Bellevue University

Envisioned by local citizen Bill Brooks, Bellevue College became a reality in 1966 to serve the needs of a growing community in Bellevue, Nebraska. From first-time college students to adult learners at the nearby Air Force base, the college promoted its vision of affordable, accessible, relevant higher education to prepare graduates for trending careers. That mission spurred Bellevue's growth. By expanding degree offerings and innovative educational outreach, Bellevue became a full university in 1994 and began accredited distance learning programs in 1996. Today, more than 48,000 students worldwide have earned degrees through traditional or online formats at Bellevue University. Both formats offer high academic rigor with well-rounded curricula. For example, all programs incorporate service to the community and workplace into academic directives. By so doing, students can engage in meaningful experiential and simulated learning opportunities that enhance their ability to implement instructional theory in future occupational pursuits. Bellevue University ranks at No. 63 and No. 123 respectively for best online bachelor's and graduate programs according to U.S. News & World Reports. It also earns recognition by national publications and organizations for being a military-friendly school for active duty personnel and veterans.

Bellevue University: Accreditation Details

Regional accreditation, granted by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, allows Bellevue to confer bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. This accreditation applies to traditional and distance education formats. Bellevue also holds program accreditation by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. With regard to online programs, Bellevue follows protocols to secure appropriate state authorizations where applicable and is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Bellevue University: Application Requirements

All students submit a completed online application and remit a non-refundable fee of $50 to $75. First time undergraduates submit proof of high school completion through transcripts, GED certification or home-school documentation. Likewise, transfer students completing an undergraduate program or graduates enrolling in master's or doctoral programs submit transcripts for previous college coursework or degrees obtained. Verified test scores from ACT, SAT, CLEP, GMAT or GRE exams may be requested by some programs. Additional relevant information for submission may include:

• Documented work history in chosen field of study for master's or doctoral candidates
• Official verification of active duty or retired military status to receive credit or benefits
• Proof of English competency via the TOEFL for international students
• Results of a World Education Services evaluation for international students

Bellevue University admissions counselors can assist prospective students with questions about the application process.

Bellevue University: Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition rates vary by residential status, degree and program type. Undergraduate courses for residential and international students enrolled in on-campus programs cost $275 and $350 per credit respectively, while active duty personnel pay $250 for each undergraduate credit taken. All undergraduate online courses are $395 per credit, which includes a technology fee. Master's and lower-level doctoral credits are $525 each with higher-level doctoral credits costing $695 apiece. In addition, students can expect to pay university fees for graduation and general processing of degree information.

To offset educational costs, students with satisfactory academic progress can benefit from a variety of financial assistance programs. Bellevue University attendees who meet eligibility requirements can apply for the following federal, state and local financial aid opportunities:

• Federal Student Aid, called FAFSA
• Federal Work Study Program
• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
• Federal PLUS Parent or Graduate Loans
• William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program
• Federal Stafford or Perkins Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized government loans)
• Military Tuition Assistance (active duty personnel)
• GI Bill Education Benefits Program
• Veterans Affairs Benefits Program
• National or State Scholarship Programs
• Nebraska Opportunity Grant
• Organization Tuition Assistance (employer sponsored programs)
• Bellevue Work Study Program
• Bellevue Institutional Scholarships and Grants
• Bellevue University Tom and Annie Pratt Student Entrepreneurial Award Program

Online Degree in Behavioral Science at Bellevue University

In keeping with its civic-minded educational philosophy, Bellevue offers degrees in trending global careers such as behavioral science. Behavioral scientists work within the human services field to facilitate wellness, understanding, communication and interpersonal relationships. Principles and practices come from interdisciplinary fields of study in psychology, physiology, sociology, and counseling. Students learn how to understand the needs of diverse groups of people and provide appropriate services in workplace and community contexts.

Bellevue offers an accelerated online Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science, or BSA, as an alternative to a traditional on-campus bachelor's program. Entrants must possess 60 credit hours towards a bachelor's or hold an associate's degree. Completion time can be as few as 16 months for motivated learners. Students enter the program as a cohort, or learning group that follows the same schedule to degree completion. Cohort studies allow for online associations with a diverse peer community through shared learning activities. Students can work in small group formats via video-conferencing or assignment modules and engage in discussion through interactive online participation in lectures and webinars.

Studies for the accelerated BSA encompass the remaining requirements for a 124-credit bachelor's degree. Students take 49 additional credits in the major, a nine-credit capstone project and six elective credits. Topics include:

• Foundations of human services,
• Evidence-based research and trending practices,
• Multicultural perspectives,
• Social deviance and psychopathology,
• Counseling theories and therapeutic approaches,
• Human growth and development across the lifespan,
• Treatment strategies and protocols,
• Professional ethics and strategies for success,
• Leadership and management techniques.

Graduates with a BSA have a wide range of entry-level occupational choices as social work assistants, healthcare technicians, community health advocates, educational aides, criminal profilers, human resource specialists, youth mentors, substance abuse workers or consultants. Degree foundations also provide the necessary knowledge and skills required to pursue a Master of Arts in Human Services or Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. The MAHS often leads to professional career advancement opportunities in human service occupations, while the MSCC establishes competencies to prepare for licensing exams in mental health fields.

Accessing Bellevue's programs online or through its 15 campus locations in four states can be a life-changer for many adults. Whether earning a first-time degree, finishing a program of choice, beginning a new career or advancing in the professional workplace, Bellevue University can offer everyone a degree that fits their educational needs and career goals.