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Jackson Adult Studies Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about finishing your degree? See if our answers below shed more light on your concerns. Click on any questions below to learn more. If you have any additional questions please contact us at 601-968-5988 or jackson@belhaven.edu.

General Questions:

Graduate Program Questions:

General Questions:

I have never heard of Belhaven University. Is Belhaven new?

No. Belhaven College, now Belhaven University, began in 1883, in Jackson, MS. The main campus is in Jackson, with extension campuses for adult studies in Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga and Atlanta. More information.

Why should I attend Belhaven University?

Completing your education at Belhaven University is a smart decision because our programs are specifically designed to allow adult students opportunities to relate and apply their coursework to current jobs and situations. Belhaven also understands the importance of convenient scheduling, individual attention, small classes, knowledgeable faculty, a supportive administrative staff, Financial Aid services, and national recognition.

When can I get started?

Almost immediately! Submit the Admission Application including the application fee and transcripts. Once you have applied and qualify for a particular program, we are able to place you in classes. Therefore, your submission of application materials is extremely important to us in determining a starting date for your class.

Is Financial aid available?

YES! Adult undergraduate students are classified as full-time students and have the option to finance their education with Financial aid. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). More information. It is important that you apply for Financial aid upon completing the admission application.

Most graduate students are eligible for Financial aid in the form of Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Student Loans only. Students receiving Stafford Loans must be registered for a minimum of 6 hours per semester.

How are classes formatted?

A variety of methods and tools are utilized in the classroom and/or virtual classroom to blend theory into practice. Belhaven University offers its students on campus, virtual campus and 100% online course options. Many classes meet on campus. Our virtual classroom utilizes video conferencing software and a live instructor, while our 100% online courses allow students to take advantage of flexible class times. Students enrolled in any program at Belhaven University need to have access t

How much study time is required outside of the classroom?

Students should be prepared to spend 15 to 20 hours each week outside of the classroom in preparation for class.

What happens if I need to miss a night of class?

Due to the accelerated nature of the program, it is important for students attend every class. Any student who misses more than twenty percent of a course in jeopardy of receiving an F and being dropped from a class unless prior arrangements have been made with the professor. Each course syllabus outlines the instructor's attendance policy.

Can I really do this at my age?

Absolutely! It is possible because adult students usually are more motivated and responsible. They also have much better time management skills, which further enable them to be successful in an accelerated program.

Do you accept transfer credits from other schools?

Applicants should contact ALL previously attended college and request Official Academic transcripts to be forwarded to the Belhaven University Admission office. Transfer credit is determined by the registrar on the basis that work must be from a regionally accredited institution, be college level, and equal a 2.0 average. Download the Transferability of Credit Notice.

What does it mean to be a Military Friendly School?

Military Friendly Logo

Belhaven University has designed our programs with the military in mind. Military personnel can attend classes at one of our six campus locations or participate in our online program. We offer a tuition discount for military and participate in the Yellow Ribbon program. We also participate in other veteran's benefits programs.

Graduate Program Questions:

What is the difference between MAT and MED?

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is designed for students who have a non-education undergraduate degree. The Master of Education (MED) is designed for students who have an education undergraduate degree and completed a teacher preparation program (student-teaching).

How long does it take to complete the Graduate Teacher Education program?

The program is designed for working professionals to complete their master's degree within 18-20 months. Each class that you attend will last for 7 weeks, meeting one night a week from 5:30-9:30 in conjunction with learning team meeting (minimum of 2 hours).

Is Financial aid available for graduate teacher education students?

Most graduate students are eligible for Financial aid in the form of Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Student Loans only. Students receiving Stafford Loans must be registered for a minimum of 6 hours per semester.

Who is eligible for the Classroom Leadership Scholarship?

The CLS is available for all students who are currently teaching in either private or public schools. This scholarship pays $400 per course, and is contingent upon submission of verification of teacher employment.

For my graduate level classes can I take only one class (3 hours) a semester instead of 2 classes?

Yes, however you cannot receive Federal Student Loans for less than 6 hours per semester.

What is the difference between an MPA and an MBA?

The Public sector is significantly different from the Private sector of business. Different motivations: one pursues profit and wealth, one pursues service. One values prosperity and economic success, the other values the promotion of human welfare. One is more individually and organizationally focused while the other is more community or collectively focused. The different programs possess significantly different accounting programs and accountability processes. Each program has significantly different laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures managing their respective operational processes. Leadership in either field requires specific skill sets within their respective field. The MPA is designed for those working in the Public sector.

How long does it take to complete the Master of Public Administration program?

The program is designed for working professionals to complete their master's degree within 18-20 months. Most classes are 6 weeks in length, meeting one night a week from 5:30-9:30 in conjunction with a periodic learning team meeting.

Who is eligible for the Certified Public Manager and Certified Supervisory Manager Scholarship?

The CPS/CSM scholarship is available for all students who have completed either or both courses and have received a certificate of completion. This scholarship provides a 10% discount and allows the student to waive 3 to 6 hours depending on the certification. A copy of the qualifying certificate must be submitted to the admission office. This discount cannot be taken with any other discount given by the school.