Small class sizes

Cons

  • No graduate degree offerings
  • Very small student population (253 students)

Paine College

Website

Paine College is a private HBCU located in Augusta, Georgia. The college is closely affiliated with both the United Methodist Church and Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. 

The average cost of attendance is $14,596 per year, and the school has an acceptance rate of 52%. However, 18% of the students who attend Paine end up graduating from there. 

Some of the values of Paine College include academic excellence, social responsibility, spirituality, and personal development. The most popular programs of study at Paine include Sociology, Criminology, and Social Psychology. 

Pros

  • Diverse selection of courses and programs
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio (10:1)
  • Small, tight-knit student community

Cons

  • Low graduation rate of 18%
  • More selective than most schools (52% acceptance rate)
  • No graduate programs

Spelman College 

Website

Spelman College is another one of the HBCU colleges Atlanta has to offer. And not only is it one of the best Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the state, but also a historically women’s only college. Spelman is an exceptional university to attend as a Black woman because of its outstanding programs and incredibly high graduation rate. 

About 74% of students who attend Spelman end up graduating from the school, and the college has an average tuition rate of $28,885.

You’ll need to be above average when it comes to grades to attend Spelman, as students who are accepted have an average GPA of around 3.76. Spelman prides itself on being a school designed for driven young women, and the student body and alumni certainly reflect this. 

Pros

  • Dedicated to academic excellence in the arts and sciences
  • Diverse selection of programs (over 30)
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1
  • Picturesque campus in the heart of Atlanta
  • Recognized as a top Black Ivy League school

Cons

  • Higher tuition than some other HBCUs in Georgia
Georgia HBCU colleges and universities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an HBCU?

An HBCU is a Historically Black College or University. These universities were initially established to help African American students achieve a high-quality secondary education. HBCUs do admit students of all races, but they primarily admit Black students. They exist all over the country, but are mostly found in southern states like Georgia.

Should I go to an HBCU in Georgia?

Attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) can offer an enriching educational experience for various reasons. Here’s a list of some potential benefits that will help you figure out if an HBCU in Georgia is right for you.

• Academic excellence and strong programs
• Cultural awareness and diverse perspectives
• Financial assistance from scholarships and grants
• Leadership development opportunities
• Networking opportunities through alumni
• Social activism and community engagement
• Supportive environment with smaller class sizes

Is Georgia State University an HBCU?

No. Although many African American students attend the school, Georgia State is part of the university system and a large public research college. It is not an HBCU.

What is the oldest HBCU in Georgia?

Savannah State University is the oldest HBCU public university in the state of Georgia. Founded in 1890, SSU is a four-year institution that serves 2,740 undergraduate students. It ranks #51 among top HBCUs by U.S. News and World Report.

What HBCU in Georgia are easy to get into?

The National Center for Education Statistics reports acceptance rates for HBCUs and other schools. In Georgia, here are the easiest ones to get into.

• Albany State University (open admission)
• Savanna State University (open admission)
• Morris Brown College (open admission)
• Morehouse College (60% acceptance rate)

Related Articles:

Top 20 Best Historically Black HBCU Colleges with Online Programs

Where can I find an HBCU in Maryland?

Can I attend a HBCU in Virginia and take some of my courses online?

Which HBCU in NC have online degree options?

Are There Any HBCUs In Texas?

Pre-med online courses provide students with added flexibility so they can complete their degrees on their own terms. With that said, finding a fully online undergraduate program can be tricky, especially if your goal is to study pre-med. Instead, you can take online pre-med courses!

Pre-med isn’t typically offered as a major. Students can major in a field of natural science and a handful of other disciplines. Science is one of the most hands-on fields, so attending campus at some point is a given. However, some schools still strive to provide you with more flexibility by allowing you to take courses online.

Our editors first published pre-med schools with online courses in June 2023. This ranking was updated February 2024.

What is Pre-Med?

Many students wrongly assume that pre-med is a college major. However, it is not. In fact, there is no designated major for pre-med students. Because of that, students who enter medical school can choose a variety of different majors before completing their undergraduate degrees. Therefore, calling yourself a “pre-med” student essentially means that you plan to go to medical school. Typically, you pursue an undergraduate degree that aligns with your future career goals. 

Pre-med students take courses in different subjects, some of which can be accessed online. While your entire degree may not be available as remote coursework, many of your classes may have an option for distance learning.

Best Pre-Med Schools with Online Courses

SchoolLocationTuition (annual in-state, undergrad)
The University of IllinoisChampaign, Illinois$15,714
The Ohio State UniversityColumbus, Ohio$12,485
CSU GlobalAurora, Colorado$8,400
University of Florida OnlineGainesville, Florida$3,876
Tuition costs collected from the most recent data published by NCES – College Navigator.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

Program Website

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is a large school with over to 56,000 students. It is an R1 Research University and a member of an organization of premier research institutions across the country called the Association of American Universities (AAU). UIUC is world-renowned for its research and scientific innovation across several fields. The school has an acceptance rate of around 45% for undergraduates and a graduation rate of 85%.

If you’re studying science, this is one of the top schools to attend. Potential pre-med majors include Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Molecular and Cellular Biology. Within these programs, there are hundreds of courses offered online.

While the school may not offer entire bachelor’s degrees for pre-med students online, you can achieve passing grades in a lot of your coursework for a pre-med degree by taking individual courses online. Some of the online courses offered on the Illinois Online site include:

  • Introduction to Telemedicine
  • Medicine in Literature
  • General Chemistry
  • Introduction to Public Health

Pros

  • Access to research opportunities for undergrads
  • Hundreds of online courses
  • Lower in-state tuition rates
  • Pre-med majors
  • Selective R1 research university

Cons

  • Higher tuition for out-of-state residents
  • Large student population (56,916 students)

The Ohio State University

Program Website

The Ohio State University is the only R1 Research University in the state of Ohio. OSU is also a member of the AAU, on top of being regarded as a Public Ivy. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the best public universities in America. It is a highly regarded school that offers an extensive selection of courses online.

The University is based in Columbus, Ohio, and has a student body of about 46,000 undergraduates. OSU has an acceptance rate of about 53 percent and a high graduation rate of about 88 percent. 

OSU offers a variety of different pre-med degrees entirely online, which is ideal for distance learning students. Some of the pre-med tracks available online include:

  • Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

In addition, OSU has a unique feature that makes it stand out as a pre-med option. Students can select Pre-Medicine as an area of interest and get specialized advice on being accepted into a med school program.

Pros

  • Extensive online course selections
  • High graduation rate (88%)
  • Internship opportunities in medical settings
  • Large alumni network and reach
  • Research institution with opportunities for undergrads

Cons

  • No designated pre-med major
  • Selective admission for pre-professional programs

Colorado State University Global

Program Website

Colorado State University (CSU Global) does not offer an entirely online pre-med program, but they do provide their students with the option to take many of their pre-med courses online. These courses vary when it comes to subject and credit count, although they primarily hover between 2 and 4 credits.

These online courses are taught by the same faculty members present on campus and they can count for CSU credit when you successfully complete and pass them. Some of these online pre-health courses include:

  • Principles of Human Physiology
  • Individual and Family Development
  • Death, Dying, and Grief
  • Medical Terminology
  • General Microbiology

The school has an acceptance rate of around 97%. There are 6,433 undergraduates, and many different online networks that facilitate connection with peers.

Pros

  • Eight-week courses with monthly start dates
  • Free one-on-one tutoring for pre-professional courses
  • Large selection of online pre-med courses
  • Pay as you go, 3-4 credits at a time

Cons

  • No in-person connection
  • No pre-med major

University of Florida Online

Program Website

The University of Florida (UF) Online, based in Gainesville, provides distance-learning students with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate degrees in Biology or Microbiology online. These two majors are some of the most popular among pre-med students, and UF allows you to complete all of the necessary coursework for these majors online.

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology – Interdisciplinary and theoretical, requiring less preparation in mathematics or chemistry.
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Microbiology – More hands-on with life sciences and laboratories.

For residents of Florida, UF’s online degree programs are a fraction of the cost of their in-person programs, which typically require you to pay for things like a meal plan or student housing. The same high-ranking faculty members who teach on UF’s campus also teach online courses, meaning you get the same quality of education whether you’re in-person or a distance learner. With an acceptance rate of 65%, it is moderately challenging to get into this school. However, around 79% of students successfully graduate.

Pros

  • Diverse selection of online science courses
  • Extensive research and laboratory experience opportunities
  • Preparation for graduate school if not admitted to medical school
  • Rigorous coursework favored by medical school admissions

Cons

  • High student-to-faculty ratio of 54:1
  • Limited number of pre-med degree programs
  • Out-of-state tuition for non-residents

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do pre-med classes online?

Accredited online pre-med classes are available from many research institutions, colleges, and universities. Online pre-med courses cover subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and math, providing flexibility for students. It’s important to research the criteria medical schools want before taking classes so that you are familiar with their prerequisites. But you can do some, or all, of your pre-med classes online.

What is the best online course for pre-med?

There are many online courses that can benefit your qualifications for medical school. Recommended courses include:

• Biology with lab
• General chemistry with lab
• Organic chemistry with lab
• Biochemistry with lab
• Cellular biology with lab
• Physics with lab
• English

Can I apply to medical school without prerequisites?

Some medical schools don’t have prerequisites, so you can apply without them. But it’s not recommended. Your pre-med courses prepare you for medical school. They help you build foundational knowledge that can lead to success in medical school.

Can you do pre-med in 2 years?

While it is possible, completing your pre-med courses in two years is a challenge. It involves an intense schedule with a heavy course load, including biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Accelerated programs, summer classes, and online courses can help streamline the process.

Are online pre-med courses worth it?

If you are a student looking to complete your pre-med degree before going to medical school, completing a portion of your undergraduate degree online is a great option. Online pre-med courses can reduce the time needed to spend in the classroom. Online courses can also save you money. Some programs don’t charge out-of-state tuition and charge less per credit for online offerings.

Related Articles:

Is Studying Pre-Med Required to go to Medical School?

What is Pre-Med and what are the best majors to choose?

Which majors are typically Pre-Med majors?

Senior Year College Prep

It’s senior year, and the countdown to your future has officially begun. Preparing for college in your senior year of high school is like navigating a new city without a map; exciting but overwhelming.

You’re about to embark on one of life’s greatest adventures. Think college applications, scholarship hunts, and financial aid forms—oh my! Don’t worry though; with an early start and some savvy planning, you’ll be set up for success. In this post, we’ll guide you through the whirlwind of milestones and deadlines so you can break things down into manageable chunks.


Senior Year College Prep

See Also:

The Summer Before Senior Year:

Work, Volunteer, or Lead

senior year college prep

This is the last chance you’ll have to build up skills and experiences that will come in handy when filling out those applications. So, it’s a good idea to make the most of it through work, community service, or leadership roles.

Gain Some Work Experience

If you want to ramp up your extracurricular game, getting some real-world work experience is a solid move. Whether it’s a part-time gig or a summer internship, it’s a chance to pick up some skills, explore potential career paths, and build a professional network for the future. Saving money should also be on your radar because higher education doesn’t come cheap. Stash away your earnings or find ways to cut back on spending (do you really need another pair of sneakers?) Besides, every penny counts toward textbooks and dorm decor.

Participate in Community Service

Jumping into community service is another cool way to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering at a local organization or joining a service trip, it’s a chance to grow your empathy, compassion, and sense of responsibility to your community. Plus, it’s a way to check out potential career paths and get some awesome experience.

Take on Leadership Roles

Look for opportunities to step into leadership roles in clubs or organizations you’re already involved in. Colleges dig students who take on leadership roles because it shows you’re on the ball, reliable, and can take the lead. Plus, it gives them a peek into how you can bring something extra to campus life. Basically, colleges want a mix of students who bring different strengths to the table, and having leadership experience is a big plus.

Get Organized

senior year college prep

You’ve got a busy year coming up, and even the most organized seniors feel like they’re caught in a tornado once school starts. So now is the time to get yourself organized so you can stay on top of it all—before the storm arrives. Think of it as setting up dominoes; get them lined up right now, and you’ll thank yourself later when things start falling neatly into place.

Set up a System to Keep Track of Application Stuff

To stay organized while applying to college, it’s key to keep tabs on all the necessary bits and pieces. This means transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, essays, and those application fees. One way to do this is to whip up a spreadsheet or table with all the stuff you need and when it’s due. This way, you can make sure everything gets sent in on time and nothing slips through the cracks.

Invest in a Planner

Another big part of staying organized is keeping a handle on all the important dates. You can do this with an app, but we recommend a good old-fashioned planner. Make sure to jot down all the key dates like application deadlines, test dates, and college visits. This way, you can plan ahead and dodge any last-minute freak-outs. It’s also a good idea to set reminders on your phone to make sure nothing slips your mind.

August-September

Finalize Your College List

senior year college prep

Finding the right college is like assembling a complex puzzle where each piece represents your future. Nearly half of all high school seniors have already started to put this puzzle together by researching and visiting potential colleges. If you’re not quite there yet, you’ve got some work to do. 

Make a List of Reach, Match, and Safety Schools

By now, you probably have a good idea of the schools you’d like to apply to. And it’s time to finalize that list so you can move on to other tasks. Making a list of reach, match, and safety schools is a tried-and-true way to help you navigate the process. 

  • Reach Schools: Your reach schools are the dream big ones – they’re kind of a long shot. These places are super competitive, and your grades might not be up to snuff. But hey, you never know until you try. 
  • Match Schools: Your match schools? They’re like your old reliable pair of sneakers – they fit just right. You’ve got the grades and scores that jive with what they usually look for, so these colleges could really work out well for you. 
  • Safety Schools: Finally, you have your safety schools – consider them your comfy backup plan. You’re bringing more to the table than their usual crowd, which means getting in should be a piece of cake. So why not throw ’em into the mix? 
Utilize Online Resources

Digital platforms have revolutionized how we explore higher education options. For those who haven’t stepped foot on a campus yet, virtual tours offer an interactive peek into college life without leaving home.From small liberal arts colleges tucked away in cozy towns to sprawling universities at the heart of bustling cities, every type of institution can be found with just a few clicks.

Beyond visual explorations, make sure you dig deep into academic programs related to your desired field; visit school websites directly for specifics about class size, faculty credentials, and available resources that will support your academic success.

Evaluate Campus Culture Through Social Media

Social media channels reveal the day-to-day vibe on campuses better than most official sources ever could—you’ll see what students celebrate (and complain about), get wind of trending clubs or activities…basically sniff out whether you’d enjoy being part of this community long before orientation day rolls around.

Register for and Take Any Necessary Standardized Tests, Such as the SAT or ACT

Come fall, leaves aren’t the only thing dropping—the deadline for standardized tests will sneak up faster than Halloween candy disappears. If SATs or ACTs are still on your to-do list, make sure you’re registered for test dates pronto.

To prepare for standardized tests, you can take practice tests, sign up for test prep courses, and get a tutor if you need one. It’s important to start prepping early and be ready to take the tests more than once if you need to hit your target score.

You might like: SAT and ACT Prep Guide

Ask Your Favorite Teachers or Mentors for Recommendation Letters

When you’re asking for those recommendation letters, it’s best to hit up the teachers who really know you and can talk about how awesome you are. Think about the ones from your favorite classes or the clubs you’re involved in. Before you ask, it’s a good idea to chat with them about your college plans and give them some info about your achievements. Also, make sure you give them plenty of time to write the letter and be cool about it—they’re doing you a solid, after all!

October-November:

Work on Your College Application Essays and Personal Statements

Lots of colleges want essays and personal statements when you apply. It is important to showcase why you feel you’re a good fit for the college and what unique qualities you can bring to the campus community. So get those ideas flowing early and make sure you’ve got enough time to write and tweak everything so it’s ready to go. Here are some tips that might come in handy:

  • Be real: Just be yourself and share your own experiences, thoughts, and dreams. Admissions folks want to get to know the real you, not just your grades and scores.
  • Show, don’t just tell: Use stories, examples, and details to bring your essay to life and make it more interesting.
  • Stay on track: Focus on a specific part of your life or a particular experience that really shows who you are. Don’t try to cover too much in one essay.
  • Edit and revise: Take the time to go over your essay and make it better. Look for ways to improve your writing and make your message clearer.
  • Get some feedback: Share your essay with people you trust and see what they think. Their advice can help you make your essay even better and make sure it really tells your story.

Tip: Before sending off any materials, double-check the requirements one last time; typos are pesky little buggers that love hiding out in essays till 11:59 PM submission night. 

Start Sending in Your College Applications

It’s time to start sending in those college applications, especially if you’re aiming for early decision or early action programs. A strong application paints a clear picture of who you are and what you can bring to the college community. 

Senior Year College Prep

Once you’ve gathered all this stuff and sent it in, the college admissions committee reviews everything and decides if you get in. It can be pretty competitive, so you’ll want to work hard on your applications to ensure they stand out. 

December-January:

Start Navigating College Costs

Getting ready for college can be a super exciting time for high school seniors, but let’s be real, it can also be a bit of a stress-fest when it comes to money. Tuition and living costs keep going up, so it’s key to start planning ahead. Here are some tips to help you out with your senior year financial game plan.

Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):

If you started preparing for college in your junior year, it’s likely you’ve already filled out the FAFSA. But if not, it’s vital to get cracking. It’s all online and pretty self-explanatory. Consider it the gateway to a range of financial assistance, including grants, loans, and work-study funds provided by the federal government. Grants are non-repayable, while loans necessitate repayment with interest. Work-study programs afford students the opportunity to work part-time on campus to earn funds for college expenses.

CSS Profile by College Board

Next up is the CSS Profile by College Board. This, too, is entirely online. It’s like your audition tape for colleges, showing them what kind of financial support could help you shine on campus. Not every school asks for it, but those that do might be ready to hand out scholarships or grants based on what they see. So don’t be shy—get that CSS Profile submitted.

If you need a hand with these forms, you can reach out to your high school guidance counselor or the college financial aid office for some help. These folks know their stuff when it comes to financial aid applications. There are also tons of online resources, workshops, and tutorials out there to lend a hand with the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

Explore Scholarships and Grants

Now let’s talk about scoring some cash for college through scholarships and grants. These are usually given out based on your smarts, financial situation, or your special skills and passions. It’s a good idea to dig into as many scholarships and grants as you can to up your chances of getting some help. You’ve got lots of options for finding these opportunities, like online databases, your guidance counselor, and the college financial aid office. Just make sure to read all the rules and get everything in by the deadline.

Don’t Forget About Local Scholarships: Many students don’t realize there are even more scholarships to be had in some unlikely places. Don’t let local scholarships fly under your savvy radar since they can offer additional opportunities and resources that might not be available on a larger scale. Businesses, community organizations, and even schools in your area often sponsor these awards; they tend to have less competition too. So don’t miss out—dig into what your own backyard has to offer when it comes to funding your education.

February-March:

Tie Up Loose Ends

In February and March, it’s all about getting everything sorted as you gear up for college. This is an exciting time, so keep an eye on the mailbox for those acceptance letters and financial aid packages. Plus, it’s a great time to visit the colleges where you’ve been accepted. Getting a feel for the campus and checking out the vibe can really help you finalize the big decision about where you want to spend the next few years.

Hone Some Key College Skills

As a high school senior, it’s a good idea to start honing some Important skills that’ll set you up for success in college and beyond. Here are a few to focus on over the next couple of months:

  • Time Management: College classes will be more demanding, so nailing down time management is key. Make a schedule that covers study time, classes, and any extracurricular stuff. Prioritize your tasks and try to steer clear of putting things off.
  • Critical Thinking: Being able to analyze info and make decisions based on evidence is a big deal in college. Practice asking questions, weighing evidence, and considering different points of view to sharpen those critical thinking skills.
  • Effective Communication: Having top-notch writing and speaking skills, plus the ability to listen and work well with others, is crucial for college and beyond. Practice communicating clearly and respectfully in all sorts of situations, whether it’s in class, group projects, or professional settings.
Maximize Your High School Counselor Resources

Your guidance counselor isn’t just there to nod and smile; they’re your go-to person for mapping out your future. Surprisingly, only a small percentage of seniors take advantage of this gold mine by discussing college prep with their counselors. It’s time to change that.

To ensure you don’t miss out, pencil in a few meetings as if they were hot dates…with destiny. It’s all about setting goals and getting personalized advice that aligns with your ideals. Face-time is crucial because those chats are where dreams get wings – or at least a solid plan.

Your guidance counselor is like that trusty GPS when you’re on a road trip — essential for finding the best route. Those scheduled meet-ups can give you an edge as you transition from high school to college life. 

April-May:

Time to Be Decisive

Spring has sprung, and you’re on the home stretch. Give yourself a pat on the back, because you’ve put in a lot of work. At this point, you’re probably up to your elbows in activities like preparing for graduation, prom, senior trips, and other end-of-year celebrations. But there are still some remaining tasks to take care of this month. Its final decision time, folks. 

Compare Financial Aid Offers and Select Which College to Attend

For many students, one of the hardest choices of the year is deciding which college to attend. But one way to make it easier is to start comparing your financial aid offers. Here’s how:

Get All Those Letters Together

First, gather up all the financial aid letters you got from the colleges you’re thinking about. They’ll have info about scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.

Crunch Some Numbers

Do some math to figure out the real cost for each college. Subtract the free money (grants and scholarships) from the total cost (tuition, fees, living expenses). This tells you how much you’ll actually have to pay.

Watch Out for Loans

Pay attention to the loans that are on offer. Check out the interest rates, when you have to start paying, and whether the government’s paying the interest while you’re in school. Try to keep those loans as low as possible.

Think About Your Wallet

Look at your family’s financial situation and see how much they can chip in. Also, think about your future job prospects and whether you’re okay with the potential debt.

Hunt for Extra Cash

Keep your eyes open for outside scholarships or grants. Every bit helps, right?

Work-Study Reality Check

If you’re getting work-study, make sure it will align with your class schedule and life. If so, it can be a nice way to make some cash while you study.

Size Up the Schools

Don’t forget about the non-money stuff! Think about what each college offers academically, where it’s located, and what the vibe is like on campus.

  • Visit or Tune In Online: If you haven’t already, visit the colleges you’re super interested in. Or join their online events to get a feel for the place.
  • Chat with Current Students: Reach out to current students or grads from those colleges. They can spill the beans on what it’s really like there.
  • Think About Appeals: If you’re set on a college but need more financial help, don’t be shy to ask the financial aid office if they can do better. Sometimes they can!
  • Make a List, Check It Twice: Put together a list of good stuff and not-so-good stuff for each college. Get it all down on paper, so you can compare and see what feels right.

Remember, it’s about the whole package – the education, cost, campus vibe, and how you see yourself fitting in. Take your time, trust your gut, and go with the college that feels like the best choice for you. 

Make the Call

Finally, make your choice! You can give your chosen school the thumbs-up by following the steps in your acceptance letter or admission portal. Usually, this means filling out a formal acceptance form or confirming your enrollment online. You might also need to cough up an enrollment deposit by a certain deadline to lock in your spot. Just make sure to read the school’s instructions carefully and tick all the boxes to officially say “yes” to their offer.

June-July

Prepare for the Transition to College Life

You’ve graduated from high school at last, and you’re finally getting ready to transition to college. It’s gonna be a great summer! For most grads, this is the most exciting time of all. But for some, making the leap can be overwhelming. However, you can make the adjustment smoother with the right mindset and preparation. To get ready for college life, you’ll need to do a few more things.

Get Any Remaining Paperwork Sorted for Your Chosen College

Financial Aid: Get any last bits of financial aid paperwork sorted out so your funding is in place for the upcoming semester.

Health and Wellness: Take care of any medical forms, vaccinations, and health insurance information. This is also a good time to scope out what health services are available at your college.

Course Registration: Sign up for your classes and get the hang of how your college’s course selection and registration process works.

Attend Orientation

Show up for college orientation to get the lowdown on campus life, classes, and what to expect.

Begin Networking

Start reaching out to other students, potential roommates, and new friends through social media or college groups to build your college crew before you even get there.

Arrange Your Housing and Plan Your Move

Sort out where you’re going to live, whether it’s on-campus or off-campus, and take care of any necessary paperwork or deposits. You’ll also want to figure out how you’re getting there, whether you’re shipping stuff, and if you’ve got friends or family helping out with the move.

Start Packing

Don’t forget the basics: Pack your bedding, toiletries, clothes for all seasons, school supplies, and essential documents.

Coordinate with your roommate: If you can, chat with your roommate to avoid bringing double the stuff like mini-fridges and microwaves.

Get organized: Consider getting storage solutions like under-bed containers and over-the-door organizers to make the most of your space.

Make it feel like home: Bring along some personal items like photos, posters, or decorations to personalize your new space.

Dress for the weather: Depending on where you’re headed, make sure to pack for the climate, including winter gear, rain gear, or anything else you might need.

Prepare Yourself Emotionally: Emotional preparation for college might sound a little silly at first. But the truth is, heading off to school can stir up all kinds of feelings. Getting ready for the switch-up in your routine, social scene, and school workload is important. If you’re feeling a bit wobbly, don’t hesitate to chat with your parents, friends, high school guidance counselor, or a mental health pro for some backup. And once you’re on campus, make sure to tap into the counseling services and support groups that are there to help you out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What steps should I take during my senior year to ensure I’m ready for college?

During your senior year, it’s important to focus on maintaining good grades, taking challenging courses, and participating in extracurricular activities. Additionally, you should take standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT and fill out college applications.

How can I create a comprehensive checklist to prepare for college during my final year of high school?

A checklist can help you stay organized during your final year of high school. You should start by researching college application requirements and deadlines, and then create a timeline of tasks you need to complete. Your checklist should include tasks such as taking standardized tests, requesting transcripts, and filling out college applications.

What are some key deadlines that high school seniors should be aware of when planning for college?

High school seniors should be aware of application deadlines, financial aid deadlines, and scholarship deadlines. It’s important to keep track of these and make sure you submit all required materials on time.

How important are my senior year grades in the college admissions process?

Senior year grades are an important factor in the college admissions process. Colleges and universities want to see that you’re continuing to challenge yourself academically and that you’re maintaining good grades. It’s important to stay focused and motivated during your senior year and strive to do your best in all of your classes.

What can parents do to support their high school seniors in preparing for college?

Parents can play an important role in supporting their high school seniors in preparing for college. They can help their children research colleges and universities, provide guidance on the college application process, and offer emotional support and encouragement. Additionally, parents can help their children stay organized and on track by creating a college planning timeline and checklist.

Planning for College as a High School Junior

It’s your junior year of high school. This is the crossroads where future paths start taking shape—where college planning kicks into high gear. If you’re thinking about your future and what you need to do to get ready for college, we’re here to help. Think of this post as your personal map to help guide you through the maze of college planning in your junior year of high school.

First Things First: Crafting Your College List 

If you haven’t already, it’s time to create a college list. You want to identify reach, match, and safety schools. What does that mean? Think of it like aiming for a trio of baskets – “reach” schools are like shooting a three-pointer. They aren’t impossible, but they will need some serious game. Then there are the “match” schools, where you can lay up comfortably because they fit your stats pretty well. Lastly, you have “safety” schools; these are your free throws, where getting in is almost a sure shot. 


Planning for College as a High School Junior
Identify Your College Preferences

When you picture yourself going to college, what does it look like? Do you envision a big city campus with lots of bustle and activity? Or do you see yourself at a small college surrounded by nature? Location, size, and environment all come into play. Even if you plan to attend college online, you’ll still want to consider factors like campus culture, student services, and the overall vibe. Check out each college’s website, social media pages, and student reviews to get a better feel for things. 

Consider Your Major and Career Interests

Another high-priority factor to consider when putting your college list together is your major. You’ll want to look for schools with programs that closely match your career goals and interests. Scope the curriculum and content of each program. For example, some schools offer internships and study-abroad programs. If hands-on learning is your vibe, such perks might interest you. 

Start Exploring Costs

You wouldn’t buy something without checking its price tag first, would you? The same goes for picking colleges. Luckily, most have net price calculators online that predict roughly how much each will cost after factoring in potential aid packages. You can check these out before you even apply. We’ll talk more about money later on.

Key Takeaway: When you’re whipping up your list of colleges, mix in some dream schools, ones that feel just right, and some easy-peasy options. Also, consider the location, environment, and overall culture of the schools you’re eyeing. Finally, be sure they offer programs that match with what you’re into, and figure out how much cash you’ll need to shell out. That way, your college search is gonna be on point.

Diving Into Campus Visits

Visiting college campuses is something you can do at any point in your high school journey. But if you haven’t done it by Junior Year, it’s time to get a move on. Spending time on campus will give you the inside scoop on where you might be spending the next few years! Here are some tips for planning college visits:

Planning for College as a High School Junior
Schedule Campus Tours

Most schools offer campus tours that can be scheduled online or by phone. You’ll want to schedule them early because spots fill up fast during busy times. Pick a date and time that works best for you (and your parents). And if you’re considering several colleges in one area, why not pack them into one epic day? 

Interview with Admissions Officers

Some colleges will let you interview with an admissions officer during your visit. This is a great way to demonstrate your interest in the school and learn more about the admissions process. You’ll want to prepare for the interview by researching the school beforehand. And don’t forget to dress for success and arrive on time!

Attend College Fairs

College fairs are another great way to learn about potential choices. They’re kind of like buffets but for schools – lots of options all in one spot. You’ll find reps from various colleges with insider information about admissions requirements, campus life, and degree programs. So be sure to come prepared with a list of questions and a notebook. It’s also a good idea to bring copies of their high school transcript and test scores to share with admissions representatives.

Staying Organized and Meeting Deadlines

Juggling lots of stuff can be tough, so it’s key for students to manage their time well. This means carving out specific time for college planning, like checking out colleges, prepping for tests, and getting those applications done. It’s also helpful to figure out what’s most important and break it down into smaller steps to stop you from feeling swamped. 

Planning for College as a High School Junior
Understand Early Action vs. Early Decision

You may also want to consider applying early decision or early action if the college offers these options. Early decision means you’re committed to going to that college if you get in. Early action is more flexible and lets you hear back from the college sooner, so you know where you stand. 

Keep Track of College Admission Timelines

Knowing the deadlines for the colleges you’re interested in is crucial. This means keeping track of when applications are due, when you’ll find out if you got in, and when you need to sort out financial aid. 

Helpful Tip: The easiest way to stay on top of college application deadlines is to make a calendar or spreadsheet with all the deadlines for the colleges you like. You can also use online tools and apps to help you stay organized and make sure you don’t miss any important dates. And don’t forget to set up reminders on your phone or computer to keep you in the loop about upcoming deadlines. 

Extracurricular Involvement and Leadership

High school junior year is a fabulous time to explore your passions outside the classroom. Extracurricular activities are a great way to do this. Pick things you enjoy and that line up with your interests. It could be joining a club, getting in on a sport, or volunteering. Volunteering in high school provides you with valuable opportunities to develop important skills and gain real-world experience. Just make sure it’s something that really matters to you and that you can stick with for a while.

Planning for College as a High School Junior
Look for Leadership Opportunities

Getting involved in extracurricular activities can help you build up your leadership skills, too. Look for chances to step up and take on leadership roles in the stuff you’re into. Whether it’s being a club officer, team captain, or volunteer coordinator, honing those leadership skills can make you stand out when it comes to college (and scholarship) applications.

Document Achievements and Awards

If you get involved in extracurricular activities, keeping track of your wins and triumphs along the way is key. That means jotting down your volunteer hours, keeping tabs on how your team is doing, and noting down any leadership gigs you take on. This info can come in handy when you’re filling out college applications and putting together your resume to show off what you’ve achieved and how dedicated you are to your activities.

Preparing for College Applications

Junior year of high school is a big deal when it comes to getting ready for college applications. Here are some tips to help you get going: 

Planning for College as a High School Junior
Craft a Personal Statement

Your personal statement is a significant part of your college application. Start brainstorming ideas and writing drafts during junior year. It should show off your personality, interests, and goals, and be well-written and interesting. Get a teacher or counselor to give it a once-over to make sure it’s top-notch.

Gather Letters of Recommendation

Most colleges want letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Start thinking about who you want to ask during junior year. Pick someone who knows you inside out and can talk about your strengths and achievements. 

Create a Resume or Activity List

College apps often need a list of your extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other wins. Start putting this together during junior year. Include all the important stuff and give the deets about each one. You might also want to put together a resume to show off your achievements in a professional and organized way.

Academic Planning for Juniors

Junior year is imperative for planning your academic courses. That’s because it’s the last full year of academics that colleges will see when they review your application. 

Planning for College as a High School Junior
Select Your Courses

You may want to consider taking some challenging classes this year. Pick those that match up with what you’re into and what you want to do in the future. It’s a good idea to chat with your guidance counselor to ensure you’re on track to graduate and are taking the right college courses.

Manage Your GPA

Maintaining a solid GPA is vital for getting into college and snagging scholarships. So, be sure to put forth your best effort to get good grades. It’s also a good idea to take AP courses or dual enrollment classes to push yourself academically. This can help bump up your GPA and demonstrate you’re ready for college-level work.

Use Tutoring and Support Resources

If you’re having a tough time with your schoolwork, looking for extra help is a good idea. Most high schools have tutoring programs, study groups, and academic counseling to give students a hand. You can also reach out to your teachers and friends or check out online resources like Khan Academy or Quizlet.

Testing and Assessment

Getting tests out of the way is an excellent way to prepare for college. Plus, knowing you’ve passed with flying colors is a sure way to take the stress out of senior year. 

Take the SAT/ACT 

Junior year is a pretty important time when it comes to college entrance exams. The SAT and ACT are the most common, and most colleges need them. It’s a good idea to take these exams in the spring of your junior year and then again in the fall of your senior year. You can use online practice tests, test prep books, and tutoring to prepare. 

Take AP Exams and Subject Tests

AP courses are like college-level classes you can take in high school. After each course, you can choose to take an AP exam. If you do well, you might get college credit and show off your skills to colleges and universities. 

Some colleges and universities might ask for or suggest Subject Tests that cover topics like math, science, literature, and foreign languages. Junior year is an excellent time to start figuring out which Subject Tests you might need to take. 

Note: Not all schools need AP exams or subject tests, so it’s a good idea to check out the policies of the schools you’re eyeing.

Financial Planning for College as a High School Junior

Financial planning is one of the most critical parts of getting ready for college, so don’t skip over this section. 

Apply for Financial Aid

The first stop on your money-smart journey is getting cozy with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It’s available online and should be done as soon as possible after January 1st of your junior year. This form is like the golden ticket of student aid—it opens doors to grants, loans, and work-study funds from Uncle Sam. Grants are free money that does not need to be repaid, while loans must be repaid with interest. Work-study programs allow students to work part-time on campus to earn money for college.

Moving right along—there’s another player in town called the CSS Profile by College Board. Think of this one like an audition tape you send colleges showing them what kind of financial support could help you shine on campus. While not every school asks for it, those who do are often ready to hand out scholarships or grants based on what they see. So don’t be shy—submit that CSS Profile.

Apply Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are another way to cover college costs. Scholarships are often given for academic achievements, while grants are based on financial need. Some of this assistance is available through the college itself. But local businesses, non-profits, and even your high school might have opportunities for you to snag some extra cash for college. So keep an eye out in your community, and don’t be shy about asking around.

It’s worth mentioning that some scholarships and grants might have specific requirements, like being part of a particular ethnic group or studying a specific major. You might be surprised to learn that you can apply to many scholarships beginning your junior year. Be sure to read through the eligibility requirements before applying.

Save for College

Putting money aside for college is another big part of getting your finances in order. Students and their families can kick off their college savings by opening a 529 college savings plan as early as they can. This plan gives them some tax benefits and can be used to cover college expenses. Parents and students can also check out other savings choices, like a Coverdell Education Savings Account or a custodial account. It’s critical to start saving early.

Helpful Tip: Finessing Your Family Talks: Discussing money matters around dinner might seem less fun than watching paint dry, but think again. Sitting down with your family members gives everyone a chance to weigh in and figure things out together. Which schools give us bang for our buck? How much should we borrow? These chats are essential—not just fluff—and knowing everyone’s thoughts upfront will save headaches later.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I prepare for college in junior year?

Junior year is a crucial time for college prep. You’ll want to create a list of colleges you’re interested in and start visiting them. You’ll also want to beef up your extracurricular involvement and stay committed to good grades. Taking the SAT or ACT is wise since you can repeat it as a senior if you aren’t happy with the results. Finally, this is the year to fill out the FAFSA and start applying for scholarships. 

Do colleges mostly look at junior year?

Junior year is the most crucial if you plan to attend college after graduation. That’s because it’s the last year schools will see a full year of your academic performance and extracurricular activities. 

Should you apply to college as a junior?

It’s not common for students to apply to college as juniors. Most usually apply during their senior year. When figuring out your college application timeline, it’s a good idea to chat with your high school guidance counselor. They can help you know when to apply and ensure you meet all the requirements and deadlines.

When should a junior start applying for college?

The ideal time for you to start the college application process is the summer before your senior year. In most cases, you can start submitting applications on August 1st. However, timelines can vary. 

Can juniors start applying for scholarships?

Absolutely! There are scholarships out there specifically for juniors, not just for seniors. It’s a smart move to start looking into scholarships early to up your chances of getting financial help for college. Plus, getting a jump on the search can help ease some of the stress during senior year when you’ve got a ton of things on your plate.

Going on college tours with your high school student is exciting! It is a pivotal step on their higher education journey. As parents, you play a crucial role. You support and guide your child through this process. We created this parent’s guide to college tours to highlight some of the most important aspects of this experience. These college tour tips for parents can help in maximizing your college visit.

Understanding Campus Safety Measures

Visiting campus is more than exploring academic programs. It’s also an opportunity to assess the safety measures in place. You need to understand how the college prioritizes the safety of their students. This can bring peace of mind to both parents and students. You will want to know about campus security, as well as emergency response procedures.


  • Campus Security: Begin by exploring the security infrastructure on campus. Make sure security personnel are visible and entrances and exits are monitored. This contributes to the physical safety of the campus.
  • Emergency Response Procedures: Ask the college about their emergency response procedures. Ask about natural disasters and security threats. Understanding how the college handles emergencies is crucial. It boosts your confidence in their ability to protect and support students.
  • Safety Features in Campus Facilities: Take note of safety features within academic buildings. Also, check dormitories and recreational facilities. For example, well-lit pathways, emergency call boxes, and surveillance cameras contribute to a secure environment.
  • Student Education on Safety: Ask about programs addressing personal safety. You may also be interested in programs addressing alcohol and drug awareness. Are there programs addressing sexual assault prevention? Schools that prioritize these topics show an investment in a safer campus community.
  • Safety Records and Statistics: Knowledge is power! You can review safety and security-related data for each school by visiting Campus Safety and Security (ed.gov). This tool allows you to view the last three years of data. You can even compare up to four schools side by side!

Understanding the safety measures on campus can help students feel secure. Thoroughly investigate these aspects during college tours. You want to be sure your child’s education takes place in a secure and supportive setting.

Fun fact: According to the U.S. Department of Education, the overall crime rate on college campuses has decreased by about 50% over the past two decades! Ask about this at your college tours.

