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  Course Review: BUS 222
Posted by: MISin08 - 01-14-2026, 08:11 PM - Forum: EU - Excelsior University Discussion - No Replies

A Review of Excelsior BUS 222 Business Communication Fall 2 2025

Bottom Line Up Front: Would I take the course again -- no, due to the group assignments, especially for the final (paper plus presentation) comprising 30% of the overall grade. I think I enrolled under a catalog that still accepts the equivalent SDC course, which I took early in 2025, but had not yet transferred in, and I needed to take something this term to stay enrolled. This is also the first course for which I have paid full tuition out of pocket in 30+ years and I hope it is the last time, at least as an undergrad. I've taken multiple courses from EU and this is the first I wasn't happy 'enough' with.
 
Good

  • Not your routine Business Communication course
  • Ties back to the Cornerstone regarding self mastery, so it is relevant, not just filler
  • I learned a lot
 
Bad
  • A lot of work for 3 sophomore level credits (though I admit I made more of it that I had to)
  • Discussions are tedious; in the 8-week term it's tough to really develop dialog, so the discussions become performative. No "introduce yourself" discussion, which I missed.
 
Ugly
  • Did I mention the group assignments?
 
Instructor: A. Au. I'll give her a B and say she did okay given the course materials. 
 
The textbook: Kiss, Bow, Shake Hands, Toni Morrison & Wayne Conaway. 
This is a well-regarded book for professionals seeking to do business in international contexts. Each country profile covers some brief country details, history, fun facts, followed by a comfortable cultural orientation section detailing how the given country's people think, feel and make decisions. Grounded in theory written in commonsense language. Hierarchical/not, cognitive style, top-down/ consensus, etc. It's not "academic" and anytime you want to go into any depth you'll need additional sources. I was nearly halfway through the course before I realized this is a feature, not a bug. This may be my greatest criticism -- the course tries to be experiential discovery-based and it misses the mark a bit. 
 
By "Not your routine Business Communication course" -- which usually covers fundamentals like "what is communication and why is it important in business?" and how to write a concise email -- I mean this is more like "cross-cultural communication in global business" with a manager/project manager focus. Since the average EU student is well over 24, this is appropriate.  
 
Typical Module:
Read 1 or more countries from the text
View 1 or 2 YouTube videos related to a theme such as openness and observation (Pellegrino Riccardi), or Geert Hofstede, the excellent Erin Meyer.
Read a web page or 2 supplemental
Write a discussion topic and at least 2 substantive replies to others on different days per module. Syllabus says fully APA but I got full point for merely listing references.
Write an assignment of 4 or more pages in APA, with 4 or more outside sources plus course materials. About 1250 words. 
 
The assignment prompts are tricky. In most, there's a "small" topic then a "big" topic after the "also". For example, "Discuss the business etiquette and practices of (the two countries in the week's reading). Also discuss the difference between ethnocentrism and ethnorelativism."
 
Getting 4 pages out of just the textbook concepts -- boring; ethnocentrism/relativism -- easy and fun but making the paper about both in a sensible way -- challenging. In one of the more fun and engaging papers I was able to put myself in the place of a new grad considering a job interview in South Korea and thereby comparing it to the US and two European countries via the fictional experiences of a younger person.
 
Other Work
The mid-course group assignment is a powerpoint based on a scenario where you're advising a US company about its upcoming business meeting with potential merger partners from Saudi Arabia. Staying within length limits the response to regurgitating the bare bones and not a real simulation. The textbook dating from 2006 is no longer accurate about conditions in Saudi Arabia.  It was in this same module that the materials revealed we're supposed to be treating the course as experiential learning, so needless to say I was perplexed. I got a good grade for my reflective journal discussing my recovery from this perplexity, so I guess that was a win. 
 
