Penn Foster College Highlights
- Options to learn online, via print, or a combination
- Over 13 million enrollees since Penn Foster's founding over a century ago
- School emphasizes low-cost tuition including books and equipment
- Accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), a nationally recognized agency for US accreditations
About Penn Foster College
The college was founded in 1890 by a newspaperman, Thomas Foster, who realized that working adults needed a more convenient way to develop advanced career skills. The school's first at-home, distance-learning programs were used by miners to help them gain superintendent and foreman positions. Today the school's distance learning programs lead to Associate of Science degrees in the areas of business and technology or a Bachelor's in Business Management and Criminal Justice.
Students study alone at their own pace. When students need help, instructors, consultants, and other staff members are available by calling the school toll-free or by sending an e-mail to staff.
Penn Foster College Academic Programs
The school offers job-focused educational programs designed to help students excel in their target career path.
- Business – Associate degrees are available in Accounting, Business Management, Hospitality Management, Human Resources Management, Marketing, and Finance. In the Bachelor Degree Program program students gain advanced business skills, management training and operational capabilities. Coursework includes: Marketing Principles, Legal Environment of Business, Corporate Finance, Organizational Behavior, Research Methods, Strategic Management, and more.
- Technology - Students can earn an Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Computer Information Systems, Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronics Technology, Industrial Engineering Technology, Graphic Design, PC Maintenance Technology, and Mechanical Engineering Technology.
- Health Services - Areas of study include Medical Assistant, Health Information Technology, and Veterinary Technician.
- Legal - Associate degree programming exists for Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies. The Criminal Justice Bachelor degree program gives students an education that covers administrative skills, criminal justice policies, legal procedures, and operational techniques. Coursework includes: Substance Abuse and Treatment in Criminal Justice, Organized Crime, Crime Scene Investigation, Family Law, White Collar Crime, and more.
- Educational Programs - The school offers an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education.
Learning Options at Penn Foster College
Students have the option to study online, in print, or in combination with a flexible schedule that fits their lifestyle.
- Students have access to an online library for their use.
- A librarian is available to answer questions via e-mail.
- The school works to support students who have disabilities requiring special accommodations.
Faculty
The faculty is comprised of professionals with real-world industry experience. Instructors are available online and via e-mail to provide academic support as needed. The staff is tasked with staying current with advances in their fields and to update the curriculum to reflect recent trends.
Student Life
With at-home study students can schedule their school work when they want. This flexibility allows participants to maintain their current social lives.
The school maintains an enrollment of about 20,000 students during the year.
Admissions and Financial Aid
Applicants must fill out an enrollment agreement for admission. The form is available online. Candidates must submit proof of high school graduation or a GED equivalency Certificate.
The school prides itself on its affordability. They offer students interest-free monthly payment plans to cover the cost of tuition.
Program Catalog