GCU Review

Professors are amazing and the school is wonderful--so long as you fit their cookie cutter mold. The moment you want to transfer or have a problem with housing or run into other trouble, the administration is seriously lacking. It takes weeks to get a reply and even then you're met with a lot of people who can't really help you. If you fit their mold and will never run into any issues, the school is wonderful and the campus is warm and welcoming. The professors truly love their students. Unfortunately the administration is not nearly as genuine or concerned with the students purpose so much as they are concerned with getting financial compensation.

I have been with GCU as an online student working on my Master s in Elementary Education since August 2017. I cannot express how happy I am that I took this step. I was very hesitant before enrolling because it is a big life changing decision and I didn t want to do it wrong. I already have one wasted degree from undergrad, I didn t want to do that again. I read reviews before enrolling and there were obviously good and bad reviews. I decided to go with the good reviews and take a chance. Up to this point, the instructors (with the exception of one) have been professional, educated, understanding, and seem to genuinely care about the success of the students. I also love that each class uses a rubric, so I know exactly what is expected of me with each assignment. I did have one bad experience with an instructor, but one of my advisors, Katherine, was there for me every step of the way to make sure I was not negatively affected by the lack of support from the instructor. She has been a big support and is there for any questions I have. She checks in regularly to see how everything is going and congratulates me on each of my successes. She is my go to girl at GCU. I am doing very well in my classes, and I owe it to the support of the instructors and the advisors. I hope that my experience continues to be as positive as it has been so far.

GCU is located in the ghetto and the neighborhood is not very safe at night especially for female students. Most every night gun shots can be heard although gun shots do not occur on campus but they do in the surrounding neighborhood.

The campus itself is beautiful but that is where it ends. The aerial shots that you see advertised on TV give the impression that the whole area is new, fresh and beautiful but it is not.

Just east of the campus 27th Ave (half mile from campus) near Interstate 17 is one of Phoenix's high crime areas stretching from 27th Ave & Glendale (2 miles north of Camelback) to 27th Ave & Thomas (2 miles south of Camelback) is full of drugs addicts, homeless people, prostitution and other various crimes.

I have first hand knowledge as I worked in the security department working various shifts from day time to night time.

Parents advise your kids especially if you have daughters to never walk alone off campus especially at night. I am not trying to scare anybody but I am just giving you the insight to the surrounding neighborhood where GCU is located.

GCU is a closed campus with a high security presence for a reason.

Now to the positives about GCU. The campus itself is very safe and every student can have the peace of mind of being safe and being able to enjoy campus activities and focus on their studies.

GCU has many amenities and athletic programs for all to enjoy they have really built quite an athletic department.

If GCU is on your radar to go to school definitely check it out as it is worthwhile to say the least.

It should also be noted that GCU has done many positive things in the community especially the surrounding neighborhood and GCU generally has a positive relationship with the surrounding area.

I never give five star reviews. The highest I go is 4, because there is always room for improvement. I made the exception here because I attend GCU online. The only thing lacking is the "college experience"

If I attended the ground campus I would give a 4* review.

The support that I received at GCU and level of education greatly prepared me to be a professional in my chosen field.

I am thrilled to say that I am alumni with GCU. I completed my Masters here, and from start to finish felt as if I received a solid education with experienced instructors. I was definitely challanged to elevate my writing skills, analysis of documentation, and more in relation to my program. Yes, there were time I wanted to rip my hair with frustration or exhaustionz, but, every time I reached out to my instructor they helped me. My advisors were attentive and considerate of my schedule and made the effort to connect frequently to see how I was doing and if they could do anything to help me. And finally, my cohort group. When you are with a group or men and women in a program start to finish you feel like your a family. We challenged each other in the best ways and supported each other with we were struggling academically or personally. I completed my program 100% online and the format for the LMS the university uses took me a little to get used to, but, nothing too challenging that hinders your education. As it is I am looking at a second degree with GCU because of my experience. Definitely suggest looking into the school. The programs, the faith based education, and affordability is worth consideration for GCU.

This school has been so awesome. I love that I can attend school fully online and go at my own pace. I take one class at a time until I feel like taking morw. The counselors are amazing! Silny and Savannah are always helpful whenever I need them. If you are an adult and looking to finish your degree while working GCU is for you. Because in today's society who can work at 8 or 9 hour day and then so sit in a classroom. I love GCU

Great school. Graduated with my bachelors in entrepreneurship. I do wish it was less expensive.

My experience at GCU has been wonderful. Each professor has help me growth tremendously. But I have to say that my counselor Cindy was there for me every time I had a question or a concern. I am almost done with my time at GCU but I will recommend it to anybody that is looking to expand their education. <3

Earning my Master of Divinity in 2020 at GCU was one the best experiences of my life. It stretched me both spiritually and intellectually and was very challenging, yet it helped to edify my purpose and refine my ministry through the Grace of God. I highly recommend if this is God's will for you!

