Bowling Green State University

I began the entrance process for this program in July 2004, I was approved and began the first 2 courses in August of the same year. As I was just about to begin my 2nd semester (Jan '05), I received a call from my intake counselor asking me what my undergrad degree had been in. I reminded him that I had not completed my Bachelor's degree or even an official Associates, but had completed 3 years in a traditional college towards a BA in Communications. He informed me that because I had no AA in an "Applied Technical COgnate" that I did not meet the requirements for the ATE program (in spite of having my full transcript from my previous college evaluated in July!) and that if I wanted to complete the ATE program, I would have to drive 50 miles from my home to attend at the Firelands satellite for an additional FIFTY FOUR HOURS of credit (at 3 credits per class, that would have been another 3 years!)just to be accepted into the program. I would basically be starting my degree all over at square one like an incoming Freshman with NO coursework under their belts. So now I have this odd, 2 course "blip" on my transcript and am no closer to my degree than I was before. It would have been nice if they would have actually REVIEWED my transcripts before they said I was accepted and took my money for a semester!

The admissions process was much smoother than what I experienced at other institutions, and I was given a fair evaluation of previous coursework. Unlike other colleges, the focus was on providing education, not on making the most money. However, BGSU is one of the most expensive public colleges in Ohio. Several of my coworkers are either currently enrolled in the program or are looking into it. With increased competition, a degree can make a real difference. While many colleges offer online degrees, I wanted the acceptance that comes with a degree from a brick and mortar college, which are more readily recognized. This degree has given me the background to continue my education in my chosen field, and I have been accepted into a master's program as a result.