Brandman University

Brandman University began in 1958 as a branch of Chapman University which is a prestigious private institution in Orange, California that was founded in 1861. Chapman consistently ranks among the top universities in the country. Brandman was created to deliver high-quality education to soldiers stationed at the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station.

As demand grew, the campus became Brandman University, a separate, accredited institution. The school is still military friendly but has expanded to serve a large and diverse student population with a continued dedication to high educational standards. The school is a leader in developing the most effective adult learning formats, Brandman strives to provide a traditional university education through a career-oriented curriculum through a convenient class time, accomplished instructors, individualized support and innovative teaching environments.

For four years, Brandman’s online programs as the best in the country and the graduation rate is significantly higher than at other institutions like it. As a non-profit institution, Brandman’s lower overhead allows them to invest more in academics so that advisors are able to plan an academic plan that meets the needs of more students.

Brandman has consistently been ranked high on the U.S. News and World Report listings of military friendly schools.

Brandman University Accreditation Details

Brandman University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission. Other agencies and organizations that accredit specific programs at Brandman include:

• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
• American Nurses Credentialing Center

Brandman University Application Requirements

In order to apply for undergraduate admission, students must have at least 12 transferable bachelor’s level credits and must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA in all college-level coursework. Students with less than 12 credits must submit official high school transcripts and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0. An admissions test is also required.

Graduate students must have a 3.0 GPA over the most recent graded semester in a bachelor’s or higher program at an accredited college or university or a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 in a bachelor’s or higher program in addition to a satisfactory score on a graduate admissions examination. Any student who has already completed a Master’s level program does not need to meet GPA requirements. Students who can submit a portfolio that includes the following may be entered into a program without GPA, admissions test or degree requirements:

• Writing samples that show graduate level communications and analytical skills
• A detailed resume showing professional development and achievement
• Awards and/or professional recognitions
• Letters of reference from those who can attest to the applicant’s ability to succeed in a graduate program
• Letter of explanation detailing why the student believes they are a good candidate for the graduate program they wish to enter.

Some undergraduate and graduate programs may have additional admission requirements. Students are encouraged to speak with an admissions counselor before applying.

Brandman University Tuition and Financial Aid

Undergraduate tuition at Brandman University is $500 per credit hour for regular students and $250 for active duty military and their spouses. Graduate tuition for regular students is $600 per credit hour and between $360 to $440 for active military and their spouses. The Doctorate of Education is $875 per credit hour for all students and the Doctor of Nursing is $1,000 per credit hour for all students.

Financial aid is available for students who qualify. Financial aid may be in the form of federally funded grants and loans. In addition, students may qualify for California State Aid. There are also scholarships and private grants that students may apply for through the financial aid office. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to qualify for federal financial aid.

Brandman University Online Degrees Available

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology explores humanity’s diverse way of interacting providing students with an understanding of the institutions and social systems that humans build. The program is designed to help students improve their capacity to analyze, understand and evaluate social phenomena while enhancing awareness of diversity. Students develop critical thinking skills along with verbal and oral communication skills. Curriculum includes the study of institutions, cultures, family patterns, gender, ethnic relationships, mass media and value systems.

Students learn to apply sociological methodological approaches and evaluate the effects of multiculturalism society. Students develop the skills to apply sociological theories to practical situations as well as interpret and evaluate published research through utilizing acquired statistical knowledge. Students are required to create an applied research or similar project.

Core ourses required include:

• Introduction to Statistics
• Introduction to Sociology
• Social Research Design
• Globalization and Social Change
• Social and Political Theory
• Intercultural Communication
• Social Science Capstone Course

Students may also earn a Sociology minor by taking:

• Introduction to Sociology
• Social Research Design or Research Methods for Behavioral Sciences
• Social and Political Theory
• Three upper-division sociology courses

To be admitted to the program students must have 12 or more transferrable bachelor’s degree credits. Students must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. For those applying under an active military agreement, admission and minimum transfer credit awarded is determined based on the Community College of the Air Force, SMART, AARTS or JST transcripts. At least 32 credits must be completed at Brandman and 18 of those must be upper-division credits and 12 of which must be in the student’s major.

The program is 120 credits with 36 credits earned in upper-division coursework. Students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average in all major and minor coursework. The degree is offered in both online and traditional campus formats.

Brandman University began as a higher education institution designed for military personnel, but as their offerings expanded, began offering courses to civilian personnel as well. The school has continued its commitment to the military and has been ranked highly among military-friendly schools. Students who have work, family or social obligations that prevent them from attending traditional classes for higher education will find the flexibility at Brandman will allow them to advance in a current career or move into a new one.