About STEPS

At STEPS (Student Training & Education in Public Service), our mission is to empower students to create a meaningful impact in their communities and the world at large through the accessibility and affordability of online learning.

STEPS provides a pathway to degrees and careers in teaching, social work, criminal justice, public health and administration, psychology, and other disciplines where college graduates can help those most in need. We believe that education is a powerful force for positive change. Join us in shaping a better future through public service, and let’s make a difference together.

What We Provide

College Rankings

Discover the best institutions offering online public service degrees with our meticulously crafted annual college rankings. Backed by the latest data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), our rankings can help you find the right school for your education and career goals.

Degree Showcases

Explore degrees in over 25 public service fields with school spotlights, coursework examples, sample timelines, cost breakdowns, and other key details. We believe that information is power, and we’re here to equip you with all you need to make an educated decision.

Financial Aid Planning

We believe that financial constraints should never be a barrier to higher education. Our financial aid resources will help you navigate the sea of scholarships and other funding opportunities, ensuring your college dreams stay within reach.

Student Support Resources

Whether you’re a veteran, new online learner, or someone with a disability, we’re here to support every type of student. Access our expert-driven guidebooks that cover everything from online learning tips and stress management strategies to specialized guides tailored to demographic groups.

Meet the People Behind STEPS

Leadership

Wes Harris Ricketts

Wes brings more than 16 years of higher education and online learning experience to STEPS. He currently works with education experts to build our site resources and engage with graduate students. Wes holds a BA and MA in history and began his career as an elementary school teacher.

Kyle Darland

Kyle drives operational excellence at STEPS, managing our technical framework and driving the success of our outreach campaigns. In addition to helping STEPS grow, Kyle spends way too much of his time involved in local and national politics and engaging in economic debates.

Kim Day-Williams

Kim’s experience in Marketing Operations (combined with her healthy obsession with organization) helps keep our research and data teams on track to find the most relevant information available. When she’s not working, Kim spends her time using her creative brain by watercolor painting, cross-stitching, or taking too many pictures of her niece.

Jordan Cosselman

Jordan graduated from the University of Nevada – Reno with a B.A. in English, and is now using her talents to craft compelling marketing outreach and generate creative content ideas for our team. When not hard at work, Jordan can be found passionately cheering on the Denver Broncos, obsessively reading to keep up with her book goals, or playing with her dog Obi.

Writers and Expert Contributors

STEPS works with writers and authoritative voices in online learning and public service to ensure our content meets the highest standards. View our full roster of writers and expert contributors to learn more about the people behind STEPS.

Authors & Experts

More About STEPS

Advertising Disclosure