However the eligibility criteria for joining a sorority often vary from one organization to another.
While most sororities typically require potential members to be enrolled in a four-year college or university it may still be possible to join with an associate’s degree.
So what options are available for those with an associate’s degree who wish to experience the sisterhood and benefits that come with being in a sorority?
Can You Join A Sorority With An Associate’s Degree?
While many sororities and fraternities primarily accept new members who are currently enrolled in a 4-year degree program or already have a 4-year degree there are other organizations that are more broadly open. Some sororities and fraternities accept new members outside of the undergraduate setting.
Divine 9 Organizations:
The Divine Nine also known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council is the umbrella organization for historically African-American fraternities and sororities. These organizations accept graduate members who have a baccalaureate or associate degree or have completed an approved two-year specialized training program.
Undergraduate membership is also available to students in good academic standing at accredited schools colleges or universities.
Membership Eligibility:
Joining a sorority is a dream for many college students but what about those who have already completed their associate’s degree or are enrolled in an online program? Can they still join a sorority?
The answer is that it depends on the organization and their membership eligibility requirements.
The Divine 9 organizations also known as the historically Black fraternities and sororities accept new members who are currently enrolled in a 4-year degree program or already have a 4-year degree. This means that individuals with an associate’s degree can still join these organizations.
However it’s important to note that membership eligibility may also vary depending on the specific sorority within the Divine 9.
Alternatively there are other sororities and fraternities that are more broadly open and accept members outside of the undergraduate setting. One example is Sigma Chi Psi Sorority a social organization for online college and university students.
Sigma Chi Psi aims to bridge the social gap and provide a community for non-traditional students who may not have the same opportunities for networking and building meaningful friendships as their on-campus peers.
Online Sororities:
Sigma Chi Psi Sorority is not an online sorority in the traditional sense. Instead it operates virtually providing a platform for members to connect and engage with one another.
The organization accepts women from all accredited online colleges and universities including those pursuing associate degrees bachelor’s degrees master’s degrees or doctorate degrees as well as those studying at community and technical colleges.
Established in November 2019 Sigma Chi Psi Sorority became a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization in Maryland on November 5 2020. The organization aims to create a sense of community and sisterhood by organizing virtual events supporting members in their academic and professional pursuits and promoting personal growth and development.
Membership with Sigma Chi Psi Sorority does come with financial obligations. The organization’s fees are subject to change but currently there is an initial fee of $100 for new members.
Annual dues of $150 are due in the second year and beyond.
The application process for Sigma Chi Psi Sorority requires interested individuals to submit an application and pay the associated fee. Additionally an official transcript must be provided to verify enrollment in an accredited college or university.
Membership is contingent upon meeting certain requirements and completing an intake process similar to pledging in traditional sororities.
Once accepted as members individuals are expected to engage in community service activities. Sigma Chi Psi Sorority requires its members to complete a minimum number of community service hours on a quarterly or annual basis further fostering a sense of giving back and supporting the community.
However it’s important to note that membership in any sorority or fraternity is not guaranteed. Organizations have the right to terminate membership if individuals do not meet their obligations or are found to be in violation of their rules and regulations.
Community Service Requirements:
One of the important aspects of joining a sorority or fraternity is participating in community service activities. These organizations place a strong emphasis on giving back to the community and making a positive impact.
For example Sigma Chi Psi Sorority requires its members to complete community service hours on a quarterly or annual basis. This ensures that members are actively involved in making a difference in their local communities.
By engaging in community service members not only contribute to important causes but also develop valuable skills such as leadership teamwork and empathy.
Community service can take various forms including volunteering at local charities organizing fundraising events participating in awareness campaigns and supporting community initiatives. By actively participating in these activities sorority and fraternity members can demonstrate their commitment to service and create a meaningful impact.
In addition to fostering personal growth community service also helps sororities and fraternities build strong connections with their local communities. It allows them to establish a positive reputation and become recognized for their contributions.
Through community service these organizations can create a network of support and establish meaningful relationships with other community organizations and leaders.
Affordable Membership Fees:
Joining a sorority or fraternity typically requires payment of membership fees. These fees cover various expenses associated with the organization’s activities events and operations.
It is important to understand the financial obligations involved in becoming a member.
When it comes to Sigma Chi Psi Sorority membership fees are affordable and subject to change. The organization aims to provide an inclusive and accessible experience for all members regardless of their financial situation.
