Online Education Designed for Adult Learners
Earning a degree is a meaningful investment — and it should be achievable.
A University Focused on Your Future
At Thomas Edison State University (TESU), we make high-quality, accredited education accessible to adult learners at every stage of life. For more than 50 years, TESU has helped students earn respected degrees in high-demand fields through flexible, online programs designed to fit real-world schedules.
What Sets TESU Apart
Since 1972, TESU has focused exclusively on adult learners — making it easier to balance education with work, family and real-world responsibilities.
- In-Demand Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees and Certificates
- No Standardized Testing Requirements
- Year-Round Enrollment with Multiple Start Dates
- Flexible, 100% Online Coursework
- Generous Transfer Credit Policy
- Accredited and Recognized Nationwide
Online. Accredited. Respected.
Make the Most of Your Prior Experience
Your experience matters—in and out of the classroom. At TESU, prior education, military service and professional experience may count toward your degree, helping you save time and money. Transfer up to 105 credits toward a bachelor’s degree, including up to 90 from a community college.* Finishing your undergraduate degree may be quicker than you think.
Explore Methods of Earning Credit
*Our Academic Advisors are available to evaluate your previously earned credits and determine where they fit into earning your college degree at TESU. Visit tesu.edu/transfercredit and tesu.edu/accelerate for more information.
Finish Your Undergraduate Degree
If you’re ready to complete your associate or bachelor’s degree, TESU values what you’ve already accomplished. Your prior college coursework, military training and professional experience may count toward your degree — helping you reduce tuition costs and graduate faster than you may expect.
Advance with Graduate Education
Ready to take the next step in your career? TESU offers online master’s and doctoral degrees, along with graduate certificates, designed for experienced professionals. You’ll engage in rigorous, real-world coursework — with the flexibility to learn from home on your schedule. No GRE or GMAT required.
Contact us today to get started.
Accredited. Trusted. Respected.
We’re an accredited institution focused on student success since 1972.






The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Thomas Edison State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
The post-graduate APRN certificate program at Thomas Edison State University is pursuing initial accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. Applying for accreditation does not guarantee that accreditation will be granted.
FAQs
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Who are TESU’s programs designed for?
TESU’s programs are designed for adult learners who are looking to complete an undergraduate degree, pursue graduate study or earn a professional certificate. Many students are working professionals, military service members or individuals returning to college to finish what they started while balancing career and family responsibilities.
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Can I earn a degree or certification online from anywhere?
TESU’s programs are delivered fully online, allowing you to complete your coursework from wherever you are. Required fieldwork or practicum components can be completed within your current professional setting, enabling you to integrate your coursework directly into your existing role. It’s important to review the individual program page for detailed format information.
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Will I receive the same academic quality as on-campus programs?
Yes. TESU’s online programs are developed and taught by industry experts and meet the same academic standards as traditional in-person programs. The University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and many programs hold specialized accreditation.
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Can my prior college coursework or experience count toward a degree?
TESU evaluates prior college coursework from accredited institutions, as well as eligible military training, professional learning and other approved alternative credit sources, for potential transfer credit. The number of credits accepted varies based on your academic history and chosen program, and an official evaluation is completed after admission.