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Directory Profile

Allen Roberts

Assistant Professor of Graphic Communication,
Department Chair, Graphic Communication,
Digital Technologist

[email protected]
276.326.4622

Education

M.S. Integrated Marketing Communications, West Virginia University
B.A. Graphic Design/Advertising, Concord University

Bio

Professor Roberts’ lifelong fascination with visual communication of all types led him to an award-winning career in local media, and ultimately opened the door to the rewarding realm of higher education at Bluefield University.

After winning a nationwide contest in high school to design the mascot for well-known athletic retailer Eastbay, Roberts was led toward a career in visual communication, obtaining his B.A. in Graphic Design/Advertising from Concord University in 2002, and later his M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University.

A decade-plus career in local media began at the Bluefield Daily Telegraph, where he earned Best Front Page awards for his layout artistry from the West Virginia Press Association in 2007 and 2009.  Nearly seven years at the Telegraph were followed by a multi-year stint at NBC affiliate WVVA-TV where he served as Internet Director and on-air personality, writing and hosting weekly “Web Minute Monday” segments while overseeing the station’s rapid growth in traditional web, social media, and mobile audiences. In 2014, he was awarded Best Use of Digital Media by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association.

During his time in local media, Roberts’ career took an unexpected turn when he accepted a part-time role as an adjunct instructor of Graphic Communication at Bluefield University. In doing so, he discovered a passion for working with students that he had not considered before. In 2014, when the opportunity arose to join the BU family full time, Roberts did not hesitate to accept the new adventure.

Roberts is currently chair of the Department of Graphic Communication and teaches courses such as Photoshop/Illustrator, InDesign, Typography, Video Storytelling, Photography, User Experience Web Design, Designing for Graphic Customers, 3D Printing, and others. He strives to give each Graphic Communication student the individual attention they need to be successful on their journeys into this ever-evolving field.

Do I only apply once?

  • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate's Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

  • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

  • Log in to myBU, and under the "Student" tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

How long is a semester?

  • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

Is there an orientation?

  • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session that explains how to access courses, how to register for classes, and answers other questions.

Where can I find a course description?

Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

  • No. If a student decides to study at BU full time, BU is currently test-optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle.

Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

  • Classes are offered online, so a student can log-on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

  • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate's degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

  • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

How do transferring credits work?

  • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

  • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor's degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

  • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

 

Meet our core Counseling faculty

Dr. Challen Mabry

Assistant Professor of Counseling

Dr. Kristen Moran

Associate Professor of Counseling

Brandy Smith

Assistant Professor of Education & Counseling,
Director of the Master of Arts in Counseling Program,
Title IX Confidential Counselor

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