Excelsior University: A Guide to Online Education and Accreditation

Excelsior University, a private online institution based in Albany, New York, has been providing educational opportunities to a diverse student body since 1971. Originally founded as the Regents External Degree Program, Excelsior has evolved to become one of the largest online universities in New York State, serving primarily adult learners.

History and Evolution

Excelsior University’s origins trace back to 1971, when it was established by the New York State Board of Regents as the Regents External Degree Program (REX). Initial funding came from grants by the Ford Foundation and the Carnegie Corporation. Known as Regents College from 1984 to 2000, the institution operated under the Board of Regents’ oversight. In 1998, the Board granted Excelsior a charter to operate independently, and on January 1, 2001, Regents College officially became Excelsior College. The name was changed again to Excelsior University on August 1, 2022. The university’s motto, “Ever Upward,” is also the motto of the State of New York.

Academic Programs and Student Body

Excelsior University comprises two schools: the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. It caters to a non-traditional student population, including working adults and those seeking to complete previously started degrees. As of fall 2023, the university served 14,477 students, including 12,701 undergraduates and 1,776 postgraduates.

Accreditation and Recognition

Excelsior University holds regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). MSCHE reaffirmed Excelsior’s accreditation on June 23, 2022, with the next self-study evaluation scheduled for 2029-2030. The university’s bachelor’s and master’s nursing programs are also accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN). MSCHE’s recognition by the U.S. Department of Education was reaffirmed on March 16, 2026, extending through May 31, 2028.

Commitment to Accessibility

Excelsior University is designed to meet students where they are academically and geographically, offering quality instruction and recognizing prior learning experiences. The university is registered with the New York State Education Department and holds a license with the Commission for Independent Education in Florida (License No. 12928).

Key Takeaways

• Excelsior University is a regionally accredited, non-profit online university.
• Founded in 1971, it serves primarily adult and non-traditional students.
• The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through two colleges: Nursing and Health Sciences, and Liberal Arts and Sciences.
• Accreditation is reaffirmed by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and ACEN for nursing programs.