The final group assignment is a paper and powerpoint based on 3 countries the group selects, with reflections and discussion to show we understand and apply the concepts. I tried to get everyone on board for the effort with a detailed plan that would document everyone's participation to meet the assignment requirements, but 3 days went by before I could get people "on board" and it was the weekend before I got everyone's material. It turned out that the others were not clear on the assignment, and I received 12 pages of facts from the book recited in informal prose and passive voice, with little real thinking. I ended up writing the paper solo to save my own grade and we lost points as a group anyway. I uploaded the assignment with 2 hours to spare and felt like an idiot for letting myself be manipulated by the others into doing most of the work.

Further notes 
Entire module on remote work needed an update, as it's not 2022 anymore
Course treatment of gender brave, but needed more integration with course concepts 
Business communication course without discussion of generations?
I understand that it's a moving target but no discussion of AI at all?

Overall, the course deals with valuable subject matter and I got an A, but as noted at the top I would try to take something else in its place. I'm happy to answer any questions about it not covered here (within the constraints of academic integrity of course).

Phillip

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  TESU BSBA Operations Management
Posted by: Insert Name - 01-14-2026, 04:57 PM - Forum: Degree Planning Advice - No Replies

I posted this under TESU specific, but now I'm wondering if I should have put it here under Planning Advice. 
https://www.degreeforum.net/mybb/Thread-...k-this-map

In short, I'm trying to map a functional plan for a friend for this degree: TESU BSBA Operational Management, and am hoping someone can double check my work. Feel free to add suggestions or point out mistakes. 

I'm attaching a file. Let me know if there are issues. 


Some basics:
Your Location: California
Your Age: 46
What kind of degree do you want?: BSBA Operational Management
Current Regional Accredited Credits: 0


Current ACE, CLEP, or NCCRS Credits: 0


Any certifications or military experience? No
Budget: ?
Commitments: Making sure it's functional. Taking advice. 



Attached Files
.xlsx   TESU BSBA Operations Management MAP.xlsx (Size: 75.74 KB / Downloads: 13)
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  Can someone check this map?
Posted by: Insert Name - 01-14-2026, 04:17 PM - Forum: TESU - Thomas Edison State University Discussion - Replies (1)


.xlsx   TESU BSBA Operations Management MAP.xlsx (Size: 75.74 KB / Downloads: 7) Hey guys, 
It has been a minute since I have posted, but I was hoping you could help me out. 

A friend of mine asked me to see if I could map a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Operations Management from TESU, and I was hoping you guys could check to see if I missed anything or make any suggestions that might make it easier/quicker/cheaper/etc. 

Here is a link to the degree he is hoping for: https://www.tesu.edu/degrees-programs/ba...gement.php

I wrote it as if he would be starting from nothing, as his only post high school stuff is NA trade school. 

I'm attaching a spreadsheet that hopefully works, since I wrote it on Sheets and then downloaded it as Excel to be able to upload here.

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Question Double Major (cs + eco) At TESU, for a french guy ? Possible ?
Posted by: Phil9444 - 01-13-2026, 04:51 PM - Forum: TESU - Thomas Edison State University Discussion - Replies (6)

Hello everyone, I'm new to the forum and this is my very first post. 

Thank you for accepting me.

My name is Phil, I'm 26 years old, I only have a BAC (equivalent to finishing high school for you Americans), and I'm French.
Just a few days ago, I discovered the (very interesting) world of “Degree Hacking” through a YouTube video that was suggested to me (about WGU). 

I then asked Gemini a lot of questions, and he explained everything (or almost everything) to me... At least, I hope so.
However, I still have a few questions.

I would like to obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science at TESU. And I understand that it is possible to have a double “area of studies” (a double major) on the diploma.
I would like to combine computer science with economics, do you know if its possible ? Or computer science + maths ?

Of course, I have skills in both areas (especially computer science), and I have been coding for several years.
Do you know if these two combinations are available? 

I would also like to know if it is possible to have minors in addition to majors.

Next, I would like to know if you know any French people on the forum, so that I can contact them, or if you know any other French people who have been able to follow this path (because I feel like I'm the only one interested in TESU's offerings in France).

My ultimate goal (via the TESU bachelor's degree) is to be able to apply for the Georgia Tech online master's degree (in computer science): https://omscs.gatech.edu/about-omscs.

