CEL – Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is the Center for Extended Learning accredited?

A. Yes. Rochester College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 North LaSalle, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois, 60602. Phone: (312) 263-0456.

Q. Will Rochester College accept my credits?

A. Rochester College is a transfer friendly school and will accept most, if not all, courses completed at an accredited institution with a grade of C- or above. The total number of transfer credits applied to your degree program may be determined by the degree you choose to pursue.

Q. How do I know what will transfer?

A. Once you have provided us with copies of your transcripts from your previous institutions, we will complete a degree plan for you. This degree plan will show you the transfer credit accepted by Rochester College and the courses that are still needed to complete the degree.

Q. Do I need official transcripts, and if so, how do I get them?

A. We will evaluate unofficial transcripts; however, official transcripts must be received before the end of your first semester of enrollment. To obtain an official transcript, you need to contact the appropriate personnel from the institution you previously attended.

Q. Can I receive credit for work experience?

A. Avenues for obtaining non-traditional credit at Rochester College include testing services, professional schools and training (30 hours maximum), and prior learning portfolio (30 hours maximum). Students may receive a combined maximum of 30 credit hours towards the Associates of Arts and 60 credit hours toward a Bachelor’s degree through nontraditional avenues. Learn more »

Q. How long will it take me to finish?

A. Many variables must be taken into consideration, including the amount of transfer credit accepted and whether you plan on attending full-time, part-time, or half-time. We can provide a tentative graduation date after we have evaluated all of your previous transcripts and the degree plan is completed.

Q. Do you offer online degrees?

A. While we offer some online classes, we do not offer distance learning or online undergraduate degrees.

Q. How much do you cost?

A. Tuition for the Fall of 2011 is $324 per credit hour. All fees can be found in the current registration packet, or you can contact an advisor. Learn more »

Q. When do I apply for Financial Aid and what do I need to do?

A. Prospective students should apply for financial aid as early as possible. You can apply for financial aid by visiting www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be sure to include Rochester College’s federal school code: 002288. The Financial Aid Office will only package students who have submitted an application for admission.

Q. I have filled out my FAFSA, how long will it take for RC to contact me?

A. In conjunction with applying for Financial Aid, you must submit the Intent to Register Form to the Financial Aid office. Once Financial Aid has received your FAFSA information and the Intent to Register Form, they will mail your award letter to you.

Q. Where can I find an application for CEL?

A. The application can be found at: RC Application for CEL.

Q. Where do I find the registration packet?

A. The registration packet can be found at: Download Forms CEL.