"I recently graduated (August of 2020). In reviewing this program, I would tell you - it is not easy to graduate. GCU is not a perfect place. However, I made it and I learned from the academic struggle. I have always found school to be easy, this was not. If you are seriously dedicated to a degree, you will be able to get through. It is not a 3 and 1/2 year program (unless you actually work at the school and have contacts to help you navigate). I graduated in 5 years, and I can honestly look back and say, "I did it. I learned a ton. I worked harder than I have ever worked in my life, but for each hurdle I hit, I grew in my confidence to accomplish anything." It is not the least expensive program, or the quickest, or the easiest. However, no one can ever say you didn't earn this degree. Over my time here at GCU, I have cried and wanted to quit. I have switched chairs - and I must say - the final chair I was assigned made all the difference. Dr. Pam Epler-Brooks will get you through, but she won't do the work for you. She will show you how to get there, and most importantly, she will celebrate you when you get there. The easiest professor, is not always the best. The professor that points you in a direction and is willing to stick with you, that is what you need. Do your homework, and know what you need from your college. If you need a great deal of face to face time, this may not be the best fit (at this time). GCU has made numerous changes to their program since I have been involved, and I think most of the changes were positive. Be ready to focus and struggle, but you need to frame the struggle as a learning experience. My degree is something that no one can ever take away, and a life long goal. I wish I had been able to do this faster, cheaper and easier - but I must admit, there is nothing I cannot tackle now."

Edna

Reviewed: 11/2/2019
Degree: Educational Leadership
Graduation Year: 2022

"Although my residency professors Jennifer Waldschmidt and Troy Roland were good, but not grading the late prospectus that I spent weeks working on was very hurtful to me on so many levels. The appeal committee did not support me at all. In spite of my numerous attempts of explaining to them how this will impact me financially, and put a burden on my family as a single mom, they did not help me at all. As a working parent with two children, heretofore, I've been able to stay abreast of my course requirements. The unintended consequences of having to submit a significant research paper late leave me depressed. The quality of my work is reflected in the grades that I accumulated up to this point. My grades are good until I received a zero for the prospectus draft. I emailed the professor before the class ended, and I did not get a response back until I reached out again Repeating the class caused unnecessary hardship for me. As a full-time worker, and a single mom with two children, financial hardship already exists for me. I can't afford to lose my job right now. My job will be in jeopardy because I will have to let them know that I must return for an additional week to Grand Canyon University and retake residency 2. Furthermore, I will have to take another week for residency 3. Finding the funds for travel expenses and someone to take care of my children would be a struggle. Upon recognizing the importance of this paper, I sent an email before the end of the class to confirm my lateness. Unfortunately, it was not viewed in time by my professor. Yes, I understand. To reiterate, the purpose of emailing the professor was to inform her that the paper would be late. My notification took place before she stated, "I did not give you permission to send it in late...I will not grade it." I have never received an F in my educational tenure from any instructor. This is quite depressing to me! The appeal committee has the power to impede or support a struggling candidate, but I'm not sure why they reluctant to do so. Having an appeal system for candidates is relevant for those who are working at this level. Notwithstanding, the system has the power to support candidates and give them a second chance to move forward. As a Christian institution, I would like to believe that at GCU, there is a moral sense of compassion, support, and love that is not reflected in many other institutions. But GCU is the same as other university or worse. I chose to do the appeal based Accordingly, I'm receiving an F not because of my inability to work at this level but because the professor is unwilling to review my assignment in spite of the lateness notice. By supporting the instructor, the appeals committee simply dismisses the submission of my late paper without reviewing my work. Am I to believe that the technicality of lateness results in F without a review of the candidate's work? I passed the residency, presentation, and the work before residency. GCU focuses on financial gain not helping students to be successful"

Robert Pecot

Reviewed: 8/16/2019
Degree: Educational Leadership
Graduation Year: 2019

"GCU was the worst experience I have ever had. Do your homework and beware of this program. I have my doctorate and could not be more disgusted in my experience. A rotten, dishonest, flawed organization to say the least. The most frustrating part is the program could be absolutely wonderful, but they do not listen."

Rottmav5

Reviewed: 11/5/2015
Degree: Educational Leadership
Graduation Year: 2016

"My only concern is the financial aid process. There is no financial aid office that you deal with. Your academic advisor does it which causes problems. Overall the school is great. I love the campus. The online degree program has been a good experience."

Very unhappy but so close to finishing

Reviewed: 6/24/2014
Degree: Educational Leadership
Graduation Year: 2014

"At first everything was fine until I was almost finished.The program I am in is supposed to last only 3 years but it is not true. I have no real assistance and was told maybe I need to leave the program. I should get all of my money back. Now it is nothing but heartache because the professors try to find the smallest thing wrong. Yet I am in the proposal stage. The superintendents and principals I was in class with have all finished. From hearing from other teachers in school we have found only individuals with these titles are graduating. I found a dissertation that did not follow the template and yet she received her doctorate. Do yourself a favor and don't waste your time because you will only get hurt in the long run."

Anonymous

Reviewed: 12/27/2012
Degree: Educational Leadership
Graduation Year: 2013

"I am at the end of my degree, working on my dissertation, and I have to say I love the experience that I have had at GCU. The instructors are outstanding and very caring. They challenge you to do your best and the universities rigorous program has taught me so much. I would highly recommend GCU!"