Excelsior College Online: Your Path to Flexible Higher Education

What Is Excelsior College Online?

Excelsior College Online stands as a regionally accredited, not-for-profit distance learning institution founded in 1971. Initially established as Regents External Degree Program, the institution has evolved into a comprehensive online college catering specifically to adult learners and those with prior learning experiences.

The college operates under the philosophy that higher education should be accessible regardless of where students are in their life journey. With its headquarters in Albany, New York, Excelsior has pioneered distance education long before online learning became mainstream, making it one of the most experienced providers in the digital education space.

How Excelsior College Online Works

The Excelsior approach centers on flexibility and credit maximization. Students can transfer credits from previous college coursework, military training, professional certifications, and other validated learning experiences. This credit aggregation model allows students to build upon existing knowledge rather than starting from scratch.

Course delivery happens through an intuitive learning management system where students access multimedia lectures, reading materials, discussion forums, and assignments. The asynchronous format means learners can study according to their own schedule without mandatory login times, though deadlines for assignments still apply to maintain academic progress.

Academic support comes through dedicated advisors who help navigate degree requirements and create personalized degree completion plans. Faculty members, experienced in both their academic fields and online teaching methodologies, guide students through course material and provide feedback on assignments.

Excelsior College Online Program Comparison

Excelsior offers diverse program options across several academic schools. Below is a comparison of their main program areas and how they compare to similar online institutions:

Unlike some competitors, Excelsior College places particular emphasis on credit for prior learning and competency-based assessment options. Their nursing program specifically has a unique model that allows practicing nurses to validate their knowledge through examinations rather than traditional coursework in many cases.

Benefits and Limitations of Excelsior College Online

Key Benefits:

• Generous credit transfer policies that recognize prior learning
• No residency requirements, meaning the entire degree can be completed remotely
• Regional accreditation, ensuring credits are widely recognized
• Self-paced options in many programs
• Multiple start dates throughout the year

Notable Limitations:

• Limited doctoral program offerings compared to institutions like Capella University
• Some programs require proctored examinations
• Less name recognition than some larger online universities
• Some specialized accreditations may be missing for certain professional fields
• Self-directed learning model may not suit students who prefer more structure

Students considering Excelsior should carefully evaluate their learning style and career goals. Those who thrive with independent study and have significant prior learning experiences often find the greatest value in Excelsior's model, while those seeking more structured environments might prefer alternatives like Liberty University Online.

Tuition and Financial Considerations

Excelsior College Online employs a tuition model that varies by program but generally follows a per-credit structure. For undergraduate programs, costs typically range between $360-$510 per credit hour depending on the program, while graduate programs command higher rates. Beyond tuition, students should account for technology fees, course materials, and potential examination costs.

Financial aid options include:

• Federal financial aid (for eligible students)
• Military and veteran benefits
• Employer tuition assistance programs
• Institutional scholarships
• Monthly payment plans

When comparing costs with other online institutions, Excelsior often proves competitive, especially when considering their credit transfer policies that can significantly reduce the number of courses needed. However, students should conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis against alternatives like Thomas Edison State University and Champlain College Online, particularly examining total degree completion costs rather than just per-credit rates.

Conclusion

Excelsior College Online represents a viable pathway for working adults seeking flexible degree completion options. Its strength lies in recognizing diverse learning experiences and providing accessible education regardless of geographic location. While not suitable for every learner, those with prior college credits, military training, or professional certifications who value self-directed study will find Excelsior's model particularly advantageous. Prospective students should carefully evaluate their educational goals, learning preferences, and financial considerations before enrolling, potentially consulting with an admissions advisor to determine if Excelsior's approach aligns with their unique circumstances.

Citations

• https://www.excelsior.edu
• https://www.wgu.edu
• https://www.umgc.edu
• https://www.snhu.edu
• https://www.phoenix.edu
• https://www.capella.edu
• https://www.liberty.edu
• https://www.tesu.edu
• https://www.champlain.edu

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.