Admissions

Welcome

This Handbook serves as a trusted resource, offering essential information, policies, and guidance to help you navigate your experience at Baker College. Rooted in our core values - integrity, caring, inclusiveness, innovation, and social responsibility - we are here to ensure you have the tools and support you need to succeed.

We’re honored to be part of your journey and look forward to seeing the positive difference you’ll make in your future and beyond.

Mission Statement

The mission of Baker College is to provide an inclusive, innovative and transformative educational experience which allows students to positively impact their lives and the world around them.

Our Core Values are: Integrity, Caring, Inclusiveness, Innovation, and Social Responsibility.

The College’s Vision Statement is “Creating better futures, one student at a time.”

Admissions

We understand that each student’s journey is unique, and we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Baker College maintains a steadfast commitment to nondiscrimination in our admissions process, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals seeking to pursue their educational goals with us.

Together, we strive to create an environment where students can thrive, achieve their potential, and positively impact the world around them. 

New Student Records

UNDERGRADUATE

• Completed Application: A fully completed and signed application form.
• Proof of Secondary Education Completion: An official final high school transcript, GED, or equivalent credential is required. This documentation should be accompanied by Baker College-approved assessment verification, such as ACT, SAT, or FASTRACK results, where applicable.
• Official College Transcripts (for Transfer Students): Transfer students should provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
• Additional Program-Specific Documentation: Depending on your intended major, additional documentation may be required to complete your admissions file. For example, specific programs may require proof of certifications, prerequisite coursework, or supplemental application materials. Your admissions advisor will guide you through any program-specific requirements to ensure your application is complete.

GRADUATE

• Completed Application: A fully completed and signed application form.
• Official Transcripts: An official transcript of credits from a regionally accredited baccalaureate institution, showing the degree awarded and the date of graduation. Transfer students should also provide official transcripts from all previously attended graduate institutions.
• Optional Current Resume: A current resume may be submitted to provide additional context regarding your professional background, but it is not required. 
• Optional Admissions Essay: While not required, students are welcome to submit an admissions essay to share more about their goals, experiences, and motivation for pursuing graduate study.
• For guidance on how to submit application related documents, please refer to the “How to Apply for Graduate Programs” section of this Handbook.

Admission Policy Statement

• Admissions Eligibility: Baker College welcomes all students who have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a General Education Development (GED) certificate. Minimum assessment verification may include high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, FASTRACK results, or completed college credit in math or English from another institution. Please note that high school certificates of completion are not equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Baker College admits students without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics.
• Support for Students with Disabilities: Baker College is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, including those with disabilities. Through our Disability Services program, we provide accommodations and resources tailored to individual needs. To ensure the appropriate level of support, students are required to provide documentation of their disability. This allows us to offer services that empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals.
• Optional Standardized Testing: While Baker College does not require ACT or SAT scores for admission to undergraduate programs, submitting these scores can be beneficial. Test scores within two years of high school graduation may help determine placement into higher-level courses. Additionally, these scores may be used to fulfill minimum assessment verification. Students who choose to submit scores are encouraged to request that their results be sent directly to the Baker College Enrollment Center. Please note that ACT and SAT scores are valid for two years after the date of high school graduation.
• English Language Proficiency: Students whose native language is not English are encouraged to demonstrate competency in the English language by submitting official documentation such as TOEFL or IELTS scores. The specific score requirements vary based on the level of study (undergraduate or graduate). For more details regarding these requirements, please refer to the sections International Student Special Requirements and International Applicants - Center for Graduate Studies in this handbook.
• Maintaining a Positive Educational Environment: To preserve a supportive and effective educational environment, Baker College reserves the right to deny admission to any potential student who may be deemed disruptive to the educational environment of the College.
• Accuracy of Application Information: Providing accurate information during the admissions process is critical. If a student is found to have provided false information on admissions documents, this may result in a denial of admission or, if already enrolled, dismissal from the College.