Discussing Financial Aid Options

College education often comes with financial considerations. During campus tours, it’s essential to learn about available financial aid options. You will also need to know the overall cost of attendance. Discussing financial planning early in the process can help your child make informed decisions about their academic future.

  • Understanding Tuition and Fees: Begin by gaining a clear understanding of the college’s tuition and fees. Ask for a breakdown of costs. This includes tuition and room and board. You will also want to know how much to budget for books and miscellaneous fees.
  • Available Scholarships and Grants: Ask about the scholarships and grants offered by the college. You will also want to ask about eligibility criteria and the application process. Be sure and make note of deadlines. Many institutions provide merit-based and need-based scholarships. These scholarships offer opportunities to save you quite a bit of money!
  • Federal and State Financial Aid Programs: Discuss the federal and state financial aid programs available to students. You will need to understand the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process and deadlines. Explore potential eligibility for Pell Grants. Consider Stafford Loans and other federally funded programs.
  • Loan Options and Repayment Plans: Understand the types of student loans available and the associated terms. Discuss repayment plans and interest rates. Sometimes setting up autopay can reduce the interest rate! It’s essential to know the long-term financial implications of loans.
  • Financial Aid Office Resources: Visit the financial aid office during your tour. If you have questions or concerns, this would be a good time to talk with a financial aid advisor. They can provide insights into specific financial aid packages. They can also offer advice on maximizing aid eligibility.

Discussing financial aid options during college tours is important. Parents and students need to understand the different ways to fund the college experience.

Helpful Tip: Many schools provide scholarships for students involved in extracurricular activities. Ask about scholarships for students engaged in sports, arts, or community service while doing college tours.

Exploring Nearby Amenities and Services

While in town on your visit, you should visit the surrounding community. Checking out nearby restaurants and fun activities. This can help you and your child understand what life will be like during their time at college.

  • Housing Options: Start by checking out the housing around the area. Are there cool and safe off-campus places for students that won’t break the bank? Knowing about the local housing scene gives you the lowdown on living options other than those on campus.
  • Dining and Grocery Options: Explore the dining and grocery options in the vicinity. Are there diverse and affordable restaurants, cafes, or grocery stores that meet your child’s needs?
  • Recreational and Entertainment Venues: Check out the fun stuff around! Are there parks, theaters, or cool places where students can hang out and do fun things? A lively local scene makes college more fun, giving chances for kicking back and personal growth.
  • Healthcare Facilities: If your child gets sick at college, are there healthcare facilities in the area? Are there any reputable hospitals, clinics, or medical centers nearby? Being close to quality healthcare means students can easily get the help they need when they’re not feeling well.
  • Transportation: Do you plan on your child having access to a vehicle at school? Will they need to use public transportation? Are there bus or train services that connect the college to other parts of the city or region? What about Uber? It’s important to have reliable transportation options. This way, your child can get from point A to point B safely.
  • Job and Internship Opportunities: Check out the job and internship opportunities available in the nearby area. Do any industries or companies work with the college to give students hands-on experience? Being close to job opportunities can help prepare students for their careers.

When you think about these things on college visits, you make sure that your child’s time off-campus matches what they like and makes them feel good overall.

Fun Fact: Many universities provide bike-sharing programs, electric scooters, or even campus shuttle services powered by environmentally friendly technologies. You can use them during college tours.

Encouraging Open Communication with Your Child

College tours are more than gathering information. They’re also an opportunity for open communication between you and your high school student. Encouraging your child to express their thoughts and concerns during these visits. Thees discussions support shared decision-making. Your child will feel empowered to choose the school that best fits their needs.

  • Understanding Expectations: Begin by discussing expectations openly. What does your child envision in their college experience? Understanding their aspirations, fears, and hopes provides valuable insights. This can guide your discussions during college tours.
  • Addressing Concerns and Anxieties: College tours may stir up some anxiety. Your student may be insecure about the transition to independence. Create a space where your child feels comfortable expressing their worries. By addressing concerns openly, you can provide reassurance. You can also give practical advice to ease any apprehensions.
  • Aligning Priorities: Talk about priorities and values. What aspects of college life are most important to your child? Is your child passionate about playing a sport in college? Are they determined to get a 4.0 GPA? What about joining a sorority or fraternity? You want to make sure you help your child choose a school that aligns with their priorities.
  • Discussing Academic and Career Goals: Explore your child’s academic and career goals openly. What majors or fields are they interested in? How do they see their career path unfolding? Understanding these aspirations helps in selecting colleges that offer the right academic programs and support for their goals.
  • Financial Considerations: Financial discussions can be sensitive but are crucial. Talk openly about the family’s financial situation and expectations. Discuss the role each party will play in covering college costs. Students need to have a realistic understanding of the financial situation.

Encouraging open communication during college tours builds a foundation of trust and understanding between parents and students. It turns the college exploration journey into a shared experience.

Helpful Tip: Encourage your child to participate in decisions and do college tours. Provide them with resources, but also listen to their opinions. This collaborative approach empowers your child. It helps them take ownership of their education and future.

Planning Follow-Up Discussions After the Visit

After the excitement of the campus tour settles, it is crucial to plan follow-up discussions with your child. Reflect on the experience and address any lingering questions. Discuss the pros and cons of each campus. This can aid in the decision-making process.

  • Reflections and Impressions: Give your child time to reflect on the college visit. What things stood out to them? Talking about these impressions helps them figure out what things matter most.
  • Addressing Unanswered Questions: College tours can raise new questions or uncertainties. Create an open space for your child. Encourage them to voice any concerns or questions that came up during the visit. Addressing these questions provides clarity and peace of mind.
  • Comparing Pros and Cons: Assist your child in comparing the pros and cons of each college visited. You can weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each school by creating a side-by-side comparison. This will help you make a more informed decision.
  • Considering Practicalities: Discuss practical considerations such as location, climate, and campus size. These factors play a role in the overall college experience. They should align with your child’s preferences and lifestyle.
  • Emphasizing Gut Feelings: Encourage your child to trust their instincts and gut feelings. Sometimes, factors like the overall atmosphere or a sense of belonging can play a crucial role in the decision-making process.

Having these chats after the visits turns the whole college hunting experience into a thoughtful decision-making adventure. When you talk it out with your child, you’re part of a team, supporting them to pick a college that matches their goals and dreams.

Helpful Tip: Create a timeline for making the final decision. Setting a realistic timeframe creates a structured approach. It allows your child enough time to do college tours, weigh options and make a confident decision.

Timing of the Tours

The timing of college tours can significantly impact the overall experience. Understanding the pros and cons of different timing options can help you plan visits that align with your child’s schedule. It can also help you maximize the information you gather. This applies whether it’s during the academic year, weekends, or special visitation events.

  • Academic Sessions and Campus Vibe: Visiting during the academic year provides a more authentic feel for campus life. You’ll see students hurrying between classes. They’ll also chat and join campus events. This firsthand experience helps gauge the campus vibe and academic energy.
  • Special Events and Open Houses: Keep an eye on special events or open houses hosted by the colleges. These events can give you an idea of the campus culture, academic offerings, and extracurricular activities. Attending these events allows for a more immersive experience.
  • Weekdays vs. Weekends: Consider touring on both weekdays and weekends. Weekdays showcase the regular rhythm of academic life. Weekends might reveal a more relaxed atmosphere with potential glimpses into student rec activities.
  • Availability of Professors and Advisors: You may want to visit with professors and academic advisors during the tour. If possible, arrange meetings with faculty members relevant to your child’s intended major. These meetings give you an idea of the academic support available.
  • Summer Break Considerations: While summer might offer flexibility, the campus might be less active. Consider this when evaluating the atmosphere. There won’t be as many students and staff on campus.

Choosing the right timing for college tours ensures a well-rounded understanding of the institution. By strategically planning visits during various periods, you gain a nuanced perspective, helping you make a more informed decision that aligns with your child’s preferences and goals.

Helpful Tip: Doing college tours during exam periods gives you an idea of how well students handle stress. It could be a bit hectic, but watching how everyone on campus handles the pressure gives you a real feel for their grit and determination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do parents go on college tours with their kids?

Yes, many parents join their kids on college tours. They offer support, ask questions, and share thoughts during the decision-making process. Having parents around helps address concerns and ensures everyone can provide valuable input.

At what age should you start touring colleges?

Most students begin touring colleges around age 16 or 17, typically during junior year of high school. Some students will start exploring in sophomore year for a more extended process.

How do I decide which colleges to tour?

You should tour colleges that align with your preferences and academic goals. Consider factors like location and size. Keep logistics in mind, such as distance and cost. You want to aim for a mix of reach, match, and safety schools for a well-rounded perspective.

How important are college tours?

Tours are an important part of the college search process. While not mandatory, they provide a unique perspective beyond online research. Tours aid in making informed decisions and envisioning yourself on campus.

How do you make a good impression on a college tour?

You can make a good impression on a college tour by being engaged, dressing appropriately, and asking thoughtful questions. Don’t be afraid to express gratitude and follow up with a thank-you email. Making a positive impression demonstrates your serious consideration of the college and leaves a lasting, favorable impression on admissions representatives.

Welcome to your sophomore year— an exciting time in your college journey! We created this college prep guide for sophomores. It is your go-to guide for navigating the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

We break down key aspects in our guide. We help you understand what’s ahead and what is needed to build a strong academic foundation. We discuss exploring potential majors and post-college careers. You will learn the importance of getting involved with:


  • extracurricular activities
  • study abroad opportunities
  • career counseling services

These sophomore college planning tips will empower you! They will give you practical advice to make your sophomore year a productive experience. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to a successful and enjoyable second year of college!

Understanding the Power of Knowing What’s Ahead and What to Expect

As you prepare for college in your second year, it’s important to understand what lies ahead. You will need to set realistic expectations. Sophomore year is a pivotal time where you start to take a deeper dive into your academic and personal journey. Here are some key aspects to consider:

  • Reflect on Freshman Year: Take a moment to reflect on your freshman year. What worked well? What challenges did you face? Use these insights to make informed decisions moving forward. Do you need to adjust your study habits? Find better ways to manage your time? Reflecting on your experiences can be a powerful tool for growth.
  • Set Clear Academic Goals: Identify your academic strengths and weaknesses. Are there specific subjects you excel in or struggle with? Use this information to set clear academic goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s improving your GPA, taking on more challenging courses, or exploring new areas of study, having defined goals can provide direction and motivation.
  • Develop Time Management Skills: You need to master time management as your coursework becomes more demanding. Invest time in creating a realistic schedule. This will help you balance your academic commitments and personal downtime. Balancing your responsibilities will not only reduce stress. It will also contribute to a more fulfilling college experience.

Building a Strong Academic Foundation

Creating a strong academic foundation is vital for success in college and beyond. It enhances your understanding of subjects and sharpens critical thinking skills. This foundation will help you reach your full potential and achieve excellence in career. Here are some ways you can build this foundation during your sophomore year:

  • Choose Your Major Wisely: Sophomore year is an excellent time to explore potential majors. Attend informational sessions and speak with academic advisors. Consider taking introductory courses in different fields. Keep in mind that it’s okay if you haven’t decided on a major yet—many students use this time to explore and find their passion.
  • Connect with Professors: Building relationships with professors can enhance your academic experience. Attend office hours and ask questions. Professors can offer valuable insights into your major and even serve in a mentor role. They may be aware of research opportunities or internships in your field. In the future, they can also serve as a job reference or write a letter of recommendation!
  • Utilize Academic Resources: Take advantage of the various academic resources offered by your college. This could include tutoring services or writing centers. They may even offer guided study groups. These resources can support your academic journey and make a significant difference in your understanding of course material.

Exploring Potential College Majors and Post-College Careers

Choosing a major that aligns with your career plans is a crucial step in your sophomore year. From attending informative sessions to speaking with advisors, it is critical that you make an informed decision. Whether you have a major already in mind or are still deciding, these insights will help guide you in your selection.

  • Attend Career Development Workshops: Start exploring potential career paths early on. Attend career development workshops and seminars offered by your college’s career services. These events can provide information about different industries. They will also give you an idea of the skills employers are looking for. You can also learn about job market trends.
  • Seek Internship Opportunities: Internships are a fantastic way to gain real-world experience and build your resume. Investigate internship opportunities related to your field of interest. Many companies offer internships specifically for college students. These opportunities give you a glimpse into the professional world. They can also help you develop practical skills. Internship opportunities could even be paid!
  • Network with Alumni: Networking is a powerful tool for career development. Attend alumni events or join professional organizations related to your field. You should utilize an online platform like LinkedIn. Connecting with alumni can offer valuable advice and mentorship. Who knows? These connections could lead to a job opportunity!
Fun Fact about Sophomore Year: Internships provide valuable work experience, and they can also lead to full-time employment. Research shows that around 60% of interns receive job offers from the companies where they interned. So, that sophomore internship you're excited about could be a steppingstone to launching your career!

Getting Involved in Extracurricular Activities to Build College Resume

Sophomore year college preparation isn’t just about academics. Beyond textbooks, extracurricular activities provide a platform for personal growth and skill development. Whether you join a club or a community service group, active participation can enrich your college experience. Here are some tips for boosting your college resume through extracurriculars:

  • Join Student Organizations: Extracurricular activities play an important role in the college experience. Joining student organizations allows you to pursue your interests while building a diverse and well-rounded resume. Look for clubs, sports teams, or community service groups that align with your passions. Many students develop lifelong friendships too!
  • Take on Leadership Roles: As a sophomore, consider taking on leadership roles within student organizations. Whether it’s becoming a club officer or organizing events, leadership experience demonstrates initiative. This can set you apart when applying for internships or jobs in the future.
  • Document Your Achievements: Keep a record of your extracurricular involvement and achievements. This could include volunteer work, leadership roles, or significant projects. Having a comprehensive record will help when updating your resume or preparing for interviews.
Fun Fact about Sophomore Year: Studies show that students who take on leadership positions in clubs or societies improve their communication skills and decision-making abilities.  They also develop a greater sense of responsibility.

Considering Study Abroad Opportunities

  • Explore Study Abroad Programs: Sophomore year is an ideal time to explore study abroad opportunities. Check out programs offered by your college. Consider how a semester or year abroad aligns with your academic and personal goals. Studying in a different country can provide a unique cultural experience and broaden your perspective.
  • Plan Finances Accordingly: While the prospect of studying abroad is exciting, it’s essential to plan your finances accordingly. Research scholarship opportunities and estimate the cost of living in the host country. You will want to explore funding options, so you stay within budget. Proper financial planning will ensure that studying abroad is a feasible and enriching experience.
  • Embrace Cultural Diversity: If you decide to study abroad, embrace the cultural diversity around you. Engage with local communities, try new foods, and participate in cultural events. This experience will enhance your global awareness. It will also contribute to personal growth and adaptability.
Fun Fact about Sophomore Year:  A study abroad experience can boost your resume!  According to a survey, 90% of study abroad alumni found their first job within six months of graduation. In fact, almost 60% of employers felt like a study abroad experience would be valuable in an individual’s career later on in their organization. 

Meeting with a Career Counselor

Navigating your academic journey becomes smoother with the guidance of a career counselor. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of meeting with a career counselor during your sophomore year. Here are some tips for making the most out of your career counseling sessions:

  • Schedule Regular Career Counseling Sessions: Career counseling is a valuable resource that many students overlook. Schedule regular sessions with your college’s career counselor to discuss your goals and explore potential career paths. They can also offer guidance on resume building and job searching.
  • Seek Guidance on Post-Graduation Plans: Whether you have a clear career path in mind or are still exploring options, a career counselor can provide valuable insights. Discuss your post-graduation plans and learn about the job market. A counselor can guide you through the steps to take during your sophomore and junior years as you prepare to transition into the workforce. You’ll definitely be ahead of the curve if you begin working with a career counselor during your sophomore year.
  • Utilize Career Assessment Tools: Career assessment tools can help you identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Many career counselors use these tools to guide students in making better decisions about their academic and professional futures. You may have taken these in high school, but it never hurts to take them again!
Helpful Tip for Sophomore Year: Come prepared to your meeting with a college career counselor. Beforehand, reflect on your career goals and interests.  Write down specific questions or concerns. Bring your resume and a list of your achievements, experiences, and skills. This preparation will allow the career counselor to offer more personalized guidance and help you make the most out of the session.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sophomore year is a time of exploration, growth, and preparation for the future. By understanding what’s ahead and building a strong academic foundation you can make the most of your college experience and set yourself on a path to success. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, stay curious, and enjoy the journey ahead!

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is sophomore year of college?

Sophomore year in college varies for everyone. It can be a bit challenging as classes get more focused, and you might decide on a major. You will need to juggle academics, activities, and maybe internships. But, it’s also a time to feel more confident and self-aware.

What is the sophomore slump in college?

The “sophomore slump” is a term used to describe when students lose momentum or motivation during their sophomore year. After the initial excitement of freshman year, some students begin to struggle with academic pressure. Others find it hard to keep up with the increased workload. Not every student experiences the “sophomore slump.”

How many classes should you take as a sophomore in college?

Full time students should expect to take between three and four classes each semester during their sophomore year.

Choosing the right college is a thrilling milestone in a student’s life! This important decision goes beyond academics. You don’t want to overlook the excitement of exploring campus facilities. The amenities a college provides can impact your experience. In this student’s guide to assessing campus facilities, we discuss the importance of knowing what your future college offers. We give you an idea of things to look for on your college visit. We offer a comprehensive approach to assessing campus facilities.

Importance of Knowing What Your College Offers

It’s essential to understand the facilities a college offers for a well-rounded educational experience. These facilities go beyond the classroom. Facilities include the community, resources, and opportunities available to you. Here’s why a campus facility evaluation is crucial:


  • Holistic College Experience: The college experience is more than attending lectures and taking exams. The facilities provided by the college contribute to the overall environment. From libraries to sports complexes, each facility plays a role in creating the college experience.
  • Support for Academic Success: Well-equipped libraries and research resources are important for academic success. Access to them is crucial. Conduct your own campus amenities assessment. This way, you can be sure the college supports your academic ambitions. This is especially important for high school students transitioning to college.
  • Quality of Campus Life: Facilities can contribute to the quality of campus life. It is important to check out dormitory amenities. It is also important to check out sports and recreational facilities. Technology spaces are also important to evaluate. Considering these aspects helps gauge how comfortable and enjoyable your stay on campus will be. A thriving campus life enhances both social and personal development.
Fun fact: Some universities take campus life to the next level. They have unofficial campus cats as mascots! These feline friends roam freely, bringing joy and a sense of community to students. Emotional support dogs are also becoming popular on many campuses. This is especially true during times of stress, like final exam week. If you are an animal lover, consider choosing a college with campus facilities like this!

Assessing Library and Research Resources

Libraries are the heart of any educational institution. They are not just spaces filled with books. They are hubs of:

  • knowledge
  • research
  • collaboration

Here are some tips for inspecting college facilities. These tips focus on assessing library and research resources:

  • Library Size and Collection: The library’s size and the variety of books and resources it has can show you what’s available for your studies. Make sure the library has a mix of books, journals, and online materials related to your field of study.
  • Study Spaces: Having a good place to study is important for doing well in your academics. Check if the library has quiet spots and places for group work. You will want to be sure these spaces are set up for modern technology. Research will be easier to do in an area with dedicated space for computers and printers.
  • Library Services and Support: Look into the library’s support services. This includes assistance from librarians. Ask about interlibrary loan options and if they offer workshops on research skills. A well-supported library ensures that you can make the most of the resources available. It helps you excel in your academic endeavors. Some libraries even offer workshops to teach students how to navigate databases.
  • Digital Resources and Online Accessibility: Assess the library’s digital resources and online accessibility. The library should have a user-friendly online catalog. It should also have access to popular databases. They should digitize materials as much as possible. This way, students can integrate technology into their research efforts.
Fun Fact: The Suzzallo Library at the University of Washington is not just a haven for book lovers. It is also home to a rather unusual feature – a Harry Potter-themed study room! Known as the “Harry Potter Room” it is adorned with Hogwarts-like decor, complete with long wooden tables and chandeliers. An incredible take on great campus facilities.

Exploring Sports and Recreational Facilities

Sports and recreational facilities contribute to a balanced and healthy college life. Evaluating these facilities is essential. Check them out whether you’re a sports enthusiast or someone who enjoys staying active!

  • Sports Complex and Facilities: Explore the college’s sports facilities. See if they have what you need for your favorite sports or activities. Make sure the college offers the facilities you need. This includes gyms, pools, and sports fields.
  • Intramural and Club Sports: Participating in sports can be a great way to stay active. You might even make new friends! Inquire about the availability of intramural and club sports programs. These opportunities provide a way for students to engage in friendly competition. They also help build a sense of community.
  • Wellness and Fitness Programs: A college should prioritize the well-being of its students. Does the school offer yoga classes and fitness workshops? These programs can contribute to your health and happiness during your college years.
Fun Fact: Clemson University’s Memorial Stadium, famously known as “Death Valley,” holds a unique claim to fame. The roar of the crowd in Death Valley is one of the loudest in college football history! That's an incredible example of campus facilities.

Checking Out Dormitory Amenities

Your living space on campus plays a crucial role in shaping your college experience. Here’s what you should consider when checking out dormitory amenities:

  • Room Configurations and Facilities: Explore the different dormitory options available. Then assess the room configurations. Do you want a roommate? Do you plan on eating in the cafeteria or preparing your meals? Consider factors such as single or shared rooms and communal spaces. Look for laundry rooms and communal kitchens.
  • Residential Life Programs: Some colleges offer residential life programs. These programs can enhance the community living experience. Ask about mentorship programs and social events. Ask about other initiatives that help create a sense of community.
  • Safety and Security Measures: The safety and security of the dormitory are critical. Ask about the security measures in place. This includes surveillance systems, access control, and on-site staff. Feeling safe in your living space is crucial for a positive college experience.
  • Digital Connectivity: You will want to check out how well-connected the dorm is. Do they offer wi-fi access and charging stations? Staying connected is an important aspect of both academic and personal student life.
  • Community Spaces and Recreational Facilities: Communal spaces within a dorm encourage social interaction. Ask about common rooms, game areas, or outdoor spaces. These important areas allow students to gather. They help students feel less isolated and have a positive dormitory experience.
Fun Fact: Many college campuses put in place creative safety measures. One notable example is the “Safe Walk” program. These programs are on many campuses across the United States. They offer students a safe and secure way to travel on campus during the evening. Students can request an escort to accompany them to their destination. These campus facilities help them arrive safe.

Examining Technology and Lab Spaces

In today’s digital age, students from every major need access to technology. They also need well-equipped labs. Here’s what you should consider when examining these facilities:

  • Technology Infrastructure: Check out the technology infrastructure on campus. Check if the Wi-Fi is reliable. Look for computer labs. Make sure you have access to the necessary software and tools for your field of study. You want to be able to use digital resources in your studies on campus.
  • Research and Lab Facilities: Students in STEM fields need access to well-equipped research and lab facilities. Ask about the labs and equipment provided by the college. Also, ask about research opportunities to gain hands-on experience. These facilities can help support your academic and career goals.
  • Innovation Hubs and Collaborative Spaces: Some colleges have innovation hubs. They also have collaborative spaces. These areas encourage creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration. Explore these spaces. They can enhance your learning experience. You can work on projects and engage in research. You can also collaborate with peers from different disciplines.

Considering Accessibility for Different Needs

An inclusive campus considers the diverse needs of its student population. Here’s what you should consider when evaluating accessibility:

  • Physical Accessibility: Ensure the campus is physically accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Check for ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways across different parts of the campus. Physical accessibility is fundamental to creating an inclusive environment.
  • Accommodations for Special Needs: Students with special needs should ask about available accommodations. Colleges often have support services. These include accessible testing centers and help with taking notes. These accommodations ensure that all students can succeed academically.
  • Cultural and Diversity Programs: A campus that values diversity and celebrates different cultures and programs. They create programs and initiatives that align with these values. Inquire about cultural events and diversity workshops. If you are an international student, you will want to ask about support services. A diverse and inclusive campus community enriches the college experience.
Fun fact: Many campus facilities have innovative accessibility features. Some have tactile paving paths with braille signage. These pathways assist individuals with visual impairments to navigate the campus independently.

Conclusion

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Evaluating campus facilities is a key aspect of making an informed choice. Consider the importance of various facilities, from libraries to dormitories. Assess their quality. Ensure your college experience is enriching, supportive, and tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should all college campuses have?

Several elements contribute to creating a well-rounded college campus including:
•Academic facilities
•Residential facilities
•Recreational areas
•Dining services
•Health services
•Technology infrastructure
•Security systems
College campuses should also have transportation services available.

Why are college facilities important?

College facilities matter. They create an environment where students can learn, grow, and connect with others. Classrooms and libraries help with studies. Places to live make students feel part of the community. Sports and recreation areas keep students healthy. Student centers are a central hub of student activity.

What is the role of facilities in education?

Students need appropriate facilities to excel in their studies. Schools that invest in the proper facilities show students they care about their achievement. Safe and modern facilities help ease the transition from high school to college. This helps both students and parents.

Selecting the perfect college can be an exciting and overwhelming for high school students. A campus visit is a crucial step in this process. Many students begin having college visits during their junior year of high school. These visits provide an opportunity to get a feel for the college environment and gather essential information. We created this campus visit checklist to break down key aspects of your visit. We included some helpful campus visit tips that will ensure a well-prepared and insightful experience.

#1. Researching the Campus in Advance

Preparing for college tours involves researching each campus. Before setting foot on campus, it’s crucial to conduct research to make the most of your visit. You can start by using online resources available at your fingertips. Check out the wealth of information on the college’s official website. In fact, you can often find virtual tours providing a glimpse of campus life! Is there a certain time of year that is best to visit? Some college campuses are known for their beautiful spring flowers or their wintery snowfall. Explore social media platforms to get a feel for the college community. Familiarize yourself with the campus layout and the school’s academic offerings. You will also want to be aware of any recent developments or news that may impact your visit.


Another valuable step in the research process is to connect with current students. You can use social media platforms or student forums to engage with students who are already immersed in campus life. You can ask about their journey or inquire about their favorite spots on campus. They may even have some tips for future students! Building these connections can help you gather authentic and invaluable information.

Once you’ve completed these preliminary activities, it’s time to plan your visit schedule strategically. Identify the key areas you want to explore on campus, including:

  • academic buildings
  • recreational spaces
  • dormitories

With a clear agenda, you can feel confident that your visit covers all aspects of interest and maximizes your time on campus. Consider reaching out to academic departments. Schedule meetings with professors or advisors. This will allow for personalized discussions about your potential major and academic goals. You should also plan to attend any campus events or tours that align with your interests. This will provide a well-rounded view of life at the college.

Researching the campus in advance sets the foundation for a successful and informative visit. You can make the most of your time on campus when you:

  • Leverage online resources
  • Connect with current students
  • Strategically plan your visit schedule

This proactive approach enhances your understanding of the college. It also empowers you to make informed decisions about your academic and social fit within the university community.

Helpful Tip: Explore the college's official YouTube channel for virtual campus tours and student testimonials. This can provide a more immersive experience, allowing you to see the campus, facilities, and hear firsthand experiences from current students without having to do an in person campus visit.

#2. Meeting with Academic Advisors

Meeting with academic advisors during your campus visit can help you navigate your chosen field of study. To make the most of this opportunity, it’s important to plan ahead. Begin by scheduling appointments in advance. Contact the academic advising office to arrange meetings with advisors in your prospective major. By doing so, you ensure that you receive personalized guidance tailored to your academic interests. These scheduled appointments provide dedicated time to discuss:

  • your academic goals
  • potential career paths
  • any concerns you may have

As you prepare for these meetings, you should prepare a list of thoughtful questions. These might include questions about:

  • the curriculum specific to your major
  • details on course requirements
  • potential electives
  • any recent updates or changes

You can also use this time to discuss internship opportunities within your major. You could ask about:

  • resources available for securing internships
  • types of companies or organizations students intern with
  • support provided by the college to coordinate these experiences

An academic advisor can also help you explore extracurricular opportunities related to your major. Advisors can provide valuable insights into clubs and organizations. They can also advise about research opportunities that align with your interests. You should ask about industry-specific events or conferences in the area. These can help you understand the practical applications of your chosen field.

Having these discussions with academic advisors allows you to better understand your academic journey. The information they provide can help you make informed decisions about:

  • your course selections
  • potential career paths
  • opportunities for further engagement within your academic community
Helpful Tip: When reaching out to schedule a meeting with an academic advisor during a campus visit, be flexible with your availability. Offer a range of dates and times that work for you, and express your willingness to adjust your schedule to accommodate theirs.

#3. Exploring Dormitory Options

Your prospective student campus tour will likely include a look at the different housing options they offer. Some schools have a vibrant campus life with the majority of students living on campus. Other schools have a combination of online and on-campus students, with fewer students living in dorms. Understanding your potential living arrangements is another benefit of a campus visit. You can participate in a guided dormitory tour which will give you a firsthand look at the different housing options available. During these tours, you should take note of various factors, including:

  • room sizes
  • available amenities
  • communal spaces

While on your tour, you’ll get a feel for the overall vibe of each residence hall and a sense of community that they foster. You should talk with current students who are residing in these spaces. Take the opportunity to connect with them and ask about:

  • their personal experiences
  • the dynamics of the dormitory community
  • any advice they may have for new students

As you explore your housing options, it’s important to consider your own preferences and priorities for dorm living. You will want to consider things like:

  • the proximity of the dormitories to academic buildings
  • your preferences regarding roommates
  • specific amenities that align with your lifestyle, such as a fitness center or computer lab

This self-assessment will be valuable when it comes time to make your final college decision, as it ensures that your chosen dormitory not only meets practical needs but also aligns with your personal preferences.

#4. Participating in Campus Events

Immersing yourself in campus life through events can give you a taste of what awaits you as a student. You should check out the event calendar ahead of your visit. Take the time to research and note any campus events scheduled during your stay. These events might include:

  • club fairs
  • sports games
  • cultural activities

Of course, you will want to attend events that align with your interests, as this allows you to witness the vibrant and diverse aspects of campus life.

Another insightful experience during your visit involves attending a class relevant to your intended major. If feasible, try and coordinate with academic departments to sit in on a class session. This opportunity not only provides you with a firsthand look at the teaching style within your chosen field of study but also enables you to interact with current students. This experience can offer you valuable insights into the academic environment.

In addition to attending classes, connecting with student ambassadors or tour guides adds a personal touch to your campus visit. These individuals are often excited to share their experiences. They can offer unique perspectives on campus life. Engage with them to gain insights into the college community and get practical tips that might not be found in official brochures. Building connections with student ambassadors provides a better understanding of the campus culture and can contribute to a more informed decision-making process.

Helpful Tip: Contact the college's admissions office in advance to inquire about class visitation policies and available options. Some colleges have specific programs or designated days for prospective students to sit in on classes during their campus visit.

#5. Taking Notes for Future Reference

During your campus visit, it’s essential to take organized notes for future reference. Using a checklist is a practical way to ensure that you cover all planned activities and areas of interest. This method helps you stay focused and organized. You will be able to maximize your time on campus and be confident that no critical aspect is overlooked.

In addition to using a checklist, capturing your impressions is equally vital. You can use a journal or notebook to document your thoughts on each element of the campus. Include everything from academic offerings and dormitory options to campus events. Reflect on how each aspect aligns with your preferences and goals, creating a comprehensive record of your observations. These documented impressions will serve as valuable references when making decisions about your college choices. By noting your thoughts and reactions, you create a personalized guide. This will help you recall the details of each campus visit and facilitate a more informed decision-making process in the future.

An Example College Visit – What to Expect

To provide a real-world perspective, let’s walk through an example college visit, highlighting what to expect at each stage.

  • Upon your arrival, you can anticipate a warm welcome from the campus welcome center or tour guides. You may receive a welcome packet containing a map, schedule, and additional information to guide your visit. You may participate in an information session that provides you with general information about the school and the admissions process.
  • You’ll likely participate in a guided campus tour that takes you through key locations such as academic buildings, dormitories, and recreational areas. This is a great time to engage with your surroundings, asking questions and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the campus layout.
  • If you have scheduled a meeting with an academic advisor, this will likely happen next. Be prepared to discuss your academic goals and seek advice on course selection to make informed decisions about your academic journey.
  • If you schedule allows, try and participate in campus events that align with your interests. If you are interested in playing a sport, you could check out a practice or game.

Throughout the visit, remember to take detailed notes on your observations, impressions, and any information provided by academic advisors and current students. These notes will serve as a valuable reference when making decisions about your college choices, ensuring a well-informed selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are college visits worth it?

College visits are definitely worth it. They provide a firsthand experience of campus life and help you make informed decisions about your academic future. This firsthand knowledge is helps you choose a college that aligns with your preferences and academic goals. Overall, a college visit is a crucial step in confidently deciding where to pursue your higher education.

Should you bring anything to a college visit?

For a college visit, it’s important to bring a notepad or an electronic device for notes. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking. Bring a water bottle and snacks, stay hydrated and energized. If you’re interested in sports or the arts, you will need to bring a portfolio or resume.

Should I bring my parents on a college visit?

Bringing your parents on a college visit is a great idea. They can provide support and offer additional perspectives to help guide you through the process. They can help you make a list of pros and cons for each college and be an asset in the decision-making process. Many colleges offer special information sessions for parents too, allowing them to ask additional questions.

How long do college tours usually last?

A college tour usually lasts a few hours. This allows for plenty of time to explore campus, visit key facilities, and attend an information session (if offered.)

What questions to ask during a college tour?

Some great questions to ask on a college tour include:
• What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
• What support services are available, such as tutoring or counseling?
• What types of financial aid are available?
• What are the admission requirements?
• What security measures are in place on campus?
• How is the quality of the dining services?

Are you interested in pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in business at an HBCU? This article has you covered. In it, we feature eight historically black colleges and universities offering undergraduate business degrees online. We’ll examine the details of these programs and what makes each school unique. Plus, we’ll delve into a bit of HBCU history and take a look at the benefits of an online bachelor’s degree in business. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s get started. 

The Academic Excellence of HBCU Business Programs

When you choose a historically black college and university for your bachelor’s degree in business administration, you’re not just picking a school; you’re stepping into a legacy. HBCU classrooms echo with the voices of future CEOs and entrepreneurs who share your drive and heritage. It’s more than education—it’s about joining ranks with leaders who’ve shaped history. You’re on the brink of something big—unlocking doors to rigorous academics, networks that lift as they climb, and financial aid tailored just for you, all wrapped up in an experience rich in culture. 


When it comes to the business world, a solid foundation is everything. And that’s where HBCUs really shine. The following online business programs do more than just teach you the basics—they prepare you for success in today’s competitive business landscape.

Top Eight HBCUs for an Online Bachelor’s in Business

1. Morehouse College

Atlanta, Georgia

Morehouse College
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Located in Atlanta, Morehouse College is a private men’s liberal arts college. Founded in 1867, it is affiliated with the National Baptist Convention. This private HBCU is located in downtown Atlanta and has an enrollment of 2,567 undergraduate students. The school boasts a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. 85% of the courses at MC are taught by full-time Ph.D. tenured professors. Morehouse states: “We believe in the power of mentorship. Our classes are designed to engage, inspire, and strengthen the relationships between students and educators.”

Morehouse College offers an excellent online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a management concentration. This degree program enables students to cultivate a robust foundation in general business, hone creative problem-solving skills, and acquire the expertise to implement principles of ethical leadership in practical scenarios. Morehouse offers start dates three times a year and full- or part-time study options. This is a degree completion program. So, to enroll, you’ll need some previous college credit. The program requires a total of 120 credits and includes courses such as:

  • Data Analytics and Modeling
  • Management Decision Science
  • Leadership and Professional Development
  • Human Resources Management
  • Business Policy and Strategy

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Morehouse College Unique? Morehouse is an all-male institution fostering a sense of brotherhood, camaraderie, and a specialized focus on developing African American men as leaders and scholars. Morehouse College boasts an illustrious roster of alumni, counting among its ranks distinguished individuals such as Martin Luther King Jr., Spike Lee, and Samuel L. Jackson.

2. Hampton University

Hampton, Virginia

 Hampton University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Hampton University is a private, historically black university in Hampton, Virginia. It was established in 1868 after the American Civil War and the abolition of slavery. General Samuel Chapman Armstrong, a Union Army officer, founded Hampton University with the mission of providing education and training to African Americans and Native Americans. Today, Hampton University is an HBCU with an enrollment of 3,289 students and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Hampton U Online offers a 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Business Management. It is crafted to equip adult learners for upcoming managerial roles and offer ongoing educational opportunities for those currently in leadership positions. The curriculum integrates management and administration courses with essential general education requirements. This provides students with a well-rounded education and positions them to thrive in the competitive global job market. It also opens doors to diverse career opportunities in business, government, and education. Some of the course titles include:

  • World Civilizations
  • Business Organization and Management
  • Seminar in Humanities
  • Diversity and Global Awareness
  • Information/DP Systems Management

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Hampton University Unique? HU has a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. It is home to the Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute, a facility for cancer treatment using proton therapy. Hampton University has produced several notable alumni, including Booker T. Washington, Wanda Sykes, and Alberta Williams King, the mother of Martin Luther King Jr.

3. Tennessee State University

Nashville, Tennessee

Tennessee State University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

“Excellence is our habit” is the motto of Tennessee State University. Founded in 1912 as the Agricultural and Industrial State Normal School, TSU has a rich history of providing higher education to African American students. It is classified as a Carnegie “High Research” University (R2), underscoring its commitment to impactful research and scholarly endeavors. The university enrolls 9,218 students and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines.

The Department of Business Administration at Tennessee State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with several concentrations. However, the Hospitality and Tourism Management concentration is offered in a fully online format. This concentration equips students for success in the dynamic hospitality and tourism industry, preparing them for roles in hotel management, restaurant management, event planning, travel management, catering, airlines, cruise lines, and various recreational facilities. Featured courses in the degree program include:

  • Hospitality & Tourism Professional Skill Development
  • HR Management
  • Lodging Management
  • Business Finance
  • Management and Organization Behavior 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Tennessee State University Unique? TSU has received over $100,031,082 in research awards. This funding marks the second-highest total among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. Tennessee State University is proud to have Oprah Winfrey, Olympic gold medalist Wilma Rudolph, and renowned football coach John A. Merritt as alumni.

4. Alabama A & M University

Normal, Alabama

 Alabama A & M University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Alabama A&M University is a land-grant institution based in Normal, Alabama. It enrolls 6,007 students and emphasizes education, research, and outreach in agriculture and the mechanical arts. This year, AMMU celebrates its 150th anniversary. Established in 1875 by Dr. William Hooper Councill, a former slave, the university is a vibrant and forward-thinking institution dedicated to achieving academic excellence.

The Bachelor of Science in Management program at AAMU Online allows students to cultivate essential critical thinking and interpersonal skills, adding substantial value to any organization. The fully online format lets students learn at an accelerated pace and on their own schedules. Some of the required business core courses include:

  • Managerial Accounting Principles
  • Legal Environment and Ethics
  • Business Statistics
  • Professional Development and Workforce readiness
  • Principles of Finance

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Alabama A&M University Unique? AAMU produces the highest number of minority STEM graduates in the state. An AAMU alumnus, Karla Baker, says: “My commitment to giving back is fueled out of a pure love for the University, a huge amount of gratitude for how attending A&M helped change my life and the responsibility of helping others achieve greater success…. We are truly one Hill and one family.”

