Excelsior vs Thomas Edison State University (TESU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences between Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University?

  Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University (TESU) are both primarily online institutions catering to adult learners, but they differ in a few key areas. TESU is a public institution based in New Jersey, while Excelsior College is a private, non-profit institution based in New York. TESU tends to have a stronger focus on New Jersey residents and state-specific programs, while Excelsior has a broader national and international reach. Both offer credit for prior learning, but their specific policies and acceptance of different credit types may vary. Finally, while both offer online courses, TESU may have some limited on-campus components for certain programs, whereas Excelsior is almost exclusively online.

• Which college is better for earning credit for prior learning (CPL)?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University are well-regarded for their credit for prior learning (CPL) programs. They both accept credit from various sources, including military training, professional certifications, standardized exams (like CLEP and DSST), and portfolio assessments. The 'better' option depends on your specific prior learning experiences. It's best to contact both institutions directly to evaluate your transcripts and experience to see which offers the most applicable credit towards your desired degree program.

• Are Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University regionally accredited?

  Yes, both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University are regionally accredited. Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and Thomas Edison State University is also accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Regional accreditation is a crucial factor to consider, as it ensures the quality and credibility of the institution and its programs, and it's often a requirement for transferring credits to other institutions or pursuing graduate studies.

• Which college offers a wider range of degree programs?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University offer a wide range of degree programs, but the specific programs available may differ. It's best to consult each university's website to see if they offer the specific degree you are looking for. Generally, both institutions offer degrees in areas like business, nursing, technology, and liberal arts. However, the specific concentrations and specializations within those fields may vary.

• How do the tuition costs compare between Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University?

  Tuition costs can vary depending on the specific program, residency status (for TESU), and the number of credits you transfer in. Generally, Thomas Edison State University may offer lower tuition rates for New Jersey residents. It's essential to visit the tuition and fees pages on both universities' websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Also, consider any potential fees associated with credit for prior learning assessments, as these can add to the overall cost.

• Which college is more focused on serving military personnel and veterans?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University have a strong commitment to serving military personnel and veterans. They both offer resources and support specifically tailored to the needs of military students, including credit for military training and experience, flexible online learning options, and dedicated advisors. The 'better' choice depends on individual needs and preferences. It's recommended to explore the military-specific resources and support services offered by each institution to determine which aligns best with your requirements.

• How do the online learning platforms and technologies compare?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University utilize robust online learning platforms to deliver their courses. While the specific platforms and technologies may differ, both are designed to provide a user-friendly and engaging learning experience. Expect to find features like online discussion forums, virtual classrooms, multimedia resources, and online assignment submission. Both institutions invest in technology to support their online students, so the difference in experience is likely to be minimal.

• What kind of student support services are available at each institution?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University offer a range of student support services to help students succeed. These services typically include academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, library resources, and technical support. Because both institutions primarily serve adult learners, they are generally very responsive and helpful. Check each university's website for a comprehensive list of available services and how to access them.

• Which college is better for students seeking a highly structured online learning experience?

  Both Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University offer structured online learning experiences, but the level of structure can vary depending on the specific program and course. Both institutions provide clear course objectives, assignments, and deadlines. The 'better' option depends on your individual learning style and preferences. Some students prefer a more self-paced approach, while others thrive in a more structured environment with regular interaction and deadlines. Review the course descriptions and syllabi for your desired programs to get a better sense of the level of structure offered.

• How do the graduation rates compare between Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University?

  Graduation rates can be a useful metric, but it's important to consider the unique student populations served by Excelsior College and Thomas Edison State University. Both institutions primarily cater to adult learners, many of whom have prior college experience or life circumstances that can impact their time to completion. It's best to consult the official graduation rate data published by each institution and consider it in the context of their mission and student demographics. Also, focus on the support services and resources available to help you succeed, regardless of the overall graduation rate.