How to Apply for Undergraduate Admission

• Begin Your Application: Click the “Apply” button on the Baker College website to start your application. You can also apply through approved third-party application partners like Niche or the Common App.
• Work with Your High School Counselor (First-Year Students): If you’re currently in high school, we encourage you to connect with your counselor for guidance throughout the admissions process. High school counselors are valuable resources who can assist with completing your application, exploring financial aid options, and navigating scholarship opportunities. We work closely with counselors to provide important enrollment and scholarship deadlines to support your success.
• Submit Required Documents: To complete your application, please send the following documents to the Office of Admissions:
  • Your final official high school transcript or GED certificate.
  • ACT or SAT scores, if applicable.
  • Any other supporting documents, including transcripts from previous institutions (for transfer students).
  • Documents Can Be Sent:
    • Electronically: adm-processing@baker.edu
    • By mail: Baker College, Office of Admissions, 1020 S. Washington Street, Owosso, MI 48867
• Connect with an Admissions Advisor: Once your application is received and processed, one of our admissions professionals will reach out to you to guide you through the next steps.
• Attend Orientation:
  • For On-Campus Students: We strongly encourage you to participate in New Student Orientation at your campus before registering for classes.
    • Alternative Option: We understand that attending on-campus orientation may not always be possible due to personal circumstances. If that is the case, we encourage you to participate in the online orientation session associated with your specific start date to ensure you’re fully prepared to begin your studies.
  • For Online Students: Starting your college journey online is an exciting opportunity, and we want to ensure you feel supported every step of the way. That’s why we highly recommend completing the synchronous Online Orientation and participating in the New Student Welcome Experience. These sessions are designed to give you the tools and confidence to succeed as an online student at Baker College. You’ll also gain valuable insights into the resources and support systems available to you, meet key staff members, and get answers to any questions you may have.

Special Admission and Program-Specific Requirements for Education, Health Science, Nursing, and Social Science Programs

Detailed information about these program-specific requirements is provided by our admissions professionals and is outlined in the respective program handbooks. By enrolling in one of these programs, you agree to adhere to the policies and procedures specified for your intended program of study. If you have any questions or need clarification, our admissions team is here to assist you and provide guidance every step of the way.

Graduate Program Admission Criteria

To be eligible for admission, you are required to hold an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited educational institution, as recognized by the American Council on Education. If your degree was earned at an institution accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, you may also be considered for conditional admission, provided all other graduate admission requirements are met.

• Admission: Students are admitted on a rolling basis.
• Required Application Materials: To apply for a graduate program at Baker College, please submit the following documents (additional information may be found in the following section entitled “How to Apply for Graduate Programs”):
  • Completed Application Form
  • Admissions Essay: Your essay is an important part of your application and allows us to better understand your goals, experiences, and motivations. Please submit a 500-1000 word essay addressing the following:
    • How have your academic, professional, and personal experiences prepared you for graduate school?
    • What are your short- and long-term goals after earning your graduate degree? How will this degree help you achieve them?
    • What do you see as your greatest strengths and challenges as you begin graduate school, and how will you use your strengths to overcome these challenges?
    • This essay is an opportunity to share your story, your aspirations, and how Baker College can help you achieve your goals.
  • Official Transcripts: 
    • Master’s Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your bachelor’s degree was awarded. If you have completed master’s-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
    • Doctoral Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your master’s degree was awarded. If you have completed doctoral-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
  • Resume
  • Optional GMAT/GRE Scores

