Online Professional Studies Degree Programs for Working Adults

WPU’s School of Professional Studies – The smart solution for working professionals.

Mama Sheri graduates after nearly 40 years
Mama Sheri graduates after nearly 40 years

Earn your degree—on your terms.

It is up to you to shape your future. To enrich it, enhance it, and bring it closer to the vision you have of who you want to be. As an adult, that path is likely fraught with the simple reality of everyday life: Deadlines, dinner plans, a child’s doctor visit, or school play.

We understand the demands on your time and your need for flexibility.

That’s why we’ve created our School for Professional Studies (SPS) — a program that uniquely fits into your reality. It’s adult learning that’s flexible, wide-ranging, and affordable. It’s also why our curriculum is laser-focused on relevant skills and outcomes, meaning each class brings you a step closer to your career goals.

Whatever the next step in your career, you will be empowered to take it confidently at William Peace.

2023 Start Dates

January 16
March 13
May 8
June 26
August 21
October 16

Online. Flexible. Affordable.

  • Woman studying at William PeaceOur online classes are asynchronous, meaning you can attend class when it fits into your schedule.
  • WPU offers six start dates per year, so you can get started instead of waiting until the next term.
  • Take one class or take more — it’s up to you.
  • Accelerated program tracks so you can earn your degree faster.
  • Programs of study.

Request Information

Online Classes

SPS classes are fully online and asynchronous, meaning you can attend class when it fits into your schedule. You’ll submit assignments and tests online. But don’t worry — you’ll still communicate with your professor and fellow students. Most classes are at an accelerated pace of seven weeks, making it easier for you to finish your degree faster. Achieve more with SPS at WPU

Explore our Programs:
Elementary Education with Licensure
Elementary + Special Education with Dual Licensure
Interdisciplinary Studies
Business Administration
Marketing
Nursing: RN to BSN
Psychology
Criminal Justice
Human Resources

Non-Degree Education Licensure Programs

If you have a bachelor’s degree and want to become a licensed teacher, explore these options.

 

Request Information

Have a question?

Join us for a virtual event to learn more about attending WPU’s SPS Program.

RN to BSN Virtual Information Session

Join us for a virtual information session to see what makes the RN to BSN program at William Peace University in Raleigh different! We have a flexible program with both […]

Find out more »

RN to BSN Virtual Information Session

Join us for a virtual information session to see what makes the RN to BSN program at William Peace University in Raleigh different! We have a flexible program with both […]

Find out more »

Teacher Licensure Virtual Information Session

Are you interested in getting your teaching license? Join us for a virtual information session where our admissions staff and education faculty discuss all of the teacher licensure options that […]

Find out more »

Teacher Licensure Virtual Information Session

Are you interested in becoming a teacher? Join our admissions team and EDU faculty for an overview of the different licensure options that WPU has to offer. Whether you need […]

Find out more »

How to Pay

We know paying for college is one of your top concerns. We offer deeply discounted tuition rates to our SPS Students:

  • Preferred partner discounts.

    $350 per credit hour

  • Special rates for RN to BSN and Education Licensure.
  • Financial aid is available.
  • Monthly payment plans are available.
  • Fill out the FAFSA and submit WPU code 002953.

School of Professional Studies Tuition

2022 – 23 

EDU Licensure $295 per credit hour
RN to BSN Nursing Courses with Partner Discount: $198
Nursing Courses without Partner Discount: $220
General Ed Courses with Partner Discount: $315
General Ed Courses without Partner Discount: $350
All Other Program Tuition $350 per credit hour
Comprehensive Fee $45 per term

Request Information

What is an online course?

An online course is offered 100% asynchronously online. All assignments, testing, and peer discussions take place on a computer via an Internet connection.

How much time should I expect to spend in an online course?

You should expect to spend the same amount of time on an online course as you would attending and studying for an on-campus course. IMPORTANT! Students enrolled in an online course should expect to spend a minimum of 15 hours per week for a 3 credit course.

How do I turn in assignments, communicate with my instructor, and take tests or exams?

We make it easy by using a program called Moodle. Don’t worry — we’ll help you set that up after you enroll. Your homework assignments, communication with your professor, and even your tests will take place using Moodle. If you have any trouble, your instructor will offer times when he/she is available for phone or video calls. IT is also available to provide technical assistance.

What is a hybrid or blended course?

If you take an on-campus course, it is offered as a hybrid/blended course. A hybrid course meets on-campus typically once a week for 3 hours. There is also a portion of the course that is then completed outside of the scheduled class time, online. Students enrolled in an on-campus, hybrid course should expect to complete an additional 10 hours of coursework outside of the in-person class meetings.

