Adult Learner Degree Completion Programs

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THE OPPORTUNITY TO FINISH YOUR DEGREE IS HERE.

Life doesn’t pause for education — the challenges of balancing work, family, and other responsibilities can be overwhelming. The University of Northern Iowa is here to help.

We offer a number of degree-completion programs designed specifically for adult learners that take into account the financial and time pressures you face. Coursework can be completed online at affordable rates, allowing you to earn a degree from a highly-respected university on your time.

Four programs are currently available, all without the need to attend classes on the UNI campus in Cedar Falls. Learn more about each of the programs below!

Now is the time to complete your degree.

Bachelor of Applied Science programs require an earned Associate of Applied Science degree.

Interested in a graduate program at a distance?
Discover programs.

Degree Completion Pathways:

Bachelor of Liberal Studies

The BLS degree is more than a major. This unique and individualized degree program offers the ability to concentrate your coursework in three distribution areas, while developing the skills you need to excel in the workforce— all from the comfort of your home.

Criminal Justice BAS

Set yourself apart with a degree that provides a solid background for career advancement. Utilizing an applied approach, graduates will be prepared for advancement in the fields of criminal justice, including corrections, courts, policing, and private security.

Elementary Education BA (2+2 with DMACC)

Pursue your passion for teaching with this flexible bachelor’s program, tailored for the busy working professional. Earn your teaching degree without having to leave your community. This program does require some face-to-face instruction.

Managing Business & Organizations BAS

Enhance the professional skills that employers seek with this seamless pathway to a BAS degree. You will learn the business knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in business management or non-profit organization.

Features

Flexibility - degree programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of busy professionals
Student Success - learn from dedicated faculty with real-world experience -- setting you up for success
Rewarding Experience - highly-personalized support services to guide you through university processes, allowing more time to focus on your education
Value - same competitive tuition rate, regardless of location
Accessibility - robust educational opportunities available from a public institution without the need to commute to campus

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start?

Bachelor of Liberal Studies and Criminal Justice BAS - Students work with an advisor to complete coursework relevant to their educational goals. Therefore, students are able to start at any time.

Elementary Education BA - Offered using a cohort model in which a group of students progress through the course sequence together, this program begins in the Spring term of odd years. The next scheduled cohort will begin January 2021.

Managing Business and Organizations BAS - The first cohort will begin in August 2020.

How will my UNI advisor help me to earn my degree?

Your UNI advisor is committed to your success and will be there every step of the way as you work toward your degree. Our advisors have deep experience and recognize the unique needs of adult learners.

We hope that you and your advisor will form a trusted partnership during your program.

How long will it take to complete my degree?

This will depend on the program and the number of credits you have already earned. Our degree completion programs typically assume students have already completed an associate’s degree, which leaves around 60 credits to be completed at UNI.

Most programs are designed for part-time enrollment and can be completed in a little over three years.

What are the requirements to apply for the program?

Bachelor of Liberal Studies - 60 hours of transferable college credit or an Associate of Arts degre.

Criminal Justice BAS - Associate of Applied Science degree and a minimum 2.0 GPA

Elementary Education BA - Associate of Arts degree

Managing Business and Organizations BAS - Associate of Applied Science degree, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and at least two years of relevant work experience

Is an online program the same as an on-campus program to employers?

Whether you complete a UNI program online or on-campus, rest assured you are receiving a quality education from dedicated UNI faculty that is designed to launch or elevate your career.

Just as there is no difference in the level of instruction, there is also no difference in how the degree will display on your transcript. All degrees awarded at UNI are accredited through the Higher Learning Commission.

It’s been awhile since I’ve taken a math course or written a paper, what support services are available?

UNI offers support services, including online tutoring, for students at a distance. Contact your academic advisor for more information.

What scholarships are available?

Please contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at finaid.uni.edu or 319-273-2700 for a current list of available scholarships.

For more information
Phone: 319-273-7206 | 800-648-3864
Email: continuinged@uni.edu