Frequently Asked Questions
What is Degree Advantage?Degree Advantage is a program created by Virtual Academy, after having discovered a need for our clients to not only receive high quality training that is affordable and easily accessible, but also education that meets these standards as well. So, we sought out higher education institutions that are passionate about helping public safety professionals, and we work to give you the best options out there for continuing your education
Can training be turned into college credit at any college?
Must be enrolled in one of our partner schools.
Does one training hour equal one college credit hour?
Training credit hours and college credit hours are calculated differently. The formula to derive the number of college credit hours you will receive from training will differ depending on the school. Virtual Academy credit is granted by the hours listed by POST.
How many college credit hours can be earned through Virtual Academy training?
Up to 30 college credit hours can be transferred in from Virtual Academy training.
Do military personnel get credit for their training too?
Yes, military personnel can transfer in up to 60 hours of training. No duplicates allowed.
How are classes organized?
All programs are 100% online and built for the working professional. Classes are writing based and yay, no test. Each course is in the same format with due dates on Wednesday and Sunday nights.
How long is a course?
Course length will differ depending on the program. Associate and Bachelor level courses are five weeks in length. Graduate programs are seven weeks in length for Criminal Justice and eight weeks for Business Administration. There is a Read (ebook), Attend (PowerPoint or Video), Discuss (discussion board requiring an initial post to question posed by facilitator and responses to two classmates), and the Complete section (written assignment).
How many courses are taken at once?
Students take one class at a time. Once acclimated student can take more than one class at a time if they choose.
How many courses do I need to take?
The number of courses you will take varies depending on credit hours received from training and past courses.
Will I have technical support?
You will have access to our live, U.S based technical support staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day except Christmas Day!
I already have a degree – will my credits transfer?
Credits from an accredited institution will transfer in. The school will provide an unofficial evaluation of your transcripts prior to starting classes at no cost to you.
Does coursework require live chats?
We know you are busy. As a result, all work is completed asynchronously (there are no chats). This means that you can spend time working on your assignments at 3 am or 3 pm – whatever works best for you. While there are due dates, you can establish a schedule that coordinates with your other commitments.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Is the school accredited?
Yes, the school is regionally accredited.
What is the cost?
The cost differs based on the degree program of choice, number of hours needed to meet program requirements, and the manner in which the credit is earned. Discounted tuition rates for public safety officials includes Law Enforcement, Corrections, 9-1-1 Telecommunicators, and Military. The application fee is waived.
What does tuition cover?
The tuition includes online textbook, laptop for undergraduate programs, and 24/7 live U.S. based technical support.
What degrees are available?
Associate Degrees | 60 hours
Associate of Arts
Criminial Justice
Business
Associate of Applied Science
Criminial Justice
Business
Associate of Science in Liberal Arts
Liberal Arts
Bachelor Degrees | 128 hours
Buisness Leadership*
Criminal Justice
Emergency Services Management
*Click here to see all concentrations
Graduate Degrees | 36 hours
Master of Business Administration
Concentrations
Academic/Practitioner
Executive
Healthcare Administration
Human Resource Management
Master of Science
Criminal Justice
Obtaining a degree statistically results in increased salary and advancement opportunities as well as personal growth. Whether your career path keeps you in public safety or beyond, a degree opens doors.
How do I get started?
You can call 800.203.4486 for more information. Or email [email protected] Or email: [email protected]