University Of Charleston

“Different. Really different” is how University of Charleston in Charleston, West Virginia describes itself, and rightfully so. University of Charleston takes all sorts of alternate routes to a degree, all of which ensure that students learn what they want to learn in the way that they want to learn it. First off, students at University of Charleston devise their own major. They may go with a major that is already offered such as Business, Communications, Psychology or Public Policy. Alternately, they may put together a major out of courses already offered and/or through independent study classes. Learning then culminates in projects, with students undertaking final projects and putting together portfolios at the conclusion of a course. To complement their studies, students have the option of doing an internship or study abroad experience as well. Charleston also awards credit for certain projects or learning experiences that took place prior to one’s Charleston education. Finally, because Charleston’s curriculum is so flexible and allows students to really focus on their major, students may complete their bachelor’s degree in less than four years. Transcripts, standardized test scores and one’s extracurricular activities and accomplishments are all used in evaluating first-time undergraduates. Students may also apply for financial aid if they need help covering tuition costs.

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