College Choice

[breif24]

Hi All!
I have been floating around these forums for a few months now, and a couple of reasons is the great advice given and the CLEP Tests, something new to me. I'm in my late 30's and attended a local community college for the last 2 semesters. My work and home schedule like many is very hectic, so I decided to try online college. I'm registered at Empire State College. I had asked my Mentor about CLEP and at first she didn't know what it was, but got back to me and said they do accept these tests. My Mentor explained that I need to have all the CLEP exams before my degree plan is finalized and submitted to the committee for approval. She explained that once my degree plan is set this cannot be changed. I really don't understand why I cannot take CLEP after my degree plan is set to meet the requirements. After reading these forums I'm considering switching colleges. I am seeking a BS in Business Mgmt. with a concentration in Labor Relations. I have read up somewhat on EC so far. The cost for Empire in-State is $207 per credit as opposed to EC $315. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

[Lindagerr]

But I would really question an advisor that didn't know what a CLEP was, also not being able to change your degree plan seems constricting.

I am enrolled at TESC and I can not tell you how many times I have changed or tweaked my degree plan.

Good luck and welcome to the forum

[alleycat]

But I would really question an advisor that didn't know what a CLEP was, also not being able to change your degree plan seems constricting.

I am enrolled at TESC and I can not tell you how many times I have changed or tweaked my degree plan.

Good luck and welcome to the forum

I second Linda thoughts about an advisor that is not aware of credit by exam, and the fact that you can not change your degree plan once it is made. Degree change all the time. People change their majors all the time. Classes get cancelled and another class has to be found. Just like life things change all the time.

Good Luck

[breif24]

That is what is getting me nervous, being that I'm just recently finding out about CLEP. This advisor also sits on the student degree planning board! Not only would this be constricting if I wanted to change my plan, but not being able to take any CLEP tests once my degree plan is final seems extreme. So as I said I'm seeking a BS in Business Mgmt. with a concentration in Labor Relations, but also while taking CLEP tests to expedite the process, and also cost, the fastest way possible. Suggestions Please.

[CLEP101]

That is what is getting me nervous, being that I'm just recently finding out about CLEP. This advisor also sits on the student degree planning board! Not only would this be constricting if I wanted to change my plan, but not being able to take any CLEP tests once my degree plan is final seems extreme. So as I said I'm seeking a BS in Business Mgmt. with a concentration in Labor Relations, but also while taking CLEP tests to expedite the process, and also cost, the fastest way possible. Suggestions Please.

I think what you are trying to say is that you want to change schools. Being locked into one degree plan without being able deviate from it to finish faster seems too constricting. If I were you, (but its up to you), switch to Thomas Edison or Excelsior. They are very very flexible and will take in as many CLEPs, DSSTs, ECEs, TECEPs you can throw at them as long as they apply to your degree or as electives.

[skyfall123]

I have nothing but good to say about Excelsior, their team of advisors and the flexibility of testing out of nearly all of their business degree requirements. Since you are in NY, I would also check out this program
Online B.S. in Business which I believe will transfer in 90 credits, including CLEP's DSST, etc...

[tvelasquez]

I believe you already know the answer, and just looking for confirmation.

Sounds like Empire State College is not the right fit for you. The traditional B&M colleges usually don’t work very well for those with a busy and hectic work schedule.

With one of the big 3 Colleges you have plenty of options (Thomas Edison, Charter Oak and Excelsior), with any of these you can test out of many of your required courses for less than $100 for 3 credit hours using DSST and CLEP exams. You could also take classes at other accredited colleges and have them transferred. The choices are endless.

I’m currently attending Excelsior and just 2 courses away from graduating and have yet to spend $315 a credit hours for a class. Instead I have opted for their exams (5 total) for less than $250 for 3 UL credits, which is also another option. You can also find plenty of degree plans on this site for any of the big 3 just search for degree plan and see all the choices available.


– Good luck in your search.

[breif24]

Thanks so far everyone, I'm receiving excellent advice from these forums! EC looks good so far, I'm looking into Thomas Edison and Charter Oaks now also. Should I enroll into one of these Colleges before starting the CLEP tests?

I think what you are trying to say is that you want to change schools. Being locked into one degree plan without being able deviate from it to finish faster seems too constricting.

YES, Thank You!

Bob

[P00057870]

Friendly reminder -- make sure to check out if the schools have residence requirements that may affect the cost.

[breif24]

I have been viewing TESC degree programs and all I can say is WOW! I am amazed on how diverse their programs are. The cost is also very reasonable also at $180 per credit for out-of-state residents. I can't wait to talk to them asap!