Thomas Edison State University (TESU) vs University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary focus of Thomas Edison State University (TESU) and University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)?

  TESU is primarily focused on providing flexible, competency-based education for adult learners, emphasizing prior learning assessment and credit for experience. UMGC, while also serving adult learners, offers a broader range of online degree programs and focuses on providing access to higher education for working adults and military personnel globally.

• How do TESU and UMGC differ in their approach to awarding credit?

  TESU is known for its extensive acceptance of transfer credits, credit by examination (like CLEP and DSST), and prior learning assessment (PLA). They are very flexible in awarding credit for what you already know. UMGC also accepts transfer credits, but their emphasis on PLA and credit by examination is generally less pronounced than TESU's.

• What types of degree programs are offered at TESU and UMGC?

  Both TESU and UMGC offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. TESU focuses on areas like business, technology, nursing, and liberal studies, often with a focus on applied learning. UMGC offers a wider array of programs, including business, cybersecurity, information technology, healthcare management, and public safety, with a global perspective.

• How do the tuition costs compare between TESU and UMGC?

  Tuition costs can vary depending on the specific program and residency status. Generally, TESU's tuition structure is often perceived as more affordable, especially for students leveraging prior learning assessment and credit by examination to accelerate their degree completion. UMGC's tuition is competitive and may offer specific rates for military personnel and their families.

• What is the learning format at TESU and UMGC?

  Both universities primarily offer online courses. TESU is almost exclusively online, catering to students who need maximum flexibility. UMGC also focuses on online learning but may offer some hybrid or in-person options depending on location and program.

• How do TESU and UMGC support military students?

  Both TESU and UMGC are military-friendly institutions. UMGC has a long history of serving military personnel globally and offers dedicated support services, including military tuition rates and credit for military training. TESU also provides support for military students, including accepting military training credits and offering flexible learning options.

• What kind of student support services are available at TESU and UMGC?

  Both universities offer a range of student support services, including academic advising, career services, library resources, and technical support. UMGC, with its larger size, may offer a more extensive network of support services, while TESU focuses on personalized support for its adult learners.

• How do the faculty and instructors differ between TESU and UMGC?

  Both TESU and UMGC employ experienced faculty and instructors. TESU often utilizes faculty with extensive real-world experience in their respective fields, aligning with their focus on applied learning. UMGC faculty also bring practical experience and often have a global perspective, reflecting the university's international focus.

• What is the accreditation status of TESU and UMGC?

  Both TESU and UMGC are regionally accredited institutions. TESU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). UMGC is also accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Regional accreditation is a widely recognized standard of quality in higher education.

• Which university is better for someone with significant prior learning or work experience?

  TESU is generally considered a better fit for individuals with substantial prior learning or work experience due to its robust prior learning assessment (PLA) program and generous credit transfer policies. While UMGC accepts transfer credits, TESU's emphasis on PLA can potentially translate to significant time and cost savings for experienced professionals.