5. Delaware State University

Dover, Delaware

 Delaware State University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

For over 130 years, Delaware State University has been a catalyst for turning students’ dreams into reality, standing as one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Established in 1891 as the State College for Colored Students, it began as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1890. Nestled in Delaware’s capital, the university has become a beacon of education, with a current enrollment of 5,826 students and a robust offering of 77 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.

The Department of Business Administration within DSU’s College of Business nurtures a student-centered learning environment, striving to develop accomplished business professionals with a global perspective. They offer a fully online Bachelor of Science in Management. Students in the program will select from five concentrations, each comprising 18 credit hours beyond the essential core courses. They include:

  • Business Analytics
  • Human Resource Management
  • Management Information Systems/Enterprise Resource Planning
  • Marketing
  • General Management

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

What Makes Delaware State University Unique? DSU is the only HBCU in the state of Delaware. In late 2020, JPMorgan Chase unveiled its commitment to invest $1 million over two years in Delaware State University, marking the university’s selection to participate in the Advancing Black Pathways (ABP) initiative. The ABP aims to enhance economic opportunities and success for black Americans through strategic investments and support.

6. Albany State University

Albany, Georgia

Albany State University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Albany State University was established in 1903 as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute. In 2017, Darton State College and Albany State University consolidated into one university under the University System of Georgia. ASU is classified as an HBCU, reflecting its historical mission of providing higher education opportunities for African Americans. The main campus is Albany, Georgia, and enrolls 6,334 students.

The mission of the Bachelor of Science in Management program at ASU is “to enable students to develop analytical skills, reflective thinking, logical reasoning, and a sound understanding of the quantitative techniques and computer applications used in decision-making processes.” This online degree is one of the best degrees for entrepreneurs. Featured core courses include:

  • Money, Banking, and Foreign Exchange
  • Human Resource Management
  • Small Business Management
  • Database Management Systems
  • Systems Analysis & Design

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Albany State University Unique? ASU played a vital role in the Civil Rights Movement and the creation of the Albany Movement. Students, Black improvement organizations, and SNCC representatives collaborated, attracting civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. The movement, marked by over 1,000 arrests, began with Albany State students among the first detained.

7. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Fayetteville State University
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Fayetteville State University is the second oldest state assisted institution in North Carolina. The school was initially founded as the Howard School by seven extraordinary black men in 1867. Its purpose was to provide education for black children. Today, FSU is known for its strong commitment to student success, diversity, and community engagement. And it provides a vibrant and inclusive environment for its students. 80% of the student population at FSU is made up of minority students. And 70% are women. 

FSU features an online BS in General Business Administration. This degree is designed for those preparing for entry-level careers in the field. The program teaches the basic core of business studies and emphasizes skills needed for successful competition in the business world. It also serves as preparation for further study in graduate business programs. Depending on your goals, you’ll take classes such as:

  • Business Ethics
  • Strategic Planning
  • Business Communication
  • Management
  • Finance
  • Microeconomics

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

What Makes Fayetteville State University Unique? FSU is part of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, a non-profit organization that represents and supports nearly 300,000 students attending its 47 member-schools. These include public HBCUs, medical schools, and law schools. 

8. Clinton College

Rock Hill, South Carolina

Clinton College
Best HCBUs for a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Clinton College is a private, historically black liberal arts college in Rock Hill, South Carolina. It was founded in 1894 as the Clinton Institute by the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Its establishment was part of a broader initiative to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans. The student-to-faculty ratio is an impressive 10:1, meaning students get individualized attention and a more intimate learning experience. 

Through Clinton Global, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in finance and management. The entire program is online, providing students continuous access to instructors throughout the week. This format offers the flexibility for students to attend classes at their convenience. The delivery of online instruction is diversified, encompassing lectures, chat sessions, and interactive online discussions to cater to various learning preferences. The 121-credit hour BSBA degree program featured courses like:

  • Managerial Economics
  • Financial Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • International Business
  • Ethical and Legal Issues in Business 

Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission

What Makes Clinton College Unique? CC implements an open admissions policy, and prospective students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores for admission. Clinton College Global’s mission is: “to provide affordable, competitive online learning opportunities to meet the alternative educational needs of students of all ages nationally and internationally that will develop highly skilled professionals prepared to compete in a global society.”

Exploring the Value of a Bachelor of Business Degree

Students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in business at an HBCU can expect to study a broad range of business-related subjects. These typically include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, and business law. You’ll discover the fundamental principles and practices of business and how to analyze data, make strategic decisions, and understand the global business environment. 

The curriculum may also include courses in organizational behavior, entrepreneurship, operations management, and business ethics. Some schools feature various specializations and electives that allow you to tailor your degree to your career aspirations. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and other hands-on projects. 

Understanding the Legacy and Value of HBCUs

Why Choose an HBCU for a Bachelor’s in Business Administration?

The history of HBCUs dates back over 150 years, but don’t mistake them as relics; they are dynamic, modern institutions with their gaze firmly set on empowering future generations. As pillars within predominantly black communities, they serve not only as educational havens but also hubs where culture thrives alongside academia. This dual role has proven vital in nurturing leaders who move beyond traditional expectations.

Dive deeper into any HBCU History Timeline, and you’ll uncover stories about educators passionate about shaping savvy entrepreneurs and executives. HBCUs, with their legacy stretching back to the Civil War era, are a source of pride and an embodiment of African American empowerment born out of necessity in times when access to higher learning was denied. 

Despite constituting merely three percent of the country’s colleges and universities, HBCUs enroll 10% of all African American students and generate nearly 20% of all African American graduates. HBCUs actively strive to tackle the financial barriers that Black students encounter. And consider this: On average, attending an HBCU costs 28% less than attending a comparable non-HBCU. Forty percent of HBCU students express a sense of financial security during college, in contrast to 29% of Black students at other institutions.

Why Pursue an Online BBA at an HBCU?

Gone are the days when juggling work and family meant putting your dreams on hold. Today’s HBCU institutions understand that life doesn’t pause for class schedules. And they’ve crafted online degree options to meet the needs of nontraditional students. This convenience isn’t just handy; it’s transformative. For those who thought higher education was out of reach due to personal commitments, think again. With these adaptable learning paths, anyone can aim high without missing out on life’s moments—or paychecks.

Deciding Between Online vs On-Campus BBA Programs at HBCUs

When you’re eyeing a Bachelor of Business Degree, historically black colleges and universities bring something special to the table. But here’s the million-dollar question: Should you attend an online program or pursue a traditional on-campus degree? Let’s look at a few pros and cons of online college:

Top Advantages of Attending an HBCU Online

Flexibility and Accessibility: The digital age is redefining higher education. Online programs give students unmatched flexibility while providing the same rigorous education as on-campus programs. Picture managing your studies around work hours or family dinners – that’s what we’re talking about. While some programs have set class times, others allow asynchronous learning, meaning you log in when it works for you. Both night owls and early birds alike can complete their assignments when they’re feeling sharpest—no need to sync up with the sun just because tradition says so.

Cost Savings: Attending an HBCU online can potentially result in cost savings by avoiding expenses such as commuting, housing, meal plans, and on-campus fees. Many online programs use digital textbooks and materials, reducing or eliminating the need to purchase expensive physical textbooks. You’ll also have the same financial aid opportunities as your on-campus counterparts, including scholarships, grants, and federal student aid programs. These can help further offset the cost of tuition.

Inclusive Learning Environment: Virtual classrooms can spark rich discussions and immersive experiences that honor the vibrant heritage of HBCUs. By leveraging technology, students can connect with peers and professionals from all over the globe, learning, growing, and honing their business skills.

Networking Opportunities: HBCUs are known for fostering a strong sense of community and providing students with a supportive environment to build connections. Most have extensive and active alumni networks that provide mentorship, career guidance, and job placement assistance to current students and recent graduates. Additionally, HBCUs often host networking events for students to build professional relationships and connections within their fields of interest. The collaborative environment at HBCUs can facilitate networking that extends beyond graduation and into the professional world.

Potential Disadvantages of Attending an HBCU Online

While HBCUs offer valuable educational experiences, attending college online does have some potential drawbacks. It’s important to consider these disadvantages before making a decision:

Limited Physical Presence: Depending on where you live, attending an HBCU online could mean missing out on campus life, cultural events, and face-to-face interactions with professors and peers.

Missed Cultural Experiences: Similarly, attending an HBCU online may mean missing out on the rich cultural experiences, traditions, and heritage celebrations that are an integral part of the HBCU community.

Potential for Isolation: Online learning can be isolating for some students. If you thrive in a social, interactive learning environment, the lack of in-person interaction may lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Time Management Challenges: Online education demands strong self-discipline and time management skills. Students who struggle with time management may find it challenging to balance coursework with other responsibilities and distractions at home.

It’s important to note that the specific drawbacks of attending an HBCU online can vary depending on the institution, the quality of the online program, and your individual preferences and circumstances. Before making a decision:

  • Carefully research the online program you’re interested in.
  • Consider your personal learning style.
  • Assess whether the benefits of online education at an HBCU outweigh the potential drawbacks for your academic and career goals.

What if I’m White? Inclusivity at Historically Black Colleges & Universities

Many potential students ask, “Can I attend an HBCU if I’m not Black?” The answer is yes. While HBCUs were founded primarily to provide higher education opportunities for African American students, they are open to students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. In fact, many HBCUs have a diverse student body that includes students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.

HBCUs promote diversity and inclusion and welcome students committed to their educational mission. These schools invite global perspectives into classrooms, breaking down barriers one conversation at a time. This isn’t about checking boxes or filling quotas; it’s about crafting safe spaces where voices are heard loud and clear—no matter their origin story. 

Attending an HBCU as a non-Black student can provide you with a unique cultural and educational experience. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about and engage with African American history, culture, and perspectives while pursuing your academic goals.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration?

Apart from theory-based knowledge, pursuing an online bachelor’s degree through HBCUs hones real-world skills, critical thinking, strategic planning, and basically everything needed to nail those boardroom presentations. You’ll build a foundation for launching startups, steering corporations toward success, or diving into international business ventures. Wondering about potential careers with a BBA? Have a look:

How to Become an Entrepreneur: Can an Online BBA Help?

Not everyone wants to earn a business degree so they can work in a multinational corporation or become the leader of a Fortune 500 company. Some students pursue a BBA because they want to build an enterprise from scratch. Does this sound like you? Can a BBA teach you how to be an entrepreneur? You bet! 

Of course, you don’t need a degree to build your own business. However, a BBA is one of the best degrees for entrepreneurs for a variety of reasons. Let’s explore them. 

The Role of a BBA in Fostering Entrepreneurial Success

One of the primary advantages of a BBA degree is that it provides a broad understanding of the business world. Entrepreneurs need comprehensive knowledge to tackle the various aspects of running a business, from accounting to marketing to management. With a BBA degree, students gain a broad understanding of these areas, which can be applied to any business they choose to start.

Another advantage of a BBA degree is that it provides skills that can be applied immediately. Many BBA programs offer hands-on experience, such as internships and projects that allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. This practical experience can be invaluable for entrepreneurs, who often need to hit the ground running when starting their businesses.

Look for a Customizable Curriculum and Diverse Specializations

If you’re considering pursuing an online BBA because you want to be your own boss, weigh your options carefully. Some BBA programs only focus on foundational business topics. However, others allow students to choose elective courses that align with their interests and goals. For example, colleges like Fayetteville State University offer electives like Entrepreneurial Discovery and Creativity. Such courses are specifically tailored to those who are interested in the entrepreneurship side of business.  

In addition to customizable curriculum options, many BBA programs also offer a diverse range of concentrations or specializations that cater to the unique needs of entrepreneurs. These allow students to gain in-depth knowledge and skills in specific areas of business, which can be invaluable when starting and running a business. You’ll learn things like:

  • Brand Building
  • Business Development And Planning
  • Market Analysis
  • Financial Projections
  • Creating Business Plans
  • Team Building
  • Decision Making
  • Business Law
  • Fundraising

Funding Your Education – Scholarships, Grants and Student Aid Specific to Historically Black Colleges

Picture this: you’re ready to tackle a business degree, but the dollar signs are dancing in your head. Fear not. HBCUs come through with Federal Student Aid, scholarships and grants that open doors for aspiring students like you. Let’s get real—college is pricey, but these opportunities can be game-changers.

1. Complete the FAFSA: Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application determines your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. Submitting the FAFSA is usually the first step in securing financial aid for college.

2. Explore HBCU Scholarships: Many HBCUs offer scholarships and grants specifically for their students. These awards may be based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, or other criteria. Research your school’s scholarship programs and apply for any that you qualify for.

3. Search for External Scholarships: Beyond HBCU-specific scholarships, there are numerous external scholarship opportunities available from private organizations, corporations, and foundations. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) scholarship database can help you find scholarships that match your background and interests.

5. Apply for Grants: In addition to federal grants, such as the Pell Grant, research and apply for state grants, institutional grants, and private grants that you may qualify for. These do not have to be repaid and can significantly reduce your overall expenses.

6. Explore Merit-Based Aid: Some HBCUs offer merit-based scholarships to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, or talents in areas like athletics or the arts. Check with the admissions office to see if you qualify for such awards.

7. Participate in Community Service: Some organizations and scholarship programs award funds to students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service and volunteer work. Document your volunteer experiences and consider applying for scholarships that value community involvement.

8. Apply for Internships and Co-op Programs: Some degree programs and industries offer paid internships or cooperative education programs. These can provide valuable work experience while helping to fund your education. Many can be completed right in your own geographic area. 

9. Seek Financial Aid Counseling: HBCUs often have financial aid counselors who can provide personalized advice and assistance in finding the best funding options for your situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance.

10. Connect with Former and Current HBCU Students: One of the best ways to find scholarship opportunities at HBCUs is through word of mouth. Talk to current and former students. They have firsthand experience in funding their education and can help give you some valuable tips. 

Remember that funding your education may require a combination of these strategies, and it’s essential to plan early, apply for scholarships and aid opportunities, and stay informed about any deadlines and requirements. 

Sources: 

Are you considering a career in organizational leadership? If you’re eyeing the captain’s chair in business or want to steer teams toward success, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership is your launchpad. You’ll develop communication skills sharp as a tack, problem-solving finesse, and emotional intelligence that can sense the mood of a room like weather radar. This isn’t just any run-of-the-mill business degree; it’s an exploration into becoming a mover, shaker, and a visionary within companies and organizations.

By the end of this post, you’ll have mapped out whether stepping into this transformative world of leading teams might just be your next bold move. But first, we’ll take a look at the top schools for an online degree in organizational leadership. 


Top Five Organizational Leadership Programs

Interested in discovering high-paying career options for organizational leadership grads? You’ll want to check out our post on the Highest Paying Organizational Leaderships Jobs.

The Rise of Online Learning for Aspiring Leaders

Online degree programs have revolutionized education by providing flexible learning options that fit your hectic schedule. Gone are the days when attending college meant sacrificing work or family time. Accredited online programs have stepped up their game, offering top-notch courses tailored for busy bees who need their education on the go. So, whether you’re at home in pajamas or sneaking in a study session during lunch break, these programs let you learn wherever life takes you.

The Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Organizational Leadership

1. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

Fort Hays State University
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

We’ve ranked Fort Hays State University as having the best online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership. Fort Hayes features two options for pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership. Students can choose a BA or a BS, depending on their academic and career goals. Both 120-credit programs are fully immersive, allowing students the opportunity for collaboration and hands-on learning. For example, one of the major requirements is identifying an organizational leadership issue or problem and designing and implementing a project in your community. During the program’s final phase, you’ll also complete a practical experience at an organization near you. There are plenty of exciting electives as well, allowing you to customize this program to your interests. 

There are multiple start dates each year, and most coursework can be completed independently. The program will prepare you for a broad range of organizational and supervisory positions.

Fort Hays is transfer and military-friendly and offers online students a wealth of resources. These include study-abroad opportunities, clubs, peer support groups, career services, tutoring, and much more. 

Tuition: $5,430

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Fort Hays’ online programs have received multiple US News & World Report accolades. In addition, the school is one of only six institutions worldwide to receive the United States Distance Learning Association Quality Certification.

2. Colorado State University Global

Aurora, Colorado

Colorado State University Global
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

Colorado State University offers a range of online degree programs through CSU Global, part of the state’s public university system. The school’s online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership is a 120-credit program with asynchronous coursework so that you can complete your studies at your own pace. The degree can be further tailored to your interests with one of over 20 specializations. A few of these include:

  • Project Management
  • Human Resources and Organizational Development
  • Marketing
  • Emergency Management
  • Healthcare Management
  • Foundations of Accounting

If you already have leadership experience, this degree can give you the credentials you need to advance within your organization. But even if you have no prior management experience, the program will prepare you for management in nearly any organization or industry. You’ll study topics like policy development, strategic decision-making, ethics, organizational behavior, and organizational design and structure. 

Once enrolled at CSU, you will be assigned a dedicated Student Success Counselor. Your counselor will act as a single point of communication to guide you through every step of the way through graduation. Plus, they will connect you with all the services and resources you might need for a successful academic journey. 

Tuition: $8,400

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

CSU Global has the same low tuition rates, whether you’re in Colorado or out of state. And the school locks those low rates in place with a Tuition Guarantee, so your costs will never increase as long as you stay enrolled.

3. University of Southern Maine

Portland, Maine

University of Southern Maine
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Online Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Studies

The University of Southern Maine features an online bachelor’s degree completion program in Leadership and Organizational Studies. This program is specifically designed for transfer and returning students. You’ll complete the degree through a combination of transfer credits, Leadership and Organizational Studies courses, and prior learning assessment. This way, you can earn credit for knowledge and skills you’ve already acquired through life experience, work, or community service.

You’ll need 30 credit hours of study to earn the degree, which can be completed in as little as two years. Students can attend classes on-campus, online, or a combination of both. You can also opt to earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees together in about five years through an Accelerated Graduate Pathway

Considering pursuing your master’s degree in organizational leadership? We’ve got you covered. Check out the 30 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership Programs!

The tuition for in-state students is a low $9,210 per academic year, while e-tuition for out-of-state residents is just $9,990. Additionally, the average out-of-state financial aid offer covers 70% of the costs. (For residents, the average offer covers 100%) Online students have access to superior support, including tutoring, peer mentorship, academic coaching, career advising, and much more. 

Tuition: $9,210

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Students in USM’s bachelor’s completion program in Leadership and Organizational Studies can opt to participate in a leadership study abroad program, where they will delve into critical topics in intercultural leadership, expanding their outlook to become proficient leaders in the global economy.

4. University of West Georgia

Cincinnati, Ohio

 University of West Georgia
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Online Bachelor of Science with a Major in Organizational Leadership

The University of West Georgia offers an online BS in Organizational Leadership. It is delivered in partnership with USG eMajor in collaboration with other University System of Georgia schools. The program is ideal for traditional students, working professionals, transfer students, military members, and others seeking an alternative route to earning a degree. The comprehensive course structure offers insights into management, administration, human resources, ethics, and technology within contemporary organizations across public, private, and non-profit sectors.

This interdisciplinary degree can be tailored to your interests and career goals through various electives. Plus, it features two concentrations: Public Service and Social Justice. Courses are accessed through the Georgia Online Virtual Instruction Enterprise Wide (GoVIEW) learning management system. For the Organizational Leadership major, all courses are offered in 8-week sessions.

Tuition: $5,941

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Adults pursuing the organizational leadership BS at USG can earn college credit through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) for college-level knowledge gained from relevant work experiences, professional training, military service, and professional certificate programs. This can significantly shorten the time it takes to earn your degree!

5. Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership

Arizona State University offers an online BA in Organizational Behavior with several start dates per year. This 120-credit program features mostly asynchronous classes, meaning you can go at your own pace. You’ll take 40 classes, giving you a comprehensive overview of the field and the chance to explore topics like behavioral dynamics, project management, resource allocation, and much more. There are several start dates per year and no on-campus requirements. 

While you can complete much of your coursework independently, you will still have plenty of opportunities to collaborate with your peers through virtual meetings, discussion boards, and more. Faculty members maintain virtual office hours, giving you one-on-one support. Additionally, all online students are assigned an academic advisor and a success coach to help guide them through their educational journey.  

Tuition: $11,618

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

ASU offers incredible student support services to help you succeed. Take advantage of tutoring, tech support, career services, 24/7 mental health counseling, and other resources. You can also join a digital community and build connections through one of the school’s many clubs and organizations. 

6. University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, Ohio

University of Cincinnati
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership

The online BA in Organizational Leadership at the University of Cincinnati is one of the most flexible degrees on our list. This 120-credit program features three start dates a year, a generous transfer policy, and asynchronous coursework. No campus visits are required. Students can attend full or part-time, depending on their needs. 

This program encourages students to strive for new ideas about leadership in modern organizations. You’ll study topics like workplace diversity, foundations of leadership, social influence and persuasion for leaders, and more. You’ll gain skills in conflict resolution, team building, coaching and mentoring, and many other managerial responsibilities. The degree provides a clear pathway for those who want to become leaders across various organizations. And it prepares students for organizational leadership careers in government, education, for-profit, and non-profit businesses.

The University of Cincinnati ranks in the top tier of America’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report. The school is also a member of the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). ISPI is a non-profit association dedicated to improving human and organizational performance. The organization offers resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs to support individuals and organizations in enhancing performance and achieving their goals. 

Tuition: $15,380

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission 

Upon enrolling at the University of Cincinnati Online, you’ll get comprehensive support from start to graduation: Every student is paired with a dedicated Student Success Coordinator to assist them throughout their educational journey.

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

Southern New Hampshire University
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership

Southern New Hampshire University offers a BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. This unique program is geared toward students who want to lead organizations through the ever-evolving business landscape. You’ll learn responsible management approaches and leadership practices, data-based decision-making skills, solutions to achieve organizational objectives, and more. 

The degree is highly flexible, with multiple start dates a year and no set class times. Students can complete their assignments whenever it is most convenient. Full and part-time options are available. SNHU has a generous transfer policy that enables you to transfer up to 90 credits for a bachelor’s degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your prior institutions. This could result in savings of up to 75% on tuition costs. Additionally, you may save time and money by earning college credit for past work experience or by utilizing military discounts and employer tuition assistance, if applicable.

Tuition: $15,380

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

SNHU’s BS in Organizational Leadership is available both online and on-campus. If you want a blended learning experience, the school will work with you to combine both formats. 

8. Saint Louis University 

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis University 
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Behavior

Saint Louis University offers a fully online BA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior with three start dates per year. In this highly flexible 120-credit program, you can attend full or part-time, and classes are asynchronous, so you can complete your coursework when it is convenient for you. 

This structure is particularly advantageous for working professionals and individuals with prior commitments. Additionally, the program features six accelerated, eight-week terms annually, meaning that those motivated to graduate faster can earn up to 30 credits a year. 

Tuition is a bit higher at this private, non-profit school. However, the School for Professional Studies provides many scholarships and awards explicitly tailored for new students. Moreover, SLU accepts transfer credits and provides credit for prior learning through several recognized sources. 

Tuition: $50,644

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

SLU’s Organizational Leadership BA stands out with its specialized content tailored for the remote and hybrid workforce. This innovative curriculum underscores SLU’s commitment to imparting the latest industry concepts to students.

9. Pennsylvania State University (World Campus)

University Park, Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania State University (World Campus)
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

Pennsylvania State University offers two online bachelor’s degrees in organizational leadership. Students can choose either a BA or a BS through Penn State World Campus, depending on their academic goals. The BA features a more humanistic approach by integrating humanities, social sciences, and language coursework. The BS takes a more social-scientific approach and requires additional leadership coursework. Both 123-credit programs feature multiple course options, allowing you to tailor your degree program to your interests. 

The curriculum is meticulously designed and built on the latest industry trends to prepare you for a career in organizational leadership. The online programs at Penn State utilize a combination of peer-to-peer interaction and self-study. Classes are asynchronous so that you can work on your weekly assignments 24/7. You’ll also participate in group work, discussions, and other activities to enhance your learning experience. Online students earn the same highly respected degree as on-campus students, and financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available. 

Tuition: $15,054

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Penn State is a pioneer in online learning with significant experience in meeting the needs of distance learners. Classes are taught by faculty with remote teaching experience and are created using technology specifically designed to support distance learning outcomes. 

10. University of Massachusetts

Irvine, California

University of Massachusetts
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership

UMass Global features a business-focused BA in Organizational Leadership. This flexible 120-credit is fully customizable, and students can choose from two areas of emphasis: supply chain systems or organizational administration. The degree was designed to apply the skills you’ve gained immediately in the workplace.  

The comprehensive curriculum includes human resources, organizational behavior, marketing, ethics, economics, finance, team building, accounting, and leadership courses. Students will become innovative leaders who identify issues, analyze opportunities, communicate visions, and lead by example. 

There are six session dates per year, and coursework is completed in eight-week sessions. This allows you to master one topic at a time. The courses are a mixture of lectures, group sessions, and other instructor-led activities. The faculty at UMass Global are all working professionals in their respective fields, so you can be assured that what you learn is relevant to today’s workplace. 

Tuition: $5,941

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

Once you’re admitted as a student at UMass Global, you’ll be paired with a dedicated academic advisor. Your advisor will help you develop a personalized education plan based on your schedule, interests, and career goals. From there, they will be your guide all the way through graduation. 

Choosing the Right Online Organizational Leadership Program for You

Wondering which online school is the best choice for you? Consider examining these factors when weighing your options:

World-Class Instruction from Renowned Faculty Members

If you’re eyeing a leadership role, it’s not just about what you learn but also who guides your learning journey. The best organizational leadership programs have reputable faculty members who aren’t just teachers but mentors with real-world experience to back up every lesson. These seasoned pros have been in boardrooms and battled through mergers; their stories will become your playbook for success.

Practical Learning and Global Networking

Pursuing an organizational leadership degree online can teach you how to be an ace leader while connecting you with professionals far and wide. Look for programs that allow you to participate in real-time collaborations where tomorrow’s leaders brainstorm solutions for today’s challenges. Imagine teaming up on projects or discussing case studies with someone halfway around the world—this is how leaders set strategic goals in our global economy. It gives ‘thinking outside the box’ a whole new meaning.

Fitting Education Into Your Life

How much flexibility do you need in an online program? Some students prefer to meet in real time with their classmates. Synchronous programs with set class times are more structured and might help you stay on track. For other students, flexibility means logging into class after tucking the kids into bed or reviewing coursework during lunch breaks at work. Asynchronous programs offer self-paced coursework you can work on when it’s convenient for you. 

A Curriculum Relevant to You

If you are interested in a particular area of leadership (like healthcare management or human resources, for example), look for programs with specialties or electives that appeal to you. This way, your education is perfectly tailored to your goals.

When choosing a school for a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, one of the main considerations should be the curriculum’s alignment with your career goals. Look for programs that offer a blend of theoretical and practical learning. The school’s reputation and the faculty’s expertise can significantly impact your learning experience and future career prospects. A highly reputed school with a strong alumni network can provide invaluable networking opportunities, potentially facilitating career advancement. It’s also worth considering the flexibility of the course in terms of online or on-campus learning, especially if you plan to work while studying.

Eric Eng, Founder & CEO of Admission Sight

Career Options and Salaries Those with a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership

If you’re considering cashing in on a career that’ll pay off, earning a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership is like finding the golden ticket. We’re not talking peanuts here; graduates stepping into organizational leadership roles often find themselves earning above-average salaries from day one. Just how much green can you expect to see? Let’s talk numbers.

Careers with a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership

Looking for more information on organizational leadership careers? Businesses worldwide spend $366 billion annually on leadership development, and those with organizational leadership skills are in high demand. Check out our article to discover more of the best organizational leadership jobs.

What Will I Learn in a Bachelor’s Degree Program for Organizational Leadership?

Bachelors in Organizational Leadership

Organizational leadership programs go beyond traditional management tactics. They hone strategic thinking so leaders can set goals that sail past the horizon line. You’ll learn to foster innovation with emotional intelligence while steering clear of icebergs like poor resource management. You’ll become a wizard of team building, mastering every nuance from conflict management to effective communication.

This specialized leadership degree doesn’t just teach you the ropes; it gives you the skills to orchestrate success within any team or organization. 

You’ll Learn to Master the Art of Influence

The art of influence isn’t about Jedi mind tricks—it’s about understanding people. When leadership courses show you how to motivate others, they’re really teaching you how to paint visions so compelling that people want to turn them into reality. 

You’ll Delve into the World of Strategic Data Utilization

Strategic data utilization involves the purposeful and effective use of data to inform decision-making and drive organizational success. Those with data management skills are highly sought after in today’s workplace.

Strategic data utilization is a key skill for organizational leadership. In the era of big data, leaders must be adept at leveraging analytics to make informed decisions. Understanding how to gather, interpret, and apply data insights allows leaders to formulate effective strategies, optimize processes, and drive organizational success. This skill not only enhances decision-making but also fosters a data-driven culture that promotes efficiency and effectiveness throughout the organization.

Jeff Mains, Founder & CEO Champion Leadership Group

You’ll Gain an Understanding of Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution

Teamwork makes the dream work, but conflict management ensures the dream doesn’t turn into a nightmare. An organizational leadership program arms future leaders with techniques not only for preventing conflicts but also for resolving them when they do pop up.

You’ll Cultivate Problem-Solving Prowess

Your coursework will equip you with sharp problem-solving abilities. This means less time spent scratching heads and more time breaking new ground. These programs also focus heavily on goal-setting strategies. Soon enough, employers will look at your resume and think, “Ah. Here comes our next eagle-eyed strategist.” 

You’ll Nurture Critical Thinking and Emotional Intelligence

Leaders set themselves apart by analyzing situations while maintaining cool composure. This blend of IQ meets EQ lets aspiring leaders navigate choppy business waters without turning overboard when challenges arise. In today’s highly competitive job market, these unique abilities can make you stand out among other applicants.

Emotional intelligence refers to the capacity to comprehend and regulate emotions, both on an individual level and within an organizational context. This skill aids in resolving conflicts and enhancing communication, all of which are fundamental to effective leadership. As the workplace becomes increasingly diverse and remote, honing emotional intelligence becomes even more critical. Leaders with a high EI can inspire, motivate, and lead teams through challenges while fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

Jeff Mains, Founder & CEO Champion Leadership Group

You’ll Hone Communication Skills Fit for Commanders

Your communication skills after nabbing one of these degrees? Think HD clarity mixed with charisma levels cranked up full blast. Effective leadership relies heavily on delivering messages smoothly. You’ll learn just how vital clear communication is across all sectors, whether it’s supply chain management or healthcare leadership roles demanding precise coordination.

Our Methodology for the Best Organizational Leadership Bachelor’s Programs

We looked at dozens of accredited colleges and universities that offer online organizational leadership degrees and related programs. To determine our final list of schools, we examined retention rates, graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and undergraduate tuition*. We then used that information to develop our list of the 10 best online programs for a bachelor’s in organizational leadership. In the case of a tie, schools were given a higher ranking if their tuition was lower. Here’s how we broke it down:

Undergraduate Tuition/Fees

  • Less than $10,000/year- 3 Points
  • $10,001-$20,000/year- 2 Points
  • More than $20,000/year- 1 Point

Freshman Retention Rate

  • Less than 50%- 1 Point
  • More than 50%- 3 Points

Graduation Rate

  • 50% or Greater- 3 Points
  • 25%-49%- 2 Points
  • Less than 25%- 1 Point

Student to Faculty Ratio

  • 15:1 and under- 3 Points
  • 16:1 to 20:1- 2 Points
  • More than 20:1- 1 Point

*Please note that the listed tuition prices are based on the in-state undergraduate costs per academic year. Tuition for out-of-state and online students may differ, depending on where you live. 

Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Organizational Leadership

SchoolTuitionFreshman
Retention Rate
Graduation RateStudent to Faculty RatioScore
Fort Hays State University$5,43076%51%15:112
Colorado State University$8,40033%36%15:111
University of Southern Maine$9,21067%42%14:111
University of West Georgia$5,94173%43%16:110
Arizona State University$11,61885%67%19:110
University of Cincinnati$13,17686%72%18:110
Southern New Hampshire University$15,38062%41%22:110
Saint Louis University$50,64487%81%9:110
Pennsylvania State University$15,05475%36%16:19
University of Massachusetts Global$12,52040%50%18:18

Professional Contributors:

We would like to thank the following generous contributors who offered their professional insight and experience in the creation of this article:

Other Sources:

This article is the first in a series titled “The Ultimate College Prep Timeline: Getting Ready Month by Month.” Each month, Online College Plan will present a new post to help high school students successfully map their college journey. 

Holiday Volunteering in High School

The holiday season is quickly approaching. And high school students nationwide are preparing to take a breather from their studies. If you’re a student looking to gain an edge in the competitive world of college admissions, winter break can be the perfect time to give back to your community while building valuable skills. 


Explore various volunteer activities designed specifically for high school students like yourself in this article. Discover how engaging in these experiences can not only improve your chances of gaining admission to top-tier colleges but also potentially secure attractive scholarships!

Curious? The best is yet to come – keep reading!

Discover the power of holiday volunteering in high school! Our latest article explores how giving back during the festive season can make your college applications stand out! Learn why community service matters and how to maximize your volunteering experience. #collegeapplications #holidayvolunteering #collegesuccess #highschoolvolunteers #communityservice #givingback #volunteeringmatters 

Why Does the Holiday Season Stand Out for High School Volunteers? 

Holiday Volunteering in High School

Let’s clarify from the start: There is no specific right or wrong time to begin volunteering. But if you are just getting started, the holidays are an ideal time to break into community service. Many organizations and charities spearhead volunteer opportunities during this time. And that makes it easier for high school students to find meaningful ways to help their communities.

For example, participants can serve meals at homeless shelters, help with toy drives, or visit elderly homes to spread holiday cheer. We’ll talk more about how to find such activities shortly. But the bottom line is this: When the holidays roll around, students have a wider range of community service opportunities to choose from.  

“Winter break is ideal for high school students to volunteer because they have a lot of free time, allowing them to commit without the demands of schoolwork. Many organizations also have specific volunteer activities during this season, such as food drives, holiday events for children and seniors, and toy drives. Winter breaks also coincide with community events and initiatives, such as homeless shelter assistance, community cleanup, and youth sports programs, which provide opportunities for students to participate in local projects and network with other members of the community that can be beneficial for their future careers.”

-Allen Koh, Founder and CEO of Cardinal Education

“Having worked with high school students as a career guidance advisor for 15 years, I have always advocated for volunteering during the holidays. It’s a perfect opportunity to start filling your resume with high-quality, relevant work experience while you have a break from academic commitments.

When looking to apply for competitive further education places or to land that first professional position, you need to get ahead of the game and make sure you maximize every opportunity. Volunteering gives you a lot: real-world experience, networking potential, and, most importantly, a chance to make a meaningful impact in your community.”

-Katharine Gallagher, Former Guidance Counselor, Thought Leader, Founder of KatharineGallagher.com 

How Important Is Community Service to the College Admissions Process?

Holiday Volunteering in High School

Students (and parents) often ask, “Does community service truly matter when it comes to college admissions?” Consider this: A survey of 264 admissions office professionals conducted before the pandemic found that nearly 60% of admissions officers confirmed that “a student’s community service experience has a positive impact on his or her acceptance to our higher education institution.” 

Additionally, over 50% of those surveyed confirmed that volunteer work can be a deciding choice among students who were equally qualified academically. 

But Things Have Changed…

It is essential to remember that the admissions process has changed in many notable ways since the pandemic. For example, 

Standardized testing has traditionally been a major deciding factor for college admissions. However, the pandemic forced the cancellation of many SAT and ACT testing events. This left college-bound students with fewer ways to highlight their academic achievements. As a result, colleges started exploring alternative ways to assess whether students were a “good fit,” and many schools chose to adopt test-optional policies. 

So, how does this tie in with volunteering? College Admissions Counselor Jason Stern explains:

“With so many colleges no longer requiring standardized test scores, there’s now a concerted effort to replace the SAT/ACT with some additional metric that fits the altruistic goals emphasized by colleges — volunteerism checks all the boxes. 

More so than ever, colleges are placing increased weight on volunteerism, so it makes a lot of sense for high school students to rack up their volunteer hours whenever they can find the time. Winter break is an excellent time to bank those volunteer hours because high school breaks aren’t long enough to warrant getting a job but are long enough to fulfill volunteer requirements for the National Honor Society or just to beef up a college application.

If a student isn’t going on vacation, volunteering will be the best use of their free time over break in terms of raising their college profile.”

Do High School Students Get the Importance of Volunteering?

Holiday Volunteering in High School

Do high schoolers perceive community service as a meaningful route to gaining acceptance into college? We engaged with several high school students on social media platforms to discuss the impact of volunteering on their college admission prospects. Specifically, we inquired about their views on whether community service would enhance their chances of being admitted to their preferred colleges. The responses we received were unexpected.

None of the students we conversed with believed that community service would significantly influence their college admissions. Their remarks included statements such as, “Unless you’re applying to an extremely competitive institution, I doubt they would consider your volunteer work,” and “Admissions primarily focus on coursework, GPA, and written submissions.” None of the students we interviewed were actively involved in community service.

This stark contrast to the insights shared by admissions professionals was not only surprising but also disheartening. Are today’s students truly of the opinion that community service holds no value?

What Do Current College Students and College Grads Have to Say About Volunteering?

On the other end of the spectrum, we connected with current and former college students. Many that we spoke with regretted not putting more effort into volunteering. Most didn’t realize the importance of it until they were well into the application process. We spoke with Abigail Wright, a recent graduate of Florida State University:

Other current and former college students we spoke with had similar responses. The general theme was that they only realized community service could have benefited them after they started the college application process. 

As perplexing as this is, we’ve concluded it represents a unique opportunity for many college-bound students! High school students’ participation in outreach within their communities appears to be in a minority. As a result, volunteering work has a strong potential to distinguish them from other applicants. Colleges are looking for students who will contribute to their campus communities. Volunteering in high school demonstrates you are a caring and compassionate individual willing to go above and beyond what is expected of you. And if you’re concerned about your grades not meeting the mark, volunteering could potentially be the determining factor in gaining admission to your dream school!

Volunteering Can Be a Huge Game Changer!

Holiday Volunteering in High School

There are many factors that admissions officers look at now when it comes to college applications. As always, academic performance is essential, but there are other considerations too. And one of them is community service. Universities and colleges are increasingly seeking out applicants who have shown commitment to their communities and demonstrated leadership skills through volunteering. 

Our admissions experts were quite definitive when it came to volunteer work. Not a single professional we spoke with thought that community service didn’t matter.

Volunteering plays a significant role in the college admissions process. It’s not just about adding an activity to your list but demonstrating your commitment to making a difference in your community. This community service showcases your character, highlighting attributes such as empathy, leadership, and initiative, which prestigious colleges highly value.

I have witnessed numerous cases where a student’s volunteer experience significantly swayed their admissions decision. One instance that stands out is a student who created a coding boot camp for underprivileged kids in their community. They didn’t just log hours; they crafted a curriculum, sourced resources, and taught classes, showing initiative, dedication, and impactful leadership. Their passion for both technology and social justice came through distinctly in their application, making them a memorable and standout candidate. This example underscores the transformative power of volunteering when pursued with genuine interest and commitment.

