New to the process, looking for advice

Discussion in 'CLEP, DANTES, and Other Exams for Credit' started by PlayItAgainMike, Jan 1, 2015.

Loading...
  1. PlayItAgainMike

    PlayItAgainMike New Member

    Hello community!

    I'm sure there are a ton of these "new person" threads out there already, so I apologize in advance for any duplications. But I can't find recent information on my situation, and it seems the nature of this process changes somewhat frequently.

    I'm seeking advice on the best (read: most cost effective) way to achieve my goal. Understand my goal is somewhat flexible, but at the end of the road I'd like to have a degree in Business Administration (unless I find a more applicable degree for my career goals). I've worked in many aspects of fabrication for over a decade, and I'd like to move into management. I'm having trouble opening some potential doors, and I believe it is because my resume lacks a degree.

    From my research thus far, I believe an A.A.S. in Business Administration from TESC best meets my goals of time management and career advancement. From what I've read, CLEP tests appear to be the most affordable way to get there. I'd like to start this month. I understand that I need to register (and pay) for the test, and schedule a time with (and pay) a test center.

    Here come the questions:
    1. Does this sound like a viable option, or has something changed that won't allow me to achieve my goal in this way? I'd hate to start taking the tests only to realize later that they won't help me.

    2. It seems better to me (for my situation) to take the tests without enrolling at TESC until later. Realistically, I expect the process to take me 18-24 months. I think, rather than paying any fee to enroll up front, it would be better to pass as many tests as possible and later enroll and pay the transcript fee to have my scores reported. Am I mistaken with this train of thought?

    3. As I understand, I will have to take some type of coursework through TESC to complete a degree. But I think it is minimal. I assume whatever I will need to take is available online. Can anyone speak to the costs associated with doing this (based, of course, on current prices)?


    I'm sorry for the long winded first post. Thanks to all who took the time from your day to read and/or respond!
     
  2. potpourri

    potpourri New Member

    You have much right. But there are some changes that are going on with Thomas Edison State College which is seeking approval to change to a University. There may be some slight changes as a result of this.

    You can do CLEP but be reasonable. These aren't always easy to pass and depending upon the subject matter it can be easier said than done. In discussing this with the academic team we advise the following:

    1. Register for a couple of the exams and try them out. Make sure to get sufficient material such as texts, and other material to strive to master the subject that you wish to pass.
    2. See if you can utilize any programs that you can take a class online or at a local community college as this will help you to try to make more headway with credits. You may wish to register for a couple classes or take some courses at night, etc.
    3. Be patient and don't get hard on yourself. This is going to take sometime but do make a plan.
    4. Contact Thomas Edison State College to see if they expect any new changes in the works.
    5. Make sure to brush up on any deficiencies such as reading, writing, etc.
    6. Find a place to study privately and without interruption.

    Now come check back in 6 months for your regular follow up appointment. Hope this helps.
     
  3. GoodYellowDogs

    GoodYellowDogs New Member

    The requirements for a degree aren't "locked in" until you enroll. Then you are under that year's catalog, not matter what changes the school makes. You may be shooting to meet degree requirements while unenrolled, but find that when you enroll they have changed.

    My advice is to enroll, get your degree plan worked out, and then move steadily towards the degree. The other thing is that being enrolled puts pressure on you to get it done!

    Just my two cents.
     
  4. GoodYellowDogs

    GoodYellowDogs New Member

    Also, don't forget you can do DSSTs in addition to CLEPs.
     
  5. sanantone

    sanantone Well-Known Member

    You don't need to take any courses at TESC for the ASBA. The cheapest way to complete this degree is to do it under the Per Credit Tuition Plan and use TECEPs (or PLAs but these are time-consuming) to meet residency requirements. There is a 12-credit residency requirement for associate's degrees under this tuition plan.

    Also, under this tuition plan, I wouldn't advise you to wait to enroll because there is no enrollment fee. Once you sign up for a TECEP, portfolio assessment, e-Pack, or online/guided study courses, you will be enrolled. All one has to do to stay enrolled is take a TECEP, complete a portfolio, or take a course/e-Pack every rolling 12 months. TECEPs are only $111 each. When you enroll, you lock in your degree plan under the current catalog. When you wait to enroll and start earning credits based on current requirements, the requirements can change on you in later academic years. You will also have access to advisors and will get more detailed answers from the registrar as an enrolled student.

    The difficulty of CLEP, DSST, and other tests depends on your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. I believe for most people that most of the business tests are fairly easy. Tests like marketing, management, and supervision are almost common sense. If you have years of business experience, they will be easier. The more difficult tests will be in finance and accounting. Some people prefer taking courses and Straighterline and Penn Foster's ACE-approved courses tend to be cheaper than (other) college courses.

    Bare Bones Plans for Quick, Cheap Associates Degrees at TESC (Beats COSC and EC) - Page 2
     

Share This Page