What are peoples experiences with Phoenix University.. good or bad?

Question

I was thinking of getting a BA in general studies so that I could qualify for a teachers certificate here in Washington State.. but I really don't know what to think of this online university thing. Does it work? Is it easy to learn and comprehend? How respected is your online BA degree? any insight would be helpful!

Answer 1

I can only speak as an employer, not as a U of P graduate, but in general, employers don't really love the U of P and schools like it. Of course, some employers don't care - so long as you have the degree, they are happy. But others do care, and some care enough that they refuse to consider U of P graduates. So go in with your eyes open - will the schools in Washington State care where your degree was from? If I were you, I'd call a few of the schools I would want to work in, post-graduation, and ask them.

Were you planning to go in person, or via distance learning? In general, many employers prefer candidates from reputable, brick and mortar universities, versus those that got their degree online. So check with your local state universities first. Not only are their programs likely stronger than those of U of P, but you'll also get a discount on the tuition because you'll be in-state.

But if you must attend online - if you literally can not make it to an offline classroom - then try to attend an online program that's administered by a reputable, brick and mortar school.

For online/distance programs, start looking first with your own local state university. You may be surprised at what they have to offer.

Some great universities that offer online degrees include:

University of Massachusetts at Amherst
University of Denver
University of Maryland
Duke University
Drexel
Carnegie Mellon
Penn State
Ball State
U Nebraska - Lincoln
University of Illinois

And there are others. But in general, when you're looking for a distance learning degree, try to find a program at a school that has a good reputation for their "brick and mortar" campus.

Answer 2

First of all, it's super expensive. If you're just planning on getting a AA in Psychology, many community colleges offer that at probably 1/4 of what you're paying. Univ of Phoenix also has a reputation for not being able to find jobs for graduates so that's another red flag. Do you plan on eventually getting a BA or Masters in Psychology? If so, Univ of Phonenix is not a good way to go.

Answer 3

I have two friends who went the U of P route and both were satisfied with the results. But it did cost them more than it would have elsewhere. (Some companies will not provided tuition assistance to U of P students.) Recommend you investigate other options, choose the best one for you, press on and get the degree you want/need. Don’t keep agonizing over it or second guessing yourself.