This is my 5th school and it is the best yet! They are perfect in every way! I am an online student and every aspect of this school has been done so beautifully; from the support through the enrollment process, financial aid process, to making sure you can navigate the courses successfully. They have all the resources you need to succeed at your fingertips, there is webinars, tutors and tutorials for everything, they walk you through every single step as a student and the platform Loud Cloud is flawless and seamless, the tech guys who designed the platform are genius; bravo, I have had no technical issues what so ever! I am proud to be a student and will promote this school to everyone willing to listen! I was hesitant to start this school it has had a bad wrap, but they must have ironed out all the flaws since then!

I THINK GCU IS ONE OF THE BEST SCHOOLS AROUND ! THE STAFF IS AMAZING . THE KIDS ARE GREAT . YOU SHOULD GO TO ONE OF THEIR BASKETBALL GAMES ,I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT . MAKES ME WISH I HAD GONE TO COLLAGE.

Great school, I formed new friendships with peers. I learned a lot about myself and my love for teaching.

Hello I m Lori Jay Pangilinan-Linsangan. I thank the Lord for He have guided me with the help of my Student Services Counselors and the whole school as well to complete my Master s in Health Care Administration online classes. There have been a lot of challenges that came, but Praise the Lord for He hath saved and guided me throughout my journey. Kudos to everyone of us and for those completing their studies. God bless us all

Grand Canyon University has been an amazing experience. Before GCU, I was hesitant with pursuing my master s degree, and even more hesitant with online classes. GCU s professors worked with my schedule. They posted scriptures during tough weeks, and that helped push me through. My counselors constantly checked on me, and made sure that everything was ok. At times, I wanted to quit because I felt overwhelmed trying to balance teaching, coaching, and school, but my professors kept me going. I love GCU

I have been attending GCU for over a year. I have had an extremely pleasant experience so far. From the beginning the first person I spoke with was knowledgeable and took me step by step on the site so I can know how to navigate it. My counselor communicates back and forth whenever I need assistance. My professors have also been extremely helpful and understanding.

It looks like a good school for a everyone who actually likes to study I think they will have a good future. hope it works for you.

I enjoy Grand Canyon University school a lot so far my experience is really fun and the professors and staff members are really wonderful Human beings. They always cheer you up and encourage you to become successful in your education .And you know what as a students it gives me more motivation to want to learn and to be successful in life. Thank you GCU. Keep up the good work.

I have been an on ground student here as well as online and I have nothing but good reviews. The instructors, content, and environment have been positive experiences for me. The support offered is off the charts, from free tutoring, librarians to help me with research, writing center help, tutorials and webinars. Of course there have been a couple struggles here and there, but I also have experience at multiple community or local colleges and University of Phoenix and this school raised the bar like no body's business.

I would strongly suggest staying far far away from this atrocious place they call Grand Canyon University! It's funny for being a "Christian School" they sure forgot their morals. I wouldn't give this place any stars if possible. Save yourself from the anger and stress and stear clear!!

This is an institution run by religious fanatics. If you seek an education based in the sciences, this place is not for you. If you're OK with Christian fundamentalist "thinking" then this place might agree with you. However, it won't give you the intellectual wherewithal to continue on into a real, scientific university environment.

I graduated from GCU in 2010, and after reading all these negative reviews I felt I needed to share my positive experience. I received my Masters in Secondary Education through the online courses. I loved my experience with GCU. I had requested information because I was thinking of getting my Masters. I received a call that changed everything. I was just looking at first but was sold. They got me enrolled and even helped with filling for financial aid. At the beginning of each class, midterm of each class, and at the end of each class I would have someone call me. They asked if I needed anything, tell me how my grades were looking, and prepare me for my next class. During next to last class my computer crashed. Thank God I had the phone number of one of my teammates for the online project I had to do. I asked them if they could inform the teacher my problem and asked if I could get a few extra days on my assignment. The teacher understood my problem and gave me an an entire extra week to get my assignment me. They teachers work with you if you explain what is going on. The only issue I had was at the beginning with receiving the financial aid. Their financial aid department needs ton of work and restructuring. I would give give it five stars had it not been the financial department. The teachers were awesome and very helpful. I lived my experience with GCI!

I am so proud to be a student at GCU. I love the curriculum as well as the instructors. I never imagined myself going to school online but they have helped me in so many ways to become the student I am today! Can't wait to come to Phoenix and walk down to recieve my degree!!

I earned my undergrad here and am currently earning my masters here as well! As a full time mother of three, full time worker and full time student GCU has been the best decision I've made! It is highly convenient for me and the support I get from this university has been unmatched in my experience. I appreciate the hard work and effort from every team member including my advisors and professors!

The courses for the online Elementary Education master s program have been exceptional, and the program allows for the opportunity for me to finish on a schedule that ll put me in the classroom fairly quickly. With the exception of only a couple of staff and faculty that are not student-centered, the level of instruction and support is very good, and the comradery with my classmates has provided for engaging exchanges.

Grand Canyon University is definitely a very smart choice. It is an engaged institution of higher education, driven by its vision, mission, and goals that strive for academic excellence of its students, providing an excellent and stimulating learning environment, highly-qualified professors who promote critical thinking and empowers students to become successful in their chosen field of study.