If you have any advice or suggestions for me, please don't hesitate to let me know. I would really appreciate it.

Best regards.

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Heart My experience with Newlane
Posted by: flan_eur - 01-13-2026, 11:00 AM - Forum: Graduate School Discussion - Replies (15)

I wanted to share a quick post about Newlane for anyone here considering them. I recently graduated with them, and the whole experience was honestly better than I expected.

One of the biggest advantages is the pricing model. Since Newlane is Nationally Accredited (DEAC), the value for what you pay is hard to beat. If you transfer in 90 credits like I did, the subscription caps at about 1500 dollars total. You still get the benefit of an accelerated path, but without the pressure of “finish as fast as possible or pay another term”. It takes a lot of stress out of the process.

The scholars were another highlight. Every interaction I had was supportive and down-to-earth. They don’t act like gatekeepers. Instead, it feels like they’re genuinely invested in helping you succeed. I was nervous about the degree hearings before I experienced one, but they’re absolutely nothing to be afraid of. No trick questions, no "gotcha" attitude. It’s more of a thoughtful conversation about what you’ve learned. If you did your job, you won't have any problem passing. 

Everything about the process was smooth and straightforward. Communication was clear, and there wasn’t any unnecessary bureaucracy. They were also generous with transferring credits, which made completing my degree far more manageable. Also, not only teachers, but the management is always there to support you. 

Also, for students that want to pursue the BA and also get an AA for free (same way that happens in UMPI if you complete a BA and then ask for an AA) you should note that in your application so you can make sure Newlane get the right agreements in place with you. 

Overall, graduating through Newlane was a positive and surprisingly enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for an affordable, accredited (nationally), flexible way to finish your degree, they’re definitely worth looking into, especially if you're into Liberal Arts education.

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  CS degree for research grad school ECE focus
Posted by: Miaki - 01-13-2026, 08:26 AM - Forum: General Education-Related Discussion - Replies (5)

Hi everyone

Location: Asia

Age: 26

Degree sought: Computer Science

I currently have 50ish RA credits from prior studies. These should mainly cover free electives, so electives aren’t a concern. I don’t have any ACE/CLEP/NCCRS credits yet. I can study at least 30 hours per week, and I’m hoping to finish the degree in a year if possible. Money isn’t the main constraint; time is. My long term goal is research focused graduate study "probably on campus" (MS/PhD) ideally in electrical and computer engineering or closely related areas.
KAUST is just one example of the level I’m aiming for, not the only target. I’m trying to be careful about how the transcript looks to research programs. I’ve read that relying too heavily on ACE credit can weaken applications, especially when strong graded evidence in math, CS, and engineering fundamentals is expected.

So I’m looking for advice on the best fast CS degree strategy that still looks solid for competitive research graduate admissions.
And also, is computer science a safe choice for this transition?

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  Leaving Walden - best PhD/DBA move?
Posted by: Celerity - 01-13-2026, 06:00 AM - Forum: Graduate School Discussion - Replies (2)

Hi everyone, I’m looking for opinions because I’m torn between a PhD, a DBA, and possibly an EdD. I work as a consultant and I’m mainly into research and business, but I also like education as a field even though I’m not a teacher. I already have an MBA from a regionally accredited school.

Walden situation
I also have doctoral credits from Walden (regionally accredited). I’ve even completed one term in the dissertation phase, but I just don’t want to continue at Walden. It’s not that I can’t do the work, I just don’t like how it’s been running and I’d rather finish somewhere else if my credits can move.

My timeline goal
I’m not kidding when I say I really want to be done. Ideally I want to finish one program (not two) in about 1.5 years if possible. Putting the workload aside, I’m mainly trying to understand what’s realistically possible based on program rules and sequencing.

Cumberlands (what I’m seeing so far)
I spoke with Cumberlands and it seems like if they accept the maximum (about half), I’d be left with around 33 credits for the PhD in Leadership Studies. The issue is their dissertation sequence appears to require multiple 16-week courses taken in order, so even with max transfer it looks like it would take more than 4 sessions/terms.

