Bachelor's Degree of Professional Studies (BPS)

Image: Hilts

"The BPS is so great, so supportive of the adult learner. I had some anxiety going back to school, but the guidance I received was so valuable. My advisor was really concerned about the whole person, not just my academic success.

Work and life had always gotten in the way of finishing my degree, but I loved my experience at University College so much that as soon as I finished, I enrolled in the MFA in Creative Writing program!”

- Elizabeth Hilts, completed BPS, August 2008
Image: Spaloni

"My biggest concern was being the oddball out, of being the old man in the classroom... but I'm actually not the oldest. I've had some of the most incredible professors anybody could wish they could have. They all bring worldly knowledge and are eager to share that with us."

- Sean Paloni, completed BPS fall 2007
Image: L Chung

"There are a large range of classes available online, and you can even order your books online. I can hop online after work and get started on my classes right away. In January I took a class that was only 3 weeks, which was great for me. I just think it's all very convenient."

- Liza Chung

Open the door to a whole new world of professional and advancement opportunities, or simply tie up the loose ends of your academic aspirations. University College is the place to begin or complete your bachelor's degree. When it comes to your future, this could be the start of something big!

Our Bachelor's of Professional Studies (BPS) program is flexible and interdisciplinary - you work with your advisor to design a program that centers around your interests while meeting the requirements of the University's core curriculum.

  • Transfer up to 75 credits - including credit for qualified life/work experience - from up to the past 10 years
  • Study full or part time, during the day, evenings, or weekends ... or even online
  • Study abroad in Nicaragua, Ireland, Italy, or Australia
  • Apply any time of the year - admission is open

You may choose to focus in:

Admission is on a rolling basis and does not require test scores. However, many courses have prerequisites that must be satisfied prior to enrollment. Courses are taught by Fairfield University faculty; most hold the highest degree possible in their field.

Advising

We encourage you to meet with an advisor before registering for your first course. After completing 12 credits you'll meet with your advisor again to talk about your academic goals and to map a course of study through to degree completion.

Download an application today!

Credit for Work and Life Experience

The knowledge you gain through work experience, training, reading, and community involvement may be equivalent to college-level learning. Your advisor will guide you in preparing a portfolio for evaluation by Fairfield University faculty. Components of a portfolio include:

  • A description of the course for which you'd like to receive credit
  • A personal narrative that describes your activities or projects, what you learned, and how you applied the knowledge
  • Evidence that documents the accumulation of knowledge (a resume, job description, achievement awards, and/or letters of recommendation).

Tuition Rates

Make sure to look under the University College heading.

Online Catalog

For detailed course descriptions refer to our online catalog.

Financial Aid

Need-based federal and University aid is available for students enrolled in at least 6 credits per semester.

Contact Information
Phone: (203) 254-4125
Fax: (203) 254-4008
E-mail: finaid@mail.fairfield.edu

Veterans Pride Program

Veterans may apply educational benefits to degree studies at Fairfield University.

Contact: Sheila McEnery
Office of Graduate and Continuing Studies Admission
(203) 254-4000, ext. 2500
smcenery@fairfield.edu