How Our Programs Work

The flexibility of distance learning, the excellence and value of a state college, the power of assessment 

As you consider returning to college to complete your undergraduate degree or to expand your professional horizons with an online graduate degree, you have many questions. But perhaps the most important questions are:

• How do these academically excellent, publicly supported programs work?
• How have more than 32,000 adults achieved their academic goals and dreams at Thomas Edison State College?

Undergraduate Studies
Students who are accepted to Thomas Edison State College receive an evaluation of their college transcripts—indicating which college credits will transfer seamlessly. Then you’ll enroll—you can enroll at Thomas Edison State College every month of the year—and register for courses. You’ll need 60 credits to complete an associate degree and 120 credits for a bachelor's degree. Academic advisors are available by phone, e-mail, fax, U.S. Postal Service and in person.

• You’ll choose your pace—from one course at a time to as many as your schedule allows.
• You’ll choose your program, which will likely involve a range of learning options, including Guided Study courses, online courses and independent study. Learn about our learning approaches
• You may also earn credit by demonstrating college-level knowledge you already have through testing or by completing Prior Learning Assessment courses.
• In Guided Study courses, you’ll receive course materials through the mail and complete the course independently.

Thomas Edison State College does not require you to attend class at a specific place and time. Course requirements are completed when and where you want. Apply for undergraduate study now.

Graduate Studies
Once you’ve been accepted to pursue one of our four online graduate degrees, you will start your program during one of four start dates. Courses are sequential, but you can take one course at a time and you can schedule your personal study time any way you like as long as you make your deadlines. Throughout, you’ll have access to MyEdison 40  where you’ll find online course materials and online class discussions. You also may work in a small group with other students. The result: You get the value of a traditional classroom while enjoying the flexibility of an online master’s degree or graduate certificate program. Apply for graduate study now.