How can I explore classes?

Check out the following:

What are the costs for WPU's SPS Programs?

SPS Tuition and Fees 

2021– 22 Tuition and Fees*:

EDU Licensure $295 per credit hour
RN to BSN

Nursing Courses for Partner Hospital Employees: $198

Nursing Courses for Non-Partner Hospital Students: $220

General Ed Courses for Partner Hospital Employees: $315

General Ed Courses for Non-Partner Hospital Students: $350

All Other Program Tuition $350 per credit hour
$45 Comprehensive fee per semester

*May not reflect all course fees. 

All expenses are per term. Learn about our financial aid resources.

Does SPS offer a payment plan option?

Yes, students can enroll in either a monthly payment plan of either 4, 5 , 6 or 7 months.  There is a $45 enrollment fee for the 6 and 7-month plans and a $35 enrollment fee for the 4 and 5-month plans. To enroll:

  1. Go to https://PayPlan.OfficialPayments.com
  2. Select “Enroll in a Plan.” This must be done each semester.
  3. State: Select “North Carolina” in the dropdown menu.
  4. Payment Entity: Select “William Peace University” in the dropdown menu

I have completed my FAFSA. How do I know if I qualify for Federal Pell grant and/or optional student loans?

Once you are accepted into SPS, all financial aid documents and information will be issued to you through U.S. mail. You may reach the office of financial aid at: (919)508-2394 or finaid@peace.edu

How soon should I complete the FAFSA?

You should complete the FAFSA, as soon after October 1 st as possible. It is ideal to complete the FAFSA when you apply to the institution. Remember to complete the FAFSA for the year that you plan to enroll.

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15 for priority consideration.

  • Enter WPU’s school code: 002953

What documents/information will I need to complete the FAFSA?

You will need to have the following information/documents to complete the FAFSA:

 

  • Social Security Number (or alien registration number if you are not a US citizen)
  • FSA ID
  • It is BEST to use the Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) on the FAFSA if at all possible. This makes the FAFSA process simple and ensures accurate information. This links directly to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
  • If you are unable to use the DRT, you should have your federal income tax returns, w-2s and other records of money earned
  • Bank statements and records of investments (if applicable)
  • Records of untaxed income (if applicable)

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15 for priority consideration.

  • Enter WPU’s school code: 002953

Please note – it can take up to 5 business days for the financial aid office to receive your information after you complete the FAFSA and at least another 5 business days to create your financial aid package.

What is needed to claim North Carolina residency?

Just go to the RDS (residency determination website) www.ncresidency.org.

 

● Completion of the residency determination service allows us to confirm your residency status in order to receive North Carolina grant funding.

Questions or need help?

Associate Director of Admissions
919-508-2215
Request Information

Ready to get started?

  • Fill out the FAFSA
    To qualify for grants or to obtain student loans, you must first fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

    You should complete the FAFSA, as soon as possible for the year you plan to enroll. It is ideal to complete the FAFSA when you apply to the institution.

    • Enter WPU’s school code: 002953

    Fill out the FAFSA

    Watch: Learn more about SPS Financial Aid

  • Apply
    Applying is Easy

    We applaud you for all your hard work to get to this point, and we are pleased and honored that you’ve chosen to apply to WPU.

    Let’s get started on your application. When you are finished, remember to submit your transcripts. We’ll be in touch within just two weeks with a decision. From there, we’ll instruct you on your deposit and enrollment for your chosen date.

     Apply Online

    For Readmitted Students
    Any student who previously attended William Peace University/Peace College, and seeks to return to his/her studies at WPU, is required to submit a brief online form for readmission.

    readmission form

    If you have any questions regarding your application status or the readmission process, please email us in the Office of Admissions, or call 919-508-2214.

  • Send My Transcripts
    Submit Your Transcripts

    Please submit documents and/or transcripts to admissions@peace.edu or mail to:

    William Peace University
    Attention: Office of SPS Admissions
    15 E. Peace Street
    Raleigh, NC 27604

    Contact an Admissions Counselor

  • Check My Application Status
    Want An Update? 

    Follow this link to see the status of your application.

    Check My Status

  • Explore Classes
    Once you enroll, we’ll help you register and decide on your classes. But if you want to explore a little, check out our catalog and schedules:

  • Request Information

Adult & School of Professional Studies At-a-Glance

What's the recipe for WPU student success? A skills-enhancing core curriculum, individual attention from dedicated faculty and lots of hands-on experience in your major.

Our SPS students work together in a collaborative community
#7
Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice (Best College Values)
9
Degrees Offered Online and Evenings
$350
Per Credit Hour