Bachelor's Plus FAQ's
At what Ashland University Centers is the program offered?
The program is offered at the Ashland, Columbus and Elyria Centers. You can also take some of the graduate courses at our Massillon/Stark Center.
When can I be admitted to the program?
You can be admitted prior to the fall, spring and summer terms. This process needs to be completed 3-4 weeks prior to the first day of the semester.
What is the minimum GPA requirement for admittance into the program?
You need to have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher to be admitted into the program without provisions. Students with a GPA below 2.75 but higher than a 2.00 can be admitted under a provisional admittance status.
How long does the Bachelor's Plus Program take?
The average time required to complete the program is 1-3 years. This depends on how many courses you must take to reach your goal of obtaining your teaching license. Once your transcripts are evaluated and we know what courses you must take then the actual length of the program will be easier to determine. In your interview with an advisor they will help you lay out a tentative coursework plan.
How much is tuition at Ashland University?
Effective with the 2008-2009 academic year, tuition is $427 per semester hour for any undergraduate or graduate course you will take. This does not include any additional fees that may be required for a particular course.
What do I do to begin?
The first step is to print off and fill out the Pre-Admittance and Good Moral Character forms found on the Home page of this website. Mail these forms and your official college transcripts to the appropriate Center (Ashland, Columbus or Elyria) to begin the review process. Each Center's information can be found on the Contact page.
How long will the evaluation process take?
The Teacher Testing and Licensure Office in Ashland, Ohio, determines the coursework you will be required to take in the Bachelor's Plus Program. You should get an evaluation form back in the mail approximately 2 weeks after we have received your information.
When are classes held?
During the school year (fall and spring semesters) most classes are held in the evening starting at 6:00. There are also some Saturday morning classes. Classes will meet once a week during the 15-week semester. During the summer, courses are offered at a variety of morning, afternoon, evening & weekend times.
What about Financial Aid/Student Loans?
Financial aid and student loans are available but you must be accepted into the program and take at least 6 semester hours of coursework per semester in order to qualify. You will need to work directly with the Financial Aid Office at Ashland University Main Campus. They can be reached at 1-800-882-1548 ext. 5002. Be sure to ask for the graduate financial aid information packet.
Can I receive credit for substitute teaching?
Yes, in many circumstances substitute teaching will give you credit for Ashland University Field Experience courses. If you have done substitute work you will need to fill out a Prior Work Experience Form and return it to our office. The work experience form will be given out during the interview with an advisor.
I already have several college degrees. Is there a quick and easy way to avoid many of these basic requirements and obtain a teaching license?
The State of Ohio must approve all teacher-training programs as they fulfill requirements of the state. If your transcript evaluation indicates that you are lacking in areas required by the state or Ashland University, you must take the coursework needed. There is no quick and easy way to become a teacher.
Should I send my materials to the Main Campus in Ashland, or to the Center that I will be attending?
Send all materials to the Center you will be attending. Refer to the Contact page of the website.