-Eric Eng, Founder and CEO of AdmissionSight

Putting Your Passions to Work: Aligning Volunteering with Your Interests

Holiday Volunteering in High School

When choosing a volunteer activity over winter break, high school students should strongly consider connecting their passions and interests with the service they choose to do. By doing so, not only will you enjoy the experience, but you will also make a meaningful difference in the community.

Finding a cause that truly resonates with your interests is crucial for fostering a passionate approach to volunteerism. 

But how do you identify your interests? Start by creating a list of hobbies, values, and the social issues you care about the most. This can help you narrow down a volunteer opportunity that aligns closely with your personality and core beliefs. 

Then, look into joining a local organization dedicated to a specific cause you are passionate about. By working with like-minded people, you’ll find motivation and support. 

Try to combine your interests with community needs. For example, if you enjoy art, you could volunteer at a community center to teach an arts and crafts class to children in need. If you are passionate about the environment, you could organize a local park cleanup or find a way to raise money for an environmental nonprofit.

Volunteering is a fantastic way for students to enhance both their personal and professional growth. It provides them with valuable real-world work experience and helps them develop transferable hard and soft skills. It also allows them to explore their passions, learn more about themselves, and experience if a particular career choice is truly for them.

Additionally, volunteering can serve as a great conversation starter when applying for jobs or further education. It showcases a student’s independence, adaptability, and worldly experience while also displaying their passion and commitment to personal growth in their chosen field.

-Emily Maguire, Managing Director and Career Consultant at Reflections Career Coaching

Does Mandatory Community Service Count?

At many high schools in the US, community service work is a mandatory requirement for graduation. In theory, this is an excellent practice. But does it make a difference on college applications? Do students who have completed mandatory volunteering get taken as seriously as those who chose community service of their own accord? We weighed in with Therise Edwards, Founder and CEO of Teshley Solutions LLC, to shed some light on this topic. She says,

“Volunteer hours are essential to a college application, but not all hours are treated equally. College admissions officers know that volunteer hours are a graduation requirement for many school districts. They examine not only the quantity of hours but also the quality and focus of the hours. Dabbling in a few different areas can be positive by demonstrating inquisitiveness, but excessive switches may have a negative impact. If a student has amassed a thousand volunteer hours in ten different unrelated fields, those hours may be viewed as pointless padding or indecisiveness.”

However, Edwards goes on to say:

“If a student is a volunteer EMT and also puts in hours at the local hospital, there is the appearance of focus and a desire to learn multiple aspects of healthcare. Students applying to college should plan their volunteering with the same attention to detail applied to their academic choices.”

Edward’s comments highlight an important point. The quality and quantity of your volunteer work is pivotal to your overall experience. 

Consistency Is Key When It Comes to Community Service

When we started talking to admissions experts about the impact of volunteering on college apps, we noticed a common theme: Consistency. Nearly all the professionals we spoke with highlighted the importance of choosing and sticking with one or two activities. Random volunteering here and there will undoubtedly enrich your life, but it carries a different weight than sustained effort. In other words, a long-term approach demonstrates commitment. For example, 

Mateusz Kostrz stated, “It is important to remember that any volunteering is good, provided it was done for an extended period of time (at least 2-3 months). I believe there is no point in debating which volunteering job is more socially desired, so doing anything meaningful is already great, but doing it once, on some random Tuesday afternoon, is definitely not enough.”

Eric Eng told us, “In evaluating a student’s volunteer experience, I value depth and commitment over breadth. Engaging deeply in one or two causes demonstrates dedication and the ability to make a meaningful impact. Authenticity is key; it’s clear when students volunteer for appearance rather than passion. A unique perspective also stands out – perhaps a student was able to apply a specific skill or interest to their volunteer work, or maybe the experience challenged their views in some way.”

I Want To Start Volunteering to Enhance My College Applications. How Do I Get Started?

Now that we’ve emphasized the significance of showcasing community service on your college application, if you haven’t engaged in any volunteering yet, where should you begin? Let’s take a look at some simple steps.

1. Start where you are

Whether you are a high school freshman or halfway through your senior year, you can start now!. The earlier, the better, of course, but even those in their junior or senior year of high school can still beef up their apps with volunteer work.

At Online College Plan, we also work hard to provide information for adult learners. So, for those planning on returning to college, remember this: no matter how old you are or the degree you are pursuing, there are no age limits on volunteering.

2. Identify your interests

Take some time to think about and write down what causes or issues you are passionate about. And don’t worry if you draw a blank. Many students have no idea what they like or would be interested in. One helpful tip is to ask your closest friends and family members what they think. Often, people know us better than we know ourselves. 

3. Research volunteer organizations

Once you determine the type of volunteer jobs you seek, search local groups first. Look for charities or community groups that match your interests. Check with your school’s guidance office for recommendations if you feel stuck. You can also find helpful resources at the end of this article. 

4. Reach out to the organization

Contact the organization you are interested in and inquire about volunteer opportunities. Explain your interest in volunteering and ask about their needs and requirements. Schedule a meeting. Many organizations require volunteers to attend an orientation or training session before they can start. This is also an excellent opportunity to learn more about the organization and its mission. This way, you can decide if it is truly something you want to do.

5. Once you find your match, commit to regular volunteering

Show up at any required meetings early. Ask if there is anything you can do to help the administrators prepare. For example, they may need someone to make coffee, provide snacks, or set up chairs. Be willing to do any small or menial job, and you’ll find that you’ll be asked to take on more responsibility over time. Be ready to take on leadership roles within the organization. Leadership is key since admissions officers look for students who are fearless in taking charge.

6. Be consistent with your efforts

High school is a busy time. Nobody expects you to work 40 hours a week at your volunteer job. The critical thing admissions officers seek is sustained and meaningful involvement. So, it’s crucial to commit to a regular schedule of volunteering. Depending on your availability, this could be a few hours a week or a few hours a month. 

7. Track your hours

Not all high schools have a system for tracking volunteer hours. In many cases, you are going to need to do this yourself. Document the amount of time you spend volunteering. Make notes of what you did. This will help you accurately report your volunteer work on your college applications. If you’re looking for a more tech-savvy way to track your volunteer hours, consider apps like x2VOL. These can help you keep a comprehensive record of their work in the community. 

Incorporating Volunteer Experiences into College Applications

The next step is showcasing the tangible skills gained through volunteering – communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are just a few examples. Colleges love seeing evidence of these transferable abilities because they’re crucial no matter what degree program you pursue.

Telling Your Story Through Volunteer Work

Your story matters! Weave together narratives around transformative moments experienced while volunteering. Maybe a conversation with an elderly person at a nursing home sparked your interest in gerontology or an encounter while tutoring kids made you consider education as a major.

Colleges seek individuals who are not only academically accomplished but also capable of making a meaningful contribution to their community. Your volunteer experiences demonstrate why you would be an asset on campus. 

Your Admissions Essay: Showcasing your Volunteer Experience

So, you’ve done some volunteering but now what? How will you present your volunteer experience to college admissions officers? The answer lies primarily in your essay. Highlighting your volunteering experience in your college essay can provide a more holistic view of who you are as a person. It shows what you can bring to a college community. Colleges are seeking students who are a “good fit” within the community and culture of the institution.

Scholarships for Student Volunteers

Holiday Volunteering in High School

Volunteering can pay off, literally. Many organizations recognize the value of service and offer scholarships to high school students who give their time. These awards are a great way to fund your college education.

For example, the Daily Point of Light Award honors individuals making a difference through volunteering. Winners may also receive additional scholarship opportunities from sponsors affiliated with this award.

Another is the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. This program celebrates young people across America who have made meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteer services. 

Finding Community Service Scholarships

Finding scholarships tailored towards volunteers requires some digging, but it’s worth it. You should also consider what kind of service you’ve done when applying. That’s because different scholarships focus on diverse areas such as environmental conservation, social justice work, or community service that is more broadly defined. For more information on scholarship opportunities, check out our guide to scholarships

Making Your Scholarship Applications Stand Out

To increase your chances at these competitive awards, make sure you tell your story well in the scholarship application essays. Describe how volunteering has impacted you personally and professionally. What skills did you gain? What experiences stood out?

A strong recommendation letter from the organization where you volunteered can also be a powerful addition to your application. Bear in mind that these scholarships reward service and help universities see who you are beyond grades and test scores. So give it your all.

Catch the spirit of giving back. Scholarships for high school volunteers are real, and they can fund your college dreams. Dig in, apply smartly & let your service shine. #Scholarship success #VolunteerForCollege #ScholarshipOpportunities 

Other Resources for Finding Volunteer Opportunities

Holiday Volunteering in High School

No matter where you live, there will be opportunities for community service. A quick Google search for volunteer opportunities near you should reveal a wealth of resources. However, If you want specific ideas on getting started, we recommend researching the following organizations:

  1. Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds affordable housing for families in need. They offer volunteer opportunities for people of all ages, including high school students. Their work includes construction, fundraising, and advocacy. 
  1. American Red Cross: The American Red Cross is an organization that provides disaster relief, health and safety training, and blood donations. They offer many volunteer opportunities, including blood drives, disaster response, and youth programs. 
  1. Boys and Girls Clubs of America: The Boys and Girls Clubs of America is a youth development organization that provides after-school programs and activities for children and teens. They offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for high school students, including tutoring, mentoring, and coaching. 
  1. Big Brothers Big Sisters: Big Brothers Big Sisters is a mentoring organization that matches adult volunteers with children and teens needing positive role models. They offer several volunteer options for high school students, including mentoring and tutoring. 
  1. National Park Service: The National Park Service is a federal agency that manages national parks and historic sites. They offer many community service opportunities, including trail maintenance, visitor services, and environmental education. 
  1. Feeding America: Feeding America is a nonprofit organization that works to end hunger in the United States. They offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for high school students, including food bank distribution, fundraising, and advocacy.
  1. United Way: United Way is a nonprofit organization that works to improve education, financial stability, and health in communities across the United States. They offer a vast range of community service opportunities for high school students.
  1. National Wildlife Federation: The National Wildlife Federation is a conservation organization that works to protect wildlife and continue their habitats. They offer many volunteer opportunities for people of all ages, including wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and environmental education.
  1. Special Olympics: Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization that provides sports training and competition for people with intellectual disabilities. They offer volunteer opportunities like coaching, event planning, and fundraising.
  1. National Honor Society: The National Honor Society is an organization that recognizes and encourages academic achievement, leadership, and community service among high school students. They offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for members, including tutoring, mentoring, and community service projects.

These organizations provide a range of opportunities for high school students to gain volunteer experience and make a positive impact in their communities. 

Wrapping Things Up

Holiday Volunteering in High School

High school students have a lot on their plates, but engaging in holiday volunteering can provide numerous benefits beyond simply feeling good about helping others. Volunteering fosters a sense of community and equips students with valuable skills and experience. It allows people of all ages to get out of their comfort zones, face new challenges, and build confidence in their abilities. 

So, now you’ve uncovered the power of holiday volunteering. You’re ready to step up and make a difference.

But the magic doesn’t stop here. By incorporating these experiences into your applications and essays, colleges will see more than just grades; they’ll see character!

Your journey starts today – Happy Volunteering!

Hail to Our Experts!

Online College Plan would like to thank our expert contributors who helped us create this article. As you map out your college journey, consider connecting with one or more of these talented professionals who have so generously offered their insight. 



Are you passionate about helping people improve their everyday lives? A Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree may be for you. This advanced degree can open doors to a fulfilling and dynamic career path. This article explores the diverse options available to those with an OT doctorate. 

What Is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program?

A Doctor of Occupational Therapy program is an advanced credential for occupational therapy professionals. This degree gives students the skills to make a significant difference in people’s lives. With an occupational therapy doctorate, there will be many exciting careers to explore. From working as an OT to leadership and research roles, the possibilities are vast and diverse. 

What Is Occupational Therapy?

OT is a specialized healthcare profession. It focuses on helping people regain or maintain skills to engage in daily activities. The aim is to help them lead full and meaningful lives.

Occupational therapists work in places like hospitals, schools, and rehab centers. They assess each person’s unique needs and make plans that fit them best. They don’t just look at physical problems. They consider how people think, feel, and interact with others and their surroundings.

Occupational therapists use exercises, tools, and gadgets to improve movement, coordination, and other skills. They also do activities to make thinking clearer and help with emotions.

OT is crucial for people with disabilities, injuries, or long-term conditions. It helps them become more independent in everyday tasks. This includes things like dressing, eating, and moving around. It also encourages them to join in work, play, and social activities. This helps them to enjoy life and be part of their communities.

What is the Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy?

Occupational Therapy degrees

Occupational and physical therapists were once the same. They were referred to as “reconstruction aides. They assisted World War I veterans in recovering from injuries and trauma. As the medical field evolved, however, so did the professional roles. Both professions help patients overcome physical limitations to become functional members of society. Yet there are some distinct differences.

Physical therapy concentrates on general gross motor function. It emphasizes specific biological and anatomical processes. Physical therapists know body mechanics. And they understand how body parts support each other to achieve physical goals. 

OT focuses more on fine motor and cognitive skills. These are necessary for people to participate in meaningful tasks and occupations. It prioritizes the physical requirements for engaging in social, professional, and homemaking activities. Occupational therapists study sociology and psychology as well. This helps them understand what is needed for patients to enjoy a higher standard of living.

Are you still trying to decide about choosing a career as a physical therapist or OT? Explore online degree programs to understand each field’s learning outcomes and expectations. This exploration will help you make an informed decision about your future path.

See Also: The 25 Best Online Doctorates in Occupational Therapy

What Are The Educational Requirements for an Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists are typically required to earn their master’s degree. All states also require occupational therapists to be professionally licensed. Most masters in occupational therapy programs prepare graduates to sit for licensing exams. Higher-paying OT professions require a doctorate in occupational therapy and some experience.

A Note About Licensing and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy

For occupational therapy practice, you’ll need to take a national certification examination. The national certification examination is administered through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). The organization has some great test prep resources for the NBCOT Certification Examination.

Additionally, all US States and Territories require licensing for occupational therapy practice. A license allows you to practice occupational therapy in your state. AOTA has a comprehensive guide to state licensure. There is no limit to the number of states you can apply to to practice occupational therapy.

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy also features many fantastic resources to help you in your occupational therapy practice.

A graduate degree in OT offers valuable knowledge in medical and psychological fields. These programs cover important subjects that aspiring occupational therapists need to learn. Some of the classes included in an OT program are:

Anatomy and Physiology

These courses teach students about the human body’s structure and how it functions. Understanding these basics is crucial for identifying client limitations or issues.

Neuroscience

In this subject, students study the brain and how it affects behavior and thinking. It focuses on neurological conditions and injuries that can impact daily activities. Students learn how to develop interventions to improve function.

Psychology

OTs need to understand the emotional and psychological aspects of their client’s conditions. Psychology covers human development, mental health, and the social factors that affect daily tasks.

OT Theory and Practice

These courses introduce students to various intervention models, therapeutic techniques, and evidence-based practices. They gain hands-on experience through clinical placements.

Adaptive Technology

This subject focuses on assistive devices that can improve clients’ independence and quality of life.

Environmental Analysis and Ergonomics

Occupational therapists must consider the environments in which their clients live and work. This class helps them assess and modify these spaces to suit their client’s needs.

Ethics and Professional Issues

These courses focus on ethical dilemmas in the field. Students learn to maintain high standards of professional conduct while providing client-centered care.

What Are Occupational Therapy Assistants?

On your way to becoming an OTD, you may work as an occupational therapy assistant. Occupational therapy assistants are professionals who work under the supervision of an OT. They help provide treatment for patients. Occupational therapy assistants can typically do most things that an OTD can do. However, they must practice under the direction of a fully licensed OTD. 


Online OTD program

What To Consider When Looking for an Occupational Therapy Program

When choosing an OT degree program, several important factors must be considered. Before looking at options, consider your academic priorities. Here are some key things to keep in mind before applying:

Location

Are you concerned about long commutes or living near the school? Begin exploring online degree programs. These programs let you complete coursework from wherever is most convenient for you. And you can typically complete your clinical practice requirements at a location near you.

Cost

Tuition rates can vary widely for occupational therapy programs. Public in-state schools often offer more affordable degrees than out-of-state or private institutions.

Schedule

If you have a tight schedule, consider online programs with flexible scheduling. Asynchronous classes allow you to complete coursework and tests at your convenience. This enables you to keep working while in school.

Specialization

Most OTs specialize in a specific area. You have options if you already know which area of OT you want to specialize in. Look for a school that offers a specialized track in your area of interest. This way, your studies are more tailored to your career choice.

Accreditation

Proper accreditation is one of the most important things to look for in your OT degree program. Accreditation by the ACOTE is vital for an OT degree. The next section will explain what that is.

Once you’ve identified your academic goals, you can explore OT degree programs. Consider all these factors while researching the best online schools. This way, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right program to pursue your career. 

Accreditation by The The American Council for Occupational Therapy Association 

ACOTE stands for Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. Accreditations by the ACOTE are essential for any occupational therapy program. They ensure the quality and credibility of the educational programs. ACOTE sets specific standards to ensure students receive a comprehensive and reliable education. This accreditation assures students that they are investing in a high-quality education.

Having ACOTE accreditation guarantees that the program aligns with industry best practices. It also ensures the school stays up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. It demonstrates that graduates will gain the skills to become competent occupational therapists.

Employers and licensing boards typically require candidates to have completed an ACOTE-accredited program. Therefore, it enhances graduates’ job prospects and enables them to get licensure. 

occupational therapy degrees

What Can I Do With a Doctor of Occupational Therapy Degree?

A doctorate in OT provides the highest level of expertise in the field. It opens up advanced career opportunities and allows for research and leadership roles. It also contributes to the advancement of OT as a profession. 

Doctors of Occupational Therapy (ODTs) typically work in one of nine specialties. Many doctorate programs offer concentrations to align with the student’s professional goals. They include:

Pediatrics 

Online OTD program

Pediatric specialists work with children who have developmental delays or have known disabilities. These ODTs hold titles like:

  • Pediatric OT Specialist
  • Pediatric OT Clinical Specialist
  • Lead Pediatric OT Practitioner

Physical Rehabilitation 

Physical rehabilitation specialists aid people recovering from serious injuries. They help patients resume their daily activities. They carry job titles such as:

  • Physical Rehabilitation OT Director
  • Senior Occupational Therapist – Physical Rehabilitation
  • Doctoral OT Specialist – Physical Rehabilitation

Driving and Community Mobility 

These OTs support clients in becoming mobile within their local environment. This allows them to take part in their communities safely. And this helps them to engage in meaningful daily activities. Professional job titles for this role include:

  • Driving and Community Mobility Specialist
  • Community Mobility Occupational Therapist
  • Doctoral OT Consultant – Driving and Community Mobility

Gerontology 

Online OTD program

Gerontology OTs work with older patients. They help them overcome any medical obstacles that arise as they progress into old age. They hold job titles such as:

  • Geriatric OT Specialist
  • Aging in Place Occupational Therapist
  • Gerontological Rehabilitation Consultant

Environmental Modification 

SCEMs identify and address issues in a patient’s living space that hinder their functioning. These ODTs hold titles like:

  • Environmental Modification Occupational Therapist
  • Doctoral OT Specialist – Environmental Modification
  • Environmental Accessibility Consultant

Feeding, Eating, and Swallowing 

These OTs specialize in assisting patients facing difficulties with eating and digestion. They carry job titles such as:

  • Feeding, Eating, and Swallowing Occupational Therapist
  • Pediatric Dysphagia Therapist
  • Doctoral OT Specialist – Feeding and Swallowing

Low Vision 

Online OTD program

Low-vision specialists aid patients with serious optical limitations. They help them adapt and navigate daily life. Job titles for this rule include:

  • Low Vision Occupational Therapist
  • Low Vision Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Vision Rehabilitation Therapist

School Systems 

School systems specialists ensure students receive the educational experience they need. This involves schools, colleges, universities, and other training. These ODTs carry various job titles. Some of them include:

  • Educational OT Specialist
  • School-Based OT Program Coordinator
  • Doctoral OT Specialist – School-based Practice

You can focus your degree on your field of interest by choosing a specialization. And you can typically still select related electives if your chosen school does not offer your discipline. To start your search for the best ODT degree program, check out The 25 Best Online Doctorates in Occupational Therapy.

The Top Paying OT Jobs

Online OTD program

If you would like to become a licensed physical therapist, the first step will be to apply to an occupational therapy program. Your professors and advisors will be able to help you calculate your best career options which will allow you to maximize your expected salary after you graduate.

Now that you know what you can do with a doctorate in OT. So let’s look at the top-paying jobs for those with doctorate degrees. ODTs work with people of all ages and in many various settings. Here are eight high-paying jobs that a Doctor of Occupational Therapy might pursue:

Director of Rehabilitation Services

Rehabilitation services directors are responsible for overseeing and managing rehabilitation programs. They coordinate a team of therapists, develop treatment plans, and ensure quality care for patients. These directors work closely with OT researchers. And they understand rehabilitation sciences and the most up-to-date advancements in the field. By collaborating, they can implement cutting-edge techniques and therapies. This ultimately enhances the overall effectiveness and outcomes of their rehabilitation programs.

Rehabilitation services directors typically work in healthcare settings or education systems. Their role involves leadership, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance for effective rehabilitation outcomes. 

The median annual salary for a director of rehabilitation services is $148,500. The amount can be higher depending on education and experience.

Occupational Therapy Researcher

An OT Researcher is someone who does in-depth studies in the field of OT. They seek to advance the field by learning new ways to help patients more effectively. These researchers plan and conduct research projects and gather and study data. They share what they discover in academic journals and other publications.

OT Researchers can work in various settings. Many of them work at universities and research institutions. This gives them the right tools and allows them to work with other experts. Others may work in hospitals, healthcare centers, or rehab facilities. But their goal is the same. They focus on finding better ways to help patients. Some researchers also work for government or non-profit organizations. Here, they work to improve public health policies related to OT.

The highest salary for an OT Researcher is $104,000. This amount is for OTs with experience and a doctorate or Ph.D. and good experience in the field.

Occupational Therapy Consultant

An Occupational Therapy Consultant is an experienced and knowledgeable expert in OT. They help organizations and schools improve their therapy programs. These consultants give advice and make plans to make therapy better for people. They make sure facilities are in compliance with regulations. Their goal is to help more people and make treatment more effective and efficient.

OT Consultants can work in various places. They might work for large hospitals, schools, or organizations that want to improve their therapy services. They could also work for special centers that focus only on therapy. Some have their businesses and offer consulting services to different organizations.

The OTD salary for therapy consultants is $33 per hour but can be as high as $68 per hour. This depends on the degree held, experience, and location.

Professor in Occupational Therapy

A Professor of OT specializes in helping students learn about occupational therapy. They have lots of knowledge and experience in this field. These professors work at colleges or universities and lead classes for future OTs. They teach therapy techniques, how to work with patients, and the importance of helping people do daily activities. 

Occupational therapy professors also do research and write articles to share new knowledge with others in the field. Their passion is to train and inspire the next generation of therapists.

The base salary of a professor of occupational therapy is $95,509. This amount can vary depending on factors such as location and education.

Ergonomics Specialist

An Ergonomics Specialist focuses on creating comfortable and efficient work environments. Their expertise is crucial in promoting well-being and efficiency in a wide range of work environments. These specialists focus on preventing injuries and enhancing productivity. They study how people interact with their workspaces. Then, they make adjustments to reduce strain and discomfort. 

By providing ergonomic assessments, these specialists help individuals work safely and comfortably. They reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems and other work-related injuries. Many ergonomic specialists work in corporate offices. They may also work in industrial settings or healthcare facilities. 

Occupational therapy doctorate salary figures for ergonomics professionals can be $69,000 to $79,000 yearly.

Home Health Occupational Therapist

A Home Health OT is a professional who visits patients in their homes. They work with people of different ages, like seniors or those recovering from injuries or disabilities. These therapists assess the patient’s home and daily activities. Then create personalized plans to help them become more independent and capable. They teach skills for everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing, and cooking. They may suggest tools or equipment to make things safer and easier. 

A Home Health OT aims to support patients in achieving the best quality of life. This allows them to remain independent in their own homes. 

The doctorate in occupational therapy salary for home health is $97,867. This makes this profession one of the highest paying on our list. With education and experience, a home health OT can make up to $115,238.

Occupational Therapy Specialist in Pediatrics

An OT Specialist in Pediatrics works with children and infants with developmental challenges. They also work with children who are emotionally or physically challenged. They focus on helping develop essential skills for daily activities. These include things like play and social interactions. They use creative methods to engage children in activities that improve their motor skills. They also work to improve their sensory processing. And they teach them to take care of themselves.

OT specialists in pediatrics work in pediatric hospitals, clinics, and rehab centers. Some also work in schools. This allows them to partner with teachers and parents to support kids with learning or behavior difficulties. Others provide therapy at home, customizing interventions to fit the child’s familiar surroundings. 

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual pay for a Pediatric Occupational Therapist is $89,097 annually.

A Word About Doctor of Occupational Therapy Salary Figures

When considering the salary figures above, there are a few things to consider. The average pay for those with a doctorate in OT can vary significantly. How much you make will depend on location, experience, and the employer. However, pursuing advanced certifications and education can enhance your earning potential in the field. Licensed occupational therapists have great potential for excellent earnings.

What Organizations or Associations Can I Join When Working in Occupational Therapy?

occupational therapy degrees

American Occupational Therapy Association

The primary association for OTs in the US is the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). There are several benefits for those who are members of the AOTA, including:

Quality Continuing Education

American Occupational Therapy Association members have access to continuing education opportunities. This includes online courses, informational webinars, and national occupational therapy conferences.

Subscriptions to Occupational Therapy Periodicals:

AOTA members receive subscriptions to the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. They also get OT Practice magazine.

Professional Resources

Members have access to AOTA’s evidence-based practice resources. This includes professional forums and groups. They can also access the Wilma L. West occupational therapy library. Plus, there are networking opportunities for job opportunities and career advancement.

Discounts American Occupational Therapy Association members receive up to 30% savings on most AOTA publications and events.
Advocacy

AOTA members contribute to protecting the occupational therapy profession through political involvement. This occurs through the American Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee (AOTPAC).

Student Occupational Therapy Association 

Students can also join the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA). The Student Occupational Therapy Association is a non-profit group that promotes professional development for students. It does so through networking, education, volunteerism, and more. Different regions have different chapters. You can find out more information through AOTA. 

More FAQ About OTDs

Is an Occupational Therapist a Doctor?

Many people think that an occupational therapist is a doctor. However, they are not medical doctors. Instead, they are healthcare clinicians. Occupational therapists can earn a doctoral-level education. This is the most advanced education in the field.

Is There Such a Thing as a Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy?

Yes. In addition to an OTD, students can pursue a Ph.D. degree. However, Ph.D. occupational therapy programs are designed for students who want to focus on research and academia. 

When Will Occupational Therapy Require a Doctorate?

There has been some confusion about whether OTs will need a doctorate to practice after a specific date. Currently, this is not the case. 

What Is the Best Occupational Therapy College?

Are you looking for the top online colleges for an OT doctoral program? Check out The 25 Best Online Doctorates in Occupational Therapy.

What Is a Masters in Occupational Therapy Salary?

Currently, the national average earnings for those with a Master’s degree in OT is $95,356

What Is the NBCOT Certification Examination?

The NBCOT exam conducted is an essential exam for those who want to practice as licensed OTs or OT assistants.  

How Can I Be Assured of Individualized Attention in an Online Program?

With most online programs, students are paired with a faculty mentor. You’ll work with your faculty mentor to design research projects and other practical experiences to help you meet your goals.

Closing Thoughts

A Doctor of Occupational Therapy opens up many exciting possibilities. You can advance research and become an expert in the clinic. You can lead occupational therapy education programs and even influence healthcare policy. The opportunities are diverse and fulfilling. It’s an amazing chance to make a real impact on people’s lives and communities. You’ll help others be more independent and have a better quality of life. Whether you work for a healthcare facility, a school, or you start your own business, an OTD lets you make a lasting difference in the world.

Arizona State University Profile
Arizona
ASU -logo

Arizona State University Online, which is commonly referred to as Arizona State or simply as ASU, is a public metropolitan research university located on five campuses across the Phoenix, Arizona, metropolitan area, and that operates four different regional learning centers throughout the state of Arizona.

We ranked Arizona State University Online #1 in the Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Communications!

We ranked Arizona State University Online #5 in the Top 100 Best Online Colleges
We ranked Arizona State University Online #4 in the Top 10 Online Engineering Degrees
We ranked Arizona State University Online #5 in the Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Political Science
We ranked Arizona State University Online #7 in the 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work
We ranked Arizona State University Online #8 in the Top 50 Online Schools with the Best Websites
ASU named one of the 10 Top Online Colleges That Will Help Launch Your Career
ASU named one of the Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Art

Arizona State University is the largest public state-funded university located within the United States based on total–both full-time and part-time–student enrollment. Arizona State University’s charter, approved by the board of regents in 2014, is based on the “New American University” model created by ASU President Michael M. Crow; the sixteenth and current president of ASU.

ASU President Michael M. Crow

The charter defines ASU as “a comprehensive and all inclusive public research university, which is measured not by whom it excludes, but rather by whom it includes and how they find success; advancing research and discovery that holds public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities that which it serves.” Due to the New American University model and President Michael M. Crow, ASU has seen great success due to the more business-style direction that he has taken the school.

Newsweek

Newsweek pointed out that Crow’s shift toward a corporate CEO style of academic management–which includes an emphasis on bringing in corporate partners and sponsors and radically restructuring the school’s old departments into interdisciplinary institutes–was already evident when he was the Vice-Provost of Columbia University in the 90’s.

Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal reported in 2006 that during his tenure there Crow “led Columbia University into the top ranks of universities by royalty income, by bringing in more than $100 million of revenue per year” and that he is giving Arizona State University the same treatment, which has led to the school’s multiple academic departments to flourish.

ASU is classified as what is known as a research university with a very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, and since 2005 ASU has been consistently ranked by various nationally and internationally recognized sources as a university that is among the top research universities–both public and private–in the United States based on the school’s faculty and student research output across various disciplines, innovations, theory development, research expenditures and the number of awarded patents and awarded research grant proposals received. In addition to this, The Center for Measuring University Performance ranks ASU at the 31st rank among the top public research universities located within the nation. ASU was first classified as a Research Level I institute in the year of 1994, which makes it one of the newest major research universities–public or private–located within the nation.

Arizona State University has many extremely active extracurricular involvement programs that are offered through the school’s Sun Devil Involvement Center. The Sun Devil Involvement Center provides both social and experiential learning opportunities for student involvement through various school clubs, sororities, fraternities, community outreach programs, leadership programs, student body government and various education-supplementing opportunities and programs.

In addition to the school’s many social and educational programs and activities that students can take a part of, the area surrounding the school–the Phoenix metropolitan area–has many sites and activities to provide as well. Some of these sites and activities include:

The Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is home to over 350 permanent hands-on exhibits and many temporary exhibits that rotate out throughout the year. In addition to the myriad of exhibits available, the center also offers multiple programs and activities designed to entertain and impart knowledge upon visitors of all ages. Two of the most popular of these activities are the Adult’s Night Out program and the Science on Wheels program. The Adult’s Night Out program allows adult visitors to “Be a kid without the kids.” on the first Friday of every month. Adult visitors will be able to enjoy the center’s 300 different hands on exhibits, to experience an IMAX film or planetarium presentation and engage their intellect with thought-provoking educational demonstrations. The Science on Wheels program is one of the Science Center’s flagship community programs, and is a program that delivers the excitement of hands-on science discovery directly to classrooms and other community-based organizations located throughout the state of Arizona.

Arizona Museum of Natural History
The Arizona Museum of Natural History has many exhibits on display that provide both entertainment and education. Some of these exhibits include: a three-story indoor waterfall, a real territorial jail and a recreation of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. The Museum’s Southwest Gallery section consists of a Native Peoples’ cultural and historical gallery, with exhibits about Paleoindian hunters and gatherers, the first inhabitants of North America and the Desert Cultures that were developed later. It also holds a recreation of a Hohokam village, which includes replica pithouses and above-ground structures, and which are outfitted with real artifacts as they might have been from around A.D. 600 to A.D. 1450. Other exhibits are the Ancient Cultures of Mexico exhibit, the Origins gallery–which is designed as a voyage through the timeline of the cosmos and discusses major events in the history of planet Earth–and many other archaeological, paleontological and anthropological exhibits.

Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum for the visual arts located in the southwest United States. The Museum displays international exhibitions alongside its extremely comprehensive collection of more than 18,000 various works of American, European, Latin American, Asian and modern and contemporary art and fashion design. A community center since 1959, the Museum hosts year-round programs of festivals, live performances, independent art films and educational programs. It also features PhxArtKids, which is an interactive space designed specifically for children. The Phoenix Art Museum has been designation of what is known as a “Phoenix Point of Pride,” which are are 33 landmarks and attractions located within the Phoenix city limits and that are claimed to embody the best cultural, historical or entertainment features of the city for both residents and visitors. Each of these Points of Pride were chosen through an election process that involved over 40,000 residents that were voting for their favorite city destinations, institutes and resources.

The Rosson House
The Rosson House is a historic house museum–that is, a residential house that has been retrofitted or repurposed to serve as a museum–and is a fully-restored 1895 Queen Anne Victorian house museum which interprets the history of the city Phoenix. Tours of the house include all living areas and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the lifestyles and living habits of early Phoenix area families. Admission to the Rosson House Museum is by guided tour only. The Rosson House was originally owned by Dr. Roland Rosson and was designed by prominent San Francisco architect A.P. Petit. Dr. Roland Rosson died a month after the completion of the house, and the house exchanged hands many times before being ultimately purchased by the City of Phoenix in 1974. The state of the house had fallen into disrepair in the years leading up to the City of Phoenix purchasing it, but was restored to its former glory through a huge community effort which involved the City of Phoenix, many of the local institutions and hundreds of volunteers made up of residents of the Phoenix area and the surrounding areas.

The Burton Barr Central Library
The Burton Barr Central Library is the central library of Phoenix, Arizona, and it is the flagship location and administrative headquarters for the Phoenix Public Library. The library houses over 1,000,000 volumes of literary work and offers to its many visitors a wide selection of facilities. These facilities include The Great Reading Room (a reading room that is 1 acre in area, and is one of the largest in the United States. It houses many study areas and the nonfiction collection), the Hive (a discovery space for business entrepreneurs), Arizona Room (an area that houses a research collection which is focused on the Southwestern region’s heritage, lifestyle and geography from the prehistoric times all the way to the present), College Depot (a free, full-service college planning center), Teen Central (this area offers workshops, computers and study areas, as well as a living room type area that is equipped with a drop-down screen where various movies are shown and is reserved for teens between the ages of 12 to 18) among many others.

Phoenix Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall is a multi-purpose performing arts venue, located in Downtown Phoenix. The Phoenix Symphony Hall is home to the Phoenix Symphony, Arizona Opera and Ballet Arizona and it is also the site that is used by various touring Broadway companies, a variety of dance productions and shows put on by popular entertainers, as well as being the location for business seminars and general convention sessions. The Symphony Hall currently features 2,387 chairs–equipped with wood bases for better acoustics–reconfigured main-floor cross aisles which helps to alleviate foot traffic congestion, additional elevators and a new seating section for patrons that use wheelchairs, which greatly improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities and which updates the institute’s compliance to meet or exceed the requirements put forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Due to the cultural and entertainment significance that the Phoenix Symphony Hall provides not only to the community but to the many tourists that visit the area every year, it has been designated as one of the city’s 33 “Phoenix Points of Pride.”

Herberger Theater Center
Herberger Theater Center is an indoor performing arts venue that features three different stages and is located in downtown Phoenix. The theater’s mission is to both support and to foster the growth of performing arts in Phoenix as the premier performance arts venue and arts advocate. The Herberger Theater Center is home to two resident theater companies: the Arizona Theatre Company and the Center Dance Ensemble, as well as acting as the host to other reputable ensembles such as Valley Youth Theatre, the iTheatre Collaborative, the Arizona Jewish Theatre Company, the Teatro Bravo and to Childsplay. Since the theater’s opening, the Herberger Theater Center has remained true to its original mission of cultivating the arts by driving the cultural and educational development of the greater Phoenix area. More than 40 different performances hit the stage annually and, in addition, the center also produces its own Lunch Time Theater series, which are weekday one act matinees featuring local up and coming theater companies and which perform on their Kax Stage.

Comerica Theater
The Comerica Theater was designed to fill the needs of performers that are too large to perform at smaller, more intimate venues but do not need a huge sports stadium. Comerica Theater opened in the spring of 2002 as part of the city’s ongoing redevelopment efforts in Downtown Phoenix, and it hit the 2 million mark in attendance in the year of 2009. The theater is probably best recognized as playing host to the comedic movie Blue Collar Comedy Tour: The Movie. In addition to this, George Lopez’s HBO Special, America’s Mexican, was aired live at this venue. The theater is also a venue for Broadway and family stage shows that play the Phoenix area. The venue is also home to some of the area’s sporting events such as boxing and kickboxing.

Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row Arts District is a walkable, creative district located in the urban core of Downtown Phoenix that is nationally recognized for being home to many arts and cultural events, nationally award-winning restaurants, art galleries, various shops and live music. The area offers many events and programs such as Vampire Hours (during the summer, many businesses in the area stay open later to accommodate to people that enjoy the nightlife), Fridays in Phoenix (one of the largest self-guided art walks in the United States) and Tree Planting programs where hundreds of volunteers get together annually to plant trees. The Arts District connects downtown Phoenix to various historic neighborhoods including Evans Churchill, Garfield, Willow and Historic Roosevelt.

Arizona State University Online Degrees and Programs:

In addition to the on-campus degree programs that Arizona State University offers, the school also has many high-quality online degree programs available for distance learning students to choose from. Online Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees offered by Arizona State University Online include:


Anthropology,
Art History,
Business Administration,
Business Communications,
Food Industry Management,
Global Leadership,
Global Logistics Management,
Retail Management,
Business Sustainability,
Business Data Analytics,
Business – Tourism,
Community Advocacy and Social Policy,
Communication,
Community Advocacy and Social Policy,
Community Health,
Criminology and Criminal Justice,
Educational Studies,
Electrical Engineering,
Engineering Management,
English,
Family & Human Development,
Film and Media Studies,
Geography (BA),
Geography (BS),
Global Health,
Graphic Information Technology,
Health Care Coordination,
Health Education and Health Promotion,
Health Sciences,
Healthy Lifestyles Coaching,
History,
Information Technology,
Integrative Health,
Interdisciplinary Studies,
Interdisciplinary Studies – Organizational Studies,
Internet and Web Development,
Justice Studies,
Liberal Studies,
Management,
Mass Communication and Media Studies,
Nursing – RN to BSN,
Marketing,
Nutrition – Food and Nutrition Management,
Nutrition Communication,
Operations Management,
Organizational Leadership,
Philosophy,
Political Science (BA) and Political Science (BS),
Public Service and Public Policy,
Emergency Management Homeland Security,
Psychology (BA) and Psychology (BS),
Religious Studies,
Sociology,
Software Engineering,
Spanish,
Sustainability,
Technical Communication,
Technical Communication,
Technological Entrepreneurship and Management,
Urban Planning, and
Women and Gender Studies.