My time at GCU as an online student was great! It provided me with the convenience of being able to complete my masters while working full-time & the support staff was awesome. Definitely would recommend it!

Nothing but problems with the financial aid department. Do a google search on this department to see for yourself how many students have these problems here. I have been told repeatedly my check is in the mail but it never comes. Unless they mailed it from China someone is not being truthful. No one seems to know anything about what is going on. They refuse to cut another check and will not let us pick up checks on campus if you are an online student. I am an online student who resides in the same city as the school. They also do not offer direct deposit. You are left to the mercy of the mail man and an admin staff who know nothing about the job they are doing. I was given two different dates for the mailing of my check. I was then told I have to wait another 7 business days for them to even think about replacing the one that was mailed. If they are going to mail large sums out like that and make it the only way to get your money, they should at least send it certified mail or put a tracking number on it. Do not expect to get any help with your problems if you call in. Some of the "advisers" act as if you are bothering them by inquiring about your account.

I have actually completed a master's of science degree here, and it was entirely available online. I think it is a very convenient school and these days everything can be completed online; including employment. I am curious to find out if I will be able to complete the PhD, in the same way, hopefully without any brilliant/tricky surprises. After all, I have already heard from some strangers, that I'm not paying for anything and therefore cheating. I'm afraid to investigate further so that I could find out what in reality it is that I need to be paying for. Recently I took out a student loan to begin my education.

My admissions Advisor Sam is the best !!!!! She has been there for me every step of the way , always available to assist me and always shows me she cares about me as a person and a student. I know I'm more than just another student, I am apart of the lopes family!!!!! Thank you Sam for everything !!!!

GCU provided a high quality program for my master s in Curriculum and Instruction. All instructors and counselors were supportive and extremely knowledgeable in their field. The program was fast and intensive allowing me to meet my goals in an effective and efficient manner. The cost was comparable or lower than others I looked into attending. Financial aid assistance was an easy and quick process. I highly recommend Grand Canyon University!

Grand Canyon University is one of the most horrific schools ever. This private college is only interested in taking your financial aid and your Stafford loans. If you do decide to attend this college, finish and beware that you will have lots of loans and lots of interest rates. Also prepare to never see any of your financial aid, because they are taking it and using it all. They are not very christian like and there online program is so annoying!! DO NOT SIGN YOUR NAME ON ANYTHING IT WILL COME BACK TO HAUNT YOU!!!!!!! ESPECIALLY IF YOU DECIDE TO LEAVE THEIR SCHOOL, BEWARE AND DO NOT ALLOW THEM TO TALK YOU INTO ANYTHING YOUR NOT READY FOR!!!!

Grand Canyon University is not a good school to go to. If I could give it zero stars I absolutely would. I went to GCU on campus and hated it so I switched to online thinking it would be better. The classes aren't too hard, it's what the school had told me that failed. The school told me that I had a few classes left and that I should graduate within a couple of months. I more than double checked to make sure that I am on track for graduating and sure enough I get an email saying that I won't be set to graduate until a year and a half. I'm so disappointed that GCU would tell you one thing and completely fall through on their word even though you do your part. This school is not a place that I would wish anyone to go to. They don't follow through with wbat they tell you and now i have been cheated outnof money as well. Very disappointing. Badly done GCU.

I'd have to say, their accounting department (admin) has to be staffed by some of the most retarded desk monkeys I've ever had to deal with. Multiple times, I would receive calls about payments the military paid them and they would haggle me for not receiving payment, only to do further research and end up finding out that they've actually received payment. I would send legitimate documentation from the base education office whenever they requested proof of some sort of payment and they would ALWAYS drop the ball, refer me to someone else, and I'd have to do the EXACT same thing with a different person. In the end, things would get resolved (with them in the wrong) but it would always be a freaking struggle to deal with things that I never really had to deal with in the first place. Oh, get this. I would take courses, buy a book, and at the very end of class, some moron from accounting would tell me that there was an E book associated with the class and I would have to pay the fee associated with it when a counselor beforehand would tell me that there was no E book associated with the class. I just find it messed up that I would do everything by the book and in the end, still get the shaft over some stupid clerical error. But enough of me going on a tangent. The school otherwise is not bad, but the countless amount of times that the accounting department screwed me over just left a terrible taste in my mouth. Oh yeah... and I was a decent student if anyone wanted to know (A/B).

I have been completing my Master's online through GCU for the past 2 years, and have had a wonderful experience.

I absolutely love everything about GCU and my counselor Kayla is fabulous, l have referred my daughter, who is a student now, my husband and coworkers , I want everyone I know who wants to experience professionalism, helpful service and a nurturing environment on their journey to call GCU!!!

I am early into my masters program but could not be more impressed with how helpful the instructor and enrollment counselors have been. I truly feel that everyone on staff believes in their programs and wants students to learn and grow within their academic program. We are handed the tools to not only succeed but flourish in our fields of study. As a self paying student I could not be happier that I have chosen Grand Canyon University to fulfill the next step in my academic career.

GCU was absolutely amazing through my graduate program! I had wonderful professors and support from my student success counselor! They were all so helpful, supportive and caring and helped to make the program go as smooth as possible. They were centered around Christ and proved that in his well they work with their students! Go Lopes!!