How to Apply for Graduate Programs

• Submit Your Application: Begin by completing your application for graduate admission on the Baker College website at baker.edu/apply.  
• Provide Official Transcripts: To help us understand your academic background and ensure you’re set up for success in your program, please submit official transcripts as follows:
  • Master’s Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your bachelor’s degree was awarded. If you have completed master’s-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
  • Doctoral Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your master’s degree was awarded. If you have completed doctoral-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
  • GPA Requirements: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher is typically required for admission. If your GPA is below 2.5, we encourage you to share an explanation as part of your admissions essay. This is an opportunity to highlight your perseverance, growth, and readiness for graduate-level work. Our goal is to learn more about your unique journey and how you’re prepared to succeed in your chosen program.
  • How to Submit Transcripts:
    • Electronically: adm-processing@baker.edu 
    • By Mail: Office of Admissions, 1020 S. Washington Street, Owosso, MI 48867
• Current Undergraduate Students Applying to Graduate Programs: If you are completing your undergraduate degree and have earned at least 90 credits, you may apply for graduate admission in advance of completing your degree.  
  • Current undergraduate students with a GPA of 2.75 or higher in their undergraduate program are not required to submit an essay or résumé.
• Write Your Admissions Essay: Submit a 500 to 1,000-word essay that outlines your future career objectives within your chosen field of study. This essay should reflect on how your academic background, professional experiences, and life journey have prepared you for the rigors of graduate school. Additional guidance on essay best practices can be found in the above section “Graduate Program Admission Criteria.”
• Résumé Submission: Your résumé should detail your professional achievements, certifications, and experiences that align with your chosen program of study. This allows us to better understand your background and how it complements your academic goals.
• Optional GMAT/GRE Scores: These scores are not required but may be submitted if you would like them to be considered in your admissions decision.
• Additional Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs have additional requirements to help ensure you’re prepared to succeed in your chosen field. Below are the specific details for programs with unique admission criteria.
  • Master of Occupational Therapy
    • GPA Requirements: An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is preferred, though applicants with a GPA of 2.7 or higher may be considered. If your GPA is below 3.0, we encourage you to explain your preparation for success in your admissions essay - we believe in your potential.
    • Prerequisite Coursework: Before starting the program, you’ll need to complete certain courses (or their equivalents as determined by a transfer evaluation):
      • Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (BIO 1210/1211), Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (BIO 1220/1221), Pathophysiology (BIO 2150), Introduction to Health Professions (HSC 1010), Statistical Methods (MTH 2750), Foundations of Occupational Therapy (OCC 1210), and Developmental Psychology (PSY 2210).
  • Master of Science in Nursing
    • Licensure Requirements: You’ll need an active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the U.S., District of Columbia, U.S. territories, or Canada. For U.S. applicants, our team will verify your license through NURSYS, so you don’t need to send it to us separately.
    • Educational Background: Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Bachelor of Science with a major in nursing from a nationally accredited program (ACEN or CCNE).
  • Doctor of Business Administration
    • Educational Requirements: Applicants are required to have an MBA or a related master’s degree from:
      • A U.S. institution accredited by a regional accrediting association, or
      • A non-U.S. institution with comparable accreditation, as verified by a recognized credential evaluation service (e.g., ECE or any NACES organization member).
    • GPA Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.25 in your master’s coursework is required.

Re-Admission and Re-Entry

• Undergraduate Students
  • Re-Entry Application: If you’ve been away from Baker College for three or more semesters, you will need to complete a re-entry application.
  • Supporting Documents: If any of the below listed documents are no longer on file, your admissions advisor will work with you to obtain the following as applicable:
    • Proof of Secondary Education Completion: An official final high school transcript, GED, or equivalent credential is required.
    • Official College Transcripts (for Transfer Students): Students who attended post-secondary institution(s) prior to their enrollment at Baker College should provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. If you’ve attended another institution since your last enrollment at Baker College, please provide official transcripts from those institutions as well.
    • Additional Program-Specific Documentation: Depending on your previous/future intended major, additional documentation may be required to complete your admissions file. For example, specific programs may require proof of certifications, prerequisite coursework, or supplemental application materials. Your admissions advisor will guide you through any program-specific requirements to ensure your application is complete.
• Graduate Students
  • Re-Entry Application: If you’ve been away from Baker College for three or more semesters, you will need to complete a re-entry application.
  • Supporting Documents: If any of the below listed documents are no longer on file, your admissions advisor will work with you to obtain the following as applicable:
    • Transcripts: Please provide official transcripts from the institution where your bachelor’s degree was awarded.
      • Master’s Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your bachelor’s degree was awarded. If you have completed master’s-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
      • Doctoral Program Applicants: Please submit official transcripts from the institution where your master’s degree was awarded. If you have completed doctoral-level coursework at another institution, include an official copy of those transcripts as well.
    • Current Resume: A copy of your most up-to-date resume.
    • Updated Admissions Essay: An admissions essay is required as part of your application to help us better understand your current aspirations, experiences, and motivations for pursuing your program of interest. For detailed information about the essay requirements, please refer to the “How to Apply for Graduate Programs” section of this Handbook.
• General Requirements for All Returning Students
  • Current Program and Admissions Standards:
    • Returning students should meet current program and admissions requirements at the time of re-entry.
    • If your previous program of study is no longer offered, your admissions advisor will guide you in selecting a similar or new program aligned with your academic and career goals.
  • Evaluation of Prior Credits:
    • Following the submissions of your ReEntry application, an official transcript evaluation will be conducted to determine how your previous credits may fit into your current academic plan.
• Academic Standing and Re-Entry Eligibility
  • Good Standing or Academic Probation: Students who were in good standing or on academic probation at the time of their departure can be readmitted upon submission of the required application and supporting documents.
  • Academic Suspension: Students previously placed on academic suspension are eligible to reapply after three or more semesters. Once all re-entry application requirements are met, admission will be granted.
  • Academic Dismissal: Students dismissed for academic reasons may reapply after an absense of at least one calendar year. As part of the re-entry process, students are encouraged to submit a personal statement detailing their readiness to succeed academically.  
    • If requested and approved, undergraduate students may be eligible for Academic Amnesty, which provides an opportunity to reset their GPA. Please see the section “Academic Amnesty: Fresh Start Program” for additional information.
• Next Steps for Re-Entry: Returning students will follow a streamlined admissions process similar to that of new and transfer students. Here’s what you can expect:
  • Submit Application: Complete the re-entry application at baker.edu/apply.
  • Provide Documentation: Ensure all required transcripts and supporting documents are submitted.
  • Evaluation and Review: Your application, prior academic standing, and any additional requirements will be reviewed.
  • Decision and Support: Once admitted, you’ll receive guidance on your next steps, including registration and reorientation resources to ensure a successful return to Baker College.

