The document outlines considerations for individuals contemplating going back to school, including program selection, scheduling, costs, and the differences between traditional and non-traditional education formats. It details various degree options, institutions in Kansas offering non-traditional master's degrees, and key steps to initiate the application process. Additionally, it provides information on financing education through employer assistance and financial aid options.

1. GO BACK TO SCHOOL! Connie Beene and Jennifer Pfortmiller SO, YOU THINK YOU WANT TO….

2. The BIG Questions! What program area to pursue? What do I want to do? How can I use this degree? How will I fit this in my schedule? How long will it take? How much will it cost and how will I pay for it?

3. Program Types and ‘Hot’ Career Areas

4. Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Location – On-campus Courses during day Involved with teaching/research Thesis/Dissertation Complete in 2+ years Targets 18-24 year olds Location - Anywhere Courses on own time Continue to work, have family life Reports Complete in 1-6 years Targets Adults Traditional Non-Traditional

5. Non – Traditional Delivery Modes Online Weekends (Fri/Sat) Evenings Blended/Hybrid – part online, part on-campus Executive Style 13 months Co-hort groups

6. Comparing Public and Private Institutions State Funded Less flexible with requirements Lower Tuition More time for completion Privately Funded More flexible with requirements Higher Tuition Less time for completion Public Private

7. Schools in Kansas (offering non-traditional MS degree options) Baker University Brown Mackie Friends University Southwestern University Kansas Wesleyan MidAmerica Nazarene Newman University Ottawa University Sterling University University of Phoenix Public Private

8. Points to keep in mind Accreditation Life Experience Credit Credit Hours In-state/Out-of-State Tuition Pre-requisites GPA/GRE/GMAT/TOEFL Thesis/Dissertation/Reports Terminal Degree

9. How to Get Started Research the program and school Contact a representative Decide when to start program Apply and pay necessary application fees Watch deadlines Make sure appropriate test are completed Submit transcripts and other requested items Wait for acceptance letter Enroll for classes

10. How to get the employer to pay? Check current benefits Tuition Assistance Tuition Reimbursement Ask for professional development Negotiate pay and expected time commitment with company Share costs with employer

11. Connie Beene Director Of Professional And Experiential Learning Baker University SPGS 8001 College Blvd, Suite 100 Overland Park, KS 66210 (W) 913-491-4432 Ext. 1210 [email_address] Contact Information Jennifer Pfortmiller Affiliate Site Manager Kansas State University-Division of Continuing Education 245 NE 30 Rd Great Bend, KS 67530 620-786-1188 [email_address]