new poster questions about what to take

[scryedrulz]

Hi everyone! I've been trolling the site for a while and have gathered a bit of info. I am looking into a liberal arts degree (bachelors) from either Excelsior or TESC. So far I knocked out Aleks trig,beg algebra, and college algebra. Next is stats, my question is which would be a better option Excelsior or TESC? I am planning on doing straighterline and possibly Fema. Of course, I will do some CLEP testing as well I am just trying to get it all figured out. I am hoping to do more philosophy based studies as well(religion and things of that nature). So, I am curious as to what the best option for me would be. Obviously I need upper level credits as well and you guys seem to be great so any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Lindagerr]

I don't know about Excelsior but TESC will not take ALEKS beginning Algebra for credit, they used to but that stopped long ago. As far as which is a best option it depends on where you live (TESC has in-state discounts) and what credits will cost. I am fairly sure Excelsior makes you have FEMA credits put on to the transcript from another school before they will take them, this could cost as much as $60/credit. TESC takes FEMA credits from them directly so it is free. (Do make sure you have the latest list of FEMA courses they give credit for) TESC now requires a Capstone for almost all degrees so you have to add that cost. TESC is also changing there requirements in general Ed electives (I think) tomorrow so things will change then. I know Excelsior requires some classes be taken through them but I am not sure how many.

What you need is someone who has studied the new TESC requirements, knows TESC policy and also knows Excelsior requirements and policy, that may be a tall order until we all get a grasp on these new TESC changes.

[rebel100]

The FEMA are free at TESC and COSC....at EC they run $78 per credit as they must be cycled through Frederick CC before EC will take them.

I would look at TESC and COSC more closely. If you are simply looking for a "general studies" type degree COSC can be considerably cheaper than TESC. TESC really shines when your going after a specific degree like Nuclear Science or Airplane Mechanics....TESC will however give a few more exams UL status, like CLEP Marketing and Management.

[scryedrulz]

Thanks for the advice everyone! TESC's new program is very interesting, so I will look more into it! After I knock out statistics I will be knocking out int algebra and then anymore classes I have time for. Might as well add them even if they duplicate, since I'm paying for a month anyways. I will keep you all posted and thanks again!

[rebel100]

As a math phobe I have nothing but respect for anyone who can bust out multiple ALEKS in a month.

[scryedrulz]

Trust me I don't enjoy it lol I hate math with a passion! I figure I'll get it done and won't have to deal with it anymore. I can do it if I have to, but I prefer not to if it can be avoided.