Membership fees are used to support the sorority’s initiatives programs and events.
For example the annual membership dues for Sigma Chi Psi Sorority are $150 which is due in the second year of membership. The sorority strives to keep its fees reasonable making it more accessible to a wide range of individuals including non-traditional students pursuing associate degrees bachelor’s degrees master’s degrees or doctorate degrees at online colleges and universities.
It’s worth noting that the organization’s fees may vary over time so it’s important to consult the official website or contact the sorority directly for the most up-to-date information on membership fees. Various payment options may be available to accommodate different financial situations and ensure that membership remains accessible to all interested individuals.
Application Process:
Joining a sorority with an associate’s degree is possible through various organizations that accept new members outside of the traditional undergraduate setting. One such organization is the Sigma Chi Psi Sorority which was established in November 2019 and became a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization in Maryland on November 5 2020.
Sigma Chi Psi Sorority is specifically designed to cater to online college and university students providing a social community for non-traditional students. They accept women from all accredited online colleges and universities including those pursuing associate degrees bachelor’s master’s or doctorate degrees as well as students studying at community and technical colleges.
However it’s important to note that Sigma Chi Psi is not an online sorority. While they operate virtually their aim is to connect members in person both locally and nationally.
They have chapters approved by students not determined by location but by the school attended. They are actively working to transition these chapters to become school-sanctioned.
To apply for membership in Sigma Chi Psi Sorority interested individuals must go through an application process. The process typically includes a fee submission of an official transcript from their educational institution and meeting certain eligibility requirements.
The sorority values good moral character adherence to its laws and being in good standing academically.
Once the application is accepted new members are required to go through an intake process similar to the pledging process in traditional sororities. This process helps to introduce the new members to the organization’s values expectations and sisterhood.
Inclusive And Non-Discriminatory:
Sigma Chi Psi Sorority prides itself on being an independent multicultural sorority that prioritizes inclusivity and stands against discrimination. They promote unity and embrace shared values making it an organization that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.
While Sigma Chi Psi Sorority is not affiliated with the Interfraternity Council Multicultural Greek Council or any other councils or associations it is worth mentioning the National Pan-Hellenic Council also known as “The Divine Nine.” The Divine Nine is the umbrella organization for historically African-American fraternities and sororities.
This council encompasses nine organizations including Sigma Chi Psi Sorority.
Additionally within the sorority world the Panhellenic Association is the organization that unites National Panhellenic Conference sororities and works towards common goals. This association along with the National Pan-Hellenic Council demonstrates the commitment of sororities to inclusivity and diversity.
Types Of Sorority Members:
When it comes to joining a sorority there are different types of membership that individuals can have. Understanding these different types can help determine if joining a sorority with an associate’s degree is possible.
Let’s take a closer look at the various types of sorority members:
1. Graduate Members: Graduate members are those who have already obtained a baccalaureate/associate degree or have completed an approved two-year specialized training program.
These individuals can join sororities even after completing their undergraduate degrees. They have the opportunity to continue their involvement in sorority life and contribute to the organization’s goals and activities.
2. Undergraduate Members: Undergraduate members are currently enrolled in an accredited school college or university.
They must be taking a minimum of 12 hours per semester or quarter and be in good academic standing. Undergraduates form the majority of sorority members and are actively involved in sorority events activities and community service projects.
3. Member-At-Large: Member-At-Large status is granted to individuals who have completed the necessary training and received an associate or baccalaureate degree or completed an approved two-year specialized training program.
These members may not be able to actively participate in all activities due to their other commitments but still meet the eligibility requirements for membership.
4. Honorary Members: Honorary members are individuals who are elected to this status due to their outstanding achievements on a national or international scale.
They may have made significant contributions to their respective fields or have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service. Honorary members bring prestige and expertise to the sorority and typically hold advisory roles.
5. Associate Members: Associate members are those whose involvement in the sorority prevents them from being regular members.
They must meet the same eligibility requirements as graduate members which usually include having a baccalaureate/associate degree or completing an approved two-year specialized training program. Associate members participate in sorority activities to the best of their abilities while balancing their other commitments.
It’s important to note that each sorority may have specific criteria or additional membership categories beyond these general types. Therefore it’s advisable to research and contact the specific sorority of interest to understand their membership requirements and opportunities for individuals with an associate’s degree.
