Northern Arizona University Launches Competency-Based Online Degree Program

[SDO]

Since WGU is so popular here, I thought you might like to know about NAU's new program. It's similar to WGU, but cheaper.

In a nutshell:
A six-month subscription is $2,500. You can complete as many courses as you can in that six months.
No application, program, book, course or lab fees.
No required texts--all course materials are included and available online.
They accept CLEP, DSST, and ACE.
No semesters. You can start at any time.
You can transfer in credits from other colleges/universities.
Three degrees offered: BA in Computer Information Technology, BA in Liberal Arts, and BA in Small Business Administration
It is regionally accredited.

NAU | Personalized Learning | Frequently Asked Questions

[rebel100]

Nice! Regionally accreditit? Good to see others validating this route by entering this market.

[SDO]

oops. error

[rebel100]

Reading through the FAQ, itappears the credit earned might be easier to transfer out that thex"comp units" offered by WGU. This is an interesting offering.

[chasm636]

I'm not seeing how many transfer credits they accept in total, just that they accept 64 CC credits. Does anyone know how many they'll take in total?

[taylor]

I'm not seeing how many transfer credits they accept in total, just that they accept 64 CC credits. Does anyone know how many they'll take in total?

I'm interested too. I wouldn't mind getting a second bachelors for $2,500 (6 months) if that's possible from a B&M.

[publius2k4]

I'm interested too. I wouldn't mind getting a second bachelors for $2,500 (6 months) if that's possible from a B&M.

I downloaded the information packed. It states "A previous bachelor’s degree fulfills all Liberal Studies, Diversity, and Minor requirements for a Personalized Learning degree."

Most definitely might be worth looking into!

[publius2k4]

The information packet also states this: "Prior learning in an academic environment, not life experience, is the basis for awarding transfer credit. You may be awarded no more than 35 credit hours using methods recommended by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) and the American Council on Education (ACE)."


Only 35 ACE credits

This program was modeled heavily on WGU's program.
It was started with a $1mil Grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
3 degree offerings right now. Liberal Arts, Computer Information Systems, and Small Business Administration (All Bach of Arts).

Only major question I have about this program is what about financial aid? I have looked through the packet, the FAQ's, and the "affordability" section, and I have yet to see anything about financial aid.

[taylor]

I know ALEKS is ACE but what are FEMA credits categorized as? Do you think those are transferrable? I did email NAU questions about a 2nd bachelors. Will let you know what they say once I get a reply.

[rebel100]

I'd be shocked if they take FEMA...to much to even hope for!