Is Grand Canyon University a Good School? Insights from Alumni

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has gained recognition for its online programs, offering a flexible education option for students around the world. In this article, we delve into the experiences of two alumni who have used GCU's resources to further their education and career. Specifically, we will look at the reputation of the Computer Science program and the overall positive outlook from alumni.

Experiences and Perspectives from GCU Alumni

Hannah Thomas, M.ED Graduate:

Hannah earned her M.ED from GCU and shares her experience that the program was 'strenuous yet doable' while balancing full-time work. Her program was entirely online, enabling her to manage her studies without the need for physical attendance. This flexibility allowed her to complete her program efficiently. Post-graduation, Hannah leveraged her teaching experience and degree, securing a position in the library's technology department. She believes that the degree was 'well worth the money and effort.'

Mark Davis, TESOL Graduate in Computer Science:

Mark pursued education in TESOL, but also took advantage of GCU's robust Computer Science program. He completed his coursework online, given his residency in Texas and GCU's campus location in Phoenix, Arizona. His educational journey included submitting assignments and communicating with professors exclusively through online platforms. Upon completion of his degree, Mark did not travel to attend graduation due to financial constraints. Nevertheless, he views the online format as a viable and effective alternative to traditional in-person classes.

Strengths and Cons of GCU

Strengths:

Online Program Flexibility: Both Hannah and Mark emphasized the advantage of GCU's online programs, which allowed them to maintain their professional commitments while pursuing their academic goals. Reputation and Rankings: A third personal experience comes from a current GCU doctoral student who finds the university's vibrant modern campus and strong ranking among prestigious institutions. The university's 281st position on US News and World Reports and 6th place on Niche provide credibility to its academic offerings. Personal Networks: Personal testimonials from current and former students, such as Mark's acquaintance with multiple GCU students and his firsthand visit to the campus, testify to the university's reputation.

Cons:

Cost vs. Value: While the online programs are flexible, the financial aspect is a concern for some students, as Mark noted he could not afford to travel for graduation. Online vs. In-Person Comparison: Although the online structure offers flexibility, it might not cater to all learning styles and preferences, a point not directly addressed by the alumni but important for potential students to consider.

Conclusion

Based on the testimonials provided, GCU appears to be a solid choice for students seeking a reputable and flexible education in various fields, including computer science. The online offerings enable a work-life balance, and the ranking among reputable institutions adds to its credibility. However, students should carefully evaluate their learning preferences and financial situations before committing to an online program.

For anyone considering GCU, the evaluation of the online format should be weighed against the institution's reputation, financial feasibility, and personal learning style. Potential students are encouraged to visit the campus, if possible, to get a firsthand look at the educational and social resources available.