Albertus Magnus College

Press Release

New Haven, Conn. — September 29, 2026

Albertus Magnus College announced a new educational initiative dedicated to supporting frontline heroes by offering eligible first responders the opportunity to earn a master’s degree, online, in just one year for a total tuition of $20,000. The online format of the programs allows the first responders to pursue a graduate degree around their busy schedules.

Designed to fit the demanding schedules of emergency personnel, the program applies to four select graduate degree programs:

Eligible candidates include peace officers, firefighters (municipal and private-employer), ambulance drivers, emergency medical responders (EMRs), EMTs, paramedics, telecommunicators (9-1-1 dispatchers), and Department of Correction employees, as defined under Connecticut General Statutes § 52-146v.

"First responders put their lives on the line for our communities every single day, and this program is our direct way of giving back and serving those who serve us. At Albertus, we believe education should be a launchpad, not a barrier. Higher education should empower frontline leaders with actionable, real-world skills they can apply immediately in their careers and their communities. By making a master's degree achievable in just one year for $20,000, we're removing the cost and time barriers that too often stand between dedicated first responders and the credentials they've earned through years of service. Albertus is meeting them where they are, honoring the sacrifices they've already made, and investing in their futures as the next generation of leaders." — Brian Fernandes, Vice President for Enrollment Management

Prospective students are encouraged to apply early for upcoming start dates. For more information about eligibility and enrollment, visit albertus.edu/first-responders/.

About Albertus Magnus College

Founded in 1925, Albertus is a coeducational Catholic College in the Dominican tradition. Albertus’ values- and liberal arts-based education is recognized by external rankings such as US News & World Report, Money, and The New York Times, and has been named a Top 10 Military Friendly School. For ten consecutive years, at least 95% of Albertus graduates have attained employment or entered graduate studies within six months of completing their degrees. The College enrolls approximately 1,400 students across its traditional undergraduate, accelerated adult undergraduate, and graduate programs. Albertus Magnus College takes pride in a student body where nearly half of undergraduates are first-generation students and Pell Grant recipients. The College is recognized for its innovative curricula, featuring programs in General Health Sciences and Public Health, as well as its newest offerings: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Connecticut’s first LPN-to-BSN program. Among its distinctive graduate offerings are Masters in Healthcare Administration, Public Administration, MBA, and the State of Connecticut’s only Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling program.

As it begins a second century, Albertus is implementing a new strategic plan, The Centennial Plan: Crossing the Bridge to a Second Century, that advances its bold vision as a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking Catholic institution in the Dominican tradition. Grounded in the liberal arts and the Dominican Pillars of Study, Prayer, Community, and Service, the College prepares students to think critically, lead ethically, and thrive through innovative, immersive learning experiences that empower them to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. To learn more, please visit albertus.edu.