Online vs. Hybrid Learning: Find Your Fit with Excelsior

Posted on by Divyaleen Manchanda

Are we witnessing the end of education as a place and the rise of education as an experience? The COVID-19 pandemic brought immense challenges, but one unexpected silver lining was the rapid normalization of online learning, boosting it into the mainstream and introducing millions to its possibilities.

Although some learners may prefer in-person classes, others have embraced the flexibility of an online approach, or a hybrid of the two. Institutions of higher education like Excelsior University are rising to meet students’ changing needs by offering specialized programs where they can thrive in online or hybrid environments.

How Do You Learn Best?

Where you choose to earn your degree is a weighty decision for any student. But you can narrow down your options by identifying key personal details about yourself. For instance, do you work a full-time job, and do you need to continue working? Do you have family obligations? And, critically, in what environments do you learn best? If you’re not sure how to answer that last question, weighing the pros and cons of online learning vs. hybrid learning can be useful.

Benefits of Online Learning

When your professor is on Zoom and your peers are in three different time zones, “being present” takes on a whole new meaning—one that prioritizes accessibility, flexibility, and a personalized learning experience. Imagine taking courses with a view of a beach; online learning breaks down geographic and physical barriers, making education accessible no matter where you are.

Additionally, you have freedom to learn on your schedule, empowering students to balance education with work, family, and other responsibilities. Online platforms offer tailored learning paths, allowing students to earn degrees at their own pace and engage with content that fits their learning style.

Benefits of Hybrid Learning

Do you prefer to learn on your own terms but still miss the connection of a classroom? Hybrid learning combines the flexibility of online education with the immersive experience of in-person classes. Regular in-person touchpoints offer valuable opportunities to build a strong, diverse network. This dual exposure broadens and deepens professional connections and the enrichment learners receive from the wide range of perspectives, industries, and experiences of their peers. Hybrid learning makes every moment feel more intentional and valuable as students cut down on the daily commute while still benefitting from thoughtfully designed, high-value experiences.

What Are Some of Excelsior’s In-Person and Hybrid Learning Opportunities?

Excelsior University is always innovating new programs and courses, as well as forming strategic institutional partnerships, as part of our mission to meet students where they are, academically and geographically. Here are two recent hybrid learning opportunities available to Excelsior students, plus a way to add in-person learning when enrolled in some Excelsior undergraduate programs.

Summer Course with Paul Smith’s College

Excelsior University has partnered with Paul Smith’s College, nestled in the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains, to offer a bold new 3-credit course featuring a one-week immersive outdoor learning experience. This isn’t just another hybrid course; SUST 300 Humans, Health and the Environment: A One Health Approach is preparation for careers that require cross-disciplinary collaboration across health, science, and environmental sectors. This eight-week course is about tackling real-world challenges at the intersection of people, planet, and policy.

Executive MBA Program

Excelsior University’s Executive MBA (EMBA) program goes beyond the traditional online classroom experience. Along with hands-on activities, simulations, and collaborative projects, the program features residencies in three world-class business hubs: Albany, New York; Tampa, Florida; and Chicago, Illinois. Each city’s residency will cover a different theme, from entrepreneurial leadership in a complex world, to greening the bottom line through sustainable business strategies, to mastering brand intelligence.

And the best part? It all happens within just one year. Graduates of Excelsior’s EMBA program don’t just finish with a degree—they walk away with a competitive edge.

Study Abroad with Excelsior

Excelsior University students have the opportunity to study in Rome as part of our Study Abroad Program through John Cabot University. Studying abroad offers immense value, affording you the opportunity to earn academic credit while immersing yourself in a new culture and gaining a fresh perspective. Many students report having a transformative experience while studying in the Eternal City. Whether your background is in psychology, business, or technology, experiencing new ways of thinking and living can profoundly enrich your education, career, and life.

