Adams State College (Distance Degrees and Independent Study) - Overview
Overview of Adams State College and its Distance Learning Program
Adams State College is a public liberal arts college that prides itself on small classes and a supportive community. With 1 full-time professor for every 18 students, it is no wonder that ASC's dedication to individual student success has been widely recognized. The college is currently listed among the best Western region universities by "U.S. News and World Report," was recently designated the Regional Education Provider for southern Colorado, and was previously named "One of America's 100 Best College Buys" for 4 consecutive years.
The Adams State College Division of Extended Studies furthers ASC's mission to provide educational opportunity and access to all students by offering accredited distance education courses and independent study opportunities for students to complete entirely off campus. Distance education courses are treated the same as on campus courses, so students can complete their undergraduate and graduate degrees, certification programs, test preparation courses, or enrichment classes without needing to step foot on campus. Courses are available in over 20 subjects, including criminal justice, health care administration, and human performance and physical education.
Bachelor's Degrees in Business Administration
Adams State College offers both a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration. Business administration students seeking a B.S. can choose an emphasis in general business, legal studies, management, or management information systems.
All distance learning degree recipients must complete 30 hours of course credits through ASC. Students who complete 15 hours may be eligible for an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree.
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Adams State College also offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology. Sociology students can choose and emphasis area in criminology, social welfare, corrections, or law enforcement. Bachelor's degree recipients must complete 30 hours of course credits through ASC, but students who complete 15 hours may be eligible for an Associate of Arts degree.
B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, with Opportunity for Elementary Licensure
Students in the interdisciplinary studies department may choose between 2 degree emphases for their bachelor's of arts (B.A.) degree. Students choosing a degree in history and government must take at least 6 hours of world history within their required 30 hours of course credit through the ASC distance learning program.
ASC also offers a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in literacy and elementary education. Students seeking this degree must first complete their general studies curriculum before enrolling in the Teacher Education Professional Studies program. The program, lasting 5 continuous semesters including summer, is for Colorado based students only, and includes both field experiences and student teaching in local area schools. The program offers various types of off-campus courses, including online, face-to-face, and live chat.
Proficiency Requirements for ASC Graduates
ASC students receiving either an associate's or bachelor's degree must first complete a writing proficiency requirement by submitting a writing portfolio to the Assistant Provost prior to graduation eligibility. All degree recipients must also complete a technology proficiency requirement. Most students will do so by completing 1 of 2 courses: Business Computer Applications I or Introduction to Computers.
Length and Credit Value of Distance Courses
Distance courses are treated the same as on campus courses for residency and transcript purposes or for other degree program requirements. Distance course completion time for print-based courses varies from 6 weeks to a maximum completion time of 1 year from the registration date, depending on the schedule and initiative of the student. Semester-based online courses follow the ASC semester schedule.
Certificate Programs Available
Adams State College offers certification in over 10 areas of study. In the paralegal certificate program, beginning and advanced legal workers can take 2 successive courses designed to offer practice in the areas of law assistance most in demand, including interviewing, investigating, and researching. Legal certificate courses available include Alternative Dispute Resolution, Legal Investigation, Legal Nurse Consultant Training, Victim Advocacy, and Legal Secretary Certification. In partnership with Gatlin Education Services, ASC offers additional certifications within the following areas: healthcare and fitness, business and professional, information technology and software development, management and corporate, media and design, hospitality and gaming, skilled trades and industrial, and sustainable energy and going green. Length and tuition vary widely depending on the certification desired.
Test Preparation Courses
Among the various types of distance learning courses offered at Adams State College are test preparation courses. Students looking to improve their skills before taking the ACT, SAT, GRE, GMAT, or LSAT can register online for a minimal tuition fee. Students taking both the ACT and SAT may take a combined course for a reduced price. Students interested in improving either their verbal or math skills for the GRE or GMAT may choose to take a more focused course for half the price.
Tuition, Scholarships and Financial Aid at Adams State College
Since Adams State College treats its distance study courses the same as on campus courses, distance degree students are also eligible for financial aid through grants, loans, and scholarships. Five institutional scholarships are available for undergraduates, including upper classman room waivers.
An additional 5 awards are automatically given to students who qualify, 4 of which are related to academic progress. The 5th, the Grizzly Partner Scholarship, is automatically awarded to on campus students from 9 specific Colorado counties and 2 New Mexico counties. Work-study awards are also available to students who find open positions at approved locations including many on campus or off campus at the nonprofit La Puente, University of Colorado, and more.