Arizona State University online degrees are offered in a wide range of different areas of study that are sure to suit anyone’s personal and professional interests. These Arizona State University online degree programs are taught by the same professors that teach Arizona State University’s on-campus program counterparts, ensuring that all students–traditional and distance learners–will receive a high-quality education from a nationally and internationally recognized educational institution that will provide them with all of the skills and tools needed to succeed in their chosen career.

What Makes ASU Unique: Research

Arizona State University consistently ranks among the top 20 universities in the United States -— that do not have a traditional medical school —- for research expenditures. The school shares this lofty designation with other high-caliber schools such as Caltech, MIT, GA Tech, Rockefeller, Perdue, UC Berkeley and the University of Texas at Austin. All of these schools–including ASU– provide students with an exemplary education.

Arizona State University is classified as a “RU/VH: Research University (very high research activity)” by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education and the school has tripled its research expenditures since 2002 and now receives more than $385 million annually. Arizona State University is a NASA-designated national space-grant institute of higher learning and is a member of the Universities Research Association. In addition, Arizona State University is one of the nation’s most successful universities in terms of creating start-up companies through research; ASU ranks #2 in the nation for proprietary start-ups created for every $10 million in research expenditures.

Among some of the most nationally and internationally celebrated institutes that operate under ASU are:

The Biodesign Institute
The Biodesign Institute performs various biomedical and health research and also works toward developing solutions for environmental sustainability. The institute is comprised of the following centers: Applied Structural Discovery, Bioelectronics and Biosensors, BioEnergetics, Biosignatures Discovery Automation, Environmental Biotechnology, Environmental Security, Evolution and Medicine, Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, Innovations in Medicine, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Personalized Diagnostics, Single Molecule Biophysics and the Sustainable Health center. The Biodesign Institute is currently led by Dr. Raymond DuBois, who is a physician, scientist and celebrated oncology researcher.

Institute of Human Origins
The Institute of Human Origins is one of the preeminent research organizations in the world devoted to the science of human origins. A research center of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Institute of Human Origins pursues an integrative strategy for research and discovery central to its 30-year-old founding mission; which is to bridge social, earth, and life science approaches to the most important questions concerning the course, causes and the timing of events in the human development over the course of our history. In addition to the research they perform, the institute fosters public awareness of human origins and its relevance to contemporary society through various innovative outreach programs that create timely and accurate information for both education and entertainment for those that have an interest in our history as a species as a whole, and how our species became apex predators and the dominant species on this planet.

L. William Seidman Research Institute
The Seidman Research Institute is the applied research and the business consultancy arm of the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. L. William Seidman Research Institute was first established in the year 1985 to serve as a center for applied business research and also as a consultancy resource for the business community located in the southwest region of the United States. L. William Seidman Research Institute offers a diverse range of business and economics consulting services to both public and private sector clients who operate throughout North America. These consulting services cover a wide-range of topics such as investments, entrepreneurship guidance, big business and small business finances and a myriad of other topics that are vital for operating both a successful business and for being a successful professional in all levels of the business industry.

Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability
The Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability is in practice the hub of Arizona State University’s various sustainability initiatives. The ASU Wrigley Institute advances research and defines sustainable education and business practices for an ever-evolving world. The School of Sustainability, which is the first of its kind in the United States, offers various multidisciplinary degree programs focused on figuring out practical solutions to many social, economic and environmental challenges. Through the various research and dynamic efforts of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability, Arizona State University has been able to meet many sustainability milestones and achievements that no other school has, such as being the only institution of higher education located in the United States to generate more than 24 megawatts of electricity from the use solar arrays. These solar arrays contain 81,424 solar panels, and allow the school to generate enough electricity to power approximately 24,000 residential homes, as 1 MW of power is roughly enough to power 1,000 residential homes.

The Learning Sciences Institute
The Learning Sciences Institute of Arizona State University is committed to providing cutting-edge research in how to gain more efficacy as instructors, how to better reach students and how to utilize technology in the classroom. The institute achieves this through a mixture of experiential learning opportunities, lectures, workshops and labs. Through the The Learning Sciences Institute’s initiatives, many educators–including the faculty that teach at Arizona State University itself–have seen greater success in the percentage of students passing tests, the amount of students who are able to grasp the coursework being taught more firmly and the overall satisfaction that students have with the education that they receive from the instructors that have learned how to become better teachers through The Learning Sciences Institute.

Herberger Research Institute
The Herberger Research Institute for Design and the Arts is the division of Arizona State Institute that offers design- and arts-related degree programs to students. These degree programs are available in a range of disciplines, including: Art, Arts, Media and Engineering, Design, Film, Dance and Theatre and of course Music. The institute also performs research into these various disciplines, and helps to pave the way to new musical theories, instrument design and filming tactics. The Herberger Research Institute for Design and the Arts is a nationally and internationally recognized research institute and school for the advancements in the arts and design that they have provided, in addition to the high-quality education degree-granting programs that are offered.

Hispanic Research Center
The Hispanic Research Center at Arizona State University is an interdisciplinary educational and research unit dedicated to cultural and historical research and creative activities that is administered through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The Hispanic Research Center performs basic and applied research on a broad range of topics related to Hispanic populations, disseminates research findings to both the academic community and the public, engages in creative activities and makes these activities available to students and to the public and provides public service in areas of importance to the Hispanic culture, the Hispanic society and to Hispanic individuals.

International Institute for Species Exploration
The International Institute for Species Exploration’s primary mission is to improve taxonomical exploration and the cataloging of newly discovered species of flora and fauna. In 2011, the institute contributed towards the estimate that Earth was home to approximately 8.7 million different species of fauna. The IISE releases “Top Ten” lists of newly discovered flora and fauna that highlight unique or interesting specimens, and the institute also releases an annual report that inventories the complete list of species cataloged two years prior and discusses the state of new species discovery. The annual report takes approximately two calendar years to compile due to the lack of standardized registration for new species, an issue which IISE has campaigned for heavily on the belief that a standardized registration process will help us to better understand the natural world.

Much of the research conducted at ASU is considered to be very cutting edge and to have a strong focus on interdisciplinarity; the Biodesign Institute for example, conducts various research on dynamic issues such as biomedical and healthcare outcomes as part of a collaboration with the Mayo Clinic to diagnose and to treat a myriad of rare diseases, which includes various forms of aggressive cancers.

Other School Facts:

ASU has a strong commitment to being a highly sustainable school and to utilizing alternative and green power sources. As of April of 2013, Arizona State University is the only institution of higher education operating within the United States to generate over 24 megawatts of electricity with the use of solar arrays. The school’s solar arrays contain 81,424 solar panels. In addition, ASU has 72 solar photovoltaic installations across all four campuses. The largest concentration of the school’s solar PV installations are located on the Tempe campus,and produce over 12.8 MW of electricity.

Additionally, there are six wind turbines installed and in use located on the roof of the school’s Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability building that have been in operation since October of 2008. Under normal working conditions, the six turbines generate enough electricity to power nearly 60 televisions.

School’s Website: https://www.asu.edu/

School’s Accreditation: The Higher Learning Committee (HLC)

School’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.asufoundation.org/about-us/our-mission

School’s Motto:

“ASU is a comprehensive and all inclusive public research university, which is measured not by whom it excludes, but rather by whom it includes and how they find success; advancing research and discovery that holds public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities that which it serves.”

School’s Mascot: Sparky the Sun Devil

School’s Colors: ASU Maroon and Gold

Related Rankings:

Texas Tech Profile

About Texas Tech University

TTU Logo


Texas Tech University — often referred to as Texas Tech or simply TTU — is a public state-funded research university located in the city of Lubbock, Texas. TTU is the flagship institution of the Texas Tech University System, which consists of four separate universities within the state of Texas; of which two are academic institutions and two are health institutions.

The university offers degrees in more than 150 different courses of study across its 13 colleges. In addition to this, the school also hosts 60 research centers and institutes throughout Texas that specialize in various areas of study. Texas Tech University has awarded over 200,000 degrees since the first class graduated in 1927; this includes over 40,000 graduate and professional degrees that have been conferred to students. Texas Tech online degrees are now a very popular option.

The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies Texas Tech as a research university having “highest research activity”. Research projects into the areas of pulsed power, grid computing, nanophotonics, epidemiology, the atmospheric sciences and wind energy are the most prominent at TTU.

Texas Tech online degrees have been widely featured in our online college rankings:

#3 Top 20 Best Online Colleges in Texas
#39 Top 100 Best Online Colleges
#7 Top 25 Online Masters In Nursing Programs
#7 Slytherin House – Top 60 Schools Sorted into Hogwarts’ Houses

We also have a ranking of the best Texas colleges.

Red Raider Voices:

We asked a diverse group of TTU students and alumni to describe their overall experience at the school, as well as their favorite things about TTU. Here’s what we learned:

Texas Tech is a school that immediately feels like home to many students. It has a reputation as a party school, but offers high quality degree programs and a great deal more.

Students tell us that the people at Texas Tech University are friendly and supportive — and everyone at the school is a passionate Red Raider. TTU has second to none school spirit and an incredible alumni network. Football games are a crowd favorite among students, alumni and the community.

The professors, advisers and staff are dedicated to helping students succeed and seem to truly enjoy their work. Texas Tech University is popular among recruiters and facilitates face time between students and recruiters during frequent job fairs.

Overall, the students we spoke with shared a deep love for Texas Tech and couldn’t imagine going to college anywhere else. School spirit and tradition run deep at TTU.

Texas Tech University History

This one of a kind school was established on February 10, 1923, and was originally known as the Texas Technological College. Texas Tech University shares its campus with the medical school Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, thus making it the only campus in the state of Texas to house an undergraduate university, a school of law and a medical school at the same location. This presents many unique opportunities for local residents and students that attend Texas Tech.

The school’s Spanish Renaissance-themed campus and architecture, described by author James Michener as “the most beautiful campus west of the Mississippi until you get to Stanford”, has been awarded the Grand Award for excellence in grounds-keeping. The Grand Award and has been noted for possessing a public art collection that is ranked among the ten best in the United States. In addition to the beautiful architecture, landscaping and art collection, Texas Tech offers to its students many amenities, programs and school traditions. One of the most well known of these school activity traditions is known as the Carol of Lights.

TTU’s Carol of Lights is a much-loved annual event, sponsored by the Residence Halls Association. It is traditionally held on the first Friday in December to celebrate the holiday season at the university. The holiday event begins with a carillon concert from the 43 bells which are located in the West Tower of the Administration Building followed a torch-light processional performed by the school’s Saddle Tramps and High Riders spirit organizations. The Texas Tech Trombone Choir and combined choirs lead the gathered crowd of students, faculty and visitors in singing various Christmas carols and the illumination ceremony culminates with a soloist performance of “O Holy Night” in the Science Quadrangle. This is followed by the lighting ceremony itself, where 13 buildings located within the Texas Technological College Historic District are brilliantly illuminated with over 25,000 red, white, and orange lights.

This tradition first started in 1959 when Texas Tech University Board of Directors member Harold Hinn planned and provided the funding needed to cover both the Science Quadrangle and Administration Building with approximately 5,000 Christmas lights. However, students were away on Christmas break and did not get to see the display that was created. The following year, the Residence Hall Association sponsored the event under the name of Christmas Sing.

In 1961, the event was renamed to the Carol of Lights and the display was increased to a staggering 16,000 lights. The tradition has since then grown to include decorations like the 38-foot Christmas tree that is lit up every year, 3,000 luminaries lining the sidewalks of the Memorial Circle and an impossible-to-miss 21-foot fresh pine wreath hung on the Physics and Geosciences building.

Year-Round Attractions Near Texas Tech University

Although not located near a major city, there are many things to do and see throughout the entire year in the Lubbock area that surrounds Texas Tech University’s campus. Some of these attractions are:

The Independence Day Festival
Every year on July 4, Lubbock hosts the 4th on Broadway event, an Independence Day festival. This large event is free to the public, and is considered the largest free festival that takes place in Texas.

The day’s activities usually include a parade in the morning, a street fair along Broadway Avenue with food stalls and live bands through the entire day, the Early Settlers’ Luncheon and an evening concert and fireworks program. Broadway Festivals Inc., the non-profit corporation which organizes the event, and the company’s purpose is to organize, conduct and finance downtown celebrations to focus attention on the historical and cultural significance of the city of Lubbock, Texas.

The National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration
The National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration, an annual event celebrating the prototypical Wild West cowboy archetype, takes place in Lubbock. The event, held annually in September, features various aspects of Wild West art, music, cowboy-inspired poetry, stories and the presentation of scholarly research papers on cowboy and the Old West culture and the history of the American West.

A chuckwagon cook-off and horse parade also take place during the event. A chuckwagon or chuck wagon is a type of “field kitchen” covered wagon. They were historically used for the storage and transportation of perishable food and cooking implements on the vast prairies of the west region of the United States and parts of Canada. Such wagons formed part of a wagon train of settlers or fed traveling workers such as cowboys or loggers. These chuckwagons are typically used today in various cooking competitions, such as the one that takes place during The National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration.

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The West Texas Walk of Fame
The West Texas Walk of Fame originally began as a small tribute to the rock-and-roll legend Buddy Holly. Larry Corbin and Jerry Coleman were in Nashville visiting their singer and songwriter friend Waylon Jennings when Waylon Jennings brought up the subject of recognizing and memorializing Buddy Holly. This conversation culminated into a concept of honoring the ever-growing list of famous artists and musicians who have come from the West Texas area.

The West Texas Walk of Fame honors those individuals and musical groups with a strong connection to Lubbock and the West Texas area and who have devoted a large part of their lives to the development and production of the performing and visual arts. The West Texas area, for the purposes of this program, is generally interpreted as a 150-mile radius of Lubbock. The West Texas Walk of Fame has honored many musicians, musical groups, songwriters, visual artists, actors, poets, producers and entertainers.

The Lubbock Symphony Orchestra
The Lubbock Symphony Orchestra was founded in the year of 1946 and regularly performs at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Theatre. The Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, where the orchestra performs, was built in the year 1977 and was dedicated in the memory of the many local residents who died in a 1970 tornado that struck the site of the Civic Center. Located in front of the center is a large statue honoring Buddy Holly. In addition to the the performances of The Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, the annual National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration is hosted annually at the Lubbock center.

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The National Ranching Heritage Center
The National Ranching Heritage Center is a cultural and historical museum that is designed to provide education and entertainment through the use of various exhibits and activities. Some of these exhibits include Writers of the Purple Sage (this unique exhibit features more than 60 different Western writers who helped shape the public views and ideals of the American West), Lever-Action Rifles Exhibit (explores the development and rich history of the lever-action rifle and its valuable role in shaping the American West), Ray Rector: Cowboy Photographer (Ray Rector (1884-1933) captured the day-to-day life of an early 20th century cowboy by photographing scenes on various ranches surrounding Stamford, Texas. This exhibit shows off his various photographs) and a Before the Grid exhibit (which teaches patrons about how life was before electricity made everything so darn easy).

Cactus Theater
The Cactus Theater was built in 1938. The Art Deco style theater was designed by architect Robert Maxey as a “second-run” movie theater and had a seating capacity of approximately 720. The facility used what is known as a washed air cooling system and had a spectacular marquee, which beckoned with over 750 frontage feet of bright, neon lighting.

The Cactus Theater originally remained opened for twenty years. However, by 1957, there were seventeen different movie theaters in the city that were competing for its business. The competition from the other traditional theaters and the popularity of six new drive-in theaters in the local area forced the much older Cactus Theater out of business. The Cactus Theater closed its doors in 1958, but was remodeled and reopened in 1993 after being refurbished into a dual live performance / movie theater.

More Events in and Around Lubbock

The campus offers a detailed Events Calendar with current local and university events.

Texas Tech Online Degrees and Programs:

In addition to the high-quality degree-granting programs that are available on-campus, Texas Tech University has many degree programs that are available to distance learners through the school’s Worldwide eLearning division. A sampling of these include:

Applied Leadership,
General Studies,
Agricultural Education,
Nutrition,
Human Sciences,
Childcare and Support Services,
Plant and Soil Sciences,
Educational Leadership,
Technical Communication,
Instructional Technology,
Civil Engineering,
Family and Consumer Sciences,
Horticulture,
Gerontology,
Software Engineering,
Systems and Engineering Management,
Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure,
Fibers and Biopolymers and
Mathematics

eLearning with TTU Blackboard

Texas Tech University’s Worldwide eLearning division supports the school’s faculty and staff with Blackboard support and instructional design services. Texas Tech online degrees feature TTU Blackboard support, which includes Basic and Advanced Face-to-Face Training, Student Tutorials and Troubleshooting Assistance. Because of the school’s Blackboard support, the faculty is able to efficiently and easily use all of TTU Blackboard’s functions to assist distance learners as much as possible, quickly and easily.

What Makes the School Unique: Tuition Cost


Texas Tech University’s tuition costs per credit hour for in-state students, out-of-state students and distance learners is relatively affordable and cheap when compared to schools of a similar caliber. The school was named a top value by Kiplinger–a respected publisher of business forecasts and personal finance advice–in recent years due to this affordability. This affordability also provides students with a very favorable return on investment (ROI) meaning that the ratio of cost to earning potential after graduation is a lot better than many other schools. Texas Tech has been widely recognized and applauded for its outstanding ROI.

To add further value, TTU offers many scholarship and tuition grant programs to eligible attending students. Texas Tech rewards exceptional students with merit-based scholarships and also provides a large amount of need-based financial assistance to qualified families. Additionally, there are also athletic, band, choral, fine arts and various other departmental awards available through the school’s individual departments. TTU also provides services to help parents and students uncover college cash with hard to find federal and state grants. This school truly goes above and beyond to help students afford a high quality education.

The school’s tuition and fee costs for in-state students per credit hour: $170.00
The school’s tuition and fee costs for out-of-state students per credit hour: $440.00

Other School Facts:

Will Rogers on Soapsuds statue

One of the most well-known and easily recognized landmarks on the school’s campus is the statue of Will Rogers on his beloved roping horse Soapsuds, which is treasured by both the faculty and the student body. The statue, entitled “Riding Into the Sunset“, has resided at the very center of the school’s campus since it was dedicated on February 16, 1950, by Will Rogers’ long-time personal friend Amon G. Carter.

Carter claimed that Texas Tech University’s campus was the ideal setting for the statue, and that it would be an appropriate addition to the school’s traditions and scenery of West Texas. The statue–which is estimated to have cost approximately $25,000 at the time of its dedication–stands 9 feet and 11 inches tall and weighs 3,200 pounds. The inscription on the plaque at the base of the statue reads: “Lovable Old Will Rogers on his favorite horse, ‘Soapsuds’, riding into the Western sunset.”

Texas Tech University Website: https://www.ttu.edu/

TTU on YouTube: Texas Tech University Channel

Texas Tech University’s Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

TTU’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.ttu.edu/about/mission.php

Texas Tech’s Motto: “From here, it’s possible.”

TTU’s Mascot: Masked Rider and Raider Red

Texas Tech University’s Colors: Scarlet and Black

Shasta College Profile
Reading, California

About Shasta College Online

Shasta College

Shasta College is a two-year community college located in Redding, California. Shasta College was founded in 1948 as a part of the Shasta Union High School District. The Shasta College campus was originally a fur and trading center that was owned and operated by members of the Northern Wintun Tribe that lived in what is now the northern parts of California, and the land was later owned by a soldier and his family after the Mexican-American War. The school opened its doors on Eureka Way in the fall of 1950 with an initial enrollment only 256 full-time students. However, Shasta College’s growth was so rapid that by 1964 county voters approved a bond issue for construction of a 337-acre campus at what is now the school’s main campus site.

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Shasta College is a member of the California Community College educational system, which is the largest system of higher education schools in the entire world. The California Community College system is comprised of 113 colleges, which are organized into 72 different districts based on their areas of service. The college has various articulation agreements in place to facilitate transfer to the University of California and California State University systems, as well as many private college campuses in the surrounding area and around the nation. Due to these articulation agreements, students can rest assured that they will be able to continue their education at the baccalaureate level at a high-quality and respected four-year college. We have ranked the top 100 best online colleges to assist students in evaluating schools.

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Shasta College offers both a variety of Associate’s degrees and many professional certification programs that students can enroll into so they can obtain a better career, gain the skills needed to quickly join the workforce in a skill-based or trade career or to even to just supplement their current skill-based knowledge which will allow them greater flexibility in their careers. In addition to these Associate’s and certification programs, Shasta College has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Health Information Management available to students. Many of these degree-granting programs and certification-granting programs are available in a hybrid format and a fully online format for distance learning students as well. Shasta College also offers on-campus instruction and student services at various campuses with each location utilizing Interactive Television (ITV) and online-assisted learning which are both designed to supplement the school’s on-site courses and programs.

Because the school’s students–who come from various socioeconomic, religious and ethnic backgrounds–have radically diverse professional and educational goals and needs, Shasta College offers a myriad of programs and services, including student counseling, tutoring, financial aid, performing arts and athletic events, school-sponsored student activities and social clubs, military veterans’ services, cultural events, lecture series, supplementary education workshops and various art exhibits. Shasta College provides opportunities for students to develop critical thinking, effective communication, quantitative reasoning, information competency, community and global awareness, self-efficacy, and workplace skills. To further highlight Shasta College’s awareness that their student body is so diverse and because the school firmly believes that experiences obtained outside of an educational environment can still be educational, the school has what’s called a Worksite Learning (WSL) program that is an academic program in which students can earn college credits for what they learn or have learned while working at paid jobs in various industries, as volunteers in different programs within their communities or even for students that are self-employed. Credits earned in this manner can be applied to one of the school’s many Associate’s degree programs and can even be transferred to various four-year California State Universities as elective credits. Shasta College’s Worksite Learning program can give many experienced students an edge in obtaining an Associate’s degree quicker than what might otherwise be possible at another college.

Local Attractions Near Shasta College

Shasta College Map

In addition to the many social and supplementary programs and activities that Shasta College offers, the surrounding area of Redding also provides on-campus students with a lot of sights to see and things to do. Some of the many attractions that can be visited in Redding include:

Caldwell Park
Located on the banks of the Sacramento River, Caldwell and Lake Redding Parks offer Jump River, a large play and activity area for children under 5 years old, the Redding Skate Park (which is a 20,500 square foot outdoor concrete skate park and BMX biking structure), a Recreational Center, a Teen Center, an art gallery, multiple soccer fields, many horseshoe pits, a fish viewing facility and an art walk. Many Picnic and BBQ facilities are also available for private parties.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum
Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a fun, non-profit 300-acre gathering place featuring many sights and activities such as the Sundial Bridge, a large museum, a forestry & wildlife center, an arboretum and gorgeous botanical gardens. Located at the gateway to the Sacramento River Trails, Turtle Bay celebrates the far Northern California area as part of the beautiful world that we share. Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum has many activities for visitors of all ages that will both educate them and entertain them. Some of these exhibits include: Turtle Bay Farmers’ Market, Rock U: The Institute of Rock ‘N’ Roll and Rock Penjing, which is an exhibit where the stunning beauty of the Chinese landscapes have been captured in their most grandiose element and then, through an ancient horticultural art and the touch of a master gardener, reduced to a scaled-down size that fits on a single table.

McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, a center maintained and presented by the Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum, is comprised of 20 acres of Mediterranean-climate display gardens, a children’s garden where kids can help tend to plants, a medicinal garden where medical herbs and plants are grown and two beautiful and unique water features. The Arboretum extends over more than 200 acres with direct links to the Sacramento River Trail.

Cascade Theatre
Cascade Theatre is dedicated to “Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future.” Redding’s Cascade Theatre was first inaugurated on August 9th of 1935, in a blaze of festivity which was accompanied by a strong show biz hype. A special section of the Searchlight newspaper for that date proclaimed the formal opening of the theatre at 6:30 p.m. of “the finest cinema house in northern California”, at which time residents of Shasta and adjoining counties of the area would receive their first view of “a grand interior that was rich in beauty and fitted with all of the latest discoveries of science that were designed to offer the most comfort to theater goers.” The Cascade Theatre puts on many cultural, historical and entertainment-based shows for its various patrons.

Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a United States National Park located in northeastern California. The most prominent feature of the park is the Lassen Peak, which is the largest plug dome volcano in the world and the southern-most volcano that is a member of the Cascade Mountain Range. The area surrounding Lassen Peak is still very active with multiple boiling mud pots, stinking fumaroles and hot springs. The Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the very few areas in the entire world where all four types of volcano are represented (these are plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and strato volcanoes) making it a very unique stop for tourists interested in witnessing the beautiful and powerful landscape. Lassen Volcanic National Park was originally started as two separate national monuments that were designated by Theodore Roosevelt, who was president at the time, in 1907: the Cinder Cone National Monument and the Lassen Peak National Monument.

Castle Crags State Park
Castle Crags is a dramatically breath-taking and well-known rock formation in Northern California. Elevations range drastically from 2,000 feet along the Sacramento River which is near the base of the crags, to over 6,500 feet at the summit of the tallest crag of the mountains. The formation and surrounding habitats are protected by Castle Crags State Park and by Castle Crags Wilderness Area of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Two native species of plants which are endemic to Castle Crags are the Castle Crags ivesia (Ivesia longibracteata) and the Castle Crags bellflower (Campanula shetleri).

Big League Dreams Sports Park
Big League Dreams Sports Park’s playing fields are engineered and built as scaled-down perfect replicas of famous ballparks such as Boston’s Fenway Park, New York’s Yankee Stadium and Chicago’s Wrigley Field. All parks are designed to accommodate youth baseball, youth fast pitch softball and adult slowpitch softball. In addition to the baseball parks, Big League Dreams also offers indoor soccer leagues in their 20,000 square foot indoor pavilion. They also offer special events such as company softball tournaments, company picnics, private birthday parties, various business meetings and even private weddings and receptions.

Whiskeytown National Recreational Area
The Whiskeytown National Recreational Area’s recreation area was established in 1965 by the United States Congress. Recreational activities that are available at Whiskeytown include swimming, fishing, various forms of boating, camping and trial hiking. The Whiskeytown–Shasta–Trinity National Recreation Area has a grand total of 246,087 acres of land, which is divided into the: Shasta Unit, the Trinity Unit and the Whiskeytown Unit. The National Park Service manages the Whiskeytown unit. Each of the three units encompasses a large reservoir–which is a man-made lake–and its surrounding natural features, habitats and terrain. The WST-NRA has many interesting and unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including over sixty pairs of osprey, thirty pairs of nesting bald eagles, other resident and migrating birds and bear populations. Plant communities that can be viewed within the parks include: Riparian, Interior chaparral, Blue oak grasslands, Mixed oak woodlands among many others.

In addition to this, there are numerous Native American heritage sites of the Northern Wintun peoples. The school’s dedicated and highly experienced faculty, the commitment of providing each student with a unique and successful educational experience, the quality of the education provided and the gem of a city that is Redding, California all make for an excellent place to obtain an education.

Shasta College’s Online Degrees and Programs:

In addition to the quality education provided in the traditional setting of on-campus learning, Shasta College also has extensive online program offerings available to distance students on the internet and through ITV. These online programs include many of the school’s various Associate degree-granting programs and professional- and skill-oriented certification programs. Shasta College’s faculty are committed to provide distance learners with the same exact high-quality education that their on-campus counterparts receive. It is due to this commitment by the school’s experienced faculty that Shasta College’s online programs have such a high success rate and has produced many successful professionals and industry leaders in a variety of businesses worldwide.

Some of the many online programs available at Shasta College for students to choose from include:

Accounting,
Business Communication,
Business – Management and Leadership,
Computer Applications – Adobe,
Computer Applications – Microsoft,
Graphic Design,
Web Design,
Multimedia,
Digital Photography,
Veterinary Medicine,
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Firefighting,
Arts,
Criminal Law,
General Law,
Paralegal,
Education – Science,
Education – Reading and Writing,
Education – Mathematics,
Computer Programming,
Database Management,
Cyber Security and
Networking and Communications.

In addition to these degree and certificate granting programs, Shasta College also has many online programs designed for personal development. Some of these personal development courses offered online include: Health and Wellness, Job Searching, Personal Enrichment, Personal Finance and Investments, Creative Writing and Test Prep courses. The school also offers College Readiness courses designed to give students a better chance of having a successful college experience. These College Readiness courses cover Developmental Studies, Math and Science.

What Makes the School Unique: Music

Shasta College is perhaps best known for its top-notch music department. The school’s music department includes a symphony orchestra, a band, a choir, music theory classes and piano and guitar classes. The program is home to a community band that–with over 100 band members–is one of the largest community bands in the United States.

Other School Facts:

Shasta College has an open enrollment policy, meaning that 100% of students that applied to the college were accepted.

The tuition costs for in-state students is $8,429 per year (Tuition: $1,104, Room and Board: $5,500, Books and Supplies: $1,746, Other Fees: $79) and for out-of-state students it is $13,469 (Tuition: $6,144, Room and Board: $5,500, Books and Supplies: $1,746, Other Fees: $79).

Notable Shasta College Alumni include:

  • Tony D’Souza (novelist, journalist, reviewer and short story writer);
  • Brian Jones (former AFL quarterback who played for the Las Vegas Gladiators, Arizona Rattlers and Kansas City Command);
  • Ricky Ray (professional Canadian quarterback who plays for the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League);
  • Allan von Schenkel (performance artist, music promoter, and composer);
  • Jason Sehorn (former NFL defensive back who played for the New York Giants from 1994 to 2002 and St. Louis Rams in 2003);
  • Ken Shamrock (former football player, former professional mixed martial artist and professional wrestler who performed under the stage names of Wayne Shamrock and Mr. Wrestling, former UFC Superfight Champion and UFC Hall of Fame member);
  • Terry Riley (composer and performing musician who is strongly associated with the minimalist school of the Western classical music genre, of which he was a pioneer.); and
  • James Whalen (former NFL tight end for the Dallas Cowboys)

School’s Website: https://www.shastacollege.edu/

School’s Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

School’s Values and Mission Statement: 

School’s Motto: Lux Montium – “Light of the Mountains”

School’s Mascot: Oakey Doaks the Knight

School’s Colors: Green, White and Grey

Fullerton College Profile
fullerton college mascot

Fullerton College is a two-year Juco (junior college) located in the effervescent rays of Orange County, California. The school is rich in sunshine, as well as history.

Established in 1913, Fullerton College is the oldest community college in continuous operation in California.

Fullerton College Ranked:

#11 in Top 50 Online Hispanic-Serving Higher Learning Institutions,
#18 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges in California
#24 in The 25 Best Online Masters in Education Programs,
#31 in Top 50 Online Colleges with the Highest Student Satisfaction; and
#19 in Top 20 Colleges for League of Legends eSports Gamers

A Fullerton College map can be found here.

Fullerton, California is a small city, with just under 140,000 residents. Originally a petroleum town, it was later converted into a citrus provider, and is also where Leo Fender designed and innovated the legendary Fender Telecaster guitar. Honoring that history, Fullerton College now offers three excellent music programs, including Music: Commercial, a certificate in Piano Teaching, and a Recording/Production program.

Fullerton College

When Fullerton College was founded, the two-year college system was incredibly tenuous in the surrounding area. But Fullerton College was extremely successful immediately, and has a track record of long term sustainability.

While the country was smashed by the economic turmoil of The Great Depression, Fullerton Community College was building the Commerce Building (now the Business and Computer Information Building, soon followed by the Industrial Building (now North Science).

What defines Fullerton College is its sustainability and longevity. A master plan for the construction of the school in 1935 came to full fruition in 1956 with the completion of the Language Building, now the William T. Boyce Library. The Library offers over 3 dozen information databases, over 176,000 eBooks, and numerous Guides & Tutorials are available 24/7. Faculty librarians are available via chat and email, and are known to be extremely helpful. The Fullerton College criminal justice program is also notable.

Fullerton College

Fullerton College has now amassed over 80 acres of land, and serves over 35,000 students.

Fullerton College courses include: 93 Associates Degree programs, and 147 vocational school certificate programs. Fullerton College nursing programs are extremely popular. Fullerton online classes offer convenience and flexibility.

Fullerton College criminal justice, Fullerton College nursing programs and a large number of other Fullerton college classes can also be taken online. This flexibility of coursework allows many students to further their education while maintaining employment.

A pride of Fullerton is how well its tenured staff is treated. There are over 250 faculty members who receive full tenure, and earn extremely competitive salaries. This careful treatment of faculty lends itself to a rigorous, high quality learning experience for students. Fullerton College classes are taught by professors who care about every student’s success.

Explore Fullerton, California

Fullerton, California is known for its lush landscape and gentle weather. Nature lovers will enjoy Laguna Lake Park for peaceful walks, or the Fullerton Arboretum to sample diverse and alluring fauna. Fullerton has a love of air tours, and the space to teach piloting.

The city is only 25 miles southeast of Downtown Los Angeles, so it combines the coziness of the suburbs with access to the big city. To its north and west are the Coyote Hills, a small mountain range that used to be the epicenter of the citrus and oil fields which originally put Fullerton on the map.

fullerton college map

Fullerton College Online Degrees and Programs

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Fullerton offers several options for its Distance Learning program. Students may either take Fullerton college online classes, receive certificates that are entirely web-based, or can enter into hybrid programs which combine both online and in-person attendance.

As mentioned above, the Fullerton Colleges online classes selection is massive. In addition to Fullerton College nursing and criminal justice online classes, the school also offers online classes and instruction of practical skills like accounting. Alternatively, Fullerton students may explore the creative history of anthropology courses on magic and witchcraft, or choose from any of the other many online courses offered. Fullerton has arranged its curriculum so that many online courses allow for credits that could be eventually folded into an on-campus degree.

For those who would like to attend Fullerton in person for a year, or even just semester, but can’t afford/commit to two years, Fullerton College offers an excellent arrangement to experience both. Fullerton offers specific courses tailored to help students break into California politics at a time when the state desperately needs new ideas and representatives.

Eight of Fullerton’s online business courses will give students skills they can use to dramatically raise their lifetime earning power. Fullerton, whose sustainability can be ascribed to its ability to adapt, offers 13 computer/digital-related courses to teach new, indispensable skills to online students that mimic Fullerton’s innovative style.

What Makes the School Unique: Fullerton College Athletics

Fullerton College has a very strong Athletics program, and pays its coaches over $80,000 a year. Sports offered include water polo, baseball, football, golf, soccer, badminton, softball, tennis, swimming and diving, volleyball, and track and field, offered in outdoor and x-country style.

Fullerton College Football is extremely successful in its development of players for the Juco level. Fullerton is located in a hotbed of recruitment for college football talent. The excellent coaching staff has a track record of placing athletes in four year programs after their performance at Fullerton. Recent schools Fullerton athletes have transferred into include Kansas State, Indiana State and Baylor. That’s in football alone.

The Hornets don’t just compete, they win championships.

Fun Facts To Know About Fullerton College

The reviews of a college say a lot about it, and the main thing that appears consistently in Fullerton’s reviews is how incredible the quality of professors and classes are. According to students, it’s only rivaled by how affordable the school is, and how hard it works with prospective students to find a payment plan that they can afford.

Fullerton has been rewarded for its near century of success in 2002 with $135 million in North Orange County taxpayer money, something the taxpayers voted to do themselves. It’s a prized gem of the community, and an institution that will clearly continue to see efficient recruiting of students, student athletes, faculty and funding.

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Notable alumni include Gwen Stefani, Matthew Lillard and James Cameron!

Southern California is a nexus of arts, technology, diversity and beautiful weather. No matter how you attend Fullerton College, you become a product of its rich culture.

Fullerton College Website: https://www.fullcoll.edu/

Accreditation: Fullerton College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), a corporate entity under the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Fullerton’s Core Values:

We respect and value the diversity of our entire community.
We value tradition and innovation.
We support the involvement of all in the decision-making process.
We expect everyone to continue growing and learning.
We believe in the power of the individual and the strength of the group.
We expect everyone to display behavior in accordance with personal integrity and high ethical standards.
We accept our responsibility for the betterment of the world around us
We value and promote the well-being of our campus community.

Fullerton Mascot: Buzzy the Hornet

Fullerton Colors: Blue, Gold, and Yellow

Pitt Community College Profile
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If you thought Pitt Community College was in Pennsylvania, you’re wrong. This two-year accredited college and technical institute was founded in 1961 in Winterville, North Carolina, in cozy Pitt County.

The school was created and chartered by the North Carolina State Board of Education. In 1964, Pitt Community College became a technical institute, but in 1979, Pitt Technical Institute became Pitt Community College. Today, the school offers students the ability to choose between building a specific technical skill or sticking to two years of more general education in their ongoing quest within higher education.


We have ranked the top 100 best online colleges to assist community college students in choosing a school to further their education.

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In 1990, the A.B. Whitley Building was opened. This facility provides space for the following programs: Machining Technology, Electronic Servicing, Electronic Engineering Technology, Architectural Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, and Industrial Construction Technology. Also, the Industrial and Construction Technology Division office is located in the Whitley Building, as well as the Planning and Research Department.

The William E. Fulford Building delivers health education, including Associate Degree Nursing, Radiography, Nuclear Medicine, Respiratory Therapy and Occupational Therapy Assistant.

The Edward and Joan Warren Building houses PCC’s Charles Coburn Center, home to the college’s women’s volleyball and men’s basketball teams.

Pitt CC Russell Building

These are just a few of Pitt Community College’s facilities. The school is rapidly expanding both its physical locations, and the educational options it offers. It has an excellent track record of receiving funding from the North Carolina government.

Pitt Community College Curriculum

Pitt Community College has 3,000 classes via the Internet, 465 hybrid classes, and 2,700 traditional courses.

In 2011, 11,771 curriculum students and 11,415 continuing education students were enrolled. The average class size was 24 with a 17:1 student to faculty ratio.

Pitt Community College gives students access to 44 associate degree programs, certificate programs, 22 diploma programs, and 18 University Transfer programs leading to bachelor’s degrees at four-year institutions.

Academic programs are divided into five categories: Arts and Sciences, Business, Construction, and Industrial Technology, Health Sciences, and Legal Science and Public Services. PCC has an extensive Adult Education and Community Service division as well.

Pitt County Attractions

pitt-map

Pitt County is known for its natural beauty, with forests, streams, and idyllic nature wherever the eye falls. What’s nice about areas like this is that they grant you access to gorgeous landscapes while also giving you all the comforts of modernity.

You can go boating or camping in nearby River Park North, or kayak at Inner Banks Outfitters. Winterville Parks and Recreation comes equipped with 4 baseball fields, an amphitheater for concerts, and Movie in the Park events. The Imperial Centre for the Arts & Sciences is a hidden gem for aesthetic admirers in nearby Rocky Mount, NC.

If you love military history, head to the Seymour Johnson Air Base, home to the 4th Fighter Wing of F15E’s, and the only Air Force Base in the country that provides training for the F15E. The base is a welcoming town complete with F15E’s soaring overhead, all the amenities of a quaint North Carolina town, and excellent, cheap bowling.