Start Your Education with Excelsior

Online education is the new foundation of learning, but when blended with in-person experiences, it can elevate the entire journey. Excelsior University is constantly innovating to meet the demands of modern education, including offering different educational modes like hybrid learning. It’s all part of Excelsior’s unwavering student-centered approach to education: Industry professionals design our programs and courses so that you can readily apply new knowledge and skills to your career. And you can count on our career support and counseling from enrollment through graduation and beyond.

Learn more about Excelsior’s areas of study or reach out to an admissions counselor with questions. Whether the path to your success is online or hybrid, let’s put you on it.

Creating a Student-Centered Experience

Posted on by David Schejbal

Excelsior University President David Schejbal spoke with Jay Halfond of Boston University’s Wheelock College of Education and Human Development as part of the Collegial Conversations series of interviews exploring the American academic landscape. In the interview, President Schejbal discusses the history of Excelsior University and how higher education can best serve adult learners.

Read the interview here.

Excelsior University Partners with Paul Smith’s College for Immersive Summer Course

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University has partnered with Paul Smith’s College to offer an innovative new summer course, “Humans, Health, and the Environment: A One Health Approach,” focused on teaching sustainability concepts through an immersive outdoor learning experience at Paul Smith’s campus in the Adirondack Mountains. The course explores the One Health philosophy – an approach recognizing the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment they share – with a hybrid educational program combining online coursework with a week of on-location learning in the Adirondacks. 

The core of the course is a field residency at Paul Smith’s College from August 3-9, 2025, where students will connect their studies with practical applications in nature. Participants will gain hands-on experience in understanding how domestic, agricultural, and wild animal populations intersect with human communities through guided field studies and expert-led thematic campfire discussions. Topics explored during the field residency include plant identification, zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, pollinators and food security, water and human health, sustainable agriculture, and the impact of the outdoors on physical and mental health.    

“This collaboration with Paul Smith’s College reflects Excelsior University’s commitment to building community and providing unique experiential learning opportunities for our students,” said David Schejbal, Excelsior University president. “Through partnerships like this, Excelsior is creating a seamless environment for learners to enhance their online education with unforgettable in-person experiences and practical skills that will serve them throughout their lives.” 

“Our partnership with Excelsior University underscores Paul Smith’s College’s commitment to expanding access to hands-on, immersive education,” said Dan Kelting, President of Paul Smith’s College. “By combining our distinctive strengths with Excelsior’s expertise in online learning, we’re enabling students to enrich their virtual studies with impactful, real-world experiences. Situated in the heart of the Adirondacks, Paul Smith’s offers unparalleled access to one of the nation’s most vibrant natural classrooms, an ideal setting for this kind of collaboration. We’re excited to continue investing in partnerships that prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and agility to succeed in today’s rapidly changing world.”

The 3-credit course is enrolling students now through June 27 for Excelsior’s Summer II term, beginning June 30. The course cost of $2,751 includes tuition, meals, and housing for the one-week residential field experience. The course is open to current Excelsior students, alumni, and the general public.  

For more information, visit: https://www.excelsior.edu/page/summer-course-with-paul-smiths-college.  

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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu
  

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY 
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.   

ABOUT PAUL SMITH’S COLLEGE
At Paul Smith’s College, it’s about the experience. As the only four-year college located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith’s provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences and natural resources. We are able to draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. Our community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive and adventurous individuals collectively provide experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond, and meaningful opportunities for our alumni. We pride ourselves on research and advocacy on issues that improve our planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at paulsmiths.edu.

Excelsior University Welcomes Benjamin Bryant as 2025 Commencement Speaker

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Excelsior University’s 2025 Commencement speaker, Benjamin Bryant. 

ALBANY, N.Y.  – Emmy-nominated broadcaster, writer, and public servant Benjamin Bryant will address Excelsior University’s Class of 2025 at its Commencement ceremony on July 11 at the MVP Arena in Albany, New York. A 2006 Excelsior graduate, Bryant’s distinguished career in media, communications, and government service includes senior roles on high-profile task forces and commissions for the Department of Defense and the President of the United States, and the facilitation of emergency evacuations during the 2021 Afghan airlift. Bryant is a 2024 recipient of the Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Public Service, the Department’s third highest non-career civilian award.

