Excelsior University: Degree Programs for Career Advancement

Excelsior University is a private online institution based in Albany, New York, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Originally established in 1971 by the New York State Board of Regents as the Regents External Degree Program (REX), Excelsior has a long history of providing educational opportunities to adult learners. The university comprises the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

A University Designed for Busy Adults

Excelsior University's degree programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of busy adults, allowing for career advancement without sacrificing work, family, or personal life. The university's expert, industry-focused faculty bring course content to life by sharing their real-world observations and expertise. Students gain skills and knowledge that can be immediately applied to their current roles.

Moreover, Excelsior accepts transfer credits for graduate degrees, potentially shortening the time to completion. Admission counselors review each applicant's educational history to help them determine the best path toward earning their advanced degree. The university focuses on understanding students' goals to provide tailored support and guidance.

Areas of Study

Excelsior University offers a wide array of flexible online degree and certificate programs, as well as hybrid programs in St. Petersburg, Florida. These programs span six key areas of study:

Business
Health Care
Liberal Arts
Nursing
Public Service
Technology

Business Degrees: Versatility for Career Growth

A business degree offers versatility, providing core skills like critical thinking, analytics, and strategy that are valuable across various industries. Career options include finance, marketing, and human resources, and graduates may find themselves in health care administration, nonprofit leadership, or government positions. A business degree can also support entrepreneurship.

Excelsior offers several business degrees, including the AAS in Administrative and Management Studies for foundational knowledge, and the BPS in Business and Management and the BS in Business for career advancement or further education.

Health Science Degrees: Improving Community Wellness

Health science degrees apply scientific principles to improve individual and community health and wellness. The curriculum covers math, ethics, science, health care policy, research methods, and health care systems. This path is suited for individuals who can combine analytical and scientific knowledge with empathy and communication skills.

Excelsior provides an AS in Health Sciences for those entering the health care field, as well as three bachelor's programs for professionals seeking to advance their education. The BS in Health Sciences prepares graduates for roles in hospitals, treatment centers, and nonclinical health organizations. The BS in Health Care Management focuses on skills needed to manage health care systems, and the BS in Public Health addresses public health challenges and cultivates leadership and critical thinking skills.

Liberal Arts Degrees: Cultivating Critical Thinking

A liberal arts degree emphasizes the development of critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills. Students study humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to gain broad knowledge and intellectual curiosity.

Excelsior's AS in Liberal Arts and BS in Liberal Arts are flexible programs that allow students to leverage professional training and life experiences to create a personalized educational path.

Read also: Excelsior Eligibility

Nursing Degrees: A Lucrative and In-Demand Profession

Nursing is a popular area of study at Excelsior, offering opportunities for both individual and community impact. The university's online format is well-suited for working nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): LPNs administer medications, give injections, and change dressings.
Registered Nurse (RN): RNs provide patient assessment, develop and implement care plans, and administer medications.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): APRNs are registered nurses with specialized education and training, allowing them to order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and perform procedures. This category includes nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists.

Public Service Degrees: Building Better Communities

Public service degrees prepare students for careers in government agencies and nonprofit organizations, covering fields like public administration, social work, and criminal justice. Excelsior offers online public service degree programs for those passionate about improving lives through policies and programs. Criminal justice degrees are available at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels.

Technology Degrees: Shaping the Future

A technology education leads to in-demand jobs that shape how we interact with the world. Technology degrees encompass specialties such as energy, electronics, engineering, and programming, requiring strong problem-solving, creativity, and project management skills.

Excelsior offers an AAS in Technical Studies for students new to the field, as well as bachelor's degrees in technology management, computer science, cybersecurity, electrical engineering technology, information technology, and nuclear engineering technology.

Hybrid Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

Excelsior University offers hybrid programs in nursing and technology in St. Petersburg, Florida. These programs combine hands-on learning with online flexibility, featuring in-person labs that allow students to apply their knowledge and develop practical skills, problem-solving abilities, leadership qualities, and confidence.

The Value of a Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree broadens employment opportunities, with many employers requiring it for entry-level positions. It demonstrates abilities and skills, making candidates more competitive in the job market. Earning a bachelor's degree allows for in-depth study, fostering a nuanced understanding of concepts, theories, and methodologies. This leads to increased earning potential throughout life. The path to a bachelor's degree provides networking opportunities and serves as a foundation for further education, such as master's or doctoral programs. Beyond professional and financial benefits, earning a bachelor's degree brings personal satisfaction.

Types of Bachelor's Degrees

Bachelor of Science (BS): A four-year degree focused on technical and science-based disciplines, emphasizing practical knowledge and skills.
Bachelor of Arts (BA): An undergraduate degree emphasizing a liberal arts education, encouraging a broad understanding of various disciplines.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): A degree for students pursuing a professional career in the arts, requiring more studio and practice-based courses for developing artistic skills and portfolios.

Accreditation and Recognition

Excelsior University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The School of Nursing has been designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing twice. This accreditation ensures that the university meets rigorous standards of quality and academic excellence.

Notable Alumni and Faculty

Excelsior University boasts a diverse network of successful alumni and faculty members across various fields. Some notable individuals associated with the university include:

Deborah A. Ashenhurst: Major General
Eric Bauman: Former Chair of the California Democratic Party
Charles Bowen: US Coast Guard
Daniel A. Petty: US Navy
John R. D'Araujo Jr.: Tennessee State Senator
Joseph Dweck: Rabbi
Gilbert King: Pulitzer Prize-winning author
Thomas D. Kinley: Major General
Jason M. Vanderhaden: US Coast Guard

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