Pitt Community College Online Degrees and Programs

src=”//onlinecollegeplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/moodle-logo.png” alt=”Moodle” width=”204″ height=”61″ class=”alignright size-full wp-image-2759″ />Pitt Community College has a wide array of online degrees and certificates that can be achieved from the comfort and safety of your home, whether you’re a North Carolina resident or not. The school utilizes Moodle, a remote platform that allows students to access lectures and coursework at their own pace and schedule. While some programs will require certain work to be done by deadlines, this system allows far more flexibility for students.

src=”//onlinecollegeplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/pitt-cc-300×200.jpg” alt=”pitt-cc” width=”300″ height=”200″ class=”alignleft size-medium wp-image-2752″ />Some of the degrees Pitt Community College offers online include: Business Administration, Early Childhood, Marketing, Health Information Technology, Industrial Management Technology, Office Administration and Healthcare Management Technology.

PCC’s certificates are even more extensive. You could earn one in C+ Programming, Advertising & Graphic Design, Accounting, Java Programming, Mammography, Web Design, Principles of Lean Manufacturing, Python Programming, and many, many more.

In addition, they offer the following online diplomas: Computed Tomography / Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology (CT/MRI), Dental Office Administration, Early Childhood, Medical Dosimetry, Medical Insurance, Nuclear Medicine, Office Administration, Patient Representative Diploma, Positron Emission Tomography.

What Makes The School Unique: Pitt CC Clubs and Community

Pitt Community College has a diverse, engaging and surprising amount of clubs and organizations. Are you interested in Paranormal Research (really, who isn’t)? Check out this description of Pitt CC’s Paranormal Research Club:

“The Pitt Paranormal Research Association is a student-based organization devoted to investigating claims of paranormal activity. Open to all Pitt Community College students, the Association conducts interviews with people claiming to have experienced paranormal phenomena and investigates sites reputed to be associated with paranormal phenomena. The Association takes a scientific, critical approach to researching claims and uses equipment such as cameras and audio recorders to try to gather evidence of paranormal phenomena.”

Other cool clubs include the Paralegal Association and the Amateur Radio Club.

This commitment to extracurricular enjoyment speaks volumes for Pitt CC’s dedication to its student body.

Fun Facts To Know About Pitt Community College

Pitt Community College is near a galaxy of fast food, including Burger King, Mcdonald’s, Zaxby’s, Chick-Fil-A, Dairy Queen, and many other dining options in nearby Greenville. But reviews of the school’s cafeteria are overwhelmingly positive, both for the deliciousness of the food and how little it costs.

Pitt Community College Website: https://www.pittcc.edu/

Accreditation: Pitt Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Pitt Community College’s Values and Mission Statement:

Pitt Community College will be:
A catalyst for transforming the individual and community.
A recognized leader for accessible learning programs and services.
A creative partner with business and industry to enhance economic development.

Pitt Community College educates and empowers people for success. With a culture of excellence and innovation, the College is a vital partner in the economic and workforce development of our community. PCC provides access to dynamic learning opportunities designed to foster successful career preparation, higher education transfer, community involvement, and global engagement.

Pitt CC Mascot: Bulldog

Pitt CC Colors: White and Blue

Kennesaw State University Profile
Kennesaw State University - KSU online

Kennesaw State University, often referred to as KSU, is a public coeducational university located in Kennesaw, Georgia. In addition to the classes available on the main campus, the school also offers classes at the Cobb Galleria Centre (located in Cobb County), Dalton State College (located in Dalton, Georgia), at a satellite campus located in Dallas, Georgia and through online courses for distance learners.

Kennesaw State University has ranked:


#11 in Best Online Colleges in Georgia,
#68 in Best Online Colleges in America; and
#43 in Top 50 Online Schools with the Best Websites

Kennesaw State University, which was originally founded in 1963 and had an initial student enrollment of 1,014 students, has had a few name changes over the years. From the time of its origin to the year 1976, the school was known as Kennesaw Junior College. In 1976 the name was changed to Kennesaw College when it achieved a four-year institute designation.

In 1988 the school was renamed again, this time to Kennesaw State College and, during the same period, Associate degrees were no longer offered, except for an Associate’s degree program in nursing. Finally, in 1996, the school became known as Kennesaw State University.

KSU online

Kennesaw State University is located on 240-acres of land that is adjacent to I-75, much of the campus is visible from this busy highway. Located on the campus are the following buildings: the Social Sciences Building, the A. L. Burruss Building, the Kennesaw Hall, the Convocation Center, the Bentley Rare Book Gallery, the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center and various other buildings. In addition to these buildings, the campus also has a designated area called the Campus Green where students can relax, play games or study outdoors in a park setting.

The surroundings of the school have many attractions available for students to entertain themselves. Some of these attractions include:

  • Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive HistoryThe Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History houses a collection of various artifacts and historical relics from the American Civil War, as well as from the railroads of the state of Georgia and the surrounding regions. The museum’s centerpiece is the General, a steam locomotive that was used in the Great Locomotive Chase–an American Civil War military raid–in April of 1862.
  • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield ParkKennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park preserves an American Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. Much of the battle did not take place Kennesaw Mountain itself, but on a spur of Little Kennesaw Mountain which is now known as Pigeon Hill, and the area to the south around Cheatham Hill. A total of 5,350 soldiers died during this battle, and the battle resulted in a victory for the Confederate army.And the following attractions in Atlanta, a short drive away from Kennesaw State University:
  • The Varsity“What’ll Ya Have?” Originally known as “The Yellow Jacket,” The Varsity is one of Atlanta’s most well-known diner / fast-food joints. Originally established in 1928, The Varsity’s Atlanta location is currently responsible for more retail sales of Coca-Cola on an annual basis than any other single place in the entire world and has been for numerous years. The plating may be messy, the ordering line always full and the dining areas crowded, but The Varsity’s hotdogs and Frosted Orange drinks are totally worth it.
  • The Georgia AquariumThe Georgia Aquarium was the largest aquarium in the world from the time of its opening in 2005 through 2012. Having lost this designation, it is still the biggest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. Housing thousands of marine and saltwater animals that represent several thousand species, the Georgia Aquarium is always an enjoyable experience. In addition to the many exhibits, the aquarium also puts on musicals starring dolphins, which is pleasant and entertaining for children and adults alike.
  • The World of Coca-ColaThe World of Coca-Cola showcases the extensive history of the South’s favorite soda. The museum features many exhibits, such as taste-testing Coca-Cola products sold around the world to displays of classic Coca-Cola memorabilia. There is also a Coca-Cola Freestyle self-service machine which can dispense over 100 carbonated and non-carbonated beverages which are produced by the company. One of the more popular attractions is the Pop Culture Gallery, which provides visitors with information on how Coca-Cola has had an impact on pop culture over the years.
  • Underground AtlantaUnderground Atlanta houses numerous restaurants, boutiques, and plays host to a lot of street performers, such as jugglers, musicians, mimes, and magicians. The area, which was lost for roughly 40 years, is unique insofar that all of the storefronts’ original entrances are underground, and the ground level entries are actually the buildings’ second floors. Underground Atlanta is a great showcase of the area’s nightlife.

KSU Online Degrees and Programs

Kennesaw State University offers more than 70 fully online degree-granting programs, certificate-granting programs, hybrid on-campus / online programs and more than 400 courses that are available in an online and mixed-model format. The degree-granting programs available online include both undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of the available online undergraduate academics include:

  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security & Assurance;
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Management;
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing;
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology;
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security & Assurance;
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology;
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology;
  • Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies;
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Manufacturing Operations;
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Logistics;
  • Bachelor of Arts in Geography; and
  • Bachelor of Science in Sociology

KSU also offers the following graduate degree programs:

  • Master of Science in Information Technology;
  • Master of Science in Software Engineering;
  • Master of Education in Early Childhood Education;
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership;
  • Master of Education in Instructional Technology;
  • Master of Education in Middle Grades Education;
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education;
  • Master of Education in Special Education – General Curriculum;
  • Master of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL);
  • Master of Education in Teacher Leadership;
  • Master of Science in Civil Engineering;
  • Master of Science in Systems Engineering;
  • Master of Science in Quality Assurance;
  • Master of Science In Nursing; and
  • Master of Science in International Policy Management

and, finally, the school offers the following certificate programs online:

  • Certificate in Applied Statistics Using SAS;
  • Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder;
  • Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction;
  • Certificate in Digital & Social Media; and
  • Certificate in Health Information Technology

What Makes KSU Unique: A Young, Rising Football Team

Kennesaw State University played its first football game on September 3rd, 2015, against the East Tennessee State Buccaneers in Tennessee. The football team, which is known as the Kennesaw State University Owls, is a Division I Football Championship Subdivision football team. Despite being a relatively new football team, they are showing a lot of promise and are striving to promote a winning culture within the team. Kennesaw State University’s Owls, which have already shown great skill in other athletics programs such as soccer and basketball, have an active athletics program which is providing the football team with a lot of interdepartmental support.

Other School Facts:

KSU online

Located adjacent to Kennesaw State University’s Social Science Building is a Brazilian blue quartzite sculpture, which weighs 350,000 pounds, that was created by Finnish-American artist Eino and is entitled Spaceship Earth. The sculpture was originally commissioned by Brian Maxwell of Powerbar company and the Maxwell Family Foundation in remembrance of the late environmentalist David Brower. The sculptor’s name was often used by David Brower in reference to mankind traveling through life in a common vehicle, Spaceship Earth. The sculpture took six years to complete and was unveiled on October 20, 2006.

Kennesaw State University’s Website: https://kennesaw.edu/

School’s Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

KSU’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.kennesaw.edu/about.php

KSU’s Mascot: Scrappy the Owl and Sturgis the Owl

Kennesaw State University’s Colors: Black and Gold

Eastern Kentucky University Profile
Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University, commonly referred to as Eastern or EKU, is an undergrad and graduate teaching and research school located in beautiful Richmond, Kentucky.

This Kentucky University has earned the honor of being named the #1 school offering online graduate education programs for vets in the elite U.S. News “Best Online Programs for Veterans” ranking.


EKU Also Ranked:

#11 in Top 35 Fastest Online College Programs
#24 in The Top 30 Online Psychology Programs
#14 in Ravenclaw in Top 60 Schools Sorted into Hogwarts’ Houses
#6 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky; and
#5 in Top 20 Best 4-Year Colleges for Veterans

EKU also has the prestige of being named the best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE Magazine two of the last three years and has been on the best of the best list for “Top Veteran-Friendly Schools” in U.S. Veterans Magazine. G.I. Jobs Magazine calls Eastern Kentucky University one of the best military-friendly schools and the school has been named a Vet Success University by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Eastern Kentucky University Academics

EKU has been consistently ranked among the top schools in the U.S. because of its dedication to helping veterans pursue further education, outstanding faculty expertise, and the wide variety of online degrees offered. It has also been recognized for affordability, teaching methods, technological resources, and overall reputation.

Eastern Kentucky University utilizes Blackboard and professors are just as comfortable working with students online as they are in the traditional classroom.

Eastern Kentucky University prides itself on providing flexibility and convenience. Accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 8 weeks.

EKU Offers the Following Degree Programs Online:

  • Child and Family Studies
  • Corrections and Juvenile Justice
  • Education
  • Emergency Medical Care
  • Fire, Arson & Explosion Investigation
  • Fire Science
  • General Studies
  • Justice, Policy & Leadership
  • Music Education
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Safety
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Paralegal Studies
  • Police Studies
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration
  • Safety Management
  • Social Intelligence
  • Veterans Studies

What makes EKU Unique – Dedication to Veterans

In 2010, Eastern Kentucky University implemented a series of initiatives geared towards veterans’ academic success. These initiatives, collectively known as Operation Veteran Success, provide benefits for veterans including:

  • Priority registration and in-state tuition for out of state vets.
  • Admission fees are waived for undergrad vets and dependents.
  • Maximum credit hours applied for veterans’ military experience.

Eastern has full-time staff dedicated to helping veterans and their dependents receive maximum benefits. The university is GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program certified. These federal initiatives help lower the cost of college for veterans.

Eastern Athletics

School pride rules at Eastern Kentucky University. The athletic teams at EKU are competitively ranked and students are invited to attend all home non-tournament games for free.

Eastern has a lot of different varsity sports teams and several intramural leagues, which are also popular with students.

Eastern Kentucky University has a website dedicated to the Eastern Kentucky University Colonels that provides schedules, rosters, and news for all Colonels and fans.

Notable Eastern Kentucky University Alumni

Lee
Majors

Sam
Champion

Rex
Ryan

Dan
Patrick

Chuck
Woolery

Josh
Anderson

Source: Niche.com

More EKU Facts:

EKU’s Website: https://www.eku.edu/

Eastern Kentucky University Motto: “Get Wisdom, Get Understanding”
EKU Colors: Maroon and White
EKU’s Mascot: The Colonel
Eastern’s Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Tuition: $7,536 per year (in-state)
Mission Statement: “Eastern Kentucky University is a student-centered comprehensive public university dedicated to high-quality instruction, service, and scholarship. “
More about EKU

Clemson University Profile
where is Clemson University

Founded in 1889, Clemson University (formerly known as Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina) is a public, coeducational, land-grant and sea-grant research university.

Where is Clemson University located?
Clemson University is located in Clemson, South Carolina. Clemson is in the foothills of upstate South Carolina.

We ranked Clemson University:

#1 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina
#3 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges Near Atlanta
#4 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges Near Charlotte
#4 in Top 20 Online Construction Management Degree Programs
#58 in Top 100 Best Online Colleges
#36 in 60 Blue Ribbon College Farms
#20 in Top 50 Online Colleges with the Highest Student Satisfaction; and
#9 in Top 50 Online Schools with the Best Websites

Clemson University is classified as a Research University with the Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The school was originally established with six colleges (the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, the College of Architecture, Arts, and Humanities, the College of Business and Behavioral Sciences, the College of Engineering and Science, the College of Health and Human Development and what is now known as the Eugene T. Moore School of Education) but has since added two more colleges (the Calhoun Honors College and the Graduate School).

Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR)

where is clemson university BMW CU-ICAR

Clemson University is home to the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR). The CU-ICAR is an automotive and motorsports research institution located in the nearby city of Greenville, South Carolina. CU-ICAR has a unique partnership with Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) allowing enrolled students an opportunity to get a hands-on education in automotive assembly and providing them with career opportunities.

Military Presence at Clemson University

where is clemson university

Clemson University has a historically strong military presence and, even though the school became a coeducational civilian institution of higher learning in the year of 1955, it still maintains a strong, active military presence.

The military presence comes mostly from the following organizations that operate within the university:

Clemson: Home of the Tigers

The surrounding area of Clemson has numerous attractions for students to participate in, including:

South Carolina Botanical Gardens

The South Carolina Botanical Gardens features nature trails, pathways, ponds, streams, woodlands and trail gardens. In addition to the natural features, the gardens also feature one of the largest collections of nature-based sculptures in the country.

Fort Hill

Fort Hill is a National Historic Landmark located on the Clemson University campus. The historic house is significant as the home (from 1825 to 1850) of John C. Calhoun, who was a leading national politician of the period, and is now a museum and library that is maintained in his memory.

Lake Hartwell

Lake Hartwell is a man-made reservoir that borders the states of Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo, and Seneca Rivers. Lake Hartwell is one of the Southeast region’s largest recreational lakes. The lake is created by the Hartwell Dam, which is located on the Savannah River within the town of Hartwell, Georgia which itself is located right at the South Carolina state line.

Bob Campbell Geology Museum

The Bob Campbell Geology Museum houses a collection of more than 10,000 mineral, rock and fossil specimens from locations in South Carolina and from around the globe. Admissions are free, and the museum features a wide variety of both geological and paleontological exhibits for visitors to view.

In addition to these attractions, the school itself offers many student events for students and visitors to participate in, such as:

  • Tigerama:

    Tigerama is one of the nation’s largest student-run-pep rallies, and it averages approximately 40,000 people. This student event includes the crowning of Miss Homecoming, skits by various academic organizations and an explosive fireworks show.

  • First Friday Parade:

    The First Friday Parade has been held on the Friday before the first home football game every year since 1974. The parade features many of the school’s student organizations and the parade route travels through portions of Highway 93 and Main Street and concludes at the university’s amphitheater, where the first pep rally of the school year is held yearly.

  • Spirit Blitz Week:

    where is clemson university

    Spirit Blitz Week is an event that encourages all students, faculty, and visitors to wear orange for the entire week, and the week’s events include the Spirit Blitz Pep Rally, which is a colossal and enthusiastic pep rally for the school’s football team.

Clemson University’s Online Degrees and Programs

where is clemson university tillman hall

Clemson University offers the following degree-granting programs in an online format for distance learning students:

Master of Science in Biological Sciences;
Master of Construction Science and Management;
Ph.D. in Healthcare Genetics with three tracks available (Interventionists, Translational Bench Science and Ethics and Health Policy);
Master of Human Resource Development;
Master of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management with four tracks available (Parks and Conservation Areas Management, Travel and Tourism Management, Community Recreation Management and Recreational Therapy);
Master of Public Administration;
Ph.D in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design;
Master of Education in Teaching and Learning and;
Master of Science in Youth Development Leadership

What Makes Clemson Unique: Tuition and Scholarships

tigerpaw_co

The tuition at Clemson University for distance learning students is the same as the tuition costs for in-state students. The tuition rates are between $428 per credit hour and $1,145 per credit hour depending on the program. Students interested in attending Clemson should request information from the college regarding tuition and fees as it is subject to change.

The school also has numerous scholarships available for students to obtain. The school’s scholarship opportunities can be found here and can make the school’s already high Return on Investment (ROI) even more appealing.

Other School Facts

The Tiger Paw:

where is clemson university

The Tiger paw became the official logo for Clemson University in 1970 and can be found all over the city of Clemson, including on roadways around the campus. The logo is modeled on a real mold of a tiger’s paw. You can guarantee the authenticity by a small anomaly in the print, because the tiger had a scar on its paw.

Two-Dollar Bills:

This storied tradition began when the Clemson Tigers played against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets “for the last time,” as Georgia Tech no longer wished to travel to the city of Clemson for future football games. In Atlanta, Georgia, Clemson fans purchased items with two-dollar bills stamped with “Tiger Paws” to show how they contributed to the local economy. Today, many Clemson fans still make their purchases with these stamped two-dollar bills whenever they visit a city for an away game.

Clemson’s Website: https://www.clemson.edu/

Clemson’s Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS)

Clemson’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.clemson.edu/brand/positioning/mission-vision.html

Clemson’s Motto: “Who Shall Separate Us Now?”

Clemson’s Mascot: Clemson Tiger

Clemson’s Colors: Clemson Orange and Regalia Purple

Columbia Southern University Profile

Founded in Orange Beach, Alabama in 1993, Columbia Southern University is a distance learning institution with a full range of associates, bachelor’s and graduate programs focusing on business administration, occupational safety, and criminal justice. Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), the school focuses on its offerings in Environmental Science led by over one-hundred professional faculty members.

We Ranked Columbia Southern University:


#6 in Top 10 Online Bachelor’s in Marketing Degrees; and
#8 in Top 10 Online Bachelors Degrees in Criminal Justice.

Today, the University has four dedicated colleges of Business, General Education and Safety and Emergency Services. The Education College offers an associate’s degree in education, as well as a bachelor’s degree in psychology. At the Columbia Southern University College of Business, you can earn degrees in Business Administration as well as several specialized degrees in Hospitality, Information Technology, International Management, Sports Management and Human Resources. The College also offers an MBA program that has additional options in Technology Management, as well as several professional certificate programs. Best known for its occupational safety programs, students can focus on Fire Science, Criminal Justice, and Environmental Management.

Columbia Southern University is also a member of the American Council on Education, an organization that influences public policy on education through advocacy.

See Also: Online College Plan – Best Online Colleges

National University Profile

With nearly 2,500 dedicated students enrolled in its online distance learning programs, the Arizona-based Northcentral University focuses on psychology, business and education offerings. It was founded in 1996 to provide a full range of degrees ranging from bachelors to masters and doctoral degrees. The school has full accreditation by the Association of Collegiate Schools and Programs.

Since the school focuses on three primary areas, students benefit from a focused curriculum taught by working professionals which can help facilitate the transition into the professional workplace. Within each of the Schools of Business, Education, and Psychology, students can take a flexible approach to their coursework, allowing for accelerated or more steady degree paths. The school offers special programs to International students, as well as law enforcement and military personnel pursuing degrees.


See Also: Online College Plan – Best Online Colleges

CTU accreditation
Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University is a well-respected college. The CTU accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission is the first step in trusting the school’s integrity. The founders of CTU first opened the school in 1965 in an old roller rink in Manitou Springs. Fifty-seven years later, the University now has two traditional campuses in Colorado.

Originally published in June 2023 and last revised in January 2024.

The first is in Colorado Springs, and the second is known as Denver South, located in Aurora. Colorado Technical University also has a robust online division for students who want to attend college remotely.

Colorado Technical University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees online and on campus. They have over 80 programs to choose from. Although not all programs are offered remotely, the majority of them are.

Colorado Technical University Ranking

Many of Colorado Tech’s programs have been nationally ranked in publications like US News & World Report. At Online College Plan, we’ve ranked several of CTU’s programs among the top in the nation. Our rankings include:

Colorado Technical University Campuses

CTU has two physical campuses and an online division.

CTU Colorado Springs

CTU Colorado Springs CTU accreditation

Address: 1575 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Phone: 1-855-230-0555

The Colorado Technical University flagship campus in Colorado Springs is in a fast-paced urban setting. There is plenty to do in this vibrant area. The college is in a scenic location near Pike’s Peak, just a short drive from the downtown area. It is also located near several military bases.

US News & World Report has ranked the area as one of the “Best Places to Live” in the country. Nearby attractions include:

Colorado Tech Activities
  • Garden of the Gods: Rock climbing, nature trails, and geological formations
  • Palmer Park: Trail running, hiking, and mountain biking
  • National Museum of World War II Aviation: Military history museum
  • Red Rock Canyon: Mountain biking, hiking, scenic views
  • Glen Eyrie Castle: Historical Tours and Retreats
  • Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: History museum in an old courthouse
  • Olympic Training Center: Guided walking tours 
  • Penrose Heritage Museum: Museum showcasing the history of Pikes Peak
  • North Cheyenne Cañon Park and Starsmore Discovery Center: Nature and wildlife park
  • ProRodeo Hall of Fame: Museum of Western American Culture
  • Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site: Living history museum and farm
  • Seven Bridges Trail: Scenic hiking and mountain biking
  • Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Over 700 animals and breathtaking views of the city
  • Old Colorado City Historic District: Shopping and dining in a quaint historic district
  • Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center: Stunning art museum and theater venue

CTU Denver South

CTU Denver South CTU accreditation

Address: 3151 S Vaughn Way, Aurora, CO 80014

Phone: 1-855-230-0555

The second campus owned by Colorado Technical University is in Denver South/Aurora. It is located in the heart of the Southeast Denver metro area.

Nearby, students can access world-famous skiing and national parks. Aurora has over 6,000 acres of open space, including over 100 parks. And the bustling downtown has something to offer everyone. Nearby attractions include:

CTU attractions
  • Cherry Creek State Park: Multi-use trails, boating, camping, and a dog park
  • Stanley Marketplace: Refurbished aviation hanger, now a shopping venue
  • Aurora Reservoir: Beach for swimming, playground, fishing, picnicking
  • Plains Conservation Center: Outdoor education center and designated natural area
  • Vintage Theater: Cozy theater with contemporary musicals and plays
  • Great Plains Park: Family park with a water play area, picnicking, and trails
  • Quincy Reservoir: Hiking, picnicking, and fishing
  • The Aurora Fox: Live theater in the Cultural Arts District 
  • Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: Aircraft and aviation art museum
  • Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge: Urban wildlife refuge 
  • Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre: Large outdoor concert venue with views
  • Bally’s Arapahoe Park Horse Track: Horse-racing track 
  • Jewell Wetlands Park: Wildlife sanctuary with hiking trails

Degree Programs at Colorado Technical University

Students have plenty of choices regarding what to study at Colorado Technical University. The school offers degrees in medical technology, computer science, and business. And, all of them have a technical focus. There are also several medical degrees available, including nursing. Information technology programs at the school are extremely popular. A large majority of the programs can be completed entirely online. They include:

Online Associate Degrees at CTU:

  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Health Administration Services
  • Management

Online Bachelor Degrees at CTU:

  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • BA – Business Development
  • BA – Data Analytics
  • BA – Digital Marketing
  • BA – Finance
  • BA – Healthcare Management
  • BA – Human Resource Management
  • BA – Information Technology
  • BA – Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • BA – Management
  • BA – Marketing
  • BA – Project Management
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • CS – Cybersecurity Engineering
  • CS – Data Science
  • CS – Software Engineering
  • Criminal Justice – Forensic Investigation
  • Criminal Justice – Human Services
  • Healthcare Management
  • Healthcare Management – Health Informatics
  • Information Technology
  • Information Technology – Network Management
  • Information Technology – Security
  • Information Technology – Software Systems Engineering
  • Management
  • Management – Food Service Management
  • Nursing
  • Psychology
  • Psychology – Consumer Behavior
  • Psychology – Organizational Behavior

Online Master’s Degrees at CTU

  • MBA – Accounting
  • MBA – Data Analytics
  • MBA – Entrepreneurship
  • MBA – Finance
  • MBA – Global Leadership
  • MBA – Healthcare Management
  • MBA – Human Resource Management
  • MBA – Logistics Management
  • MBA – Marketing
  • MBA – Operations Supply Chain Management
  • MBA – Project Management
  • MBA – Technology Management
  • MBA – General Track
  • Computer Science
  • CS – Cybersecurity Engineering
  • CS – Software Engineering
  • Criminal Justice
  • Criminal Justice – Homeland Security
  • Healthcare Management
  • Healthcare Management – Informatics
  • Information Technology
  • Information Technology – Network Management
  • Information Technology – Security Management
  • Management
  • Management – Information Systems Security
  • Management – IT and Project Management
  • Management – Organizational Leadership and Change
  • Management – Public Administration
  • Nursing
  • Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing – Nursing Administration
  • Nursing – Nursing Education

Online Doctorate Degrees at CTU

  • Computer Science
  • CS – Big Data Analytics
  • CS – Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
  • Management
  • Management – Executive Leadership
  • Management – Healthcare Management and Leadership
  • Management – Homeland Security
  • Management – Organizational Development and Change
  • Nursing Practice

Benefits of CTU’s Online Programs 

Online students at Colorado Technical University have access to many services and benefits. Students are encouraged to take advantage of all that Colorado Tech online offers. These resources are available to students at no charge, so be sure to use them!

CTU Fast Track™ Exams

The Fast Track™ program allows students to complete a series of modules. These modules are designed to test their understanding of the topic of the courses. Depending on the outcome of the modules, students may earn course credit for existing knowledge. This allows them to take advantage of what they already know by skipping over certain requirements. So naturally, it can help students finish school faster. 

Generous Transfer Policy

Colorado Technical College online students can transfer up to 75 percent of the credits needed to earn any of the school’s degrees. 

CTU’s Advantage Programs

The Master’s Advantage™ Program allows some students to substitute up to two graduate courses for bachelor’s degree courses. The Doctoral Advantage Program lets students swap two doctoral courses for two graduate courses.

Mobile Access to Courses

Using CTU Mobil, students can complete their studies with their smartphones. They can find their assessments, listen to live chats and track their academic progress. Additionally, they can participate in discussion boards and access the school library. 

Career Development

Colorado Technical University offers many career development services. These include resume and cover letter assistance and professional networking. Additionally, there are plenty of career exploration tools and resources for preparing for interviews. And students have access to professional career coaches at no charge. 

Military Friendly

Colorado Technical University is a Military-friendly school. Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve members usually qualify for special Military Education Benefits. These benefits may help students save substantial money on their courses and other expenses. 

Smarthinking Tutoring Service

Colorado Technical University partners with Smarthinking to offer 24/7 on-demand tutoring at no cost. As a result, students have continual access to highly trained tutors to help them improve their academics. The school also offers an online writing lab. 

Colorado Technical University Badge Program

Another unique program at Colorado Technical University is the Badge Program. The school issues special university badges for degree-seeking students. Students who successfully complete a group of courses within a specific area of study earn a digital badge. Both undergraduate and graduate students can earn badges. 

Digital badges from CTU are a great way to demonstrate your skills and competencies to future employers and others in your network. They are not certifications. Instead, they symbolize your accomplishments in mastering a particular subject area. 

CTU Accreditation: Is Colorado Technical University Accredited?

Colorado Technical University has several accreditations and licenses through various organizations. The school itself is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This accrediting body was established in 1895 and is one of six such organizations nationwide.

Higher Learning Commission accreditation is your assurance that an institution meets high academic standards. The school is also accredited by four other organizations:

ABET Loto
CTU Accreditation: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

ABET accredits two bachelor’s online programs at CTU. These include:

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering 
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering 
ACBSP Logo
CTU Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

All of CTU’s popular business degree online programs are accredited by ACBSP. This specialized accreditation sets a college’s business degree programs apart from the competition. 

CCNE Logo
CTU Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

CTU accreditation for three of the online nursing programs is awarded through the CCNE. These include:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program
  • Master of Science in Nursing degree program 
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program 
PMIGAC Logo
CTU Accreditation: Project Management Institute Global Accreditation Center

CTU Online University has several programs with a project management concentration. All are accredited by an additional accreditation center. This is called the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs. 

CDHE Logo
CTU Accreditation: Colorado Department of Higher Education Licensing 

Colorado Technical University is also licensed by the State’s Department of Higher Education. This is done through the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE). CCHE licensing means the school is authorized to award degrees in the State of Colorado. 

CTU accreditation for its online degree programs is identical to the accreditation for the on-campus programs.

CTU Affiliations

Colorado Technical University has affiliations with several organizations and groups, including:

  • Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing
  • Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA)
  • Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business
  • Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
  • Carnegie Foundation
  • Military Students at Colorado Technical University

Paying For Your Education at CTU

CTU offers an affordable way for students to earn a college degree online. Tuition costs are charged per credit hour.

DegreeCost Per Credit Hour
Associate$340
Bachelor$340
Master$610
Doctorate$598 

In most cases, Colorado Technical University online students have access to the same financial assistance as on-campus students. Students should not let fear of educational debt stop them from attending college. There are many scholarships and grants available to help cover tuition costs. Plus, the vast majority of students qualify for Federal financial aid.

How To Get Into Colorado Technical University

Colorada Technical University Applications

The admissions process at CTU is fairly straightforward. The application deadline for students at Colorado Tech College online is rolling, with several start dates per academic year. There are no SAT, GMAT, GRE, or other standardized test scores required. Students who want to enroll in an undergraduate program must:

  1. Meet with an Admissions Advisor for an interview
  2. Submit a completed CTU application for admission.
  3. Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalency documents. 
  4. Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)

For graduate students, the requirements are the same. However, they must provide transcripts for an accredited bachelor’s degree program. Additionally, degrees must be earned with a CGPA of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Master’s in nursing degrees have different requirements. 

Admission requirements for doctoral online degree programs are more stringent. Candidates will need at least a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 for admission. They will also need to submit a resume and essay and have an interview with an Advisor. 

Military Students at Colorado Technical University

CTU is a military-centric college that values the role of Armed Forces members. The school has specific policies in place to help military members navigate college.

For example, the school’s military leave of absence policy is generous. It allows students to take time off due to travel or deployment. Many of the school’s military benefits extend to spouses as well. Military Times ranked CTU in its “Best for Vets: Colleges 2021” review.

In addition to the benefits mentioned, there are reduced tuition rates and fee waivers for military members and their spouses. Military students can also use their GI Bill® for on-campus and online classes. And Veterans injured in the line of duty may be eligible for CTU’s Patriot Scholarship. 

Another potential benefit for military members is the school’s generous transfer program. Eligible students may receive credit for prior military training and experience. This can significantly cut down on tuition costs overall. CTU also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

International Students at Colorado Technical University

Colorado Tech Online welcomes international students. International students must fill out an application. Then, they must submit an English proficiency assessment score. After that, they can complete an interview via telephone with an International Admissions Advisor.

In addition, international students must submit proof of high school graduation or equivalency. And if they have already begun college, international students must submit undergraduate transcripts.

Transfer Students at Colorado Technical University

Many students enrolled at Colorado Technical University Online are transfer students. They may qualify for up to 75 percent of the credits earned at a previous college.

In addition, some individuals have some college, military, work, or life experience. CTU will often use those experiences to qualify students for transfer credits.

These are called Experiential Learning Credits. And they can lead to substantial savings of both time and money. Colorado Tech online will evaluate your transfer credits as part of the admissions process. They will then apply credits from previous college experience to qualifying students. Transfer students are also eligible for financial aid.

What Are Online Courses at CTU Like? 

Online Courses at Colorado Tech CTU accreditation

One of the primary advantages of online learning through CTU is flexibility.

Online bachelor’s degree programs or graduate degrees are ideal for busy working professionals or students with family obligations. Instead of committing to specific class times on campus, you generally get to choose when and where you complete your assignments.

Of course, there will be times when you may need to log in to class at specific times, but typically, the learning is self-directed. Classes are prerecorded. So lesson plans, assignments, and readings can all be accessed through the online learning management system.

Interact With Your Instructors and Classmates From Anywhere

With Colorado Technical University Online, You won’t usually meet your fellow students and professors face-to-face. However, there are still plenty of opportunities to network through message boards and forums.

In addition, you may have live class discussions for online classes that meet at specific times. And, of course, a live-chat feature will enable you to meet with your instructors and other faculty members from anywhere in the world. 

Course Materials Readily Available 

With Colorado Technical University online, you usually don’t need to visit the CTU school campus bookstore for your books and materials.

Instead, students can find the readings, worksheets, and other materials online. Most of the time, there is no extra cost. This makes online learning even more affordable.

Additionally, your materials are readily available on your learning platform at any time. So there are no worries about losing them or trying to keep track of where they might be.

Learning Is Tailored To Individual Students

Colorado State University online implements software called intellipath®. Intellipath® is an adaptive learning technology that can help you make the most of your study time. It makes online courses easier by tailoring the assignments to students’ unique previous college experience, knowledge, and strengths.

For those who prefer to skip over topics they already know, intellipath® is ideal. And it can help students get through their courses quickly and efficiently and leave out redundant lessons. 

CTU Online College Programs in More Detail

CTU

We’ve discussed some of the essential details about Colorado Technical University online. Now we’ll look deeper into some of the school’s most popular degree programs. 

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Program

The BS in Business Administration at CTU is one of the most flexible programs. Students can choose the on-campus or online format for the general degree program. And then, there are several concentrations available exclusively online. The concentrations include:

  • Business Development
  • Digital Marketing
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • Healthcare Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Information Technology
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Project Management

The eleven concentrations alone set this program apart from the competition. Students interested in general business concepts can choose the general track. However, those with a specific career goal in mind can customize their program further. That makes this degree program relevant for dozens of industries.

Some of the required business courses in the program include:

  • Accounting
  • Business Ethics and Leadership
  • Finance Literacy in Today’s World
  • Managing Organizational Change
  • Spreadsheet Applications
  • International Business Communications
  • Management Fundamentals
  • Organizational Behavior Principles
  • Management of Human Resources
  • Business Policies and Strategies
  • The Legal and Ethical Environment of Busines
  • Business Law

With the concentrations, additional coursework is required in your area of study. For example, the project management concentration has the following required courses as well:

  • Project Risk Management
  • Contracts and Procurement
  • Project Performance and Quality Assurance
  • Project Cost and Scheduling
  • Human Resources within Project Manamange
  • Organizational Leadership’Project Management Tools

Students who want to complete their business degree as quickly as possible can take CTU Fast Track™ exams. The exams will test their knowledge of a topic and let them earn credit for what they already know. The BSBA is a 180-credit hour program. There are three start dates per year. 

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

CTU’s BS in Criminal Justice is another one of the best online programs at the school. This degree requires 182 credit hours to graduate. There are three start dates each year. Students in this program will learn practical skills to prepare them to work in countless areas related to the law and corrections.

You can take the general track or select from two concentrations. The forensic investigations concentration is offered on campus only. However, the human services concentration is provided on campus and online.

The program has been ranked among the best in the nation by US News and World Report for eight years in a row. Students in the criminal justice program will have courses such as:

  • Ethics in Criminal Justice
  • Law Enforcement Operations 
  • Homeland Security
  • Victimology
  • Juvenile Delinquency
  • Criminal Law
  • The Laws of Evidence
  • Public Administration
  • Criminal Procedure
  • Criminology
  • American Corrections

There are also several exciting electives students can choose from. These electives allow participants to design a program that most closely aligns with their future career goals. Here are just a few:

  • Child Abuse
  • Loss Prevention
  • White Collar and Financial Crimes
  • Family and Domestic Violence
  • Probation and Parole
  • Terrorism and Organized Crime
  • Forensic Criminology
  • Criminal Courts
  • Legal Elements of Fraud
  • Licit and Illicit Drugs

This program is also eligible for Colorado Technical University online Fast Track™ exams. This may allow eager students to gain credit for what they already know and graduate sooner. This can help students save a substantial amount of money. In addition, grants and scholarships are available to qualifying students. Financial aid is available. 

Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management

Another popular degree choice at Colorado Technical University online is the Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management degree. Students in this online program will learn a variety of skills and competencies. After graduation, they will have a solid background to enter careers in the healthcare industry. 

This well-rounded program helps students develop a strong knowledge of topics such as:

  • Patient Access
  • Revenue Cycle Management
  • Project Management
  • Economics of Healthcare
  • Fundamentals of Marketing
  • Human Resource Management
  • Patient Privacy and HIPAA Laws
  • Billing and Insurance

Students can opt for the general track or a health informatics concentration. Colorado Technical University Online Fast Track™ exams are also available. They allow students to test out topics they are already familiar with.

The course schedule is very flexible, so you can take classes when it is convenient for you. Scholarships and grants are available for qualifying students. Additionally, financial aid is available.

Classes start three times a year, and students need 180 credits to complete the program. You’ll take 51 credit hours of general education and 109 credit hours of healthcare management classes. Then, you’ll round out your degree with electives to define the area you’re interested in.

Some of the courses are based on engaging topics such as:

  • Managerial Psychology
  • Interpersonal Communication and Dynamics
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Building Effective Teams
  • Managing Organizational Change
  • Database Applications with Access
  • International Business Communications
  • Customer Service Excellence
  • Creating Change in Individuals and Organizations

Master of Business Administration

Colorado Technical University Online also offers an award-winning Master of Business Administration program. It has ranked as one of the top online MBAs in the nation by US News & World Report for seven years in a row. It is widely considered to be one of the best online programs for getting an MBA.

The Master of Business Administration program is designed to help professionals develop skills to help them meet business challenges across various industries.

It’s also ideal for those seeking career advancement. Students can choose from twelve concentrations with this master’s degree. They include:

  • Accounting
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Global Leadership
  • Healthcare Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Logistics Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management
  • Project Management
  • Technology Management

Students will have a capstone project in which they will work with a team to run a $100 million business simulation. This project will allow them to showcase the skills they’ve learned in the program. And it will highlight how they solve business problems both individually and with other professionals. 