Like many Excelsior students, Bryant did not follow a traditional higher education path. After his studies were long delayed by professional opportunities and health issues, Bryant found Excelsior. Compiling credits from other institutions and completing coursework online, his Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies degree was the culmination of a 12-year undergraduate journey. He went on to earn a Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership and a Master of Arts in Applied Administration from the University of the Incarnate Word in 2015. 

“Earning my degree from Excelsior while working full-time was a key accomplishment in my life, giving me confidence and momentum I would use to build a storied career that, like my educational journey, has been unconventional in the best ways,” said Bryant. “I am grateful for the invitation to speak to this year’s graduates, who know the challenges of balancing school, career, service, and life well, and look forward to sharing my experiences with them as they celebrate this special milestone.” 

“Benjamin Bryant’s remarkable story exemplifies how an Excelsior degree can empower students to achieve greater heights in their lives and careers,” said Excelsior University President David Schejbal. “We are delighted to count Benjamin among our impressive alumni community, and to welcome him to the stage to inspire Excelsior University’s Class of 2025.” 

Now the managing partner and president of Virginia-based communications company Bryant Zamberlan Group, Bryant began his career in 1996, working in on-air and management roles at a Texas radio station group. He later served as a print journalist and editor before transitioning into speechwriting and strategic communications for high-level corporate, military, and federal entities, across areas as diverse as technology, health care, and veterans’ affairs. Over a public service career spanning nearly three decades, Bryant held increasingly senior roles on high-level state and federal government task forces and commissions, including leading writing and support teams for the Fort Hood Shooting Task Force and serving as executive director for pandemic influenza preparation efforts. 

In 2021, Bryant played a key role in the emergency evacuation of American citizens and allies from Afghanistan, serving as a case worker and national spokesperson for the “Digital Dunkirk” coalition of current and former military, diplomatic, and defense civilians. In 2022, he joined the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration as Chief of Staff, Task Force 23, planning “Operation Welcome Home,” a multi-day exposition honoring Vietnam veterans and their families, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. He later launched a touring version to bring the “Welcome Home” celebration to local communities nationwide. His work on the “Welcome Home! Honoring Your Legacy” Vietnam veteran tribute special was nominated for a 2023 Capital Emmy Award. 

As a broadcaster and media figure, Bryant hosted the series “The Brink with Benjamin Bryant,” and has produced and directed award-winning films, documentaries, podcasts, and live programs. His creative credits include notable and varied feature film, television, and stage roles as writer, director, and actor, earning recognition from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Broadway World, Indie Series Awards, and Filmhaus Berlin, among others. He regularly performs voicework for audio series, children’s programs, documentaries, and public service announcements for military families and veterans. 

A member of a multigenerational military family, Bryant remains committed to a tradition of public and community service. He has served as an auxiliarist and flotilla staff officer in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary for more than a decade, continues to advocate for military families and veterans, and serves as a mentor-in-residence at Caroline Community Theatre in Virginia, where he sits on the board of directors. 

Excelsior University’s 54th annual Commencement ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 11 at the MVP Arena in Albany, New York. For more information on Excelsior University’s 2025 Commencement ceremony, visit: www.excelsior.edu/commencement. 

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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. 

Advocate to Support Training of Healthcare Workers Who Work With Refugees on Utilizing Culturally Congruent Care When Assessing for Grief

Posted on by Brian Pervis

Excelsior University School of Nursing department chair Brian Pervis presented at Sigma Theta Tau’s Global Advocacy Academy. The presentation, titled “Advocate to Support Training of Healthcare Workers Who Work With Refugees on Utilizing Culturally Congruent Care When Assessing for Grief,” addresses the need for culturally congruent grief assessment among refugee populations. Refugees often experience prolonged grief and trauma in ways that are deeply tied to cultural beliefs, yet such perspectives are frequently overlooked in Western clinical practice. View the presentation here.

