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:

This degree provides place-bound students with a convenient, flexible alternative to the traditional path to a bachelor's degree. The program is fully accredited and allows you to finish your degree from where you live. This broad-based liberal arts degree focuses on developing the skills students need to excel in the workforce.

NEW! Designed for Associate of Applied Science graduates, this degree completion program focuses on the development of knowledge and professional competencies needed to serve effectively in managerial and supervisory roles.

Providing a seamless pathway to a bachelor's degree, this program is designed for Associate of Applied Science graduates and provides a solid background for career advancement in the fields of criminal justice, including corrections, courts, policing and private security.

UNI and DMACC have partnered for 20+ years to offer this program. Offering place-bound students a pathway to a bachelor's degree without having to leave their community, the Elementary Education Bachelor of Arts program prepares those with an Associate of Arts degree for a career in teaching.

NEW! Prepares students for a variety of organizational roles by providing exposure to core business concepts, including accounting, management, sales, and marketing.

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