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Bachelor of Individualized Studies (BIS)
Adult Degree Program

Contact:
Thomas Laub
Academic Coordinator
New College Institute
Room 405 - Jefferson Plaza
Phone:  276-403-5627
E-Mail:
laubtj@jmu.edu




In conjunction with the New College Institute, James Madison University (JMU) offers Martinsville students the opportunity to earn a four-year college degree through the Adult Degree Program (ADP).  Founded in 1977, the Adult Degree Program helps students enhance their professional skills and fulfill personal education goals by offering online classes, distance learning by way of teleconferencing, and traditional, face-to-face courses.  Working with ADP staff, academic advisors, and the JMU faculty, students will develop professional skills, attain a four-year college degree, and enrich the Martinsville community.

The Bachelor of Individualized Study degree offered by the Adult Degree Program includes communications, history, political science, public policy & administration, and elective classes.  To help students fulfill program requirements, James Madison University will grant credit for courses taken at community colleges and universities subject to approval by the university Registrar.  We also accept many College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests that allow students to earn college credit by taking a test in familiar subjects.  Finally, students can earn up to thirty additional credits by developing a Portfolio of Prior Learning Experiences that details professional accomplishments which are equivalent to academic classes.

Students enrolled in the Adult Degree Program must concentrate in two of the following four areas of study:

  • Communications
  • History
  • Political Science
  • Public Policy & Administration


The Bachelor of Individualized Study degree builds analytic, communications, research and writing skills that will prepare students for graduate school or careers in consulting, education, law, management, non-profit administration, public service, private industry, and politics.


TRANSFER GUIDE

For more information, please review the following link: click here





To enter the Adult Degree Program, candidates should:

  • be at least 25 years of age
  • not been enrolled full-time in an institution of higher education for 3 years
  • have 30 transferable credit hours
  • have a "C" or better overall grade point average
  • submit official transcripts from previous higher education institutions



    
   


   For Information on Tuition & Fees Click Here





   JMU Financial Aid Office

   Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)



In order to apply for this program, please contact Thomas Laub by telephone at (276) 430-5627 or email at laubjt@jmu.edu.  Applicants will be asked to provide basic information (name, address, email address, telephone number, and a list of colleges and universities attended) and send official transcripts to:

    Pamela Brown
    James Madison University
    MSC 6913
    Harrisburg, VA  22807

After JMU has evaluated official transcripts to determine eligibility, applicants can complete the application process by filling out an online application.