Pain, Anger, and Aggression: A Complex Interplay of Symptoms, Social Factors, and Behaviors

Posted on by Brian Pervis

Excelsior University School of Nursing department chair Pervis co-authored an editorial in Pain Management Nursing titled “Pain, Anger, and Aggression: A Complex Interplay of Symptoms, Social Factors, and Behaviors.” The piece explores the intersection of chronic pain, emotional dysregulation (especially anger), and patient aggression in health care settings. View the full article here.

Detection of Brucella Ceti and Brucella-Associated Disease in Stranded Cetaceans in Hawaii, USA, 2000-24

Posted on by Ilse Silva-Krott

Excelsior University liberal arts faculty member Ilse Silva-Krott co-authored an article titled “Detection of Brucella Ceti and Brucella-Associated Disease in Stranded Cetaceans in Hawaii, USA, 2000-24” in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases. The article discusses the detection of infectious diseases in stranded marine mammals found in Hawaii. View the article here.

Excelsior University Receives Historic Gift from Emeritus Professor Larry Purnell

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Larry Purnell, Excelsior University emeritus professor and longtime supporter.

ALBANY, N.Y.  – On the first day of National Nurses Week, Excelsior University announced a landmark $1 million gift to its School of Nursing from Larry Purnell, an Excelsior emeritus professor and longtime supporter. This legacy contribution is the largest individual donation in the University’s history. In recognition of his impact on the future of the institution’s health care education, Excelsior has named the Purnell Executive Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences position in his honor.  

Purnell, a renowned nursing educator and author, has significantly influenced the global health care field with his award-winning writing and Purnell Model for Cultural Competence. His close connection with Excelsior as a faculty member and subject matter expert spans 45 years. Excelsior awarded Purnell an honorary doctorate of humane letters in 2022 in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to nursing theory through development, scholarship, teaching, and service to the health care community.  

“Investing in the future of nursing education has always been close to my heart, and it is an honor to contribute to Excelsior University’s School of Nursing,” said Purnell. “This legacy gift represents my unwavering commitment to advancing health care through education and leadership. The naming of the Purnell Executive Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences is a humbling tribute, and I hope it inspires others to join in shaping the next generation of health care professionals.” 

Robin Goodrich, the inaugural Purnell Executive Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, said, “Dr. Purnell’s remarkable contribution will enhance our ability to shape future leaders and create a lasting impact on health care education and innovation. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and Dr. Purnell’s unwavering commitment to advancing our mission.” 

Purnell’s gift will enable Excelsior University to elevate its work as one of New York state’s leading nursing educators. Since its founding, Excelsior has graduated more than 5,500 nursing students from New York state. With more than 500 Excelsior associate degree nursing students passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become registered nurses in 2024 and 2023, Excelsior is bringing more nurses into the New York state workforce annually than any other institution.  

Additionally, the gift will allow Excelsior to continue its transformative expansion of clinical partner sites for nursing students. The University has grown from eight clinical partners in April 2024 to 38 partners currently, primarily across New York state. These sites are strategically distributed throughout the state, allowing Excelsior to better meet students where they are. These sites provide opportunities for experiential learning and networking that help get new nurses into the jobs where they are needed most. 

“Dr. Purnell’s extraordinary generosity strengthens Excelsior University’s commitment to excellence in health care education,” said Excelsior University President David Schejbal. “Through this gift, his legacy of compassionate health care leadership will continue to profoundly influence Excelsior students and the communities they serve. On behalf of the University and our learners, I thank Dr. Purnell for his contributions to nursing education.”

For more information on Excelsior University, visit www.excelsior.edu

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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. 

Excelsior University Renews National Nurses Week Partnership with CDPHP 

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y.  – Excelsior University is partnering with Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. (CDPHP®) for the second year in a row to celebrate National Nurses Week. Held annually from May 6–12, National Nurses Week is an opportunity to highlight the stories of our nation’s nurses and thank them for their service and dedication.  