GCU is an awesome university! While it may not a great fit for everyone, I believe that it is a great fit for MOST students! I did not attend my undergrad at GCU but I wish I did. That is my biggest regret thus far in my 23 years of life. One important thing about this university is that it is big, so you need to know how to use the resources that are given to you. The staff, professors, and faculty are willing to work with you and are so friendly and personable. Most students arent aware of the resources or dont know how to connect which results in a negative experience/review of this school. When I was contemplating transferring here, my Admissions Counselor was SOOO nice. She made sure to keep in touch with me and answer any questions I had, she explained the application process and did not hide or withhold information like other universities do. The only reason why I did not transfer to this university was because I was a second semester jr in college and it would "too late" for me to transfer in MY OPINION. I was too scared to make that big of a life change, however, my Admissions Counselor did NOT pressure me at all to transfer and encouraged me to make the best decision regardless if it was to transfer or not. I had invested three and a half years into my current school so I decided to just stick it out. I encourage anyone who reads this review to check out this college, even if you dont think it is for you, they will help you understand what to look for in any college, they are more than happy to help answer general college questions even if it doesnt revolve around GCU. Their main goal is to help you find a college that is a good fit for YOU! They will fly you out to GCU for free, which most college do not. When I was touring colleges, I had to visit colleges at my expense, these expenses included food, transportation, hotel, etc. GCU pays for ALL of that because they believe that it is worth it in order to ensure that all students can tour colleges without financial worries.

I loved my experience at GCU, I did the online program and it was the best decision I made. I did my Masters in Leadership and I was very impressed with all the degrees you can get.

I am so thankful for the counselors, staff and teachers who were instrumental in my success. Such a wonderful experience, the online program was perfect.

My experience at GCU as an online student has been phenomenal!! I received my Bachelors in Secondary Education with Emphasis in English in 2015 and I just completed my Masters in Special Education in 2019. The student advisors, financial advisors, teacher specialists, student teacher supervisors and professors are all very knowledgeable and responds to the needs of students. Josh Ralston was one of my advisors and I must say he is a true demonstration of care and compassion for students. There are no words to express my gratitude for what he has done for me to ensure that my education at GCU was completed with greatness and A+ service. Very satisfied Alumni!!!

I attended GCU for Master s in Early Childhood Education. The experiences was one of the best experiences I ve had attending school. I endured a medical emergency and my counselor worked with me for time off and to start back to finish. I enjoyed myself and the program I was in had a rotation so it wasn t hard to keep up. I love everything about this school. I love the weekly scriptures that are posted the teachers are helpful and informative. I have really learned a lot in this program. Might go back for another degree with them. Ms. Mary and Ms. Sonia are the best!

I obtained my Bachelor's here. I enjoyed the challenges and had a good experience with most of the instructors. A little communication gap here and there. But the experience is what you make of it. As an adult student you have to initiate and be assertive in situations where you feel your needs aren't being met. Life isn't easy and neither is college I am especially thankful to Jeff Kaspersky for all his help in getting me through Probability and Statistics so I could finally graduate! He rocks! Now to get master's finally!

GCU is a fraudulent and predatory organization run and managed by Grand Canyon Education. In spite of what it s advertising slogans say, it is NOT a non-profit and has not been since Mueller took over. For example, GCE recruits students using various dishonest tactics, such as promising accredited degrees, completing degrees at an accelerated pace, and even job placement after graduation. Another red flag is that the recruiters, SSA/SSCs, and even the faculty prefer not to put anything in writing, hence, will ask that you meet them in person or talk on the phone to prevent any of their tactics from being recorded. They will also attempt to make you repeat courses and then attempt to double charge you for it. My own tuition fees changed several times while attending yet GCU Admins like to tout that tuition has not increased in a decade. Lies, lies, and more lies.

Another dishonest tactic of GCU employees is to tell you that your diploma will state your emphasis at graduation. No, it will not. Especially for doctoral students. For instance, I was told by my former SSC, Chris Farr, that my MBA will show a double emphasis of Finance AND Accounting. More lies. It did not. Mr. Farr encouraged me to get a double emphasis to ensure job placement after graduation. Bait and switch. Each emphasis costed me around $7-8k. There were no job fairs or opportunities to contact employment recruiters after graduation. I got screwed.

The recruiters and the GCU SSC/SSAs make commissions off of students that stay enrolled and keep enrolling in new courses, even if they don t need them. For instance, there were students in my MBA program who spoke almost no English, had zero computer skills, and submitted nearly nothing and still passed each and every course. Yikes.

The doctoral psychology degrees are not APA accredited and no emphasis is mentioned on your diploma at graduation; regardless of what courses you take, you will get the exact same generic General Psychology degree as everyone else. Same business model as ITT, University of Phoenix, and Corinthian Colleges. The only academic outcome at GCU is realizing you ve been completely robbed for a worthless piece of paper.

