Dr. Charles Young For 139 years, Allen University has been a stand- alone traditional university. Now, in the 21st century, it is expanding its reach by partnering with South Carolina Technical Schools and community colleges with a totally new curriculum designed for on- line education.

"This is a new concept for a new century," says President Dr. Charles Young of Allen. "We are reaching out to adults who have already embarked on higher education by attaining a two- year associate degree at one of our state tech schools. Through the efficiency of the Internet, it is now possible for them to continue their studies to earn a full bachelor's degree, on- line and without having to leave home."

Dr. Walter Howard, senior vice president, heads up Allen's groundbreaking enterprise. He visits the state tech schools and explains to students how they can continue their studies for a complete degree. This university is excited about the possibilities their new program opens up.

"Our target population is adult students who have already started on a path to a technical career," continues Dr. Young. "Initially, this curriculum offers majors in areas such as business administration with concentrations in accounting, and banking and finance; and English with concentrations in professional writing. As it grows, we expect to add other majors such as mathematics and sociology."

Details of Allen's curriculum are surprisingly simple. Credits earned at South Carolina technical schools are fully transferable, so that transfer students can move right into the advanced technology. Each student progresses at his own pace, limited only by the time he has to study. Financial aid is available to all who qualify.

Allen University is moving with the times. It is traditionally a residential institution, but now the educators recognize that adult students cannot always leave home to live on campus. With electronic textbooks and class periods, they can stay in their jobs while earning an advanced degree.

Professors lead the courses, and chat rooms offer feedback and opportunities for discussion. These earliest students in Allen's new venture have the chance for reduced costs because their feedback can help the school work out any kinks as they polish the offerings. Veterans of military service have additional financial aid resources available to them. Although the outreach program is designed for South Carolinians, there is no geographical limit for anyone who wishes to sign up. "Ohio or India, anywhere that a person has access to the Internet, our classes will be available to all qualified students."

"An accredited degree in an accelerated way." That's the slogan Allen uses to sum up their newest innovation.