I left college over 5 years ago to test out the computer industry before wasting time studying for a degree i wasn't interested in pursuing (i had already done that w/ math and it really screwed up my GPA but i digress). I've got over 90 units at 1.99-2.00 GPA and I want to get an accredited degree. I'm not concerned so much with gaining work-related knowledge but having ANY degree is a requirement for many higher-level tech & mgmt positions and i really want to have that extra boost on my resume. I've considered something like COSC's vanilla BS degree but i'm completely unfamiliar with whats out there as far as credit by exam and life experience credit. any insight or personal experience would be greatly appreciated.
Visit the College Board's site for information on CLEP tests, the Chauncey Group's site for information on Dantes tests, and the Educational Testing Service site for information on GRE subject exams. Excelsior College exam information can be downloaded here. ------------------ Bill Gossett
See http://distancelearn.about.com/cs/creditalternative/index.htm for links to information on credit for prior learning and links to several specific school policies, including the "big three" -- Excelsior College, Thomas Edison State College and Charter Oak State College. If you've got some certifications, Excelsior might be an especially good choice. ------------------ Kristin Evenson Hirst DistanceLearn.About.com
I think John Bear had a story posted at degree.net about a man who got his Bachelor's degree in one year from Regent's. He mainly used examinations to build up his credits. Perhaps if John reads this he can put up a link to the story.
Some thoughts: 1. This is very doable and very smart, provided that you choose a school that's regionally accredited. 2. COSC is regionally accredited, and a very good choice. 3. I earned my own B.A. from what is now Excelsior College, almost entirely through examination (114 out of 123 sh). If you have a background in the computer industry, you might check out Excelsior's IT degree program, which gives credit for (among other things) MCSE certification. 4. You might also look into Governor's State University and Thomas Edison State College. Both are regionally accredited. 5. If you're female and over 23, add Judson College to that list. 6. If you really want to specialize, consider the computer-related B.Sc. programs offered inexpensively, and in an entirely examination-based format, by the venerable University of London. Like most British bachelor's programs, they're highly specialized and do not require you to complete coursework that is not directly related to your major. 7. Good luck. Peace, ------------------ Tom Head www.tomhead.net
