As I remember it, there were orignally just a few RA distance programs for all of us to consider at the doctoral level. They were Walden, Union, Nova, Saybrook, and Fielding. I notice that other than Union, these schools do not come up much for discussion in this group. Just cuirous why?
Probably ought to include Argosy in that bunch (as the Univesity of Sarasota). It is discussed quite frequently. Walden is pretty traditional in design, as is Capella. Both contain a very structured curriculum; their nontraditionality comes from their delivery systems and short residencies. Fielding is very small and narrowly focused. Nova Southeastern, accredited before them all, gets discussed a lot. A lot of it has to do with the people here and their experiences. I'm a Union student, and I post a lot. Steve is a Union grad, PaulC is a Capella grad, Andy Borchers took his DBA at Nova, etc. We also have people who've attended Northcentral and Touro, plus some overseas schools. I don't recall a Fielding student or graduate ever posting, but I could be mistaken.
Rich makes an excellent point about students or graduates who post about their experiences. It's good to hear first-hand accounts of their academic journeys. If I recall correctly, Barry Foster earned his PhD from Fielding and Russ Blahetka is currently in ABD status at Sarasota/Argosy according to his website. By the way, I have communicated off-line with some of the doctoral students or graduates who post in this forum, and each time the person contacted gave thoughtful feedback in response to my questions. There are many friendly, helpful people in this group, and I appreciate their kindness.
I would also add the California Institute of Integral Studies and the Pacifica Graduate Institute to the list although I recognize that their narrow focus (psychology/humanities) results in limited appeal. Also, I agree with Rich's statement above and would only add that some schools have internet student forums that you can access and ask your questions. I'll admit that I've been a bit surprised that more students from these schools haven't posted to degreeinfo. Could it be that they're too busy studying? Nhaaaa! There's always room for degreeinfo! Jack
Barry Foster who graduated from Fielding used to post here. John Wetsch also received his Ph.D from Nova. Also, I have submitted my final dissertation report to my committee at Nova. I hope to hear from them soon.
Thanks for the replies. I was just curious. I am currently supporting staff who are attending Argosy, Walden and will be supporting a couple fo staff at Nova in the fall. I like to keep an open mind on the RA distance programs and alternative programs as a way of supporting my employees, while still increasing their abilities for our clients.
