Making a choice between parenting, advancing knowledge and work can be a daunting task. I had just been married, wanted to work and the same time advance my studies. I had several colleges I thought about but Grand Canyon University (GCU) was my choice. When I was making this decision, I was not sure of what to expect, but somehow my decision was right. GCU is a well-known private Christian university based in Phoenix, Arizona, offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs both on-campus and online. Deciding whether to pursue an online degree with GCU involved weighing several factors: accreditation, quality of education, flexibility, costs, and my career goals. I knew it would be difficult to work on all my assignments and might need homework help when not able to handle all that stuff, but here are some of the reasons that made me go the GCU route.
Grand Canyon University
Accreditation and Wide Range of Courses
GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which is a critical indicator of a legitimate and credible institution. Accreditation ensures that credits are transferable, and degrees are recognized by employers and other institutions. GCU provides a diverse selection of online programs across fields like business, healthcare, education, and information technology. The curriculum is designed to align with current industry trends, which can be advantageous if you’re seeking career-oriented education.
Flexibility and Cost
Online degrees from GCU are structured for working professionals, parents, or those with other commitments. Programs often offer asynchronous classes, allowing you to complete coursework on your schedule. However, this requires strong self-discipline and time management. Cost of education is a major factor for anyone planning to pursue education. While GCU is more affordable than many private universities, it is still pricier than public institutions. Tuition varies depending on the program, and financial aid, scholarships, or employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement may reduce costs. Be sure to evaluate the return on investment (ROI) for your chosen field.
Reputation and Career Impact
I needed a lot of flexibility and wanted a college that I would give me space to plan my life and study at my pace. With GCU’s online degrees are generally well-regarded among employers, particularly in fields like nursing and education and does not matter if you attended online on it was a contact course. However, some industries may favor graduates from public or specialized universities, so research how GCU’s reputation aligns with your career aspirations.
Support Services
Any student might need at least once in their studies support. Mental health is one of the issues students go through but sometimes they do not realize they have a problem until it is too late. GCU offers robust student support, including academic advisors, career counseling, and tech support for online students. The quality of these services can be crucial for maintaining progress in an online learning environment. As a Christian university, GCU incorporates faith-based values into its programs. While this can enrich the experience for some, it’s important to consider if this aligns with your personal beliefs and educational goals. However, they do not force you to subscribe to their beliefs, just study and follow your heart.
