Ball State University Teachers College has joined the Federal Academic Alliance to offer online graduate-level degrees, certificates, licenses, and courses at a reduced cost to 2.1 million Federal Government employees, their spouses, and dependents.
The alliance offers Ball State's in-state tuition rates—up to a 30-percent tuition reduction—for all out-of-state (non-Indiana) residents who qualify under the Federal Academic Alliance agreement. Ball State Teachers College is also extending this scholarship to Federal Government retirees.
Eligible federal employees, spouses, dependents, and retirees can access information on enrolling or learning more about the Teachers College online graduate program offerings and tuition rates at bsu.edu/online/FAA.
“Teachers College is excited to be able to offer this opportunity for Federal Government employees and their families,” said Dr. Anand Marri, dean of Teachers College. “We know how great an impact accessible and flexible education can make and the benefits of becoming a life-long learner. By partnering with the Federal Academic Alliance, we will broaden our reach and give even more people the opportunity to experience the exceptional online educational experience we provide.”
The Federal Academic Alliance entered into the agreement with Ball State as part of an ongoing effort to address the skills gaps in mission-critical occupations; increase federal employees' access to high-quality, affordable educational resources; and further develop and retain the federal workforce.
Teachers College has a longstanding reputation as a provider of premier educator preparation programs, as indicated by the annual U.S. News & World Report rankings. The college’s master’s degrees in education consistently earn the honor of “Best Online Program” and “Best Online Program for Veterans.”
"When we mention Ball State University to many educators, they know what we're talking about. They know they'll receive a strong education with high-quality, rigorous, and applicable courses to prepare them to support pre-kindergarten-through-12th-grade and higher education students, school districts, and other areas in the education field," says Dr. Rachel Geesa, associate clinical professor of Educational Leadership.
Although most courses emphasize careers in education, there are several degrees within Teachers College that non-educators will find beneficial to their career goals and advancement. These master’s degrees focus on technology, curriculum development, organizational leadership, and data analysis to help employees navigate shifting technologies and utilize these technologies within data-driven organizations.
Ball State Online programs are designed specifically for online delivery. Most courses are asynchronous—allowing for additional flexibility in where and when students complete their assignments. Many students are full-time working professionals simultaneously balancing their careers with the roles of parent, caregiver, and more.
Additionally, students receive the same academic support, faculty engagement, and class collaboration as if they were earning their degrees on campus.
“Ball State has long been at the forefront of online and distance education. It’s our mission to not only provide a high-quality educational experience to our online adult learners, one that suits their busy lives and career aspirations, but also to advocate for the adult learner and their unique needs,” says Dr. Trudi Weyermann, assistant provost for Learning Initiatives.
Ball State Online has teams dedicated to developing and implementing best practices in teaching and learning, course design and development, and student support services, Dr. Weyermann added.