Returning to Baker College After Expulsion

• A Re-Entry Application: Complete an application for admission through baker.edu/apply.
• A Personal Statement: Provide a written statement explaining the circumstances that led to your expulsion, how you have grown since that time, and the steps you’ve taken to prepare for success at Baker College.
• Your application and personal statement will be reviewed by a committee composed of the Vice President of Enrollment, the Vice President of Student Success and Engagement, and/or the Dean of Students. This review process will carefully consider your readiness to rejoin the Baker College community and your plans for achieving your academic and personal goals moving forward.

International Student Admission Requirements

• English Language Proficiency: To ensure success in your academic program, international students should demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. This can be achieved in the following ways:
  • Undergraduate Applicants:
    • A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 64, or
    • A minimum IELTS score of 6.0, or
    • A minimum SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 450.
  • Graduate Applicants:
    • A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 79, or
    • A minimum IELTS score of 7.0.

Please note that this requirement may be waived if English is the official language of your country of education.

• Transcript Evaluation for International Education: If you have completed your education outside of the United States (including Canada), your transcripts are required to be evaluated by an organization affiliated with the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). These evaluations should include:
  • U.S. degree equivalencies,
  • Course grades, and
  • Overall grade point averages (GPA).

Please ensure that evaluation results are sent directly from the evaluation company to the Baker College Office of Admissions (undergraduate students) or the Center for Graduate Studies (graduate students).

• Student Visa Requirements and Tuition Deposits: For international students intending to study on campus in the U.S. (excluding commuting Canadians, who only need to complete an I-20 form), fulfilling student visa requirements and submitting an advanced tuition deposit are important steps in the admission process. Detailed information about the tuition deposit process for international students can be found in the Tuition Deposit - International Students section under Financial Services.
• Our Commitment to Your Success: At Baker College, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. If you have questions or need assistance at any stage of the admissions process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Admissions team. We are here to help you navigate the requirements and begin your academic journey with confidence.

Nontraditional Credit

Baker College offers many nontraditional credit options for students with varied academic and professional backgrounds. Types of nontraditional credit currently recognized by the College are described below.

Military Training and Occupation Credit

For our active duty and veteran students, we acknowledge your military learning experiences. Baker College refers to the American Council on Education (ACE) Military Guide for credit recommendations. Credits for armed force training must equate to course content and semester hours at Baker College. Credits must be at the college level to be considered for transfer. Credit may be applied at the undergraduate or graduate level.

Articulation Credit

Baker College partners with the Michigan Department of Education to award articulation credit for coursework completed at a State-approved secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Students who participate in the Baker College articulation program have an opportunity to receive college credits while completing the CTE program requirements. A list of requirements and eligible courses may be found by visiting www.baker.edu/runningstart and clicking on “Articulation.”

Degree residency requirements  must be met. If you wish to apply for articulation credit you must do so within 12 months of high school graduation. Your cumulative GPA must be a 2.0 or higher in your first year for articulation credit to be awarded. You can contact your Baker College Admissions Advisor or email runningstart@baker.edu for assistance.

