Goldey-Beacom College (GBC), has been a well-kept secret in the realm of Day 1 CPT schools. Located in the tranquil suburbs of Wilmington, Delaware, GBC boasts over 125 years of academic excellence. But what happened to this pioneer of Day 1 CPT that led to its relatively low profile in recent years? And how is it poised to reclaim its spot among the top choices for international students?
Table of Contents
- About Goldey-Beacom College
- Lower Tuition and On-Site Frequency in 2025: What Changed?
- GBC's Day 1 CPT Programs and Offers
- East Coast Day 1 CPT School Comparison
- How to Choose the Right School on the East Coast
About Goldey-Beacom College
Goldey-Beacom College is located just 2.5 hours by car from New York City, with Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., all within a short drive. This strategic location, coupled with its legacy of excellence, makes GBC a compelling choice for students seeking a balance between quality education and career advancement.
As one of the earliest adopters of Day 1 CPT programs, GBC designed its offerings meticulously, even collaborating with local employers to ensure the programs were practical and effective. It’s no surprise that even prestigious companies like J.P. Morgan send their employees to GBC for professional development, fully reimbursing tuition fees.
However, the pandemic and increased competition, particularly from Harrisburg University, led to a drop in enrollment. So what went wrong, and how is GBC bouncing back?
Why Did GBC Fall Behind?
- Frequent On-Site Requirements: GBC required students to attend classes on-site every two weeks, which was more demanding than competitors like Harrisburg and Monroe.
- Higher Tuition Fees: At $1,000 per credit, GBC was significantly more expensive than its peers.
- Limited STEM Options: GBC offered fewer STEM-certified programs compared to schools like Harrisburg.
The Comeback: What’s New in 2025?
- Reduced On-Site Frequency: Starting in 2025, GBC will require students to attend on-site classes only twice per semester (six times per year). This is even more flexible than Harrisburg and Monroe.
- Lower Tuition Fees: GBC has slashed its tuition to $610 per credit. A full master’s program now costs just $21,960, making it one of the most affordable options for Day 1 CPT.
- Market-Responsive Programs: GBC has streamlined its programs, maintaining high-quality offerings like MBA and MS Finance while reducing redundancy.
Day 1 CPT Programs and Offers
Day 1 CPT-Eligible Programs:
- MBA Comprehensive
- MBA Analytical (STEM-certified)
- MS Finance
- MS Management
- MS Taxation
While GBC’s STEM offerings are fewer compared to Harrisburg, they still cater well to the needs of international students pursuing a second master’s degree, especially those no longer eligible for OPT.
East Coast Day 1 CPT School Comparison
| School | Location (from NYC) | Tuition | On-Site Frequency | CPT Renewal | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goldey-Beacom (GBC) | 2.5 hours | $21,960 | 2/semester (6/year) | Annual | MBA, MSF, MSM, MS Taxation |
| Harrisburg | 3.5 hours | $35,880 | Monthly (12/year) | Per Semester | MBA, MSCS, MS Analytics |
| Monroe | 1.5 hours | $23,000 | Monthly (12/year) | Per Semester | MBA, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity |
| New England College (NEC) | 5.5 hours | $17,780–$19,860 | 1/semester (3/year) | Per Semester | MBA, MS Biotechnology, MS IT |
How to Choose the Right School on the East Coast
For Budget-Conscious Students
- Top Choice: NEC
- Second Choice: GBC
For Students Who Prefer Minimal On-Site Classes
- Top Choice: NEC
- Second Choice: GBC
If You’re Based in NYC
- Top Choice: Monroe
- Second Choice: GBC
If You’re in Boston
- Top Choice: NEC
- Second Choice: GBC
If You’re in D.C. or Baltimore
- Top Choice: GBC
- Second Choice: Harrisburg (if you’re okay with monthly travel).
Goldey-Beacom College is back with a vengeance, offering a cost-effective, flexible, and high-quality option for students seeking Day 1 CPT. With its prime location, reduced on-site requirements, and competitive tuition rates, GBC is quickly reclaiming its position as a top choice for international students.
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