University offers online degree completion program to military personnel

University offers online degree completion program to military personnel

Lamar University, an accredited member of the Texas State University System, is now offering its bachelor of applied arts and sciences (BAAS) degree in an online degree format.

The program is designed for active duty, retired or former military personnel who are looking to finish their undergraduate studies. The BAAS degree will also give students the opportunity to earn up to 59 hours of college credit through past professional and technical experiences related to the curriculum.

"We've removed the two biggest barriers to college degree completion," said Paula Nichols, executive director for distance learning at Lamar University.

"The online BAAS degree program is designed to give students, including military service members, an easily accessible, affordable way to advance themselves academically, in their career goals, and in their potential earnings power," she added.

To qualify, applicants must have accrued at least 45 hours of academic credit with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 point scale.

Online universities may be particularly attractive to adults who would like to acquire new skills but do not have the time to do so in a conventional setting.

By Mark Danson