Credit by Examination

Baker College offers you the opportunity to earn credits by successfully completing approved external examinations. These national credit-by-examination programs allow you to demonstrate your academic proficiency in various general education and specific subject areas. These examinations include:

• Advanced Placement (AP)
• College-Level Examination Programs (CLEP)
• Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support)/DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) (DANTES)
• International Baccalaureate (IB)

Experiential Learning Portfolio

• ​Experiential credit is college credit earned from skills gained through employment, volunteer work, community service, professional organizations, training, and/or military experiences that directly relate to skills taught through traditional Baker College courses.

How Does It Work?

• You’ll complete a self-paced module designed to help you figure out which course(s) match your experiences best.
• You’ll create a portfolio that shows what you’ve learned from those experiences.
• Content experts will review your portfolio and determine if it meets the student learning outcomes of the specific course(s).
• If your portfolio does not meet the student learning outcomes, you’ll have one chance to revise it and try again.

Limits and Exceptions:

• Experiential credit cannot be earned for a course you’ve previously failed, or for a course you’ve already started.
• This option is available for undergraduate students only, and not all courses qualify. Contact your advisor for more information.

ACE & NCCRS Credit Recommendations

Baker College recognizes the postsecondary credit recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE) and the National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS) for prior work experience, certifications, courses, exams, and other training. College credit recommendations can be found in the ACE National Guide and NCCRS Online Directory. Credits must be at the college level to be considered for transfer. Credit may be awarded at the undergraduate or graduate level. 

Licenses and Certificates

Baker College recognizes and awards academic credit for a wide range of professional licenses and certifications, providing students with the opportunity to accelerate their educational journey by leveraging their prior achievements.  

Waiver Tests

Waiver test credit may be earned for knowledge you already have. All waiver tests must be taken by the student prior to the beginning of the course. Once you begin a course, you are not eligible to take a waiver test. The waiver test for a course may be taken only once. 

Transfer Credits

UNDERGRADUATE

Baker College welcomes transfer students into a wide range of degree programs at both the associate and bachelor level. Our commitment is to recognize and maximize the value of the academic work you have already completed.

Credits will be accepted from regionally accredited institutions and degree-granting nationally accredited institutions.

If you have an earned regionally accredited associate degree, every consideration to transfer your full associate degree into one of Baker College’s bachelor degree programs will be made. This consideration ensures a smooth transition and allows you to continue your education without redundancy. For a previously earned undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution, the general education course requirements for either the associate or the bachelor degree - depending on the transferred degree level - are considered satisfied. Specific program requirements and/or program accreditation standards may impose limitations or additional requirements.

Courses with a grade of C (2.0) or higher will be eligible for transfer credit except for specific program standards. Refer to individual program handbooks for specific grade requirements. Courses with as low as a D- (0.7) grade will be considered if the course is part of an earned degree from a regionally accredited institution, or if the grade falls in a course sequence in which the last grade earned in the sequence was a C or better.

The length of time since a course was taken may impact transferability. 

To transfer a course, the course must equate in content and semester hours to a Baker College course. 

To obtain transfer credits, official transcripts from previous colleges must be submitted either electronically to adm-processing@baker.edu or through USPS to Baker College, Office of Admissions, 1020 S. Washington Street, Owosso, MI 48867. A transcript will be considered official only when received directly from the institution through the U.S. Postal Service, or electronically from the institution or a third-party vendor. In some circumstances, students will be responsible for producing documentation, including, but not limited to, catalogs, course descriptions, and syllabi.

All official transcripts are required prior to registration.

GRADUATE

At the Center for Graduate Studies we highly value the work you have already done. We are committed to accepting the maximum number of transfer credits into our graduate programs. The following policies are are designed to ensure the successful application of your transfer credits:

• Students in a master’s degree program can transfer up to 9 semester hours at the Center for Graduate Studies.
• Students in a doctoral program must complete a minimum of 24 semester hours at the Center for Graduate Studies.
• Students in the All But Dissertation doctoral program can transfer up to 27 semester hours at the Center for Graduate Studies.
• Students in the All But Dissertation, Capstone Project Track doctoral program can transfer up to 36 semester hours at the Center for Graduate Studies. 
• Only courses with a B (3.0) grade or higher will be eligible for transfer consideration.
• To successfully transfer a course, the course must equate to and be compatible with courses offered by the Center for Graduate Studies.
• Transfer of college credit will not be considered if the work was completed more than five years preceding matriculation.
• To obtain transfer credit, students are required to request that all previous colleges/universities attended forward official transcripts to Baker College, Office of Admissions, 1020 S. Washington Street, Owosso MI 48867 or electronically at adm-processing@baker.edu.
• Transcripts will be considered official only when received directly from the institution through the U.S. Postal Service or electronically from the institution or a third-party vendor. In some circumstances, students will be responsible for producing documentation including, but not limited to, catalogs, course descriptions, and syllabi.

