College of Arts and Sciences FAQ

General Questions

What are the available degrees and certficates offered through HSU?

HSU offers undergraduate degrees and graduate certificates in animal studies, animal policy and advocacy, and humane leadership.

How long is each term?

8 weeks

How many terms does HSU have each year?

5 terms: Fall I, Fall II, Winter, Spring, and Summer.

How much is tuition?

The tuition fee is $300/semester hour and each class is 3 semester hours, or $900/class.

How much does it cost to apply to HSU?

There is a one-time charge of $35 for applying to HSU.

Admissions Questions

How many credits do I need prior to applying for the undergraduate program?

Applicants must have completed at least 60 college credits, satisfying all general education requirements prior to admittance to HSU. It will be best to determine how many credits you have before formally applying to HSU. If you do not have 60 credits and have not met the general education requirements, we recommend that you do not proceed with the application until you have satisfied these minimal requirements. If you do have at least 60 semester hours and are unsure if they are the right distribution an advisor can assist you with an academic plan. Consider applying and then the Registrar will perform a transcript analysis to determine your eligibility for admission.

The undergraduate curriculum provides the final two years of undergraduate study, enabling students to earn up to an additional 60 credits through completion of an accelerated 8-week semester of either online, onsite, or hybrid classes.

How many credits do I need prior to applying for the graduate program?

Students who have completed bachelor or graduate degrees at other institutions are eligible to enroll in graduate certificate programs in animal studies, animal policy and advocacy, and humane leadership.

Can I take individual courses?

Candidates may take individual courses but must complete their degree requirements within 5 years of matriculation, and obtain a minimum of 120 credits in order to graduate.

Is financial aid available?

At this time Department of Education (Financial Aid) is not available; however, payment plans are being finalized. We encourage you to shop around for the best student loan rates (such as credit unions, etc).

Is HSU accredited?

HSU has not yet received its accreditation -- and it is estimated that process will take at least two years to complete. If you do not wish to wait, and timing does not matter, there are two relevant operative rules. First, a student may transfer no more than 90 credits from other colleges or universities. Second, students need to complete the requirements for one of the majors to graduate (in other words, a student needs between 30-39 credits to graduate). A credit audit would have to be done to see if any of your prior courses can count toward the major, but most likely you may need to complete all 39 credits within a major.