Updated Big 3 Comparison

[motuterry]

People generally like the names Charter Oak State College or Thomas Edison State College more than Excelsior because they sound like something a legitimate college would sound like. Excelsior just sounds kinda fake (Other peoples' words and opinions, not mine… well, yeah mine too if I wanted to be picky, but who cares – it IS legit).

Good post with excellent information.
People on this site have from time to time noted their preferences regarding the names of the big three, however I do have an issue with the suggestion that the Excelsior sounds fake. In New York State, “Excelsior” is found on the State emblem. The word “Excelsior” means “higher” or “ever upward”. Excelsior College is fairly well-known and respected in New York State. In fact many State and government employees have earned credits through this institution. The diploma degree reads "Excelsior College, member of the University of the State of New York."
Dr. Bear in his book titled Earning Degrees by Distance Learning, included a chapter detailing degree mills. It appears that including the word “State” or adding the name of a president is thought to give these diploma mills a ring of legitimacy. For example Addison State University, Columbia State University, Dallas State University, Hamilton State University, John Hancock University, John Quincy Adams College, Millard Fillmore Institute, New York State College, Thomas A Edison College, and Thomas Jefferson University are all noted as non- accredited degree mills.
My point is that any of the big three are fine choices and all are fully regionally accredited. While I have earned my degrees from Excelsior, I would be proud to have attended Charter Oak State College or Thomas Edison State College. The key is to select the school that best meets your needs rather than getting hung up on a name.