Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I get started?

Visit the web site http://call.nsula.edu and click on "Get Started now". Information is available to guide the student through the admission process, fees, financial information, and other issues related to enrolling in the program. Call 1-800-376-2422 or e-mail ece@nsula.edu for assistance.

Q. Is Online learning for me?

Use the following self-assessment to help you determine if you are ready to take an online course through Northwestern State University. This assessment covers both technical as well as learning style considerations.

You may want to print this page so you can spend more time considering both the questions and your answers. This is strictly a self-assessment tool, so give yourself honest answers. 

For Self-Assessment Tool, Click Here

Q. Is "fast track" learning for me?

If you are a self motivated person willing to focus on an educational goal for the possibility of a better and more rewarding career "fast track" is for you.

Q. What is a portfolio or prior learning credit?

Adults learn constantly - many have acquired their "college level learning" away from the traditional classroom. They have learned on the job, through relationships, reading, travel, hobbies, and life events. Adults who want a college to recognize this prior learning must document the knowledge they have gained in order to be awarded college credit. The prior learning class (IDS 3000 Interdisciplinary Studies) is designed to guide the adult learner through the process of research, documentation, and composition of a history of the individual's learning.

Q. What kinds of experiences could count toward academic credit?

Those individuals whose jobs require good written and/or oral communication skills, that could be credit for an English or technical writing course; business workers may have knowledge of supervision, marketing, business law, human relations, booking, accounting, or other skill sets learned in the world of business; clerical workers may have communication skills, computer skills, keyboarding, office procedures, and other knowledge gained from the job. There are similar examples from other facets of one's life that could be considered.

Q. What is college level learning?

College-level learning is knowledge equal to the prescribed outcomes listed in the course description and syllabi. Also college faculty and advisors are skilled in recognizing competency levels and helping students determine college-level learning. Ultimately, a trained evaluator will make the final decision.

Q. Is prior learning assessment (portfolio development) for me?

If you have experiences in your life that can be equated to college level learning then you are probably a good candidate.

Q. How do I apply for transfer of credit?

Transfer of credit may be awarded for course work successfully completed at another institution. You must request that a transcript be sent from the college previously attended to the registrar at college you wish to attend. The transcript will be reviewed by the registrar's office along with an academic person to determine the amount of credit to be awarded.

Q. Is there a degree plan available? Does the total amount of credit hours needed for a BS include the transfer credits and credits earned from CALL? What is the length of the program as far as calendar days? Is it possible to earn an AS degree within a year?

A degree plan will be developed with the assistance of an advisor.
The total number of hours needed for a BS degree is approximately 128 credit hours that apply to a specific degree plan. Transfer and other credit awarded would apply.
The number of calendar days depends upon the course load of the student and the amount of previously awarded credit.
An AD degree could possibly be earned in a calendar year depending upon the course load.

Q. How long will it take me to complete?

It depends on the number of hours already completed. If the first two years have been finished one could possibly complete the remainder of the program in one to one and one half years.

Q. Is financial aid available?

You may be eligible for financial aid. All questions regarding assistance are handled by the Financial Aid office. Click here to access the Financial Aid office.

Q. How much does it cost?

The total cost to complete a degree depends upon the number of credit hours completed at NSU, transferred from another institution, hours credited by exams, hours awarded for prior learning, etc. To view a chart of tuition cost by credit hour and the cost of fees, click here.