ACBSP accredits this Online MBA, so students can be assured of the highest level of academic rigor. Courses integrate the intellipath® learning application. This allows students to customize their coursework to align with their professional goals.

Classes are five weeks long, and there are several start dates a year. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to qualifying students. 

The MBA is a 48-credit-hour program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Students will have 32 credit hours of core business administration classes and 16 credit hours of electives.

The electives will be aligned with each student’s chosen concentration. Core courses for the general business administration program include:

  • Applied Managerial Accounting
  • Applied Managerial Economics
  • Applied Managerial Finance
  • Applied Managerial Marketing
  • Strategic Management in Dynamic Environments
  • Leadership and Ethics in Decision-Making
  • Strategic Human Capital Management

To qualify for the MBA program, candidates should have previous experience in a business role. It is not necessary to have a bachelor’s degree to apply for the MBA. However, those without a bachelor’s degree must complete specific core courses to be considered. Financial aid is available.

Master of Science in Information Technology

Colorado Technical University Online offers an excellent Master of Science in Information Technology program. It teaches students strategic leadership and technical skills to design and manage IT programs and systems.

There is a general Track and two concentrations. Select from Security Management or Network Management. Students in the IT graduate program will take six core courses:

  1. Computer Systems Security Foundations
  2. Enterprise Systems Architecture
  3. Enterprise Data Management
  4. Networking and Telecommunications
  5. Strategic Management in Dynamic Environments
  6. Project Management Processes in Organizations

Following the core courses, students will take elective courses. They will choose those that most closely align with their professional goals. Based on their concentration, they can choose from the following electives:

  • Data and Applications Security
  • Operating Systems Security
  • Network Security
  • Security Management
  • Database Systems
  • Data Warehouse
  • Business Intelligence Systems and Methods
  • Network Administration
  • Enterprise Network Architecture
  • IT Governance and Risk Management
  • Virtual Systems
  • Digital Forensics

The MSIT program is built on some specific requirements. Applicants should have prior knowledge of information technology and related disciplines. Those who want to enter the program should already have a bachelor’s degree in:

  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Information Technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Information Systems

Other students who do not already have an undergraduate degree in one of these disciplines may be admitted conditionally. However, they will need to complete two MSIT foundation courses. Those courses will give them the basic skills required to enter the master’s program. 

The MSIT program requires a total of 48 credit hours for completion. Classes start three times per year. You can take this program online, in Colorado Springs, or at Denver South. Financial aid is available.

Master of Science in Management Program

The Master’s Degree in Management program is another popular graduate program at Colorado Technical University online. This degree gives students the knowledge and skills to succeed in a global business environment.

The program is practical and hands-on. It builds on a core foundation of practices and concepts in management that are relevant to today’s industry.

It is ideal for students who want to pursue career advancement. But it is also just as appropriate for those who want to start a business from the ground up. 

CTU’s Master of Science in Management degree has five concentrations. So students can tailor the program to their individual needs. The concentrations include:

  • Information Systems Security
  • IT and Project Management
  • Organizational Leadership and Change
  • Project Management
  • Public Administration

All students in the program will finish with a Management Capstone. This will be an in-depth project utilizing specific strategies of the discipline they chose.

This may be an independent project or one undertaken with other students. The program has been ranked among the Best Online Master’s Degree in Business Programs by U.S. News & World for seven years in a row.

New start dates are offered nine times yearly, and classes are five weeks long. In some cases, students can earn a business management degree in as little as 18 months.

To graduate, you will need to complete 48 credit hours. Twenty-eight of these credit hours are for core courses in management. The other 20 credit hours go toward electives within the student’s concentration. The core courses include:

  • IT Management
  • Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Applied Managerial Finance
  • Strategic Management in Dynamic Environments
  • Applied Managerial Marketing
  • Project Management Processes in Organizations

The MSM concentrations have many exciting and engaging elective courses to choose from. For example, within the public administration concentration, students will focus on:

  • Public Administration Theory and Practice
  • Graduate Research Methods for Public Administration
  • Budgeting and Finance for Public Administration
  • Federal, State, and Local Government

The MSM degree has been designed to build skills and competencies that will transfer to many industries.  Financial aid is available.

Master of Science in Nursing

Students can complete the online Master of Science in Nursing program at CTU in as little as 18 months. And you can complete a practicum at your own workplace in many cases. This graduate-level nursing degree was ranked among the Best Online Master’s Degree in Nursing Programs by U.S. News & World Report for four years. 

There are two goals for the program. The first is teaching leadership skills to improve the quality of care within healthcare settings. The second is to turn advanced science and nursing knowledge into hands-on practice. There are three concentrations students can choose from: 

MSN-NA: Nursing Administration

Can be completed in as little as 18 months

In this program, students apply new systems of thinking to create positive change in healthcare settings. In addition, they learn strong personal, fiscal, professional, and ethical accountability. 

MSN-NE: Nursing Education

Can be completed in as little as 18 months

The MSN-NE program focuses on innovative teaching strategies in nursing education. Students will study curriculum design and development. And they will learn how to assess and evaluate educational programs. They will also learn to apply teaching concepts in virtual environments as well. 

MSN-FNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

Can be completed in as little as 24 months

The MSN-FNP program studies patients across their lifespans. Classes in the FNP program focus on:

  • Evidence-based Practice
  • Population Health
  • Health Policy
  • Informatics
  • Family Practice
  • Health Promotion

The nursing program at CTU utilizes intellipath®. This computerized adaptive testing is ideal for nurses entering one of these programs. It allows nurses to skip over what they already know. That way, they don’t have to wade through information they’ve already learned.

Students will experience faculty-led courses, virtual simulations, writing assignments, and more. There are no group project assignments.

However, there is some interdisciplinary collaboration with other students in clinical courses. Students will have a mix of traditional assignments plus clinical experience from wherever they live.  Financial aid is available.

Eastern Kentucky University Profile

Founded as Central University in 1874, the school evolved into Eastern Kentucky University in the 1920s, adding a number of degree programs in addition to its roots as a teacher’s college. Today, the school, located in Richmond, Kentucky with regional schools in Corbin, Danville, Manchester and Lancaster, Kentucky, offers both undergraduate and graduate programs.

As a public university, the school has both state and private funding for its over 15,000 students and competes in the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference. The University has five colleges, in addition to a Graduate School, offering over 150 degrees. The Colleges of Art and Science, Business and Technology, Health Sciences, Education and Justice and Safety all offer a variety of degrees ranging from bachelor’s to doctorates. Recognized as a top Southern school by US News, the school is best known for its highly ranked Occupational Therapy graduate programs.


Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

See Also: Online College Plan – Best Online Colleges

eCornell

Operated by the Ivy League Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, eCornell University is a distance learning university that offers professional development and certificate programs to a wide variety of organizations and individuals.

Originally published in June 2023, this article was revised and reflects the current eCornell certificate costs as of January 2024 for select online delivered course options.


Cornell University is widely believed to be one of the best and most prestigious secondary educational institutions in the country, which is why its online programs are so amazing as well. 

eCornell - Cornell University

We Ranked Cornell University:

#2 in Best Online Colleges in New York
#6 in Top 50 Online Colleges with the Best Websites

With courses based in virtual environments, the curriculum is based upon case study assessments throughout each of its programs. Students can participate in programs in Leadership and Management, Marketing, Financial Management, Human Resources, Hospital and Food Service, as well as specialized corporate training programs.

eCornell - Cornell University online programs

Best known for its Hospitality programs, the University has a well-established reputation among business professionals. eCornell is accredited by the Human Resources Certification Institute, Project Management Institute, Foundation for Care Management, and Commission on Dietetic Registration, and all eCornell courses are eligible for continuing education units from Cornell University.

In this article, we will be discussing the benefits of obtaining an online certificate from eCornell as well as some of the most popular and unique certificates they offer entirely online. 

What are the Benefits of an Online Degree? 

Perhaps the most noteworthy benefit of obtaining an online degree or certificate is the flexibility it offers to students. If you pursue a traditional in-person degree at a college or university, you don’t get to work on your own schedule, nor do you have nearly as much opportunity to pursue other jobs or activities on the side due to a more rigorous course schedule.

With an online degree, students have the flexibility of asynchronous coursework that doesn’t need to be followed on any particular timeline. If you have a job or you have kids, an online certificate is the perfect way to get educated on your own schedule.

online degrees at eCornell - Cornell University

What Fully Online Programs Does eCornell Offer?

eCornell offers more than 160 different online certificate programs in a variety of lengths and subjects. While some certificates are more introductory, others will have you doing a deep dive on your preferred subject. While some of the more popular subjects include technology and hospitality, some of eCornell’s more unique certificate programs include subjects like master beekeeping.

There is truly something for everyone at eCornell and being able to put a certificate from an Ivy League university on your resume is certainly something to brag about. If you have been considering pursuing an online certificate or degree program, keep reading to learn about more than a dozen different certificates offered by eCornell. Here are a few of the certificates eCornell offers in detail!

Marketing

Digital Marketing 360 Certificate 

This certificate is designed to help students pivot their focus in the rapidly changing financial world of marketing. This comprehensive certificate is formulated using the problems and hurdles that modern marketers face: including issues with AI, influencer marketing, privacy and security, and more.

During the coursework, you will implement solutions to new marketing challenges and learn what it takes to understand the market in today’s world. You will also learn how to achieve your marketing goals and how exactly you can measure your success.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 20
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $7,999
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $450 a month for 20 months

Integrated Marketing 360 Certificate 

Similar to the previously mentioned digital marketing certificate, this integrated marketing certificate is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for the modern marketing world. This certificate is more focused on branding, brand strategy, and learning how you as a business owner or manager can make your company stand apart from others in an increasingly changing world.

A total of 16 courses must be completed if you want to finish this program, but students have the option of taking either marketing strategy or strategic hospitality marketing toward the end of their studies.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 16
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $7,999
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $550 a month for 16 months

Social Media Marketing Certificate 

This eCornell certificate is focused primarily on perhaps the most useful marketing tool of the current generation: social media. This short certificate takes only 6 courses to complete and focuses on teaching students how to maintain an authentic and impactful presence on social media sites. In order to understand this, students are educated on the importance of reaching the right audience on social media as well as building connections with your customers and the general audience.

During your studies, you will look at different social media platforms and explore the opportunities within each of them.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 6
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,750
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $675 a month for 6 months
eCornell - Cornell University online degree programs

Data Science 

Data Science in R Certificate 

When thinking about data science, there are several different programming languages that might stand out. However, R is quickly becoming one of the preeminent programming languages for professionals who want to pursue a career in data science. During your coursework in this program, you will use data science principles to collect data and translate that data into information.

From there, you will learn how to construct models of that data that can easily be interpreted and understood by a variety of people. Some of the course subjects include understanding data analytics, finding patterns in data, and neural networks and machine learning. This certificate costs $663 a month or $3,430 total. 

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 3
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,900
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $1,350 a month for 3 months

Machine Learning Certificate

This 7-course certificate program covers one of today’s fastest-growing industries and job markets: machine learning. As automation and AI become more prevalent in our modern world, so does the importance of implementing algorithms and machine learning. During this certificate, you will learn how to implement machine learning algorithms by using the programming language of Python, which is one of the most prestigious languages to learn in the modern computing world.

You will also learn how to approach computing problems programmatically and construct mental models to display data.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 7
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,750
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $586 a month for 7 months

Python 360 Certificate 

As we just mentioned, Python is a notoriously difficult programming language to learn, but perhaps the most skillful one to have under your belt in the modern programming and IT world. This 6-course certificate program gives you an in-depth look at Python as a programming language and teaches you how to code entirely on your own.

You will learn how to adapt Python to different applications and challenges as well as learn how it can be applied to modern industries like AI and data science. By the end of the program, you will be able to code, test, analyze, and debug all of your own Python programs and help them run smoothly.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 6
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,750
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $675 a month for 6 months

Business Statistics Certificate 

Statistics is one of the most foundational points of understanding within the field of data science, and this 7-course certificate can help you learn how to lead organizations with the power of understanding data by your side. These 7 courses will teach you how to transform raw data into usable tools and manifestations for your team, turning raw data into something you can synthesize and that everyone can understand.

Statistics will help you make sense of the data you have, and course subjects include descriptive statistics for business, inferential statistics, and practical applications.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 7
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,900
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $608 a month for 7 months
attending eCornell - Cornell University online

Technology 

Product Management 360 Certificate 

Product management is one of the most in-demand skills of recent years, and this comprehensive certificate program from Cornell offers students 20 courses that give them a foundational understanding of how product management works. By the end of the courses, you will understand how to create the kinds of products that consumers love to buy and build a career in the field of product management.

This certificate is also designed for those who are already employed, meaning you can focus on small areas over longer periods of time to complete them.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 20
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $8,400
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $470 a month for 20 months

Women in Product Certificate 

This 11-course certificate program teaches students about a demographic that is still massively underrepresented in the product management industry: women. This certificate is specifically designed for women who want to have a career in the product management industry, teaching them about the life cycle of a product from its conception to consumer.

You will learn how to identify your target audience, conceptualize your product, launch it, and more. You will also learn about the difficulties women face in the workplace and how you can work to change them.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 11
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $5,499
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $550 a month for 11 months

Business Management in STEM Certificate 

Business management is an incredibly broad field of study, but many managers find that as they advance up the ladder of their business, more comprehensive knowledge of business language is necessary. In this certificate program, you will move through 7 different areas of business language (including accounting, finance, sales, marketing, strategy, and more), learning about specific aspects of business management that are important to STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields.

This certificate is an especially great fit for tech professionals, who will learn about how to apply key business approaches to their companies.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 7
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $3,900
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $608 a month for 7 months

Hospitality 

Hospitality Management 360 Certificate

The hospitality industry has a lot of different moving pieces, and if you want to manage a hotel, resort, or other hospitality hotspot, you need to understand all of these parts. This comprehensive hospitality management certificate teaches you everything you need to know about how to run your hotel like a well-oiled machine.

Some course topics include understanding financial statements, introduction to hotel revenue management, forecasting and availability controls, and building guest loyalty.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 18
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $7,999
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $495 a month for 18 months

Healthcare 

Healthcare Management Certificate 

This 7-course certificate teaches students the importance of becoming well-versed in business and management concepts while working in the healthcare industry. If you are a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional, these courses are designed to help you manage both the people and programs in your hospital or practice effectively.

Some course topics include managing people in a healthcare setting, addressing healthcare economics, and improving healthcare quality.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 7
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $4,600
  • Learn and Pay As You Go: $708 a month for 7 months

Beekeeping

Master Beekeeping Certificate

If you are a hobby beekeeper, this certificate program teaches you how to bring yourself up to the professional level. Additionally, this coursework gives you all the information you need to pass the oral, field, and written Cornell Master Beekeeping exams. During these courses, you will learn how to keep bee colonies healthy and protected over periods of several years while also expanding your knowledge of bee products and services. You’ll learn about honey bee evolution and behavior as well as how to eliminate pests.

Also, it should be noted that 3 years of experience are required to enter this master’s program.

  • Delivery: Online
  • Courses: 4 courses and 3 exams
  • Determine Your Own Course Schedule: $899
online degrees at eCornell - Cornell University

Should I Pursue A Digital Certificate from eCornell?

There are many more digital certificate programs offered by Cornell than the ones mentioned in the list above. In fact, there are more than 100 more! While these digital certificates are far from free, if you do have the funds to be able to pursue one, you absolutely should.

Having an Ivy League certificate on your resume or job application is definitely something to brag about, and it can be a great way to give yourself an edge over other job applicants or stand out to an employer. No matter what your interests or goals for the future are, there is probably a certificate that interests you at eCornell. Give your goals a chance and take a new step to succeed in the future! 

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Grand Canyon University Profile

Founded in Phoenix, Arizona in 1949, Grand Canyon University has a campus in downtown Phoenix in addition to its distance learning programs. Founded as a faith-based Baptist Christian College, the school evolved from a College to a University in 1989.

Grand Canyon University has accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission and a long standard commitment to distance learning.

We Ranked Grand Canyon University:

#15 in Top 35 Fastest Online College Programs,
#6 in Top 20 Best Online Colleges Near Phoenix,
#24 The Top 25 Online Master’s In Healthcare Administration Programs,
#18 in The 20 Best Online Masters in School Counseling Programs,
#10 in The 20 Best Online Marketing Bachelors Programs; and
#83 in Top 100 Best Online Colleges

Best known for its Ken Blanchard College of Business, which is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools, the school offers both bachelor’s and MBA programs. Students can focus on Accounting, Administration, and Marketing as undergraduates, and can specialize further in Finance, Health Care, Information Systems, Six Sigma and Executive Training within the MBA programs.

Further, the school offers an accredited Bachelor’s program in Nursing, as well as professional development programs for primary and secondary teachers within Arizona.

See Also: Online College Plan – Best Online Colleges

Grantham University Profile

Founded as the Grantham Radio License School in 1951, Grantham University first offered Federal Communications Commission certificates to returning war veterans seeking to transition into the workforce. Expanding its profile, the school became the Grantham School of Electronics and opened a satellite campus in Kansas City in recent years. Located in the Zona Rosa suburb, the school enrolls just under 10,000 total students between its undergraduate and graduate programs, which are accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

We ranked Grantham University:


#20 in The 20 Best Online Masters in Management Information Systems Programs; and
#12 in Top 20 Bachelors for Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs

Known for its distance learning programs, the school offers a wide variety of programs ranging from Business Administration to Criminal Justice to Engineering, General Studies and Management. Best known for its colleges of Engineering and Business, the school specializes in technical business education.

See Also: Online College Plan – Best Online Colleges

ICDC College

Choosing the right college is extremely important. Hopefully, no one reading this was enrolled at ICDC College, which is now closing, and attempting to transfer its students and faculty to Trident University. However, through examining ICDC, we can see some pitfalls you should avoid in your college search.

There is a serious problem in this country with for-profit, poorly-accredited universities feasting upon the wallets of students looking to better their lives, and leaving them high and dry, having spent a lot of money for nothing. At Online College Plan, we believe that it’s important to engage with the realities of schools like ICDC, and try to catalog where they went wrong/how to identify the difference between a valuable investment in your education, and making dangerous mistakes.


We recently ranked the top 100 best online colleges, which is a great place to start your school search.

Keeping in mind the ludicrous number of ICDC complaints resulting from its false promises, high costs and closure, let’s examine the basics of the school:

ICDC College began in 1995 as International Career Development Center, Inc. It was founded by Anna Berger, an educator and CPA.

The school claimed to specialize in entry-level training programs. ICDC College, founded in the infancy of the tech boom, opened a Los Angeles campus which offered software and computer hardware training. As the tech boom continued to explode, ICDC expanded its programming to include database design, business application implementation and design, and additional tech solutions. This was followed with desktop publishing, accounting, computer networking and repair, tax preparation, medical computing, and database programming.

ICDC went four years without a proper accreditation. No matter how comprehensive programming seems to be, a school’s accreditation, and who they received it from, is extremely important to your school selection process. In 1999, the school earned its accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). ICDC College also opened a new campus in Van Nuys, California. Three years later, the school opened a campus in Huntington Park, CA. The following year, another campus was opened in Lawndale, CA.

Think about this: A school opens in 1995, and within 8 years, it has four campuses. To some this could be a sign of success, and it certainly is. ICDC was very successful at separating students from their money. Private, for-profit universities charge exorbitant tuition, without the dividends of comparatively expensive, more traditional schools.

This year, research by Treasury Department economist Nicholas Turner and George Washington University economist Stephanie Riegg Cellini showed that students who attended for-profit colleges would have been better off going to a community college, or not attending school altogether. The National Bureau of Economic Research paper was based on analyzing over half a million students who attended for-profit colleges from 2006 to 2008. Over 80% carried student loan debt.

It’s unclear when ICDC College closed. On April 4th, 2016, the ICDC website read: “WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW APPLICATIONS FOR ENROLLMENT.” This followed the school falling into poor standing with the California approving agency, and its lack of authorization in many states from which students enrolled. Regrettably, only California residents or students enrolled in a residency program are eligible for reimbursement from California’s Student Tuition Recovery Fund. There are scammers advertising on the internet that they will help students with loan forgiveness. Be wary of the authenticity of loan forgiveness sites, the same way you’d be wary of for profit schools.

ICDC College offered the courses listed below. Trident University has claimed that they will keep the courses, and staff teaching them. “As of May 23, 2016, Trident University has taken over the day to day running of ICDC College programs through a process called a ‘teach-out.’ While there has been a change in the administration of ICDC College; to ensure continuity there has been no change in the programs you are taking and Trident has retained many of ICDC College’s instructors and support staff. The phone numbers and email addresses of staff are also unchanged.”

What Makes ICDC College Unique: High Tuition, Shadiness, Closure and Rebirth at Trident University

Unfortunately, ICDC has been defined by its high tuition with little tangible rewards. As previously discussed, independent studies have shown that students may be better off not attending college, or attending community college, rather than attending for-profit schools like ICDC.

The rapid development of ICDC College (going from one campus to four in a matter of years) followed by a swift closure/transference of courses and staff to regionally accredited Trident University, an entirely-online for-profit university doesn’t bode well for future and current students.

Trident University boasts over 22,000 military alumni, and offers an online bachelor degree in Homeland Security.

Fun Facts about ICDC: Master P and Lil Romeo Commercial

ICDC College Commercial-featuring Master P from Matthew Wineroth on Vimeo.

Be suspicious of any school that rapidly expands, charges high tuition, and has the money to hire Percy Miller and his son Romeo Miller, better known as rappers Master P and Lil Romeo, to appear in commercials.

While watching the above commercial, what stands out is how hard it attempts to correlate attending ICDC College with financial success. A school that can stand on its academics, and the results graduates see, doesn’t need to produce murky, celebrity-endorsing advertisements to lure in new students.

On websites like Glass Door, you can get a good look at what those who worked at and attended ICDC College thought of the school. Make sure to do diligent research in your school selection. Due to all of the aforementioned factors, we cannot recommend ICDC or say that it was a good school.

Walden University Profile
walden university ranking

Walden University was founded in 1970 by Bernie and Rita Turner, two teachers from New York. They wanted to offer a way for the working men (and women) to be able to further their education. There was a big demand for schools that would not only accept but cater to non-traditional students.

Through the 70s and 80s, Walden University continued to be a leader in helping people from all walks of life finish getting their degree. In the mid-90s, they were a pioneer in the field of “online classes,” offering various email and list-server solutions for people seeking an education. In 1992, the Turners sold to Don Ackerman. From there, Walden University began to branch out as the Internet evolved. Today, they are a leader in offering online degrees in a variety of fields, offering a wide range of degrees and certificates.


While one of the younger colleges that offer online degrees, Walden University has remained a leader when it comes to online education. If you are searching for a way to further your education on your own time without going broke, the online courses at Walden University are something you should look into. Even if you are just thinking about taking a class or two to brush up your skills and update your resume to keep it fresh, there are many possibilities to come to Walden University just for the knowledge.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.

Portland State University
portland state university online degree

Portland State University ( commonly referred to as Portland State or simply as PSU) is a public, coeducational research university located in Portland, Oregon. Portland State was originally founded in 1946 as a post-secondary educational institution with the purpose of educating returning World War II veterans. Over the following two decades after the school’s founding, PSU evolved into a four-year college and, in the year of 1969, was granted university status. Portland State is comprised of seven different constituent colleges. Across these seven colleges, PSU offers undergraduate degree-granting programs in one hundred twenty-three disciplines and postgraduate degree-granting programs in one hundred seventeen disciplines.

We Ranked Portland State University:
#22 in Top 25 Most Political Universities,
#5 in Top 10 Online Bachelors Degrees in Criminal Justice; and
#15 in Top 20 Greenest Colleges


Portland State University is well-known for its unique University Studies curriculum, which culminates in a community-based senior capstone project (also known as a final year project or dissertation) of which all undergraduates are required to complete for graduation. This capstone course fully integrates class work with community-based work and is completed with the assistance of local community organizations. The capstone project covers a wide-range of issues, such as social justice, sustainability, youth education and much more. The project is designed to blend a student’s education with a sense of responsibility to the community and themselves.

Portland State has numerous student-run organizations, including the Greek Life organizations Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Kappa Psi, Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Chi Omega, Kappa Sigma, Omega Delta Phi and Phi Delta Theta and other agencies such as a Women’s Resources Center, a Disability Resources Center, a Resource Center for Students with Children and a Queer Resource Center for the school’s identifying LGBT+ students. Many other organizations and groups are available, ensuring that there is a little something for everyone at Portland State University.

Local Flavor: Portland, Oregon

In addition to the student organizations and groups available, the surrounding area of Portland, Oregon also has numerous activities and sights to see, including:

  • Portland Art Museum: Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum of art on the West Coast–and the seventh oldest in the United States–and houses more than 42,000 permanent pieces of art and art exhibits and various rotating art exhibits yearly. Many styles and eras of art are represented throughout the Museum, such as Modern and Post-World War II exhibits.
  • Tom McCall Waterfront Park: Opened in 1978, Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a park located in Portland that is most commonly utilized for jogging, walking, biking, skateboarding, fountain playing, luncheoning, basketball, fireworks viewing, Segwaying and boat watching and various other typical park activities.
  • Oregon Museum of Science and Industry: The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry contains three auditoriums which include a large-screen theater, a planetarium and various exhibition halls with a large variety of permanent hands-on exhibits focused on natural sciences, industry, and technology. Exhibits include the USS Blueback, the submarine that was featured in the 1990 film The Hunt for Red October and the Science Playground, an educational area designed for small children.
  • Portland Opera: Portland Opera is the local opera house. Portland Opera was one of the very first opera companies to introduce subtitles into its productions and has presented several world and US premieres.

Portland has an active nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and late-night shopping.

There are also many highly-rated restaurants, boutiques, breweries, art galleries, parks and countless other things to keep the students of Portland State University (and the residents of Portland, Oregon) busy day-to-day.

Degrees and Programs at Portland State University

Portland State University has a massive selection of undergraduate, graduate and professional certification programs available to students. The lists below outline the various coursework students can pursue:

Portland State University Undergraduate Programs (Partial List)

  • Accounting 
  • Advanced Proficiency in Russian
  • Advertising Management
  • African Studies
  • American Sign Language Minor
  • Anthropology
  • Applied Health and Fitness
  • Applied Linguistics
  • Arabic
  • Architecture
  • Art History
  • Arts and Letters
  • Athletic and Outdoor Industry
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Black Studies
  • Business Blockchain
  • Business Technology and Analytics
  • Campaigning to Win a U.S. Political Campaign
  • Chinese
  • Comics Studies
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders
  • Community Development
  • Computer Engineering
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Creative Writing
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Data Science
  • Earth Science
  • Economics
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Environmental Science
  • Film
  • Food, Beverage and Goods Leadership
  • Forest Ecology and Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Indigenous Nations and Native American Studies
  • Intercultural Competence for the Workplace
  • International Business
  • Judaic Studies
  • Lake and Reservoir Management
  • Management and Leadership
  • Music: Musicology/Ethnomusicology
  • Music: Performance
  • Pre-Chiropractic Medicine
  • Pre-Dental Hygiene
  • Pre-Dentistry
  • Pre-Law
  • Pre-Medical Laboratory Science
  • Pre-Medicine
  • Pre-Naturopathic Medicine
  • Pre-Occupational Therapy
  • Pre-Optometry
  • Pre-Pharmacy
  • Pre-Physical Therapy
  • Pre-Physician Assistant
  • Pre-Public Health
  • Pre-Radiation Therapy
  • Pre-Teacher Education
  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine
  • Psychology
  • Public Health Studies: Community Health Promotion
  • Public Health Studies: Health Services Administration
  • Real Estate Property Management
  • RussianScience
  • Sexuality, Gender, and Queer Studies
  • Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship
  • Sociology
  • Sonic Arts and Music Production
  • Special Education
  • Speech and Hearing Sciences
  • Supply and Logistics Management
  • Transformative Messaging
  • Urban and Public Affairs
  • Women’s Leadership
  • Women’s Studies
  • World Language Pedagogy

Portland State University Graduate Programs 

  • Anthropology
  • Applied Conflict Resolution
  • Applied Data Science for Business
  • Applied Physics
  • Applied Social Demography
  • Applied Statistics
  • Architecture
  • Athletic and Outdoor Industry
  • Biology
  • Biostatistics
  • Book Publishing
  • Business Blockchain
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics
  • Chemistry
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Collaborative Governance
  • Communication
  • Computational Intelligence
  • Computer Modeling and Simulation
  • Computer Science
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Contemporary Art Practice: Art and Social Practice
  • Contemporary Art Practice: Studio Practice
  • Counseling: Clinical Mental Health
  • Counseling: Clinical Rehabilitation
  • Counseling: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
  • Counseling: School Counseling
  • Creative Writing
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Cybersecurity
  • Early Childhood: Inclusive Education and Curriculum and Instruction
  • Early Intervention Special Education
  • Earth, Environment and Society
  • Econometric and Data Analysis
  • Economics
  • Educational Leadership
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Emergency Management and Community Resilience
  • Emergency Management and Community Resilience
  • Energy Policy and Management
  • Engineering Geology
  • Engineering Management: Technology Management
  • Engineering Project Management
  • Engineering and Technology Management
  • English
  • Environmental Geology
  • Environmental Management
  • Environmental Science and Management
  • Environmental Science and Management PSM
  • Environmental Systems and Human Health
  • Environmental and Resource Economics
  • Epidemiology
  • Executive MPA
  • Finance
  • Gender, Race, and Nations
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • German
  • Gerontology
  • Service-Learning and Community-Based Learning in Postsecondary Education
  • Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship
  • Social Work
  • Social Work and Social Research
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Special Education
  • Speech and Hearing Sciences
  • Statistics
  • Strategic Management of Technology
  • Student Affairs in Higher Education
  • Sustainability Graduate Certificate
  • Sustainable Food Systems
  • Systems Engineering
  • Systems Engineering Fundamentals Certificate
  • Systems Science
  • Taxation
  • Taxation Certificate
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
  • Technological Entrepreneurship
  • Technology Management
  • The Healthcare MBA
  • The Portland MBA
  • Training and Development
  • Transportation
  • Urban Design
  • Urban Studies
  • Urban and Regional Planning
  • World Languages and Literature
  • Portland State University’s Online and Flexible Undergraduate Degree Programs
  • Accounting
  • Advertising Management Minor for Communication Majors
  • Advertising Management Minor for Graphic Design Majors
  • African Studies
  • Art History
  • Arts and Letters
  • Asian Studies
  • Business Blockchain
  • Business Minor
  • Business Technology and Analytics
  • Child, Youth, and Family Studies
  • Civic Leadership Minor
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders
  • Consumer Retail Pre-Baccalaureate
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice Online
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice Postbac Online
  • Cultural History of the Arts
  • English
  • European Studies
  • Geographic Information Systems Minor
  • Geography
  • History
  • Human Resource Management
  • Intercultural Competence for the Workplace
  • International Business
  • International Development Studies
  • International and Global Studies
  • Latin American Studies
  • Liberal Studies
  • Management and Leadership
  • Marketing
  • Middle East Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science
  • Public Health Studies: Community Health Promotion
  • Public Health Studies: Health Services Administration
  • Public Health Studies: Healthy Aging
  • Public Health Studies: Human Lactation
  • Public Health Studies: Pre-Clinical Health Sciences
  • Public Health Studies: School Health Education
  • Real Estate Property Management Minor
  • Science
  • Sexuality, Gender, and Queer Studies
  • Social Innovation Minor
  • Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship
  • Social Science
  • Social Work
  • Sociology
  • Space and Planetary Science Minor
  • Supply and Logistics Management
  • Urban and Public Affairs
  • Woman’s Studies
  • World Language Pedagogy

Portland State University’s Online Online and Flexible Graduate Programs 

  • Applied Data Science for Business
  • Athletic and Outdoor Industry
  • Business Blockchain
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics
  • Collaborative Governance
  • Contemporary Art Practice: Art and Social Practice
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Early Childhood: Inclusive Education and Curriculum and Instruction
  • Early Intervention Special Education
  • Educational Leadership
  • Engineering Geology
  • Environmental Geology
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Gerontology
  • Global Supply Chain Management
  • Global Supply Chain Management Certificate
  • Graduate Teacher Education Program (GTEP)
  • Human Resource Analytics
  • Infant/Toddler Mental Health
  • Mathematics for Teachers
  • Postsecondary Adult and Continuing Education (PACE)
  • Professional and Technical Writing
  • Public Health Practice
  • Service-Learning and Community-Based Learning in Postsecondary Education
  • Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship
  • Social Work
  • Special Education
  • Student Affairs in Higher Education
  • Sustainable Food Systems
  • Systems Engineering
  • Taxation
  • Taxation Certificate
  • Teaching Adult Learners
  • The Healthcare MBA
  • Training and Development

What Makes Portland State University Unique: Tuition Costs

psu keystone

Portland State University has very appealing and affordable tuition costs, ranging from $193 per credit hour to $676 per credit hour. Prices depend on whether you are a resident or a non-resident attending graduate or undergraduate courses. Courses taken entirely online have an additional fee of $35 a credit The school also offers numerous scholarship and grant opportunities, along with a very helpful and dedicated Financial Services team and payment option plans to assist with covering the costs of attending.

Because of the relatively low-cost of attendance, students will be able to get a bigger Return on Investment (ROI) for their time, which is always a plus. The ROI is further increased when a student obtains a scholarship or grant from the school.

The school’s cost of attendance, financial services team, payment plans, scholarships, and grants combine to make Portland State University a relatively unique specimen in the educational world.

Notable Portland State University Alumni include:

  • Barbara Roberts; the 34th Governor of the state of Oregon
  • Anna J. Brown; a well-respected United States Federal Judge
  • Betty Roberts; the first woman to serve on the Oregon Supreme Court
  • D. Scott Davis; the current United States Postal Service CEO
  • Mike Richardson; publisher and founder of Dark Horse Comics, a highly popular comic book producer
  • Freeman Williams; holder of the second-highest NCAA score in NBA history, among many others.

Portland State University’s Website: https://www.pdx.edu/

PSU’s Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

PSU’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.pdx.edu/portland-state-university-mission

Portland State University’s Motto: Doctrina urbi serviat – “Let Knowledge Serve the City”

PSU’s Mascot: Victor E. Viking

PSU’s School Colors: Green and White

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Louisburg College profile

Louisburg College, a private, 2-year, Methodist-affiliated school in Louisburg, North Carolina, has its foundations rooted in two schools: Franklin Male Academy, chartered in 1787 and Louisburg Female Academy, founded in 1814. It is the oldest chartered two-year, church-related, co-educational college in America.

We have ranked the top 100 best online colleges for students transitioning from 2-year schools into bachelor’s degree programs.


louisburg college football

Franklin Academy took its name from the county its in, which was named after Benjamin Franklin. Louisburg is named after King Louis XVI of France. The birth of American history and Louisburg college have been intertwined ever since. When Louisburg was set up, a public commons was created on its highest point. This town commons, which became famous for its oak grove, is now Louisburg College’s campus.

Louisburg Female Academy is one of the oldest institutions of higher education for women, offering courses like history, botany, algebra, rhetoric, chemistry, geology, logic, French, Latin, Greek, guitar, and calisthenics. Old Main, the headquarters of the Female Academy is now the administrative building of Louisburg College.

The 19th century was a tumultuous time for the sibling schools, with openings and closings, and inconsistency to administration. But the 20th century is when the school began to flourish into its modern incarnation. It became known as Louisburg College, and the college became officially linked to the Methodist Church, through the work of the Duke family.

Louisburg College football

In the 1920s, Louisburg College began expanding, with several new buildings erected. These included The West Wing of Main Building, the Pattie Julia Wright Dormitory, and the Franklin County Building. In 1928, a large fire gutted Main Building and the new West Wing. Then the Great Depression took hold of the country, and Louisburg faced crippling debt and falling enrollment.

But Louisburg refused to give up. It became a co-ed school in 1931, and enrollment went up. By the end of World War II, the school was debt free. In 1952, Louisburg College was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

In 1956, a planning committee of the North Carolina Conference of the Methodist Church tried to merge Louisburg College with adjacent senior institutions. An organic movement to preserve the independence of the school emerged, and was successful. The Conference decided, in response to this endeavor, to retain Louisburg College as an accredited junior college.

Since then, Louisburg has expanded its programming, facilities, and become a junior college athletic powerhouse in the hotbed of sports-obsessed North Carolina.

Explore Louisburg

Louisburg, North Carolina is a small town, with a population just south of 3,500. It resides on the banks of the 215 mile Tar River. This river was used to transport naval supplies, and was sabotaged by Confederate soldiers, who tried to keep its resources away from the Union army by burning the naval stores and supplies that were located across it. Unable to burn tar, the Confederates instead through barrels of it in the river. When the Union soldiers bathed in it, they discovered just why it was called the Tar River. Today it’s a great place for kayaking and tubing.

Louisburg is the home to several charming bed and breakfasts, so if you decide to attend the school you’ll have a great place for friends and family to visit. The area hosts a skydiving center, an Alpaca petting zoo, and the beautiful, historic Laurel Mill.

Louisburg College Curriculum

Louisburg College offers several programs, all at the associate level. These programs include Associate in Arts (liberal arts education), Associate in Science (math and science focused), and an Associate in Business. For students who need extra help, the school offers a Math Lab, Reading Lab, Writing Lab and Science Center where students can receive one-on-one tutoring, have access to textbooks, computers, videos and an array of other educational assistance materials.

The goals of these centers are to “provide a positive, caring, supportive, and encouraging academic environment for student learning,” and to “provide assistance to students who have difficulty with classroom activities or need help with homework assignments.”

Over 90% of Louisburg College students end up attending a four year university. A large portion of that number end up attending North Carolina State, East Carolina, UNC-Wilmington, Appalachian State, Western Carolina, North Carolina Central, and Meredith College.

What Makes the School Unique: Athletics

Louisburg College football

Louisburg is a rigorous, participation-oriented athletic school. While four year colleges might not offer the opportunity to get consistent playing time, Louisburg is the exact opposite. The Hurricanes proudly compete in Men’s Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football and Soccer. The Women’s Hurricane Athletics program includes Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball and Volleyball.

The school boasts Frazier Field, a beautiful baseball field equipped with the Hurricanes Batting Facility. The crown jewel of Lousiburg College’s athletic department is the Roger G. Taylor Athletic Center, a sprawling, gorgeous gym that hosts the Hurricanes Basketball Team, Lady Hurricanes Basketball Team and the Lady Hurricanes Volleyball Team. Then the school offers three large fields, for Men and Women’s Soccer, as well as the home of the Hurricanes Football Team.

Louisburg College takes eligibility very seriously. Students are kept on task and offered an array of academic assistance resources to make sure they are eligible to participate in NJCAA competition.

2015 was a banner year for Hurricanes Athletics. The Men’s Soccer team won the NJCAA National Championship after finishing their season with a 24-1 record. Hurricane Men’s Cross Country finished eighth nationally and Women’s Cross Country finished 18th. The Hurricane Football team went 7-1 and were ranked 15th nationally at the end of the NJCAA season.

So far in the 2015-16 academic year alone, 26 Louisburg College student-athletes have signed letters of intent or made verbal commitments to four-year colleges and universities.

