University of Illinois at Springfield

Overall, this was a great experience. Of course there is variability, usually based on the degree that the professor embraces online instruction. This is a high quality alternative to finding a brick and mortar, local program. A previous review did mention a marketability disadvantage for those outside of Illinois. This is probably true, but also true of any traditional program if you relocate. Something to keep in mind if you are planning on using this for a job search. Outside of that, I see no other drawback to UIS. They are a great provider for a great education.

This is probably a great school for those that live in Illinois or in the Midwest but I can honestly tell you earning this degree in my area has not benefited me at all. I had a 4.0 GPA here and 3.95 at Baker College and I have received one rejection from potential employers after the next. They seem to tend to prefer candidates from local colleges that they know. I was flat out told at one interview that they prefer "blank" college and asked me why I chose these colleges. You really need to check with local employers what colleges they prefer and if you can't afford the college, simply don't go. Better than taking out loans to attend a college that won't land you a job.

Excellent teachers. Nice innovative teaching style. Some of the teachers need proctored based exams. Lot of coursework. Truly worth the money, time, and effort.

The program is now actually 12 courses, 36 credits. I'm 7 courses into this program and have been thoroughly impressed. The courses are challenging but not back breaking. A lot of busy and group work, exams are closed book and proctored, and each course thus far has required discussion board participation. Most have streaming weekly lectures that are taped for future viewing. As of now tuition for on-line only courses runs around $295 a credit hour, fees are minimal, When taking 2 courses a semester comes out to a little over $1k per course. The school is regionally and AACSB accredited. Definitely one of the better values out there in distance learning today.