Independence University (IU) Introduction and Academics

Introduction

Independence University (IU) has become a leader in business education, career advancement and distance learning. It began some 30 years ago as the California College of Health Sciences in California and continues to be one of the leading nursing schools in the country. In 2005, the school was renamed Independence University and offered the first distance learning program in the areas of respiratory care. As recently as 2010, IU has coupled its excellent degree programs in the health fields and business and graduate degree program with the Stevens-Henager College, based in Utah, and now has locations in Idaho. Stevens-Henager College provides degrees in technology and graphic design, as well as in the health and business sectors. Stevens-Henager College has a wonderful history and has been a leader in training persons in the medical and professional fields for nearly 120 years. Both schools and the students that attend these institutions have benefited greatly from this partnership.

Academics

Independence University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and with this accreditation has the ability to confer associate, bachelor and master level degrees. IU’s medical degree program for respiratory therapy and care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation on Respiratory Care.

Independence University has three distinct colleges: the college of health sciences, the college of business, and the college of education. The California College of Health Sciences also remains a part of the offerings the university provides. IU offers associate, bachelor and graduate or master degree programs in business and health care. All of these programs and one certificate in property management, which only takes 4 to 6 months, can be obtained online in 30 months or less.

Classes begin every month in order to meet the needs of attending and prospective students. Independence University’s AA degree programs include Allied Health and Business with an emphasis in property management. BA degrees include nursing, and master degree programs include business administration and public health. A master’s degree in business administration is offered online and on site at the Utah campus.

Admissions

It is strongly recommended that new students attend an orientation and meet with admission counselors to map out their road to success at Independence University. Financial advisors are available to help potential enrollees understand the costs associated with pursuing for his or her education at IU.

If the decision is made to attend the university, students must submit an application, transcripts and other pertinent personal information to be considered by the Director of Admissions. The entire admissions process begins with a request for more information either in person, over the phone or online. The Utah campus location has campus tours wherein students can learn more about the institution. Upon enrollment completion, students are assigned an academic and financial counselor who helps the new student throughout his or her tenure at IU, remain on track to meet their academic goals and achieve their degrees.

Financial Aid

All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid by filling out a FAFSA form. FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

This form determines eligibility, federal funding amounts for various types of loans, and for the Pell grant (which does not have to be paid back) based on the applicant’s financial data. The form can be submitted online or mailed. Students are also encouraged to apply for financial aid or grants that may be provided in the state they reside in or where they attend school, institutional aid of various types, private loans from banks, and scholarships. The Utah campus location in Salt Lake City offers work-study programs where students can be paid while being taught; providing the student hands-on experience in the career path they are studying. Various options are open to active military personnel, veterans and their family members.

Students

For many people, IU would be a great choice to begin or continue his or her post-secondary education. Most of the university’s student body is comprised of adults who wish to hone their skills or to enhance their career paths. For the most part, these individuals are already active in the workforce and usually have some college experiences under their belt. A smaller percentage of the student body is comprised of students recently graduated from high school who have chosen to go into the fields IU programs specialize in.

Military personnel also benefit greatly from the online and on-site curriculum for which IU has become known for. Active service members can take advantage of many opportunities at IU. The tuition assistance program, Veteran’s Assistance education benefits, and retraining of veterans via the vocational rehabilitation program are just a few of the services those in the military can avail themselves to.

Finally, Independence University has a thriving international student community, that merely by their presence, adds to the diversity already experienced on the campus.

Additional School Information

Independence University offers distance learning and online education which provides options for any working adult’s schedule and lifestyle. Students can take classes at his or her pace either online or on campus. The online environment allows students a great deal of flexibility and supportive resources making for a synergistic place of learning and development that the student can access anytime and anywhere there is an internet connection.

One can pursue an AA degree in respiratory therapy, a BA in respiratory care or a Master’s degree in business, healthcare or nursing administration all with the conveniences a fully online education provides. If a more traditional setting is better suited to meet a students’ needs, students can attend classes on-site.

The Independence University campus is located near a thriving urban/suburban population center, where public transportation, inexpensive eateries and other necessary amenities are at the students’ disposal. The primary and partnered campuses are centers conducive to learning, with labs, libraries, and other student support facilities. Although the university does not have on-campus housing, there are a plethora of available housing options within close physical proximity to the campus. The Office of Admissions is a great resource in assisting students in addressing any housing needs.

Accreditation

IU is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Independence University