Adult Education and Training (AET)

Degree Requirements and Curriculum

Requirements

You must choose Plan A (thesis option) or Plan B (final project option) when developing your program of study.

Plan A

• Minimum of 30 semester credits of academic coursework.
• 24 credits must be earned from Colorado State University.
• Requires applied research and the preparation of a formal thesis.
• Requires an additional research course.

Plan B

• Minimum of 30 semester credits of academic coursework.
• 24 credits must be earned from Colorado State University.
• Requires the preparation of a final program project.

Curriculum

Required Core Courses

Required Courses (Plan A - Thesis)

Required Courses (Plan B - Project)

Elective Courses

You are encouraged to take electives in your area of expertise and matched to your career goals. Suggested courses include:

The Learning Experience

This degree program allows you to participate in classes online at your convenience. You are generally expected to complete weekly assignments, readings, and discussions, but have the flexibility to participate in these activities when and where it is most convenient for you throughout the week. You are not required to be at a specific place at a specific time either in person or virtually. However, you are expected to take the courses in a set sequence.

The degree can be completed in a minimum of 16 months, including summer terms. Courses are offered year-round during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. For a three-credit course, you should plan to work one to two hours per day plus additional time on the weekend for a total of twelve hours per week. The time required will vary depending on your learning style.

Communication between students and faculty primarily takes place in the learning management system RamCT. Instructors and students can also meet during online office hours, by email, and by phone.

The learning community of the Adult Education and Training program is unique. Our students come from all walks of life and enter the program with a tremendous amount of personal and life experience. The assignments are focused on delving deeper into research and program development areas that align with students' personal and career/professional goals.

Many of our students have been in the working world for 10 to 20 years in roles such as fire chiefs, public health nurses, community college instructors, corporate trainers, and human resource specialists. In addition, some students are new or just entering the field of adult education and the program is able to offer them a solid foundation. By learning with peers in different professions and with different experience levels, you gain a broad perspective on techniques, tools of the trade, and best practices.

This self-paced online program allows you to earn your degree while maintaining your busy work and family schedules. Is online learning right for you?