Transfer Credits Residency/Residency Policies

Associate Degree and Undergraduate Certificates

Fifteen of the required semester hours in the program must be completed in actual class time at Baker College for associate degree programs. One-half of the required semester hours in the program must be completed in actual class time at Baker College for undergraduate certificates. A minimum of 12 semester hours must be completed in actual class time through Baker College courses in the major discipline of student. 

Bachelor Degrees

Thirty of the required semester hours in the program must be completed in actual class time at Baker College for bachelor degree programs. A minimum of 15 semester hours must be completed in actual class time through Baker College courses in the major discipline of student at the 3000 and 4000 levels. 

Residence Halls

Residence hall accommodations are offered on the Cadillac, Muskegon, Owosso, and Port Huron campuses. Baker College provides modern, convenient residence halls and apartments, with a variety of living options on each campus. Residence hall living environments are created to support your academic efforts and help in the adjustment to college life. 

Students interested in housing should review the Residence Hall Licensing Agreement and Residence Life  section of the Handbook. Please note, in order to meet housing eligibility requirements, you must be enrolled in classes. 

Residence Hall Coordinators and/or student Resident Assistants create and promote opportunities for students to develop interpersonal relationships, leadership and decision-making skills, and an awareness of individual responsibilities and rights. At Baker College, the residence halls are more than just places for sleeping and eating. Residence hall life supports the College’s academic process and is an integral part of the living/learning experience. 

All rooms in the residence halls are partially furnished. They provide access to kitchen appliances so you may buy and prepare your own meals. Lobbies/study areas offer television, recreational games, conversation areas, and food vending machines. Laundry facilities are available in all residence halls. You will receive all additional details you need at housing orientation sessions prior to and during the initial move-in.

Student Activities

Students are at the heart of everything we do. We understand that student engagement outside the classroom is vital for a rich college experience. That’s why we offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities throughout the school year.

From sports to recreational pursuits to entertainment, there’s something for everyone. These activities aren’t just about having fun; they’re opportunities to forge new friendships, hone leadership skills, and infuse college life with meaning.

Our campuses host a variety of program-related clubs and organizations, allowing you to explore interests beyond academics. Additionally, we actively promote community-sponsored events, fostering connections between our students and the wider community.

If you have an idea for an event, club, or community opportunity that does not currently exist, please bring your idea forward and we will help you organize efforts to make it happen.

For information on available or potential activities, you can turn to the Residence Life Staff or Student Affairs Office on any campus.

Veteran Benefits

Veteran benefits are available to eligible students upon acceptance to Baker College. These students must complete the necessary paperwork as part of the admissions process, and should contact the Admissions Office as soon as possible for help initiating the benefit paperwork. Once the initial paperwork is submitted, students will work with the Military Support Staff (vet2vet@baker.edu) for additional benefit needs.

Baker College is approved to train eligible veterans and their dependents under Chapters 30, 31, 33, 35, 1606, and certain other types of veterans’ benefits. If you are a veteran, spouse, or dependent and would like more information regarding VA benefits, go to va.gov.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs can pay benefits directly to students or to Baker College. The chapter of benefits for which the student qualifies determines the payment method. The student is responsible for any balances owed to Baker College after these payments.

Veterans and their dependents may also apply for other financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To complete a financial aid application, go to fafsa.gov.

Students receiving veterans’ benefits must continuously be in good academic standing (see the Academic Standing  section in this Handbook). The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will be notified if a student is suspended or dismissed from Baker College.

The Veterans Benefit Administration determines enrollment status according to the dates of the classes, not the total number of credits taken each semester. Baker College is required to notify the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs when a student ceases to enroll at Baker College.

Active Military Benefits

Students who are actively serving in the military may be eligible for funding offered through the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance program. Students should verify their eligibility status through their Military Installation’s Education Center prior to enrolling.