Lastly, Rick Singer, the mastermind of the academic scandal in California, was just booted from the GCU doctoral program last July, after being found guilty well over a year ago of several felonies based on fraud and racketeering. Hence, there is no low where the GCU administration and its recruiters will not go to get students admitted and paying those tuition dollars. You could be sitting next to a murder convict in a GCU classroom and would not even know it. That s GCU under Mueller. Even Betsy Devos, the head of the Department of Education and lobbyist of for-profit schools said GCU was a captive client of GCE. Do yourself and your family a favor and go somewhere else or you will regret it. RUN!

I got my BA in History here. I'm downgrading my review to one star because I came back to visit the campus and they were incredibly rude to me and refused to allow me to buy anything from the campus stores. So lesson learned, once you graduate, you don't matter anymore.

Everyone's experience and circumstances are different. It does not surprise me to see so may negative reviews. People are more likely to go out of their way to write a negative review rather than a possitive. I am a few courses away from graduation and I have to say my experience has been positive since the beginning. Aside from a few instructors the staff has been great. Especially Denita Burden and Kevin Carter, my admissions counselor and Student services counselor!

It was definitely a struggle returning back to school after so long. With the help of Cat Simmons I will be done in a month. My professors were always available and Cat would help when she could. This would be my top choice if anyone asked about online Masters programs.

I have no idea how this institution got my information, but they have been harassing me for the last several days. I've been told they deactivated my phone number from their system 3 different times and the calls keep coming. I am now in a mission to call each of these numbers multiple times per day until the calls stop coming to me. No respectable institution would call "prospective students" several times per day from several different phone numbers to get people to enroll. What a miserable experience. I can't imagine how their students must be treated.

GCU offered a fast paced program that allowed me to stay on top of my job and meet the requirements of the courses. I recommend Grand Canyon University to anyone looking to further their education at a faster pace and in a cohort setting. The cohort allowed for in-depth discussion throughout the program and a classroom feel even though the classes were online.

The most welcoming group of people. my niece is a freshman and loves it. she has nothing negative to and nither does parents. May God continue to protect and provide a beautiful school for these kids to get a Christian education. thanks to the staff and students for making this experience so great!

I LOVE my school! This is the University you re looking for! Today I m finishing my last class for my Bachelors Degree in Applied Management!!! I m all signed up for commencement in October and super happy to have completed my degree! I m so proud of what I ve done and who I ve become along the way! GCU is Awesome!!!

I absolutely loved my experience with GCU. As an online student, it can be hard to feel connected to a community from a distance. However, even in an online grad school program, GCU always made me feel at home and welcome. I enjoyed the class interaction, virtual classroom, and experience with my professors.

Same problem as:
briana hobbs
"GCU is terrible to vets! Do not go here if you are receiving educational benefits through VA."

Been call and asking!, all I get is I will submit a ticket and call you back!, no call back

Ask for management/ supervisor... just get voice mail and no call back!, No one cares to help

Vets go to another college!

The staff are supportive and the counselors, advisors are one of a kind! So glad GOD lead me to this school where I can share faith in CHRIST.

My daughter attends this university. She was publicly humiliated on the class Bb by her teacher. As far as we know she only got a slap on the wrist, but no apologies from anyone was given to my daughter. This second incident happened this week. My daughter has a disability and her rights as to when she turns her assignments in, have been taken away from her. No one apologized for not letting her know about their new policy or the fact that her teacher gave her a 0 for an assignment that she thought was due March 7, 2018. The teacher only responded days later and did not address any issues. And, she did not apologize or ask my daughter how she can help her. She never responds in a timely fashion. My daughter's GPA is 3.94. I am not happy with this university. I attended Regent University and none of this would have occurred there without a reprimand. For a so called Christian university, where is the Christ like way, where is the grace. I'm just saying.

To the owner of this site. It is May 8, 2018. My daughter did finish the class with an A. She was then in her next class with even more problems. She has, through her advisor, contacted the solutions department. Nothing transpired. Since, she is a disabled student, her counselor for the state has tried to reach several people at your university for over 2 weeks. NO ONE has called her back. Today, we received a bill in the mail from the university. This is about to get very ugly. No one from GCU seems to want to help us with this problem. The disability department has not returned my daughter's counselor's phone calls. Please help!

I just want to say - they will call you five hundred times in a row to get you to enroll. I would have enrolled if they didn't harass me so much. There are other schools that don't harass me such as Phoenix and Walden. I had to block three of their phone numbers. I just wanted emailed information. I asked for that specifically- then they called forever and every moment of three days a week

Im in my first year online with this university and it has been nothing but a positive experience! I love it!

As a student, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. This is home away from home. :)

REGARDING MY SON: DAWID JJ PIETERSE
First year student at GCU

Nessa Gutierrez took over from Tara Roane sometime in 2017. Tara was promoted as a result of the tremendous work she has been doing for GCU - no surprise!

Although our experience with GCU was therefore already extremely positive, satisfying and professional, Nessa has managed to take it a step further and set the bar even higher.

Her courtesy, promptness, diligence, expertise and care, especially during my son's injury and subsequent illness and surgery, is a sign of a true Christian in action for Christ.

