Information is provided on two external degree programs in nursing offered by the University of the State of New York, which operate through a program of assessment and proficiency examinations rather than of instruction. After Part I introduces the programs and their requirements, Part II provides information on accreditation and licensure. In…

This paper outlines the method and theoretical basis for establishing and implementing an independent study music curriculum. The curriculum combines practical and theoretical paradigms and leads to an external degree. The computer, in direct interaction with the student, is the primary instructional tool, and the teacher is involved in indirect…

The Regents External Degree is a New York State program offering a college degree to individuals, whether by earned college credit or knowledge acquired in other experience areas. The external degree and the College Proficiency Examinations are administered by the University of the State of New York, which has no campus or courses but accepts…

This resource paper is intended to assist students with disabilities who wish to enroll in postsecondary education via distance learning opportunities. It describes the process of enrolling in a distance learning program (including selecting a program and obtaining financial aid); means of earning credit toward a degree (such as proficiency…

Describes the aims of the external degree program at the University of Zambia and the courses available to external-degree students. Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of integrating the external-degree program into the academic functions of a conventional university, arguing that an alternative model is not practical at present. (GEA)

Information on undertaking an external degree program to obtain a college education is presented. An external degree program is one that has no, or minimal requirements for residence (on-campus attendance). Most often it can be entered at any time of the year and usually grants credit for documented learning already acquired. An external degree…

A Quality Assurance Program (QAP) developed at the College of St. Francis is presented that is based on an open systems approach. The model allows an institution to continually monitor, evaluate, and, when necessary, modify its academic programs, graduates or undergraduate, traditionally or non-traditionally delivered, to assure quality. Part I…

This guide provides an in-depth look at distance learning. It lists hundreds of currently available undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and professional certificate programs. The courses listed are all offered for credit or certification by a growing number of accredited "electronic universities" that deliver their classwork via personal…

This pamphlet is intended to assist the consumer in making informed decisions when choosing between distance learning programs. Distance education and distance learners are defined. Included is advice on beginning a program search; choosing a school; accreditation; evaluating quality of electronically offered programs; evaluate non-accredited…

Information is provided for students interested in completing a bachelor's degree through a cooperative program between Lansing (Michigan) Community College (LCC) and Northwood Institute (Midland, Michigan). A 4-year program has been designed in which a student takes approximately 144 credit hours of course work at LCC and a minimum of 36 credit…

This guide was prepared for staff members responsible for preparing materials for a program of external teaching at Brisbane College of Advanced Education. It includes information on the planning, development, and production of teaching units, including instructional design guidelines for: clarifying goals and objectives; maximizing student…

Results of a study of the monitoring requirements of off-campus programs are presented. Summaries are provided of the monitoring requirements for off-campus, military base, and study abroad programs of member institutions of the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation. After defining types of off-campus programs, a conceptual plan is presented for…

This guide on implementation of open learning in Great Britain provides information on resourcing, resource deployment, and costing and pricing. It begins by drawing attention to points of importance to those engaged in forming policy on the provision of open learning. These are presented in a series of flowcharts giving quick reference to…

Evaluation of prior learning for college credit towards a general studies degree is discussed in this handbook for faculty evaluators. It is suggested that the major responsibility of the evaluator is to determine if prior learning is college level and how many credits should be awarded. Credit toward the general studies degree is awarded only for…

This directory lists high school, college, and graduate study at-home opportunities, including extensive information about external degree and certificate programs offered by accredited institutions that participate in University Continuing Education Association programs. An introductory section, which explains what independent study is and how it…