Excelsior University
Albany, NY
Quick Facts
“Ever Upward”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Excelsior University
Empowering adult learners with flexible, online degree programs since 1971, fostering continuous growth.
Excelsior University stands as a pioneer in flexible, accessible higher education, specifically designed to empower adult learners on their academic journey. Founded in 1971 by the New York State Board of Regents as The Regents External Degree Program (REX), Excelsior was created with a visionary purpose: to provide an alternative pathway to a college degree, recognizing diverse learning experiences and challenging traditional educational models. Today, it continues this legacy as a leading private online university, dedicated to helping over 14,000 students achieve their educational and career aspirations.
The university's history is marked by its continuous evolution to meet the changing needs of its students. Initially known as Regents College from 1984, it operated under the Board of Regents before gaining independence in 1998. This pivotal moment allowed the institution to blossom into Excelsior College in 2001, a name derived from its inspiring motto, "Ever Upward" (Excelsior means "ever upwards" in Latin). This commitment to upward mobility and continuous improvement culminated in its latest transformation to Excelsior University in 2022, signifying its comprehensive offerings and robust academic community.
As a private online university, Excelsior excels in providing a student experience that prioritizes flexibility, convenience, and academic rigor. Its unique model is built around empowering individuals who balance work, family, and other commitments, offering a wide array of programs that recognize prior learning and provide pathways to degrees on their own terms. With a dedicated focus on online delivery, Excelsior ensures that quality education is accessible, helping students from all walks of life achieve their academic goals and advance professionally, truly embodying its "Ever Upward" spirit.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1971 by the New York State Board of Regents as The Regents External Degree Program (REX).
- ✦A leading private online university, dedicated to flexible learning pathways for adult students.
- ✦Serves a vibrant community of 14,477 students, making higher education accessible.
- ✦The university's motto, "Ever Upward" (Excelsior), reflects its commitment to student growth and continuous improvement.
- ✦Transitioned from Regents College to Excelsior College in 2001, then to Excelsior University in 2022, marking significant institutional growth.
- ✦Gained independence as a chartered institution in 1998, moving from a program of the Board of Regents to an autonomous university.
Timeline
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