She has demonstrated what an outstanding Student Services Counselor is and should be she has set the benchmark and I believe we are not the first and only ones who have frequent contact and interactions with her.

We are privileged to have our son studying at GCU and are even more grateful for quality and outstanding staff and individuals such as Nessa Gutierrez and the other teachers and professors my son studied under in 2017 before he got injured.

From the first contact we had with GCU, they exceeded all our expectations.

As Dawid's parents, it gives us peace of mind to know he is taken care of by outstanding people like Nessa. A sincere thank you is not enough.

I trust that this note of appreciation will be shared with her colleagues and superiors and that other prospective students will be encouraged by our honest opinion and true experience!

As soon as our son has recovered, he will continue and cannot wait to get going again - GO GCU. Stay in action for Christ!

Blessings and with sincere appreciation!

Dr. Dawid J. and Carousel Pieterse
Houston, Texas.

Degree: Masters in Curriculum and Instruction

The Positives:
The incredibly organized and user-friendly formatting of each class and the website for online students.
Responsive, fast support when needed
Flexibility to work full time while completing my Masters
Reasonable work load and expectations
The ability to work ahead because all resources and requirements for the class are available a few days before each class officially begins

The Negatives:
Distance communication with instructors had its challenges
The requirement for field experience documentation was geared toward individuals new to the workforce and an utter waste of time/efforts; I deplore having my time wasted!
Relying on complete strangers and the inability to meet face-to-face with peers for group assignments
Inconsistency in the time requirements to complete assignments; there were occasions where I had to take time off work to complete assignments because they were so time intensive to complete...not okay

Overall:
I had a positive experience. I obtained my degree in one year while continuing to work
Working ahead was incredibly helpful because I had wiggle room when life reared its head and demanded unanticipated attention and time
I got into a routine where I completed my reading and DQs during the week, then spent the weekend completing the main assignment for the week; anywhere from 8-12 hours over the weekend...I did get strategic and decide which reading assignments were most beneficial and skip or scan those that seemed less relevant to completing each assignment or DQ
This program is doable while working full time
Too many of the classes were geared toward teaching adults/ academic coaching instead of diving deeper into better understanding of core curriculum, though I thoroughly enjoyed the classes on Culturally Responsive Teaching Backward Design, and Learning Theories.
I highly recommend this program as I feel that it is a worthwhile, manageable program

BEWARE of the SALES Scam GCU uses to get you into their program. My wife decided to go back to school and called GCU to get some info. She was informed that she could start the "Next Class' and get a payment plan for the fee so she jumped on it. Then the class starts and they will her 100% of the class fee right them.... their payment plan was a payment full not a payment plan as an normal person would expect. She called to try to work it out and they basically told her to bad so sad.... she was dropped and then they turned it over to a collections agency to get the payment so if you decide to go to GCU know this.... NO PAYMENT PLAN, NO CLASSES, NO CREDITS AND THEY WILL SEND YOU TO COLLECTIONS.

Now she goes to Western International and well lets say you should also check them out as they are a professional organization that seems to have their students best interested at heart.

So much for a christian college.... FYI all 3 of my teens will not be looking at GCU for college ..... just saying what comes around.... thx

I requested info in 2016 so far I barely getting information in 2017??? I never received a call from this place. I called they don't answer their phones. And just 2 days ago I got of hold of someone but they told me the program I want to do is at their college and that someone will give me a call back and so far no calls. Tired of waiting it's hard for me to even go in because of my work schedule. Just for this experience tells me a lot about this school.

2020 graduate of GCU here. The entire staff supported me. I am Black and I was loved and supported at GCU. At times when I was falling behind the Counselor and Professors nudged me, encouraged me, and yet were firm. It was a wholesome experience. I was in graduate school with a full time job......in case anyone is contemplating enrolling. #GCU2020

If I could rate it 0 stars, I would. Three weeks without being able to get a hold of anyone or figure out why my classes weren't starting just to get a bill from them. Advisors don't want to help, shirk their duties and pawn then off on others, and then blame you. I regret ever applying here.

GCU has supported me more than any person or place has in my whole life. The fact that I went back to college in the first place was due to the GCU Christian values that they have in praising and supporting that all can be achieved through the believing of myself and relying on my faith in God. Their support has provided me with confidence in finally achieving one goal, and setting of another. The journey so far has been both challenging and rewarding for me, that I encourage others to join GCU.

GCU has a very smooth process from beginning to end. I have attended for my Bachelor's and have continued to my Masters. I really love being part of this university. My Counselor Katie is the best!!! I have been to other universities and just did not receive anywhere close to the care I have experienced from Grand Canyon University. The professors are always very responsive and I have had brought my wife over also. After I graduated with my Bachelor's I was able to get a great career and I am so thankful I decided to attend GCU. I know that my prospects are only going to get higher with the completion of my Masters degree.

I have read through some of the reviews and it seems a lot of disgruntled student are commenting. I have been enrolled online from some time and I find the classes to be insightful and informational. I have had the same staff since I started and they periodically check in with me. My professors have all been responsive and fair. And of course there is a lot of reading, it's a college course. This is my second degree and I am finding the coursework and assignments right on par. The goal is to learn, and GCU is providing me with a great learning experience.

