Max Out Transfer Credit
TESU accepts transfer credit for up to 105 CUs for bachelor’s credits or 114 CUs for Edison Accelerate. Accepted credit sources include:
- Accredited universities
- CLEP/DSST exams
- ACE-approved providers like Study.com
- Military JST transcripts
- Industry certifications, including SHRM, Cisco, CompTIA, and PMI.
⚠️ Important: All transfer credits should be submitted prior to enrollment. After starting at TESU, no additional outside credit will be accepted. At least 15 credit units must be accomplished at TESU.
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Why TESU Works for Degree Hackers
If your goal is to complete sooner for less, TESU’s policies and cadence are built for you. Here’s why the “stack-and-sprint” approach works so well here.
- Short, Predictable Blocks: Plan back-to-back 12-week terms (or 8-week in undergrad nursing).
- Frequent Starts: Monthly starts ensure you avoid downtime.
- Transfer-Friendly + Alternative Learning: Combine RA transfer with ACE/NCCRS, CLEP/DSST, and military credit within the 90-credit non-collegiate limit, then push to 105/114 overall if eligible.
- Military Pathway: Pair JST/CCAF credits with the $250/credit military tuition for many undergrad courses (non-nursing).
The TESU Learning Model
Busy adult learners need flexibility without losing support. Here’s what the day-to-day experience at Thomas Edison State University looks like, and the help you can count on.
Multiple Online Study Formats
At TESU, you’ll study fully online using the myEdison portal (Moodle LMS), with formats such as Online (OL), Guided Study (GS), and e-Pack.
Comprehensive Assessments
Assessments include discussions, projects, papers, quizzes, and exams. You’ll also have free, on-demand Brainfuse tutoring and a Writing Lab.
Digital Rhythm
Map consecutive 12-week terms (or 8-week in undergrad nursing) to maintain momentum using TESU’s monthly start calendar.
Flat Tuition = Pricing Per Credit
Instead of changing per course, TESU charges per credit at $440 (NJ residents, incl. PA) and $573 (out-of-state) for most bachelor’s programs taken online.
Always-Open Admissions Calendar
With monthly online starts, TESU helps you keep your momentum going. Start when you’re ready. No need to wait for season-based semesters.
TESU Snapshot: At a Glance
Get your bearings first. This section gives you the must-know policies and numbers that determine how fast, and how affordably, you can finish at TESU.
Here are key TESU facts every prospective student should know:
- Institutional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). TESU also participates in NC-SARA for distance education authorization.
- Online Tuition (Per-Credit, 2025–26): $440 (NJ residents, incl. PA) and $573 (out-of-state). (Text/materials extra.)
- Nursing (RN-to-BSN) Tuition: $311/credit starting the July 2025 term (in- and out-of-state).
- Military Rate (most undergrad, non-nursing): $250/credit for active duty/Guard/Reserve, spouses/dependents, and DoD civilians.
- Course Format & Starts: Most undergraduate programs start every month in 12-week terms; undergrad Nursing uses 8-week sessions.
- Transfer & Residency: Bring in up to 105 credits toward a bachelor’s, or up to 114 with Edison Accelerate. Under the Per-Credit plan, complete 15 TESU credits via Online/Guided Study/e-Pack to graduate (TECEP® exams don’t satisfy this residency).
Non-collegiate/alternative credit (ACE/NCCRS/exams/military) is capped at 90 credits toward a bachelor’s (45 for an associate).
Popular Fast-Finish Majors at TESU
Some programs pair especially well with heavy transfer and credit-by-exam. Use this as a starting list when you’re choosing a fast path.
- Business: BSBA concentrations (e.g., Accounting, HR, Operations, General Management). Capstone required.
- Technology/Applied Science: IT-aligned paths under Arts & Sciences/Applied Science.
- Health & Nursing: RN-to-BSN (online; often completed in ~18 months depending on remaining credits) and Accelerated BSN (select NJ sites; intensive pathway).
- Humanities/Social Sciences: Flexible BAs (e.g., Liberal Studies) that absorb large blocks of transfer.
Speed Tip: Many students finish faster by transferring gen-eds/electives and focusing remaining TESU credits on SOS-1100 + the program Capstone, any residency credits (if not using Edison Accelerate), and upper-level major courses.
Admissions Snapshot
The process of applying to TESU is straightforward and fully online. Gather transcripts, pick your target start, and you’re off.
- Apply online and create your student profile.
- Send official transcripts and any test/military/ACE records for evaluation.
- Watch for monthly start dates on the 12-week undergraduate calendar; undergrad Nursing follows 8-week sessions.
What It Really Costs and How to Pay Less
Your total cost is largely a function of how many credits you still need at TESU. Reduce that number and sequence terms smartly to lower the bill.
Lower the Bill:
Reduce what you pay by bringing in transfer credits, accelerating your course sequence, and using financial aid or employer tuition support. The strategies below can help you graduate faster.
- Max out ACE/NCCRS + CLEP/DSST (within the 90-credit non-collegiate cap) before matriculation, where possible.
- Consider Edison Accelerate — a $3,400 one-time fee that waives the 15-credit residency and lets you transfer up to 114 credits (you’ll still complete SOS-1100 + Capstone at TESU).
Career Outcomes & ROI
Finish is step one: repurposing your degree for better roles. Pay is step two. TESU backs you with tools that translate coursework into traction.
- TESU Career Development offers 1:1 coaching, workshops, and job-search resources; CollegeCentral.com hosts postings for TESU students/alumni.
- External Scorecard-based aggregators estimate alumni ~$57,800 median earnings 10 years after enrollment (varies by field/experience).
Five-Step TESU Transfer Checklist
Follow this streamlined strategy to maximize transfer credits, shorten your terms, and complete your Thomas Edison State University degree at the lowest cost.