Louisburg College’s Website:

https://www.louisburg.edu/

Louisburg Accreditation:

Louisburg College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the associates degree.

Louisburg Mission Statement:

Related by faith to The United Methodist Church, Louisburg College is committed to offering a supportive community which nurtures young men and women intellectually, culturally, socially, physically, and spiritually. As a two-year residential institution, we provide a bridge for students to make a successful transition from high school to senior colleges and universities.

Louisburg Mascot:

Hurricanes

Louisburg Colors:

White and Blue

Thunderbird School of Global Management Profile

Founded in the post-war era to usher in a new generation of International Business leaders, Thunderbird School of Global Management began in 1946. As a private school located in Glendale, Arizona, Thunderbird has earned a reputation as a leading international business school with campuses in Beijing, Switzerland, Mexico, and Russia, among others. With over 35,000 alumni, Thunderbird has a strong reputation for placing graduates in top global management positions.

Thunderbird School of Global Management is part of Arizona State University.


You may find other schools of interest in our ranking of the top 100 best online colleges.

Formed by military leaders at Thunderbird Military field, the schools has evolved over the decades with a mission to help foster global entrepreneurs. The primary program is the MBA in Global Management, which is offered to both full-time and working executives on a distance learning basis. With a curriculum focused on practical knowledge and integration into world affairs, business leaders have found the program effective in helping them build their careers. Alumni including Wrigley CEO William Perez, Luis Moreno, president of the American Development Bank and Morgan Stanley President Walid Chammah. Thunderbird’s distance learning programs focus on Emerging Markets, as well as allowing for independent study with leading professors.

All of the Thunderbird School of Global Management degrees are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Duke University Profile

With a growing number of distance learning opportunities, the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University is an elite graduate business program with a stellar reputation. Focusing on executive financial education, Fuqua has some flexible programs that allow managers to earn degrees online. With just over 1,300 students across its many Executive and full-time programs, Fuqua had focused on student-faculty interaction since its establishment in 1969.

Today, Fuqua has a growing international presence with partner campuses in Russia, Dubai, China, New Delhi and London, allowing students access to a global set of resources. The school offers many areas of focus ranging from Finance and Management to more specialized fields such as Health Care Management and Communications. The Duke Goethe Executive MBA features the latest in telepresence learning technology, allowing students to gain a fully immersed MBA experience. Fuqua’s online learning programs feature a fully interactive 3D learning environment which simulates all of the intangible benefits of classroom learning from afar.


You may enjoy browsing our ranking of the Top 100 Best Online Colleges.

Southeast Missouri State University Profile
semo online degrees

Southeast Missouri State University is a public, accredited school that resides on the beautiful banks of the Mississippi River, in Cape Girardeau Missouri. Its greatest strength is teacher education. Southeast Missouri State University was established in 1873. SMSU offers 200 different zones of study, featuring undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees and a Ed.D. program offered in concert through its partnership with the University of Missouri. Over 12,000 students attend Southeast Missouri State University, with only 3,000 residents. Out of state students come from all 50 American states, and nearly 1,000 students attend the school from over 52 different countries. Southeast Missouri State University plays sports on the Ohio Valley Conference of NCAA Division 1.

Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University was created by southern businessmen and politicians who wanted to turn Cape Girardeau into the home of what they called the Third District Normal School. They successfully lobbied the state of Missouri to do so, and constructed a campus that looked like Harry Potter meets Nosferatu meets Gone With the Wind. It was gothic, mystical and so, so southern. That original building burnt down in 1902, and was replaced in 1906 by Academic Hall, the domed iconic building of Southeast Missouri State, which still stands today. In the 50’s through 70’s, SMSU began to bloom, going from a student body around 1,600 to over 7,000 because of its low tuition, constant and passionate recruitment, and the construction of Interstate 55, bridging Cape Girardeau and St. Louis.


From a tiny, dusty, tumbleweed school, SMSU has grown to over 30 academic buildings. In 2014, Southeast Missouri State opened the River campus, which has its visual and performing arts programming, something SMSU is taking seriously as it expands the diversity of its curriculum. Most importantly, Southeast Missouri State University has created a thriving online program offering 11 Bachelor degrees, 13 master’s degrees, four certificates and two specialist degrees. As with its physical programming, SMSU puts an emphasis on education and healthcare, with a host of elementary education degrees, a nursing degree, and bachelor’s and master’s in health administration. It also offers some fascinating options outside of that, like an MBA in Sports Management and an MS in Criminal Justice entirely online.

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Southeast Missouri State is highly ranked, and came in at 103rd among Midwest Regional Universities and 29th among Midwestern Public schools in the 2017 U.S. News & World Report’s Best College Rankings. Additionally, its online programs have been met with glowing praise as well from that ubiquitous rankings source. SMSU’s online bachelor’s degree programs are ranked 58th nationally, 84th for best online MBA’s, 61st for best online graduate business programs (excluding MBA), 24th for best online graduate criminal justice programs, and 176th for best online graduate education programs.

SMSU has undertaken a new effort to make sure the school is affordable to all, whether you’re in state, out of state or strictly an online student. Regardless of residency, students enrolled in online only degree programs at Southeast will from herein be charged $265 per credit hour for online undergraduate courses and $325 per credit hour for online graduate courses.

What Makes The School Unique: Notable Alumni

Southeast Missouri State is a small school nestled in an oft-ignored part of America. Or is it? When we take a closer look, it’s clear that graduates of SMSU have gone on to become some of the most influential and powerful people in their respective fields. In fact Rush Limbaugh, one of the most powerful men in media, went to SMSU. Limbaugh’s grandfather, Rush Limbaugh the first of his exquisite German lineage, helped put Cape Girardeau on the map as a lawyer and politician in the area. When he died in 1996, God rest his soul, he was 104 years old, and had retired only two years earlier at 102, the oldest practicing attorney in America. In happier SMSU alumni news, legendary comedian Cedric the Entertainer went there! Not to mention Neal E. Boyd, American pop opera singer and winner of America’s Got Talent, season 3.

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A host of athletes came out of Southeast Missouri State’s Division 1 NCAA programs, including in baseball, Kerry Robinson, Justin Christian and agent Nick Brockmeyer (SMSU has a greatly respected sports management program). In football, SMSU has produced a wealth of pros like Willie Ponder, Eugene Armano, Ken Iman, Dan Connolly, Edgar Jones and many others.

Southeast Missouri State University doesn’t just produce entertainers and athletes. Linda M. Goodwin, Missouri legend and famed astronaut is a graduate. After joining NASA in 1980, Goodwin quickly flew up the ranks, becoming an astronaut in 1991. On one mission, she circled the earth 185 times and traveled 4.8 million miles in just a few days. Not bad from a graduate of a small college in a small town in Missouri. Peter Kinder, the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri since 2005 is a graduate of SMSU as well. And finally, four-star General James T. Conway, now retired, served as the 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps, rising to the top the Corps after graduating Southeast Missouri State.

It just goes to show that nestled in this small school is a tradition of excellence. You can connect with this influential alumni network and learn more about them here: https://www.semo.edu/alumni/

The University, through teaching and scholarship, challenges students to extend their intellectual capacities, interests, and creative abilities; develop their talents; and acquire a lifelong enthusiasm for learning. Students benefit from a relevant, extensive, and thorough general education; professional and liberal arts and sciences curricula; co-curricular opportunities; and real-world experiences. By emphasizing student-centered and experiential learning, the University prepares individuals to participate responsibly in a diverse and technologically-advanced world and in this and other ways contributes to the development of the social, cultural, and economic life of the region, state and nation.

Southeast Missouri State University’s Website: https://www.semo.edu/

Southeast Missouri State University Accreditation: SMSU has many accreditations. Its major one is the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Its business school is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). For a full list of Southeast’s credentials, click here.

Southeast Missouri State University Mission Statement: Southeast Missouri State University provides professional education grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and in practical experience.

Southeast Missouri State Mascot: Rowdy the Redhawk

Southeast Missouri State University Colors: Black, Red and White

Evangel University Profile
Evangel University

Evangel University is a private, Christian university that was founded in 1955. It was the first national Pentecostal school of arts and science. Its original goal was to give students who would enter secular fields the opportunity to attend college in a faith-based, Pentecostal setting. Evangel’s nearly 200 faculty members serve over 2,200 students in Springfield, Missouri, and the Internet. Around 14% of which attend the school either in part, or entirely online. Evangel is a comprehensive, Christian university that offers over 100 academic programs, featuring adult and graduate studies and is a hotbed for vocational ministerial training. It’s affiliated with and controlled by The General Council of the Assemblies of God.

While considering online colleges, you may want to review our top 100 best online colleges ranking.


The average class size at Evangel is 25 students, and there’s an average ratio of 15 students to every teacher the school offers. In all, Evangel offers 100 full-time faculty members in 10 distinct academic departments which oversee its 100 plus programs. For those not interested in a strictly religious education, Evangel offers comprehensive programming in Behavioral and Social Sciences, Communication, Humanities, Kinesiology, Business, Education, Music and Natural and Applied Sciences.

Evangel University

Evangel boasts over 20,000 alumni worldwide. Students can utilize this network to make their mark on what Evangel calls a “Spring Impact Trip,” an opportunity to minister and study over Spring Break. Common Evangel “Spring Impact Trip” destinations include Brazil, Canary Islands, Chicago, Dominican Republic, France, Greece, Los Angeles (including a trip to the LA Film school), Belgium, Scotland and Turkey, among others. Evangel gives students the opportunity to study music, film, theology and reach children around the world with the message of Christ instead of the baseline partying and drinking Spring Break experience. This November, The Evangel University Chorale will be performing in Rome for a week. For a small school, Evangel’s global reputation of excellence is magnificent.

The University’s campus occupies 80 acres of the cozy city of Springfield, with a population of approximately 164,000 people.

In 2013, Evangel consolidated with Central Bible College and Assemblies of God Theological Seminary to offer over 190 combined years of educational experience in Christian higher education.

Evangel recently tied at #83rd on US News & World Report’s best online graduate business programs (excluding MBA).

Evangel University

Evangel’s students are highly engaged in their community. Evangel senior Michael Gibson recently started a TV show called “Ozarks Big Bite” which showcases local restaurants, and will air weekly on KY3 News, a local broadcasting outlet. Gibson’s grandfather was Dr. Gary Smalley, a legendary broadcaster and writer, and Gibson worked in Los Angeles on “Intelligence for Your Life,” a nationally-renowned radio and television program. Still, he chose to leave that work to advance his education at Evangel, and it’s paying off for him in the form of “Ozarks,” a show he created and produces.

Another exciting opportunity at Evangel is their Founders Scholarship Program. This program, for highly motivated prospective Evangel students, offers financial assistance between $12,000 and $21,000 per year. You can find out more and apply here.

Explore Springfield, Missouri

Springfield, Missouri is a small but growing city. Between 2000 and 2010, its population grew over 5%, and it’s grown larger since then. Springfield’s nickname is “Queen City of the Ozarks.” The Ozarks are a dissected plateau that crosses Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

A huge draw of the area is the Discovery Center of Springfield. Unlike most museums, the Discovery Center puts an emphasis on fun, interactive exhibits, like riding a higher bike, digging for dinosaur bones and exploring the inner mechanics of an eyeball. You can even take home a prepared sample of your own DNA. The Springfield Art Museum, opened in 1926, is Springfield’s oldest cultural attraction. It has over 10,000 works of art, crossing decades, cultures and mediums.

Because of the geographical nature of Springfield, its nature is breathtaking. It’s known for its hiking in the plateaus and the exploration of splendid caves. Another great thing to do in Springfield is to check out a game at Hammons Field, where the Double-A Springfield Cardinals play, a minor league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.

What Makes Evangel Unique: Religious Education

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Evangel was created to let students earn a liberal arts degree in a Christian-based environment, with worship-minded resources, students and faculty all around them. But Evangel also offers comprehensive religious degrees, including Bachelor degrees in Bible Studies, Missionary Studies and Religious/Sacred Music. You might think you know all there is about the Bible, but there’s so much more to discover in the hands of Evangel’s theological staff. Same goes for taking the word of Christ to people who have never heard it. And finally, as religious and sacred music takes up an increasingly larger share of the market space, hone your expertise in a climate of Christianity where you’re sure to find musical inspiration at Evangel University.

Evangel University’s Website:

Mission Statement
Evangel University is a comprehensive Christian university committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to become Spirit-empowered servants of God who impact the Church and society globally.

The following assumptions are basic to the Evangel University program:

1. The pursuit of truth, regardless of where it is found, is a basic commitment of the University. As a community of scholars and students, the University seeks to discover, apply, and communicate that truth.
2. An individual’s personality grows and develops through a commitment to Christ and the search for truth.
3. Biblical truth should be central and integrated into all the curricular, co-curricular, extracurricular, and living experiences of students.
4. Faith and reason are viewed as complementary, and both are necessary in the search for truth. Thus, students can integrate biblical Christianity with humanities, arts, sciences, behavioral sciences, social sciences, and specialized subjects.
5. In teaching, learning, and serving, quality is fundamental to all areas of the University. The entire University community accepts ownership in the processes of developing the academic, spiritual, and social lives of Evangel students.

School Motto: The Greater yoU

Evangel University’s Accreditation

Evangel is accredited by several organizations. Most notably, The Higher Learning Commission, Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, National Association of Schools of Music and is a candidate for Accreditation of the Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Evangel’s Mascot

Evangel’s school mascot is named “The Crusader.”

National University Profile
San Diego

National University is a private, not-for-profit postsecondary educational institution and which has its main campus located in the city of San Diego, California. The school, which is commonly referred to as NU, is the second-largest private not-for-profit education provider based in the state of California, and the 12th largest in the United States. The school is headquartered in La Jolla, California and operates campuses in San Diego, California and the states of Georgia, Florida, Nevada and Virginia.

national university

National University was originally established in 1971 by David Chigos, who is a retired United States Navy lieutenant commander and a director of employee training for the General Dynamics Corporation which is located in San Diego. David Chigos saw the need for a school that provides education through the use of a non-traditional university educational format and which offers in-demand degree programs to serve better those who are working adults that wish to start a new career, to further their current professional careers or to just obtain higher education for personal reasons.


National University is separated into five different professional schools and one college: the College of Letters and Sciences, the School of Business and Management, the Sanford College of Education, the School of Engineering and Computing, the School of Health and Human Services and the School of Professional Studies. Through these schools and college, National University provides a solid foundation on which the many attending on which students can build a new career. Through the schools and college and the school’s online programs, National University offers more than 130 undergraduate and graduate degree-granting programs, as well as 23 teacher credential and certification programs. National University has been providing distance learning students with access to online programs since 1996, and currently offers more than 1,200 online courses in a fully asynchronous format.

The quality educational programs that are offered at National University are not the only draw that the school holds for many students, as the area surrounding National University’s main campus in San Diego also offers many sights and activities for attending students, such as:

Balboa Park:

Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre area which features many open space areas, natural vegetation areas, green belts, well-maintained gardens, walking paths, museums, theaters, recreational areas, gift shops, restaurants and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park attracts many visitors yearly and is a jewel of the city.

San Diego Zoo:

San Diego Zoo houses more than 3,700 animals in total, which represents more than 650 different species and subspecies. The zoo was a pioneer in the “open-air zoo” concept, which features cageless exhibits, better mimicking the animals natural habitats, and is one of the few zoos in the world to have successfully bred giant pandas.

SeaWorld San Diego:

SeaWorld San Diego is an aquatic creature theme park, featuring many rides, exhibits and educational and entertainment-centric animal shows. Some of the more popular animals on exhibit are the park’s killer whales, dolphins, mantas, and penguins. The park attracts more than 3.5 million visitors yearly.

Mission San Diego de Alcalá

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá was the first Franciscan (a religious group of people that adhere to the teachings and spiritual disciplines of Saint Francis of Assisi) mission in The Californias; a province of New Spain. The mission was the site of the first Christian burial in Alta California and is now a historical site of great importance to the area.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a state-protected historical park which commemorates the early days of San Diego, and which includes many different historic buildings from the years of 1820 to 1870. Many of the buildings now serve as museums and the area also features stores with local artisans showcasing their various crafts.

National University’s Online Degrees and Programs:

National University’s Online Education division offers more than 70 academic degree-granting and certificate-granting programs fully online. Some of the programs available for students to enroll in include:

Certificates:

Undergraduate:

Graduate:

What Makes the School Unique: Commitment to the Locally Based Military

national university - international

National University offers classes taught on military bases in the San Diego area and the Twentynine Palms area at a reduced price for qualified military personnel. These bases that the discounted classes are offered at are:

  • Naval Air Station North Island Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Naval Base Coronado Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Naval Base San Diego Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Naval Hospital Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Learning Center, Camp Pendleton;
  • Marine Corps Base Quantico (and indirectly all of the Marines based in Washington D.C.);
  • Marine Corps Recruit Depot Learning Center, San Diego;
  • Twentynine Palms Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Center Learning Center, Twentynine Palms, California and;
  • Fleet AntiSubmarine Warfare Training Center Learning Center, San Diego

Other School Facts:

Some of the most notable alumni of National University include:

  • Lloyd Bryan Molander Adams, the co-founder of Extreme Sports Channel;
  • Otto Guevara, Costa Rican legislator, and presidential candidate;
  • Brian Graham, former Major League Baseball coach for the Cleveland Indians;
  • Isadore Hall III, California state senator;
  • Lin Junq-tzer, Governor of the Taiwan Province and;
  • Weston Ochse, the author of Grunt Life, Age of Blood and Empire of Salt among others.

School’s Website: https://www.nu.edu/

School’s Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

School’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.nu.edu/OurUniversity/TheUniversity/OurMission.html

School’s Motto: Discendo Vivimus – “We Live Through Learning”

School’s Mascot: None

School’s Colors: Blue and Light Gray

Pennsylvania State University Profile
State College, PA

Also known as Penn State or PSU

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University, which is commonly referred to as Penn State or PSU, is located in State College, Pennsylvania.

PSU is a public, land-grant, sea-grant, space-grant, and sun-grant research university that has been classified by the Carnegie Foundation as being a Research University with a Very High Research Activity rating (RU/VHRU). In addition to being a highly research-intensive university, PSU is what is known as a “Public Ivy” (which is a public university that is capable of providing students with a comparably high-caliber education as the Ivy League schools do). It is also one of the largest universities in the United States based on student enrollment size, with more than 46,000 students enrolling at the school each year. From its humble beginnings in 1855, when what is now Pennsylvania State University was originally established as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania, Penn State has flourished and become a highly-reputable and renowned provider of a higher education.


In addition to Pennsylvania State University’s main campus in State College, the University also maintains 19 additional campus locations located throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including campuses in Abington; Logan Township; Monaca; Erie; Spring Township; Media; DuBois; Uniontown and York among others. The 19 Commonwealth campuses make up 38.9% of the university’s total undergraduate student population. Through these additional campuses, Penn State caton serve a significant portion of the communities of the state, and many of the online divisions of these campuses have majors that differ from the rest of the campuses, allowing for an even greater amount of academic flexibility for students enrolled in the university.

Pennsylvania State University Local Attractions

The area surrounding Penn State’s main campus have a lot to offer to attend students–including sights, cuisine, shops, events and more–which assist in making PSU a very desirable university to attend. Some of the things that the community offers to on-campus students include:

Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts:

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts (CPFA) is a five-day long Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition of locally and nationally produced art pieces. More than three hundred exhibitors yearly offer a wide variety of objects for sale, including woven art, ceramics, paintings, photography and jewelry.

Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks:

The Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks offer a one-hour interpretive tour of two different crystal caverns, Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks. A variety of rock and mineral formations are present in these two caves, such as crystals, stalactites, and flowstones, are present. Visitors to the caverns can also pan for real gems in a sluice, or can enjoy hiking along the existing nature trails and stop for a picnic at one of the many available picnic pavilions.

DelGrosso’s Park & Laguna Splash Water Park:

DelGrosso’s Park & Laguna Splash Water Park is a large water park located in nearby Tipton, Pennsylvania, which features numerous attractions and events, such as lazy river rides, a large wave pool, waterslides, a kid’s park and more. DelGrosso’s Park and Laguna Splash Water Park is a cool place to spend a summer vacation, or just to splash around in your free-time.

Online Degrees and Programs:

Pennsylvania State University offers a myriad of online undergraduate degree programs, graduate degree programs and professional certification programs for distance learning students to choose from, including:

Certificates:

Undergraduate Certificate in Adult Development and Aging Services
Undergraduate Certificate in Digital Arts
Undergraduate Certificate in ERP Certificate with SAP
Undergraduate Certificate in Earth Sustainability
Undergraduate Certificate in Financial Planning
Undergraduate Certificate in Information Sciences and Technology
Undergraduate Certificate in Labor Studies and Employment Relations
Undergraduate Certificate in Nanotechnology
Undergraduate Certificate in Nursing Forensics
Undergraduate Certificate in Children, Youth, and Family Services

Undergraduate Degrees:

Associate in Science in Business Administration
Associate in Science in Human Development and Family Studies
Associate in Science in Information Sciences and Technology
Associate in Science in Labor and Employment Relations
Associate in Arts in Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Bachelor of Arts in Advertising/Public Relations – Strategic Communications Option
Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management
Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health
Bachelor of Science in Business

Graduate Degrees

Master of Professional Accounting
Master of Professional Studies in Applied Demography
Master of Applied Statistics
Master of Professional Studies in Art Education
Master of Business Administration
Master of Professional Studies in Community and Economic Development
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Master of Professional Studies in Data Analytics
Master of Education in Earth Sciences
Doctor of Nursing Practice

What Makes the School Unique: Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON)

The Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) is a 46-hour dance marathon that takes place every year in February at the Pennsylvania State University campus in University Park, Pennsylvania with the sole purposes of raising money for and providing emotional support to the children and families who are affected by pediatric cancer. The dance marathon was originally started in 1973 and raised a total of $2,000. Today, THON is the largest student-run philanthropy event in the world by both involvement and revenue. More than 15,000 students get involved with the dance marathon each year, and the participating students use a rallying cry of “For the kids!” to help encourage donations. The money that is raised through this charity event is donated to The Four Diamonds Fund, which is a charity that is devoted to defeating pediatric cancer through extensive and cutting-edge research and through providing care for patients at the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. The Four Diamonds Fund uses 74% of funds raised by Penn State’s dance marathon for an experimental therapeutics fund, and 12% of funds raised are used to provide support to patients and their families.

Other School Facts:

Notable Pennsylvania State University alumni include:

  • Agha Shahid Ali: poet, namesake of the University of Utah’s coveted Agha Shahid Ali Poetry Prize;
  • Jean Craighead George: a Newbery Medal-winning children’s author;
  • Herman Fisher: co-founder of Fisher-Price toy company;
  • Richard T. James: inventor of the Slinky novelty toy and;
  • Keegan-Michael Key: actor, comedian, and the host of The Planet’s Funniest Animals on the Animal Planet channel.

Penn State’s Website: https://www.psu.edu/

PSU’s Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

School’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.psu.edu/this-is-penn-state/leadership-and-mission/mission-and-character

Penn State’s Motto: “Making Life Better”

PSU’s Mascot: Nittany Lion

PSU’s Colors: Blue and White

Stevens Institute of Technology Profile

Also known as SIT

Stevens Institute of Technology

Stevens Institute of Technology, which is commonly referred to simply as SIT, is a private, not-for-profit research university located in Hoboken, New Jersey, with a satellite campus located in Washington, D.C. SIT was originally established in the year 1870 by noted philanthropist Martha Bayard Stevens. SIT is one of the oldest technological universities located in the United States and was the first college in the United States that was solely dedicated to mechanical engineering. The university is home to three national Centers of Excellence as designated by the United States Department of Defense and the United States Department of Homeland Security. The University is comprised of four academic schools: the Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering and Science; the School of Systems and Enterprises; the School of Business and the College of Arts and Letters through which the University 29 undergraduate degree programs, 22 Ph.D. programs, 43 Master’s degree programs and 122 different professional certification programs to its more than 6,000 students. SIT has a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 13:1 which ensures that attending students can get the specialized attention that they might need thanks to the relatively smaller class sizes.

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SIT’s undergraduate students may elect to participate in the university’s cooperative education program–which combines classroom-based education with practical work experience–allowing them to gain roughly 18 months of verifiable and relevant work experience. The combination of SIT’s rigorous program coursework and the acquired real-world application allows 73% of students that participate in the program to finalize their career path before graduation and 95% of participating students obtaining their desired career outcomes within six months after graduation. The combination of the available cooperative education program and Stevens Institute of Technology’s rigorous, high-caliber degree programs ensure graduating students will have the skills and the knowledge necessary to be highly successful in their chosen career path. This makes SIT an excellent choice for any student looking for a university that will provide them the edge needed in today’s workforce.


SIT

Stevens Institute of Technology Local Attractions

Stevens Institute of Technology’s capabilities as a provider of a first-rate education is not the only positive thing students can look forward to when attending, as the city of Hoboken also has a lot to offer, including events, sights, activities, fine cuisine and an active nightlife. Some of the things to see and do in Hoboken include:

Sinatra Park:

Sinatra Park, which was built in 1998, honors Frank Sinatra who was born in Hoboken. Sinatra Park’s shape is designed in a Roman amphitheater style, and the Hoboken Division of Cultural Affairs regularly presents events at the park. There are Thursday concerts which feature a variety of New Jersey-based and regional musical acts and Shakespeare Mondays which is presented by the Hudson Shakespeare Company and is a part of their annual Shakespeare in the Park tour.

Hudson Shakespeare Company:

The Hudson Shakespeare Company, which puts on the annual Shakespeare in the Park tour, is a regional Shakespeare touring group which is based in Jersey City, New Jersey. What is interesting about them is that they often feature lesser-known Shakespeare works, such as The Two Noble Kinsmen and Timon of Athens. The play group also produces several modern day productions in non-theatrical venues, such as their courtroom-setting shows of Inherit the Wind and A Few Good Men which they put on in the Hoboken Municipal Courtroom.

Hoboken Arts and Music Festival:

The Hoboken Spring & Fall Arts and Music Festival presents annual artist and musical performances in Hoboken. The size of the event is ten blocks long, it hosts more than 400 vendor spaces, features three stages of live performances and includes a special section with activities for designed for children. The event attracts anywhere between 30,000 and 50,000 total visitors each year. Some of the past music headliners and performers have included: The Fountains of Wayne, Joan Jett, Patti Smith, John Eddie and Nancy Sinatra.

Online Degrees and Programs:

Stevens Institute of Technology offers to its distance learning students a selection of graduate degree-granting programs and professional certification programs to choose from, such as:

Certificates:

Acquisition and Management of Trusted Software Systems Graduate Certificate
Algorithmic Trading Strategies Graduate Certificate
Biomedical Engineering Graduate Certificate
Business Intelligence and Analytics Graduate Certificate
Business Process Management and Service Innovation Graduate Certificate

Graduate Degrees

Master’s Degree in Business Administration
Master’s Degree in Computer Engineering
Master’s Degree in Computer Science
Master’s Degree in Engineering Management
Master’s Degree in Enterprise & Cloud Computing
Master’s Degree in Enterprise Project Management
Master’s Degree in Financial Engineering
Master’s Degree in Information & Data Engineering
Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Master’s Degree in Space Systems Engineering

What Makes the School Unique: Ties to NASA

Stevens Institute of Technology is one of only a few institutions of higher education that is a recognized provider of Space Systems Engineering education to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) employees. The Master’s degree program in Space Systems Engineering offered through Stevens is taught in partnership with Teaching Science and Technology, Inc. (TSTI) and which is delivered by some of the most preeminent experts in the field of space systems. The Space Systems Engineering program is taught through the use of experiential learning techniques, which provides students with a more solid understanding of the subtle intricacies which are prevalent in the field, and allows them to have an edge in their career paths.

Other School Facts:

Stevens Institute of Technology is a member of the Empire 8 (E8) Conference, the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. The university’s athletic teams are called the Ducks, and their mascot is Attila the Duck. SIT’s various teams had collectively won 22 Empire 8 championships since 2007 when they switched to the conference, has been named ECAC Institution of the Year in 2008 and again in 2013; an honor that measures a combination of a school’s student’s athletic success and academic performance. Stevens is one of only three institutions of higher education to receive the ECAC Institution of the Year award more than once.

School’s Website: https://www.stevens.edu/

School’s Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

School’s Values and Mission Statement: https://www.stevens.edu/about-stevens/mission

School’s Motto: Per Aspera Ad Astra – “Through Adversity to the Stars”

School’s Mascot: Attila the Duck

School’s Colors: Stevens Red and Grey

University of North Dakota Profile

University of North Dakota is also known as UND

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota, which is commonly referred to simply as UND, is a public space-grant research university which is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and which was originally established in 1883, three years before North Dakota obtained statehood.

UND

UND was originally developed with the intent of being a flagship university with a strong liberal arts foundation, but has since grown into a prominent scientific research university, and has been classified by the Carnegie Foundation as being a Research University with a High Research rating (RU/H). It is considered to be one of the top academic and research institutions within the region. Several national research institutions are located on the university’s campus including the Energy and Environmental Research Center, the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center. This provides University of North Dakota’s students with a unique opportunity of being able to work with and to learn from the professionals of each of these research institutions, which allows them to gain a deeper understanding of their field they might not otherwise be able to achieve and–at the same time–allows them to expand their professional network by forging new contacts within the industry.


UND offers 90 undergraduate majors (and 73 undergraduate minors), 54 master’s degree programs and 27 doctoral degree programs. UND also offers to its students the choice of an interdisciplinary program, which allows them to obtain a degree in virtually any course of study. UND offers these academic programs through its 10 colleges, schools and divisions: the College of Arts and Sciences; the College of Business and Public Administration; the College of Education and Human Development; the College of Engineering and Mines; the College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines; the College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines; School of Medicine and Health Sciences; the School of Medicine and Health Sciences; the School of Law; the Graduate School; the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences and the Division of Continuing Education (which is UND’s online education division).

University of North Dakota Local Attractions

University of North Dakota isn’t the only destination that the area of Grand Forks has to offer, there’s plenty to do and see, such as:

The Empire Arts Center:

The Empire Arts Center is home to several cultural events throughout the year. The center was originally a movie theater that was built in 1919 and was restored after being damaged by the 1997 Red River Flood. It now includes performance spaces, a large movie screen, a gallery for art exhibits and workspaces for designed for artist utilization. The Empire Arts Center is located in historic downtown Grand Forks and is conveniently situated near many local shops, restaurants, and bars.

Greater Grand Forks Greenway:

The Greater Grand Forks Greenway is an expansive greenway–which is an area of undeveloped land that is located near an urban area and is set aside for recreational use or environmental protection–which is located in the twin cities of Grand Forks and East Grand Forksand. It is more than twice the size of New York City’s Central Park (2,200-acres compared to the latter’s 778-acres of space) and which provides visitors with 20-miles of pathways, observation area’s, a state campground, areas designated for fishing, gardens to observe and fields for various athletic activities.

North Dakota Museum of Art:

The North Dakota Museum of Art is the official art museum of the state of North Dakota and is conveniently located on UND’s campus. The museum doesn’t charge an admittance fee to visitors and includes three exhibition galleries, a cafe, and a gift shop. Permanent exhibits include works by Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons, Aganetha Dyck, Kiki Smith and Rena Effendi, and the museum also features rotating exhibits of works from various regional, national and international contemporary artists.

Online Degrees and Programs:

The University of North Dakota offers its distance learning students a selection of online and asynchronous undergraduate degree-granting programs, graduate degree-granting programs, and professional certification programs from which to choose. A small sampling of the available academic programs includes the following:

Certificates:

Autistic Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate
English Language Learner (ELL) Education Graduate Certificate
Geographic Information Science (GISc) Graduate Certificate
Health Administration Graduate Certificate
Instructional Design & Technology (IDT) Graduate Certificate

Undergraduate Degrees:

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Bachelor of General Studies
Bachelor of Art in Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Social Science

Graduate Degrees

Master of Education in English Language Learner (ELL) Education
Master’s Degree in Applied Economics
Master of Science in Aviation
Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA)
Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MPA)

What Makes the School Unique: Aviation and Aerospace Programs

The University of North Dakota offers one of the most comprehensive and renowned aerospace and aviation programs in the world. UND operates a satellite campus which consists of several buildings at the Grand Forks International Airport where the school’s aviation students obtain training, and UND Aerospace operates flight training centers in Crookston, Minnesota; and in Phoenix, Arizona. UND’s most well-known college is its John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, which is the very first to offer a degree in unmanned aircraft systems operations within the United States. In addition to the university’s degree programs and aviation training centers, UND also operates the Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium, a highly respected research center for aerospace and aviation technology.

Other School Facts:

UND owns and operates two public radio stations (both of which are managed by Prairie Public Radio) which are KUND and KFJM. KUND-FM rebroadcasts the Prairie Public radio network and the KFJM station broadcasts some Prairie Public and NPR programming, but also broadcasts locally produced programs. UND also operates two local cable television channels. One acts as an informational billboard and features a weekly student-produced news program by the name of Studio One. The second channel is a movie channel for the campus residence halls–called Residence Life Cinema–which UND separately licenses movies for airing.

Hockey, football, basketball and other athletics are a big part of University of North Dakota.

University of North Dakota’s Website: https://und.edu/

University of North Dakota’s Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

University of North Dakota’s Values and Mission Statement: https://und.edu/discover/mission-statement.cfm

UND’s Motto: Lux et Lex – “Light and Law”

University of North Dakota’s Mascot: Fighting Hawks

UND’s Colors: Green and White

Washington University in St. Louis Profile

Also known as WashU or WUSTL

washington university in st louis notable alumni

Originally established in 1853 as the Eliot Seminary (which was later renamed to Washington Institute in 1854 and was renamed again to its current title in 1856), Washington University in St. Louis is a private, not-for-profit research university which is located in St. Louis, Missouri. The school–which is commonly called WashU or WUSTL–consists of its main campus, the Washington University Medical Center (which itself is composed of the Barnes-Jewish Hospital; the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology; the Central Institute for the Deaf; the St. Louis Children’s Hospital; the Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis; the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center; the Center for Advanced Medicine and the Eric P. Newman Education Center), the North Campus, the West Campus and the Tyson Research Center. WashU is comprised of 11 different colleges and schools (the College of Arts & Sciences; the College of Art; the College of Architecture; the University College; the School of Engineering; the School of Law; the School of Medicine; the Olin Business School; the George Warren Brown School of Social Work; the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts and the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences). Through these, the University confers more than 4,000 total undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees yearly.

WashU and its faculty have received many accolades over the years. Of the school’s faculty, 9 are Pulitzer Prize recipients, 4 are Poet Laureates, 64 have received awards from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 49 from the National Academy of Sciences, 37 from the American Law Institute and 15 have been awarded the National Medal of Science. In addition, WashU was ranked as being the 2nd best school for social work in 2016 and was ranked as being the 6th most comprehensive medical school in 2016 by U.S. News and World Report, as having the 2nd best college dorms by The Princeton Review in 2016. Finally, as being the 5th best undergraduate business schools by Bloomberg Businessweek in 2015.

Washington University in St. Louis Local Attractions

The community of St. Louis is also a perfect reason for students to want to attend WashU, as there are many things to see, do and eat, such as:

Abbey of Saint Mary and Saint Louis:

Built in 1955, the Abbey of Saint Mary and Saint Louis, which is commonly called St. Louis Abbey, is an abbey of the Roman Catholic English Benedictine Congregation and is a paramount presence in the spiritual life of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. The monks of the Abbey live their faith according to the Benedictine discipline, praying in the Divine Office five times daily, celebrating Masses in both English and Latin and working in the Saint Louis Priory School, which the Abbey runs as an apostolate.

Gateway Arch:

The Gateway Arch is a 630-foot tall monument in St. Louis which is the centerpiece of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, and which was built to revitalize the city’s waterfront and to stimulate the city’s economy. Construction on the Gateway Arch started in 1963 and was completed in 1965. The Gateway Arch is the world’s tallest arch, the tallest manufactured monument located in the Western Hemisphere and the tallest accessible building in Missouri. Today, the Gateway Arch is the internationally famous symbol of the city of St. Louis and attracts numerous visitors each year.

Ted Drewes:

Ted Drewes is a very popular chain of frozen custard shops that was founded by Ted Drewes, Sr. in 1930. There are three locations of Ted Drewes in operation within the city–the Chippewa Street location (which is currently the flagship store), the South Grand Boulevard location, and the location at St. Louis Ballpark Village. Ted Drewes serves a popular confection known as “Concrete,” which is a frozen custard blended with a combination of ingredients served in a yellow cup with a spoon and straw, and is so thick that it will not fall out even if the cup is turned upside-down.

Online Degrees and Programs:

Washington University in St. Louis offers distance learning students a variety of undergraduate degree-granting programs (Bachelor of Science degrees), graduate degree-granting programs (Master of Arts degrees) and professional certification programs (both at the Undergraduate level and the Graduate level). The programs that are available in an online and asynchronous format are:

Certificates:

Certificate in Business
Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
Advanced Certificate in Human Resources Management
Advanced Certificate in International Affairs
Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Management

Undergraduate Degrees:

Bachelor of Science in Anthropology
Bachelor of Science in Communications
Bachelor of Science in Economics
Bachelor of Science in English
Bachelor of Science in Global Leadership and Management
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare
Bachelor of Science in History
Bachelor of Science in International Studies
Bachelor of Science in Journalism
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Graduate Degrees

Master of Arts in International Affairs
Master of Arts in Human Resources Management
Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management

In addition to these fully online Graduate degree programs, Washington University in St. Louis also offers a hybrid Master of Science in Biology program which is designed for science teachers. Students enrolled in this program are required to attend two 3-week long summer sessions on-campus order to be eligible for graduation.

What Makes the School Unique: Circumstances of Establishment

Washngton University

WashU was conceived by 17 local business, religious and political leaders who were concerned by the lack of universities in the Midwest. Missouri State Senator Wayman Crow and minister William Eliot–the grandfather of the lauded poet T.S. Eliot–led the effort to change this. Early on in the attempt to establish the school, William Eliot tried soliciting support from members of local businesses, but ultimately he failed to secure a permanent endowment for the school. Due to this failure, Washington University in St. Louis is a curious case among major universities in that it did not have an initial financial endowment; there was no backing by a religious organization, a wealthy patron or by the government. Despite not having received a permanent endowment from any source, the school still successfully opened in 1853.

Other School Facts:

In 1899, the university started a national design contest for its new campus. The nationally renowned Philadelphia-based firm Cope & Stewardson won by a landslide with its plan for a row of Collegiate Gothic quadrangles which were inspired by Oxford and Cambridge Universities. Construction on the new campus began in 1900, but the school delayed occupying these buildings until 1905 to accommodate for the 1904 World’s Fair and Olympics. This delay allowed the university to construct ten buildings in total instead of the seven which were originally planned.

Washington University in St. Louis’s Website: https://wustl.edu/

Washington University in St. Louis’s Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

WashU’s Values and Mission Statement: https://wustl.edu/about/mission-statement/

Washington University in St. Louis’s Motto: Per Veritatem Vis – “Strength Through Truth”

WashU’s Mascot: Bears

Washington University in St. Louis’s Colors: Red and Green