UMass to WGU for BSIT, a step down?

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by Ralphus, May 16, 2010.

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  1. Ralphus

    Ralphus New Member

    Considering going from University of Massachusetts to Western Governors University to finish out my degree. I have ~80 credits.

    I have two reasons for doing so. First, I have been in the UMass program for quite some time, but there are certain classes that make things due on particular days which kills me (i.e. must take test on Wednesday, but I do all my work on weekends).

    Secondly is cost, my loan value is becoming quite inflated due to the cost of credits. At this point in my life, I can pay for WGU with my own money.

    How big of a step down am I taking to go self-paced?

    I originally selected UMass to go to a reputable state school, and I have done 2/3 of my degree there. However, after around 5 years I am tired of the slog and withdrawing classes ready to get a degree and move on.
     
  2. bazonkers

    bazonkers New Member

    I won't lie, graduating from UMass would look better in a resume than WGU. That said, a degree from WGU looks better than no degree at all.
     
  3. mrtito02

    mrtito02 New Member

    One of the other "nice" things about the B.S. programs at WGU is that they incorporate certifications that are built-into the program. So instead of just walking out with a degree, you'll also have several certs under your belt such as: A+, Net+, Project+, MCITP, etc. Tuition at WGU also is very affordable...so that never hurts either!
     
  4. japhy4529

    japhy4529 House Bassist

    Here's a suggestion: Complete a general BA degree (cannot be a BS degree) with any regionally accredited school (Excelsior, COSC, WGU, etc.). Next, go back to UMass to complete their Second BS in IT program. It's only 10 courses and all of them are available online.

    Best of luck,
     
    Last edited by a moderator: May 17, 2010
  5. Maniac Craniac

    Maniac Craniac Moderator Staff Member

    Would UMass accept transfer credits from currently enrolled students? Since it sounds like primarily a money issue, you could try transfering in some of WGUs classes- or some from other schools with your required courses. In fact, you might even want to look into getting credit from exams like CLEP, DSST, ECE, etc. which will save you time as well as money.

    Many (I believe most, if not all) colleges WILL allow you to add external credits while you are a current student, but there may be some sort of limitation. For example, my future school, Columbia College, requires 24 of your last 36 credits to be with them, but the rest can be transfered. For me, I am not even enrolling with them untill I reach the absolute limit for transfer credit because all of my transfer credit will be less expensive than their classes.
     
  6. tomahawkeer

    tomahawkeer New Member

    If you decide to do this please let me know. Its very possible that im going to be starting at WGU in July, and curious as to how many of thier "competency units" will transfer to a traditional universtiy credit system.
     
  7. tomahawkeer

    tomahawkeer New Member

    If you happen to do this please let me know. I would be interested to see how WGU's "Competency Units" would transfer to a traditional credits system. I am currently considering attending WGU, and would love to know.
     
  8. Ralphus

    Ralphus New Member

    This is a good idea, I may pursue this route. :cool:
    I do agree with Mr. Tito and Bazonkers, pluses and minuses in both scenarios. Really, I'm in Oil and Gas now not IT, so I'm not sure how much the IT certs will help.
    Maniac, I did check on bringing in transfer credits, but UMass will not accept them once in their program.

    Thanks for your help guys, waiting for some action out of WGU other than automated emails. The counselor set up an appointment with me then broke it by promptly going on vacation... bad sign...
     
    Last edited by a moderator: May 17, 2010
  9. bazonkers

    bazonkers New Member

    Wow, that's a really interesting program. Thanks for posting that.
     

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