Blackstone Career Institute (BCI) offers several distance learning certificate programs. These courses prepare adults for roles as paralegals, veterinary assistants, pharmacy technicians, or allied health professionals. The school focuses on providing quality education at an affordable price.
Programs & Courses
Criminal Justice and Law
- Paralegal
Healthcare Administration and Services
- Medical Billing & Coding
Healthcare and Nursing
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Transcription
- Pharmacy Technician
Wellness
- Physical Therapy
Veterinary
- Vet Assistant
Campus Locations
Blackstone Career Institute Allentown Campus 1011 Brookside Rd, Suite 300 Allentown, PA 18106
Financial Aid Services
Costs vary by subject, though there are many options available for financing. Plans with low deposit requirements allow BCI students to make monthly payments toward their tuition. Pupils may also receive a discount by paying education expenses in full.
Student Services
The price of each course also includes class materials. A special learning environment provides Blackstone Career Institute attendees with access to discussion boards and opportunities to network. At the end of a program, students are eligible to sit for licensing exams within their field of study.
Career Services
BCI maintains a career center with tools to aid in resume preparation and development of interview skills. Graduates can also use the school’s job search databases and internship resources as they look for work.
Veteran and Military Services
BCI prides itself on making education accessible to veterans, active-duty members, and their spouses. The online format and flexible start dates mean each person can study from anywhere and at their own pace. Enrollees also get advice about benefits like the GI Bill from members of the staff.
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, Blackstone Career Institute has a mixed reputation, with an average score that reflects both positive experiences with its self-paced curriculum and significant, recurring frustrations with its customer service and business practices.
Overall Score: 3.6/5 Stars
Common Praises
Flexible and Self-Paced Learning: Many students, including those who are incarcerated or have busy lives, highly value the self-paced nature of the courses. This flexibility allows them to complete the program on their own schedule and achieve a sense of accomplishment.
Effective and Foundational Curriculum: Several reviewers praise the quality of the course content, particularly in the paralegal program. They feel that the course provides a strong foundation and the necessary clock hours to sit for certification exams. Some graduates report that the course material is comprehensive and has been helpful in their careers.
Common Criticisms
Poor Customer Service and Communication: This is the most consistent negative theme. Multiple reviewers describe the staff as “rude,” “unprofessional,” and “inconsiderate.” One person reported waiting months for a response to an inquiry. This has led some to feel that the school is more focused on payments than on student success.
Questionable Payment Practices: A significant complaint is about the payment plan structure. A reviewer alleges that the school withholds course content until monthly payments are made, a policy they claim was not disclosed upfront. This has led to feelings of being “trapped” and unable to move forward in the program if payments are not made on time.
Momentum
Based on reviews in Google, the momentum for Blackstone Career Institute is mixed. The school continues to receive positive reviews from students who value its self-paced, foundational education. However, serious and consistent complaints about poor customer service and questionable payment practices continue to appear, suggesting these are ongoing issues.