I have been affiliated with GCU since I started as a freshman in 2012 studying Business Management. Since then, GCU hired me as a tour guide which helped me pay my tuition through my bachelors degree (a degree that I was able to complete in 3 years because of the amazing Student Services Counselors that help guide you through your degree progress).

Since then I have been working in admissions for GCU for the last 4 years and as a result had an amazing opportunity to complete my MBA. Going to school while working a full time job can be difficult but the professors understand that most of the students that are in their graduate programs are working professionals and are very accommodating if life happens and will go above and beyond to make sure you are not falling behind but rather stay motivated to continue your degrees progression.

Thank you GCU, for all you have provided me with in the last 8 years, looking forward to many more. Go Lopes!

Attending GCU has been the WORST experience.

First, I am an older student and very responsible with my time, money, and resources.

I started at GCU before its major growth, and was tossed around from counselor to counselor because whomever I spoke with the week prior was "no longer employed with GCU". My program changed once before the growth of the college, which left me having to take an extra class.

Well into the growth of GCU my program changed yet again, which lead to me having to take AN ADDITIONAL class. Even two years into my program I was continually tossed back and forth between academic and finance counselors. Often, if not each time, I was told something that later became acknowledged as something said as a mistake .

At the end of my time at GCU there was yet ANOTHER discrepancy I was suddenly responsible for. I had been in continual correspondence with my new finance counselor, and was shocked to receive a call from the COLLECTION AGENCY saying it had been turned over to them. I was told by TWO DIFFERENT counselors I was free and clear from. I cannot express my frustration.

Final note... Be wise, after 4 years at GCU the only thing I've seen improve is the look of the campus; which is probably funded largely by the chaos that happens behind staff walls.

Excellent service. No problem with financial aid. Great support services.

When I enter as online student in year of 2011; I m trying to achieve entrepreneurial studies degree and never thinking to complete it. B.S. I ve enter 25% finished the course of studies and wanted to quit and my academic counselor call me. Don t quit and keep trying . I needed a break between courses. Half way I wanted to quit again and thinking quitting because of my own business. I am really struggle and GCU academic counselor call again and keep me going. They are really concern. I suppose finished degree within 4 years and I did complete close to 6 years. GCU academic counselor stays on top of my busy schedule; beside academic counselor helping and God helps. After completing entrepreneurial studies I enter MBA and finished my MBA a year later.
My experience with GCU, academic counselor always stays behind and concern individual student differently because each student have different issue. Some are full time, some are part time. Other have busy schedule as in business.

First thing's first, DO NOT enroll in the certificate programs unless you are absolutely sure that they will be recognized. I took the Life Coaching program and this Certificate of Completion does not mean
A damn thing in the field. GCU's program is not associated with any accrediting or credentialing body on the field. Therefore you still have to pay more money to get accredited.... after the costly price of GCU's program.

Also beware of the significance and utilization of your graduate program... Again, my program did not prepare for the level that one should be.
My Field,Psychology, with a masters requires more than what my curriculum offered and therefore I have a masters without the necessary academic experience that most jobs look for.... I have a masters but getting paid at bachelors/entry level. People do not value a Capstone Project... they value actual research or Internship experience.

Maybe I had poor guidance... actually, I definitely
Feel I had poor guidance. But if you go to GCU, definitely look at other schools and compare what should be included in your curriculum before taking on the excessive debt from a sub-par program offered at GCU.

They need to offer 8 week options for completing business courses. Some of classes shouldn t even be 14 weeks long. ASU and Maricopa Community Colleges offer 8 week options, and it s time GCU follows suit.

GCU online program was set up to be very user friendly. The professor we're good about giving feedback and the advisors are very knowledgeable. I have two degrees from them and I'm very happy with my experience.

I have mixed feelings about this institution. I completed my master's program here in 2 years and had no problems...ever. The course catalog did not change, I always had the classes I needed, my academic advisor always checked in with me. Now I am in my 4th (going on 5th) year of my doctoral program and I have had so many issues. Not so much with my course work, my advisors are still great, it's with the dissertation process. It's too long of a story to tell here but in summation, they have made many changes during the process and continue to drag their students along for the ride which means more money. They changed my initial dissertation chair who had really bad communication and guidance. Then they give me another chair who has no idea what she is doing or talking about. Her expertise isn't even in my field. She has her Ph.D in psychology I am working on my degree in Organizational Leadership. She had me go round and round in circles making revisions. There was a point she had me make 4-5 rounds of revisions just so I could go back to the original revision. Her and my other committee members use to argue over my paper. there was a pint where I thought my almost 100 page proposal was being approved even after my proposal defense but it had to go through another doctoral review process but it was denied. I was told I need to start over and pick a new topic. By that point I had a nervous breakdown and had to take a break, I am also out of fin aid. I am debating if I should go back, pay out of pocket and just do what I need to do to get through and quit on principal. either way I have to pay back the loan money.

So I said all that to say that I am thankful for what I received so far but struggling with the current changes, the processes and the current people.

