With back-to-school season underway, the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is reminding members about valuable educational opportunities available through its Learning Partnership with Columbia Southern University (CSU).

This partnership allows Chamber member organizations, their employees and eligible dependents to take advantage of reduced tuition rates and other educational benefits. These opportunities are especially relevant for working adults seeking additional certifications or degrees to support their professional growth. CSU’s typical student is over 35 years old, and 90% of its students are employed while returning to school for career development.

CSU offers more than 200 certificate and degree programs, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs. Its goal is to provide relevant educational opportunities that are affordable, accessible and accredited.

Affordable

CSU will not increase tuition during the upcoming academic year. Learning Partner tuition rates will remain:

• $250.20 per credit hour for undergraduate programs
• $323.10 per credit hour for graduate programs
• $504.90 per credit hour for doctoral programs

These rates include course materials, the application fee, a complimentary evaluation of previous credits, certificates and additional benefits. Free math and writing tutoring is also available as needed.

This affordability can help employees complete more courses each year while allowing an organization’s tuition-assistance budget to support more learners throughout the year. Weekly payment plans are also available.

Accessible

CSU programs are delivered 100% online, providing students with the flexibility to pursue their educational goals while balancing work, family and other responsibilities.

Additional accessibility benefits include:

• 11 class starts each year, allowing students to begin when they are ready
• 24/7 access to online coursework
• Educational benefits extended to eligible dependents
• A dedicated Learning Partner landing page for prospective students and enrollment

Chamber members can explore available certificate and degree programs and begin the enrollment process at www.columbiasouthern.edu/jim-forsythe.

Accredited

Columbia Southern University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). CSU also holds additional accreditations for specific academic programs.

Through the Chamber’s Learning Partnership with CSU, member organizations can provide employees and their dependents with access to flexible, career-focused educational opportunities at a reduced cost.

For additional information about CSU programs or the Learning Partnership, contact Jim Forsythe with Columbia Southern University at 800-977-8449, extension 1860, or jim.forsythe@columbiasouthern.edu.