Frequently Asked Questions: Berkeley College Online®

Why should I choose to attend Berkeley College?

Berkeley College continues to receive important distinctions from media authority U.S. News & World Report:

  • Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs – for the 11th consecutive year!
  • Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs for Veterans – for the 11th consecutive year!

Berkeley has also earned multiple recognitions for:

  • Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs – Business
  • Best Online MBA Programs
  • America’s Top Online Colleges of 2024 by Newsweek and Statista, a global business data platform
  • Recognition as one of the few college or university programs worldwide to be certified for excellence by the U.S. Distance Learning Association (USDLA)

While all colleges maintain some similarities, Berkeley College stands out in many ways. You can read more about the most common reasons for choosing Berkeley.

Many adult students are striving to balance work and family with college studies, while others have not yet found the time to reenter or even begin college. To meet these special requirements, Berkeley College has established an Adult Admissions Department, which provides an environment that is sensitive to the needs of adult students.

Listed as a Principles of Excellence institution with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Berkeley is committed to helping veterans and their families succeed – every step of the way.

Flexible academic programs can help accommodate your situation and schedule. Advisors with military experience are available to assist with applications and enrollment. You may also be eligible for credit for prior learning. Tutoring is available at no additional charge.

Is Berkeley College accredited?

Berkeley College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 1007 North Orange Street 4th Floor, MB #166, Wilmington, DE 19801; 267-284-5011. Accreditation was last reaffirmed in June 2018. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Visit the Accreditation and Regulatory Information page, for further details.

What type of academic degree and non-degree programs does Berkeley College Online® offer?

Berkeley College Online® offers programs leading to Certificates, Associate’s degrees, Bachelor’s degrees, an MBA in Management, and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). To prepare students for successful careers, programs are developed with input from industry experts to ensure that students learn the skills that employers demand. Online programs provide the same level of quality education as Berkeley’s on-site programs.

To learn more about online programs that are available, visit the following links:

*The Online Health Sciences Patient Care Technician Specialization degree completion program is open to patient care technicians who hold field-specific certifications as outlined in the College’s Credit for Prior Learning guide. Please navigate to the School of Health Studies, Credit for Completion of Certificate or Diploma Training Program section of the Credit for Prior Learning guide for specific certification requirements.

The Online Health Sciences Surgical Processing Technician Specialization degree completion program is open to individuals who hold field specific certifications as outlined in the College’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) guide. Please navigate to the School of Health Studies, Credit for Completion of Certificate or Diploma Training Programs section of the CPL guide for specific certification requirements.

**The online is a degree completion option available only to individuals who completed a Surgical Technology program accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Graduates of the degree completion program are not eligible to sit for the Certified Surgical Technology exam using the Berkeley College degree transcript to fulfill NBSTSA eligibility requirements. Berkeley graduates who completed the certificate program and returned for the degree completion are eligible and should contact the program chair for further instructions. 

To learn more about a specific program offered at Berkeley, including the Four-Year Combined BBA/MBA Option, also visit the Academics page.

How will I know which classes to take?

Your academic advisor will work with you to keep you on target to complete your degree. While you choose your schedule, your advisor will guide you through your choices and continue to provide guidance and support throughout your program. 

Are group projects part of my coursework?

There are many components to coursework including reading, writing, discussion boards, and in some cases group projects. Faculty members define the parameters for their individual courses. 

How long will it take to complete my program?

Berkeley College Online® is designed to suit your needs. You may be eligible for transfer credits and credits due to prior learning which may shorten the length of time needed to complete your degree. You will work closely with your academic advisor to select the courses appropriate to your program. Length of the program is also dependent upon the number of courses you take each semester.

Will I ever have to come to a campus location for my courses?

Many programs can be completely online. Check with your Admissions Advisor for more information on your specific program. You can also purchase books and other merchandise through the Berkeley Store.

Will my diploma say "online?"

Your diploma will reflect that you are a graduate of Berkeley College. Specific campuses are not printed on a diploma.

What is the enrollment process at Berkeley College Online®?

The Online Admissions Department works with applicants who are seeking flexibility and convenience to balance college classes with family, work, and other commitments. In addition to the general admissions requirements, online applicants must complete a short introductory online course prior to registration to familiarize themselves with online learning. Certain programs, such as the MBA and MSN programs, have additional Admissions requirements. Interested students should call 800-446-5400, or email info@BerkeleyCollege.edu.

Visit the Readmissions Department page, if you are a returning student of a Berkeley College onsite campus, interested in attending Berkeley College Online®.

Is there an enrollment deadline to begin classes?

Since Berkeley maintains a rolling admissions policy, students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. The Committee on Admissions notifies applicants of a decision as soon as all credentials have been evaluated.

What kinds of technology do I need at home or work to participate in a distance learning course?

Click here to review the requirements.

What type of support services and activities are provided to online students?

Berkeley College Online® students are automatically enrolled in the Online orientation; after logging in to their Engage portal, it is one click to access the Orientation hosted in Canvas. Students complete the self-paced required orientation, which provides them with the same information communicated to on-site students. Just like on-site peers, distance learners are encouraged to get involved in the online clubs and organizations or to participate in on-site activities if they live near a college location.

Orientation is essential for students who are new to Online, or transferring from an onsite campus and returning to Berkeley College Online® after a time away. The school provides all of the tools needed for students to be successful in their online experience.

What type of financial aid and scholarships are available to students?

More than $27 million in Berkeley College institutional aid was provided to qualified students during the 2022-2023 award year.

A staff of professionals helps students and families to understand the financial options and complete any necessary applications. In addition to government grants and loans, Berkeley College offers a number of direct grants and scholarships to qualified students each year. For further information, review the Guide to Financial Aid. For further information about how to complete the FAFSA, also visit https://fafsa.gov/.

We proudly support the GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program. Veterans Affairs associates are trained in GI Bill® regulations and will help make sure you get the maximum award possible.

Can I attend graduation?

Yes you can! If you are unable to attend graduation you can watch it streaming live on the web or view it archived at your convenience.

Still have questions? Contact us at 973-405-2111 ext. 6474, or info@BerkeleyCollege.edu.

Also visit our Live Chat at www.berkeleycollege.edu to speak with a representative, or schedule a virtual appointment.

QUICK LINKS

Resources:

More news