Short story:

Go elsewhere. Their academics suck and they just want your money.

Long story:

I got my BS in marketing at GCU. It was a 3 star experience at best.

I had a few good professors (and a few awful ones), any other services (academic, financial, dorm) weren't worth mentioning. Overall, the only thing that made GCU anything special was the on-campus experience-- campus is great and I made some awesome friends; however, their academics did not prepare me for real world marketing or business.

A few years later, I decided to change careers and go into computer science. I thought GCU might be a good option since all my credits would transfer.. When I requested information, the admissions counselor basically told me I *had* to make a decision right then and there so I could start their computer programming degree (BTW computer programming is NOT computer science). I felt so pressured and, ultimately, I made a decision I extremely regret: I chose to go back to GCU.

Each class had major curriculum errors and some of the professors were absolutely unqualified to teach. I had a class where literally every student in the course reported the professor to their academic advisers and several of us actually contacted the dean (who never responded).

Beyond academics, my student services counselor was not only unhelpful but was a hindrance during my time at GCU. Hate to be "that" person but I eventually had to go to his manager (who was the only hero I experienced my entire time at GCU- Cameron, you are a rockstar. Thanks for just listening to my experience and making me feel like my experience I actually mattered).

I've since transferred and started attending a school that has great academics and their admissions/academic/financial counseling teams are phenomenal. I never felt pressured to start in any particular term, they called frequently to give me updates on the process, and the financial aid office called just to give me a rundown on how federal aid works and to walk me through making the best possible decisions for my situation. I never felt like a number. If I'd known schools could be like that, I would have never considered GCU the second time around.

You guys are going to spend a lot of money at school, go spend it at some place that's actually going to provide quality academic services and treat you like a person not a cash cow.

I class in fall 2019! My counselor Mike was a BIG help! He called to check on me to make sure I was good and ready to go with everything!! I am very excited with getting started.

I just finished my doctorate at GCU, but I would not recommend this program to others. Once you are at the point of writing your dissertation, there is no set standard. Many professors disagree with each other in how and what you should write. It becomes true professional hazing with no timeline in mind. My chair was wonderful, but she was at the mercy of others. If you are going through this program, do not be afraid to file formal complaints and take up for yourself!!!!

Invest in you!!! So glad I chose Grand Canyon University.

I'm writing this as a parent. Loved this university for my daughter not knowing that after taking her first two years of pre reqs she had to apply for the program. They tell you nothing of that sort when you go in to speak with them about starting there. They told us she would have no waiting list go right into the nursing program. All lies she had not been accepted two semesters in a row. Now she has to look for another nursing program elsewhere because there's no guarantee she will ever get accepted through there program. Very disappointed that they were never up front in the first place. They tell you what you want to heat to get your money. Mind you my daughter had a very good gpa and could have went to any university she wanted. She had a scholarship of 27,000 to go towards her schooling.

Absolutely awful service from the academic advisor. They did not inform me on anything and did not listen to me. My field officer for the counseling internship was nice, but was not knowledgeable about the field. The professors for the online program took days sometimes to respond. I do not feel that I learned much of how to be a therapist from the program outside of my internship experience.

If your looking to do plain busy work for 4 years to get a degree this is the place to go. Advisers are absolutely useless when it comes to answering questions. Heaven forbid you ever have a problem they'll simply dis-enroll you until their schedule permits them to get in touch with you.

I figured a B.S. Business Management from GCU would really help me in the professional world. Did not learn a single useful piece of information that I have applied to my current career.

From the time that I call to get information about furthering my education they very helpful. If I can say one thing that they have been the whole time while in the program is that they are "PROFESSIONAL"

Teachers are not helpful or available. Venessa (finance) does not have the best interest of the students.

I am having a great experience as a GSU student and majoring in a Masters in Special Education with an emphasis on Interventions for Mild to Moderate Cognitively Impaired Students, Mildly Emotionally Handicapped and Students with Learning Disabilities. GSU is a great school the Students, Staff, Faculty and my Faculty Adviser have been incredible. This is one of the greatest journeys in my life and I will soon be a proud alumni of one of the greatest schools in the nation.
Regina Falker-Hiteman

I'm a current student in the process of completing a class and withdrawing. This school is trash! The staff is beyond ridiculous and the system is trash as well. They change student counselors like clockwork. When you call to speak to counselors their machines always come on. Try contacting them for a week straight! Then they try and tell you what you can and can't do when it comes to withdrawing from the school. They get 5,000 Fs from me! Don't waste your time nor money!

I'm in middle school and in the future I'm planning on going to GCU

I hate this school. My mom has currently been going here. My mom suffers with dyslexia. She used to have an IEP in grade school. She has tried to getting learning help from her dissability. This school has not helped my mom at all. I think every school needs to support their students with learning disabilities. Every place my mom goes to get tested for dyslexia tells her she has to be 21 and under. It's so stupid about the max age limit. My mom is 35. She just wants help with school. I encourage anyone with learning disabilities NOT TO GO HERE. They don't do nothing. I hate how my mom just wants to graduate like everyone else, but she can't because she is struggling with dyslexia, causing her not to graduate.