Post University Opens Degree Programs in Madison

The town and Post University have entered into a collaboration that will allow town employees, police, teachers, relatives, and residents an opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree or advanced degree through the university's online, accelerated degree programs.

"We are pleased to announce this collaboration. It provides a unique opportunity for town employees and residents to further their education, skills, and knowledge. In today's fast-moving world, education is important," First Selectman Fillmore McPherson said last week when introducing the collaboration.

Earlier in the day representatives from Post University had met with members of the Police Department and the superintendent of schools.

Post will offer its Online Accelererated Degree Program, which allows students to complete an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited, traditional four-year university while offering the flexibility that allows students to balance work, family, and other commitments. Amy Amaru, Post's liaison with its corporate partners, described the online programs as "highly interactive" and "taught by professors who not only have advanced degrees, but are seasoned professionals in the fields they teach."

Because of the collaboration with the town, students from Madison will receive a 10 percent tuition grant toward an associate, bachelor, master, or certificate program. Undergraduate programs presently cost $475 per credit; each course is three credits. The MBA program charges $595 per credit. Financial aid is available. The university is a "Yellow Ribbon" university with special programs for veterans.

Accelerated degree program courses are offered six times a year at four regional locations and online. A bachelor's degree can be earned in as little as 18 months, a master's in as little as 14 months. A program designed specifically for police officers is available because of a collaboration with the Law Enforcement Council, Amaru said, and is popular with police officers across the state. Ninety-five percent of the officers are taking the courses online, she added.

Accelerated graduate programs include an MBA, master in education, master of science in human services, and, new this year, a master in public administration. Undergraduate accelerated programs range from accounting to criminal justice to sports management.

For the third year in a row, Post University has been recognized as one of the top 20 online degree program providers. According to Online Education Database, a national resource for online programs, Post University is ranked 18th among online education providers and carries a top ranking in many criteria, including a top 10 ranking for students who received financial aid.

Those interested in learning more about the programs should contact Amy Amaru at 203-695-1559 or aamaru@post.edu or visit www.post.edu/madisontown.