Frequently Asked Questions
What degree programs are available?
The following link provides a listing of all undergraduate degrees and certificates offered by WKU: http://www.wku.edu/registrar/academic_programs.php
Does WKU offer courses online?
Yes, WKU has a significant catalog of flexible course formats including online, independent learning, and telecourse. Students may also attain select online degrees. For a complete listing of online degree programs: http://www.wku.edu/online/. In addition, students may pursue degrees at one of our regional campuses: Elizabethtown/Ft. Knox/Radcliff, Glasgow, and Owensboro.
What is the difference between a certificate, Associate degree and Bachelor’s degree?
A certificate ranges from 12 to 24 hours of course work. Certificates provide students with practical skills and exposure to a defined area of study. A certificate is not a degree, though students may apply certificate hours toward associate and/or bachelor degrees.
Typically, students can complete an Associate degree in as little as two years. The Associate provides exposure to general education course work as well as a specific area of study. Often students complete an associate program before moving onto the four-year bachelor degree. Many of the courses required for an associate may count toward a bachelor degree.
The bachelor’s degree provides students with additional depth and specialty in their area of study. Full-time students may complete the degree in four-years, though those with credit hours from certificates or the associate degree may require less time. The bachelor’s degree prepares students for employment in their field of interest or for graduate programs.
I want to return to school. How do I get started?
Go to the following link for all the steps: http://www.wku.edu/real/gettingstarted.html.
How much will my degree cost?
Tuition rates are subject to change. For current information, go to http://www.wku.edu/bursar/.
Can I receive financial aid?
Financial aid varies according to income, not age. Loans and grants are considered financial aid and are awarded for any given school year beginning in the fall and ending in the following summer. Completing the federal financial aid form online is the start. Have your income tax return papers from the previous year ready and go to http://www.fafsa.ed.gov and follow the directions. You will be prompted to choose WKU as the school to receive your information. This takes 6-8 weeks.
In addition, WKU REAL Adult Learner Services offers periodic scholarships specifically for adult students. See the following link for more information: http://www.wku.edu/real/financialaid.php.
I earned a GED, can I still apply to WKU?
Yes. You will have to supply WKU with your GED transcript after you apply. You can request your scores via the GED web site at http://ged.ky.gov/.
I did not take the ACT or the SAT. Are either required?
If you are over 21, the ACT or SAT are not required. You will need to complete the Accuplacer exam which is administered at WKU. Please contact WKU REAL Adult Learner Services for information on how to set up the exam, and how to practice before taking it. Call (270) 745-3575 or email real@wku.edu.
I have to complete the Accuplacer. What is the Accuplacer and how do I arrange to take it?
The Accuplacer is an assessment tool, which assess elementary algebra, reading comprehension, and sentence skills. For an overview, review the following link: http://www.wku.edu/online/src/accuplacer-testing/sites.php.
I have to complete an ATP, what is this?
ATP, or Academic Transitions Program, is a new student orientation required by all in-coming students. If you are a transfer student with 24 hours or more you will have the option of completing an online ATP. Students may schedule an ATP through the “Make Reservations” icon in the following link: http://www.wku.edu/atp/.
How do I find my advisor?
An advisor is assigned after you apply to WKU, and is dependent on your major. If you have advising questions before you are admitted, or if you need help determining the best major before you apply, talk to the WKU REAL counselors. They can give you basic advising information and also refer you to other advisors for more information on particular degrees.
If you are a current student and need to find your advisor, go to TopNet – Student Services – Registration – View Advisor Information.
Is there a campus directory online?
Yes, the following link provides access to the WKU community. https://acsapps.wku.edu/pls/prod/dirpkg.prompt.
I have more questions. Where can I go for answers?
You have several options. You may contact the WKU REAL Office to speak to an Adult Learner Counselor or schedule an appointment to discuss any questions you might have. In addition, the Registrar’s Office has a wealth of additional topics at http://www.wku.edu/registrar/.
