College & Degree Options in California

California is the Land of Opportunity for the working adult or professional. The pioneering spirit embodied in the state and its people is characterized in its educational institutions and practices as well!

There are hundreds of on-campus, traditional programs and online and distance learning programs for the busy, established individual looking to build on the foundation already laid. Or perhaps you are thinking about changing direction completely. Whatever your goals are- California’s schools have much to offer the adult learner.


On-Campus Opportunities for Working Adults

California is home to some of the most beautiful campuses in the world. Each section of the state has its charm, attracting students from all over the world. Diversity in student population is universal there, and guarantees you will not receive a “cookie-cutter” education at one of California’s colleges or universities. Most 2 and 4-year colleges have programs that are offered at night or on weekends for working adults and professionals.


Degrees available

The following degrees are available from traditional colleges and can be obtained by working full-time or part-time.

    * Associate’s Degrees (A.A., A.S., A.A.S) from 2-year community, technical, business or junior colleges
    * Undergraduate Certificates
    * Bachelor’s Degrees (B.A., B.S., B.A.S.) from 4-year liberal arts, technical, teaching or specialized colleges and universities
    * Master’s Degrees (M.A., M.S., M.Ed., M.B.A.,) from graduate programs in many universities
    * Doctorate Degrees (Ph.D., Ed.D., Psy.D., D.B.A.) from post-graduate programs in many universities


Popular areas of study

California offers hundreds of on-campus programs. Some popular areas are liberal arts and sciences, teacher education, engineering, computer science, health sciences (nursing, pre-med, pre-dentistry, physical therapy, radiology and ultrasound, public health), business and business administration, criminal justice and forensics. In addition, because of California’s booming entertainment, hospitality, and tourism businesses, you can find specialty schools of cinematography, theatre, music, hotel management, and the culinary arts you might not find elsewhere.


Things to think about

The process of applying to a 2 or 4-year college can be daunting. Things to remember:

    * Start your search by determining your specific needs. Does that on-campus school match your needs?
    * Make sure the schools you are interested in are accredited. Admissions materials and college brochures will clearly state the recognized accrediting       agency which must operate under the approval of the U.S. Department of Education.
    * Visit your top 3 choices. Take a friend or family member with you. Ask questions. See if the “feel” of the place is right for you.
    * Get help from those familiar with options in higher education if you still need help.
    * Talk to the financial aid offices at your top choices to see what your options are: then follow through, paying strict attention to deadlines.


Online Colleges, Universities and Training Programs

Not everyone wants to, or is able to, attend an on-campus higher education or training program. Attending traditional classes might not be convenient to your personal or family circumstances. Perhaps the program you are interested in is located across the country! That should not stop you from following your dreams. There are hundreds of accredited online and distance learning programs in every field mentioned above (and more) available to you. Millions of working adults and professionals have completed online degrees, training or certificate programs from the convenience of their home, when it was most convenient for them. You can do the same!


Degrees available

The same levels and types of degree programs listed above for on-campus programs are available to the online learner. Additionally, there are thousands of technical and specialty programs offered online that can be earned in eighteen months or less. Many people take advantage of an online format to accelerate getting their degree or advanced degree.


Popular online programs

Two-year programs are available in the health sciences, technology, engineering fields, hotel and hospitality fields, paraprofessionals in law, criminal justice, construction fields, interior design, human services, and business, among many others. Four-year programs offer those areas listed above. Some popular disciplines at this time are liberal arts and sciences, recreation, engineering, business and business administration, social sciences, and human services. Master’s level and Doctoral degrees are offered in many professional and academic areas. Thousands are taking advantage of the convenience of getting an advanced degree online. Training or certificate programs are available online, as well as high school GED preparation courses. (You cannot take your GED exam online, but must go to an official state testing site.) Training programs can help you gain the additional knowledge and credentials to advance in your career. Many can be completed in a relatively short time. Financial aid is available for many through federal and state programs and the armed services. Inmates are eligible for many programs as well. Incidentally, research shows the quality of online programs is equivalent or higher than traditional, “face-to-face” programs!


Things to remember

    * Check with your state’s certification and/or licensing requirements if you are   entering a program with certification/licensing as your goal.
    * Check on financial aid options early in your search. Some programs are open only to those classified as “full-time”. Check with your school to find out       what that means.
    * Again, make sure the program or school you are interested in is accredited. Other schools and employers ordinarily do not honor degrees or transfer       credits from non-accredited schools.
    * If you need help, ask! We’re here to help.


Whether you are contemplating a career change, job and salary advancement, or are undecided about which path to take, be assured there is a program for you! The rewards of taking the plunge will become evident as you move forward toward your goal!

If you need more information on career and degree options, or information on online colleges & universities in California or for California residents, you can contact us or request free information from one of our lsited schools.




 

 

 





 

All California Colleges and Programs