FAQ
Q: Do I have to buy any textbooks?
A: No. All textbooks and learning materials will be included in the instructor-led programs. This is a huge savings and you will get books shipped to your address on file after you sign up for a program and verify your shipping address. Self-paced programs do not include textbooks but do include a specific Help Section with a defined Knowledge Base to assist you in your studies.
Q: How long does it take to complete a professional education program?
A: The following program durations are based on 15 hours of study per week. This is an approximation and will be different for each person. Each student can go at his/her own pace. Students can progress more quickly through a program and finish earlier than the stated time or they can proceed more slowly and take up to 12 months to complete a program if they choose. This applies to both instructor-led and self-paced programs.
| Program Duration | Approximate Time to Complete a Program |
| 60 Hours | 1 Month |
| 120 Hours | 2 Months |
| 200 Hours | 3 Months |
| 250 Hours | 4 Months |
| 300 Hours | 5-6 Months |
| 400 Hours | 6-7 Months |
| 500 Hours | 8-9 Months |
| 600 Hours | 10-11 Months |
| 700 Hours | 11-12 Months |
Q: Do the professional education programs carry academic credit?
A: No. These programs are non-credit and are geared for those looking for professional development, continuing education, and lifelong learning.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: We do not offer financial aid for professional education programs but we do offer Payment Plan Options.
Q: Do you think my employer will help me pay to take a program?
A: Each company has different policies about financing employee education, so please check with your employer. In many cases, companies do pay for or reimburse employees who successfully pass an Excelsior College Professional Education program. These programs help to develop current job skills and meet a diverse training audience.
Q: How can I prove that I passed and completed a professional education program?
A: You will be able to check the status of your program right on the Excelsior College website. You will also receive a Certificate of Completion for every professional education program that you complete with Excelsior College. This official certifcate will be mailed to your address on file after successful completion of a program.
Q: There is a program I am interested in taking, but it's not listed. Can I recommend one?
A: Yes! We are constantly reviewing and developing new programs to accommodate the needs of our students. In some cases, we may have the program you are interested in coming out in a few weeks, so feel free to let us know if you are looking for a specific program that's not listed.
Q: Will I get my Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA, or Oracle Certification when I complete my program?
A: No. The programs we offer are preparation courses for the different Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA, and Oracle certifications. The programs we offer will prepare you for these national tests. Many of our programs contain practice exams for these technical certifications. Upon successful completion of one of our technical programs you will be ready for the official exam offered at different testing centers around the world, including Prometric. From there you will have the opportunity to transfer the specified certification to Excelsior College from 1-4 undergraduate college academic credits towards a degree.
Q: Who should I contact if I am having technical difficulties accessing or viewing a program?
A: Please visit the Help section if you are having technical difficulties.
Q: How often are the professional education programs offered?
A: Professional education programs have open enrollment. You can sign up for a program anytime. This helps to allow for flexibility in your schedule.
Q: Do I have to apply and be accepted into the college to take a professional education program?
A: No. You do no not have to apply and be accepted into the college to take a professional education program. Just find a program you want, sign up, and pay.