Spouses of a service member who is serving on active duty Title 10 orders in the paygrades of E1-E6, O1-O3, or W1-W2 may be eligible for financial assistance through the Department of Defense for education, training, and/or the occupational license and credentials necessary for a portable career. In addition, spouses or children of a service member may be eligible to receive a transfer of the service member’s Post-9/11 GI Bill®.

Service members and their dependents may also apply for other financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To complete a financial aid application, go to fafsa.gov. Students will be responsible for balances owed to Baker College after their benefits and financial aid payments are applied.

Admission Policy for Applicants with Felony Convictions

• Application Process and Requirements: As part of the application process, students with felony convictions are asked to provide additional information to help us better understand their background and readiness to thrive at Baker College. The process includes the following steps:
  • Personal Statement: During your application, you will be asked to include a personal statement. This statement is an opportunity to share your story, including:
    • The circumstances surrounding your conviction(s),
    • Steps you’ve taken toward personal growth and rehabilitation,
    • How you’ve prepared to succeed in your educational journey, and
    • Why Baker College is the right fit for your goals.

We encourage you to be open and honest in your statement, as it helps us better understand your journey and aspirations.

• Background Check: Before moving forward in the admissions process, you will need to complete a background check through an approved third-party background check service. This allows us to assess factors such as:
  • Circumstances of the Conviction:
    • The number of offenses/convictions,
    • The type of original charge(s),
    • The crime(s) for which you were convicted,
    • The length of time since the conviction(s), and
    • Any other relevant details.
  • Post-Conviction Timeline:
    • Length of time served (if applicable),
    • Time elapsed since release (if incarcerated), and
    • Evidence of rehabilitation and personal growth.
  • Program-Specific Requirements:
    • Program accreditation, licensing, or internship requirements,
    • Whether minors may be present as part of the program environment, and
    • Other factors specific to the program of study.
  • Parole Conditions: If applicable, you may be asked to provide the name and contact information of your parole officer. Baker College may review the conditions of your parole to determine if enrollment is feasible within those parameters.
  • Rehabilitation and Growth: Documented evidence of rehabilitation, letters of reference, or other supporting materials are strongly encouraged as part of the review process.
  • Additional Information or Interviews: In some cases, the College may request additional documents, waivers, or releases, or invite you to a personal interview to better understand your circumstances.

We understand that this step may feel daunting, but please know that our review process is designed to evaluate each applicant as an individual.

• Committee Review: Purpose of the Review: Once your personal statement and background check are submitted, a review committee will carefully evaluate your application. We take a holistic approach, considering your background in context and the potential for success in your chosen program. Our goal is to create a pathway forward for you while ensuring the safety and well-being of the Baker College community.
• Next Steps: Following the committee’s review, you will be notified of the decision. If you are approved to move forward, you will continue through the admissions process alongside other applicants. Approval to proceed does not guarantee admission, as you will still need to meet all program-specific requirements.
• During Enrollment: If a student is arrested for a criminal offense (on or off campus), the College may implement an immediate suspension at its discretion. This suspension will remain in place until the charges are resolved. Once charges are resolved, the student may reapply for admission and continue their education, subject to review by the College.

Orientation and Student Onboarding

• Orientation Options
  • On-Campus Orientation
    • Fall Semester Session One: For students starting during the first session of the Fall semester, on-campus orientation events are typically held in June at each Baker College campus. These events are designed to provide you with an engaging and welcoming introduction to your campus community.
    • Other Terms: If you’re starting in a term or session outside of Fall Semester Session One, you will be invited to attend the Online Synchronous Orientation, which is available prior to the start of each eight-week session.
  • Online Programs Orientation: Students enrolling in online programs are encouraged to participate in the Online Synchronous Orientation, which is offered prior to the start of each eight-week session. This orientation is tailored to address the unique needs of online learners and ensure you’re set up for success.
  • Student Welcome Experience:  All students, regardless of their program or start date, have access to the Student Welcome Experience via their Canvas classroom portal. This online resource provides an additional layer of support, guiding you through key information and tools to help you get started confidently.
• Orientation Registration: To register for orientation and access resources specific to your upcoming semester, visit www.baker.edu/orientation. We encourage all students to register for their upcoming semester after confirming their enrollment. Orientation is your opportunity to connect with staff, explore available resources, and begin building a foundation for success at Baker College.