A philanthropic donation from CDPHP will help underwrite Excelsior scholarships for students in Excelsior nursing programs. In addition, CDPHP will partner with the University to host a panel discussion titled “Mental Health in Nursing: A Path to Better Outcomes.” Presented by Excelsior University in collaboration with CDPHP, the free panel discussion will explore the critical theme of mental health and its impact on nurses and patient outcomes.  

The “Mental Health in Nursing: A Path to Better Outcomes” conversation will be moderated by Excelsior University Executive Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences Robin Goodrich, and feature the following health care leaders as panelists:  

  • Lauren Grimshaw, senior vice president of member health operations, CDPHP 
  • Susan Hull, practice manager, CapitalCare Developmental Pediatrics at Wellness Way  
  • Brian Pervis, department chair, Excelsior University School of Nursing 

Excelsior will share the panel discussion recording on May 8 on its YouTube channel and via email with alumni and students from Excelsior’s nursing and allied health programs. 

“CDPHP is proud to collaborate with Excelsior University to encourage and support the next generation of nurses,” said Lauren Grimshaw, CDPHP senior vice president, member health operations. “In a field as vital and demanding as health care, prioritizing mental health is essential. Practices like mindfulness, healthy eating, and regular physical activity—along with a strong support network and the freedom to speak openly with someone you trust—can have a profound impact on personal and professional resilience.”  

“Excelsior University is grateful for CDPHP’s continued support of our nursing students,” said Robin Goodrich, Excelsior University executive dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to nursing education and recognizing the vital role nurses play in health care. Together, we can ensure that nurses have the resources they need to continue to serve their patients and communities.”

For more information on Excelsior University, visit www.excelsior.edu

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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. 

 

Online Education Booms in an Era of Lifelong Learning

Posted on by David Schejbal

Excelsior University President David Schejbal was interviewed for an article titled “Online Education Booms in an Era of Lifelong Learning” by journalist Michael James for the publication WorkingNation. The piece also includes interviews with alumni Sena Amegbletor and Jason Delonais. The article details the state of online higher education and Excelsior’s place in the national conversation.

Read the full article here.

The Evolution of Excelsior University

Posted on by David Schejbal

In a bold step forward for our institution, Excelsior College officially became Excelsior University on August 1, 2022. The university designation symbolized the start of a new chapter in a storied history. Like the chapters before—the creation of the Regents External Degree Program, the transition to Regents College, and the new charter and transition to Excelsior College—our current iteration further highlights the evolutionary transformation of the institution.

Our work as a comprehensive university is just beginning. In 2024, Excelsior launched two new Bachelor of Science programs in the critical fields of computer science and public health, meeting societal and workforce needs with in-demand, market-responsive opportunities. In 2025, Excelsior submitted the request to become a doctoral degree-granting institution. The first doctorate to be offered will be the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), scheduled to launch after New York State Education Department approval. Additional applied doctoral programs will follow.

Along with new degrees, Excelsior University is enhancing the ways in which students learn. In fall 2025, Excelsior will launch a new Executive MBA program, combining the flexibility of online education with immersive, on-the-ground residencies for an intensive learning experience that connects students with industry leaders.

This year, Excelsior will celebrate the graduation of its 200,000th student. We will commemorate this milestone at the 2025 Commencement ceremony in July, welcoming and celebrating all Excelsior graduates and their families.

As Excelsior University prepares for its 200,000th graduate to earn their degree, we reflect on the decades of innovation that created the Excelsior University of today. Much has changed since the institution issued its first diploma as the Regents External Degree Program in 1972, but its mission remains the same: to make the transformative power of education accessible to all.

I invite you to learn more about Excelsior University. If you are a graduate, become an active member of the Alumni Association. If you are considering finishing a degree or starting a new degree, there is no better place than Excelsior University to realize your lifetime goals.

Ever upward!

David Schejbal, PhD
President

Excelsior University President David Schejbal is a leading voice in adult and nontraditional higher education. His insights have been featured in such publications as Forbes, The EvoLLLution, and Inside Higher Ed. Stay up to date with some of President Schejbal’s recent interviews and articles.