Alvernia (ABD idea)
Alvernia looks like it could be faster if the ABD transfer works, because it sounds like only 18 credits might be needed if you’re already at the ABD/dissertation stage. I’m not sure how strict their ABD review is, but on paper it seems shorter.

Baker vs Acacia (UAthena)
I’m also considering Baker vs Acacia (through UAthena) and I’m confused about what’s realistic. Is one typically quicker than the other? I keep seeing things like “ABD at Baker” and “up to 75% transfer at Acacia,” but I don’t know how that works in real life, especially coming in with Walden doctoral credits and having started dissertation.

Lincoln University (Malaysia)
I’m also curious about Lincoln University in Malaysia and whether that PhD is generally seen as legitimate and respected in the U.S. for work/consulting and possibly teaching later.

RA vs NA
I’d appreciate thoughts on whether it’s better to stick with regionally accredited options versus nationally accredited ones for the long term.

Career + budget constraints
A promotion at my current company would be about a 40% increase if I finish a DBA and/or PhD, so I’m trying to be practical and pick something that will be recognized. My budget goal is ideally under $15k total (or at least under $15k per program). I’m also a military dependent, but I can’t use Chapter 35 or other federal benefits, so the only help I’m looking for is any tuition-rate discount for dependents if a school offers it.

—————-
Given my Walden credits and dissertation start, which route makes the most sense if I’m trying to balance legitimacy, cost, speed to finish, and transfer credit acceptance?

I also have doctoral credits from Walden (regionally accredited), but I can’t afford Walden anymore, so I’m trying to move to another program and use as many of my credits as possible. I’m trying to figure out what makes the most sense for someone like me who wants the doctorate for credibility and research skills, and maybe teaching later.

I’m considering Baker vs Acacia (through UAthena) and I’m confused about what’s realistic. Is one typically quicker than the other? I keep seeing things like “ABD at Baker” and “up to 75% transfer at Acacia,” but I don’t know how that works in real life, especially coming in with Walden doctoral credits.

I’m also curious about Lincoln University in Malaysia and whether that PhD is generally seen as legitimate and respected in the U.S. for work/consulting and possibly teaching later.

Any thoughts on which route makes the most sense if I’m trying to balance legitimacy, cost, time to finish, and transfer credit acceptance?

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  UMPI YourPace Business Subfield Graduate Certificates and More
Posted by: Jonathan Whatley - 01-12-2026, 08:40 PM - Forum: UMPI - University of Maine at Presque Isle Discussion - Replies (1)

The YourPace graduate application form is now taking applications for graduate certificates in each of the subjects currently offered as an 18 semester hour concentration in the UMPI Master of Science in Business: Communication, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management. It would be surprising if they don’t continue this pattern with future MSB concentration subjects also available in freestanding graduate certificates.

Also new on that form, a University of Maine at Farmington graduate certificate in AI in Education. New on the YourPace undergraduate application form, a UMPI undergraduate certificate in Drug Intervention & Policy.

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  Are graded Post Tests 'open book' or not?
Posted by: futbolista89 - 01-12-2026, 05:48 PM - Forum: General "Big 3", B&M colleges, and other colleges - Replies (2)

Hi everyone, I just took my first posttest at ETAMU for the ORGL program, and I am confused as far as being able to use course material during these graded posttests.

The multiple choice questions are pretty straightforward but then I reached the 2 open ended questions, and they were incredibly specific to two reading, and were impossible to answer without referencing the reading material within the course. 

The syllabus is somewhat vague, it doesn't say we can't use course material or outside sources , it just says we can't copy/paste, plagiarize etc.

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  UoPeople degrees not accepted in Belgium
Posted by: question - 01-12-2026, 01:23 PM - Forum: UoPeople - University of the People Discussion - Replies (35)

Dear [name removed]

It is not possible for us to start the evaluation process of your application for the following reason(s):

Unfortunately, you do not meet our admission criteria. Our university doesn't recognize degrees from University of the People. Your application is hence not accepted.

If you have questions, please contact us only through our helpdesk.

Kind regards, University of Antwerp

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