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After reading several reviews about Walden University, I decided to join this university in September 2008. I was very skeptical about it, not because I think on line education is bad, but because this kind of for profit universities have the fame to be diploma mills. The only way to find out is to take classes at it and find out by myself. I wanted to pursue my PhD in management, in particular engineering management. On line was a good fit for me because it doesn’t require the complete one year residency as brick and mortar universities generally require, and allows some more flexibility. It was not going to be new experience for me, since I already took several of my master classes on line from a conventional state university. Walden seemed to have what I was looking for and it was listed as one of the approved universities by my employer, so I was going to be able to apply for educational assistance. Well, here is my story: If you can, stay away from Walden. Take this advice from someone that has taken on line classes from a brick and mortar university and knows what bad and good both service and education are. Walden is a business, thy will try to get as much money fro you as possible, regardless of what you do academically. They will task you with homework, lots and lots, whose value is more than doubtful. If you submit it on time, you got points. The feedback you get from the instructor is useless, and they force you to participate in nonsense discussions with no value whatsoever. Unless you really what to learn something from this, this is just a waste of time. Their ideas of KAM are good, but again you are on your own to learn something. For those of you that think that customer service is bad, you are right. Customer service is terrible. They treat you very well when they are trying to hook you up. After that, forget about it. But, this is not much different from my experience in my state university. Now for the worst part: It is expensive. They tell you that a quarter is $ 4,1700.00, but what they do not tell you is that depending in what time of the year you register, there will be bridge course until the new quarter begins. They register in this type a course during the first quarter, but they tell you not to do anything on it until the 12 week. Then at this time, they automatically register for this class again for an additional $ 1,500.00! When I complained about it, I was told that this is the way the university works, so I told them that unless the charge was removed from my account, I would not register again. I am still waiting for an answer. The most fantastic thing was that I did not submit any work or participated in any discussions for this class and still got a satisfactory as final grade! In top of this, you have to pay for residencies (6 of them with a cost of $800.00 to $ 1200.00) and books, even a simple $ 10.00 DVD ( Pleas let me know how your textbooks were included, mine were not) Bottom line: This school has to be considered as a last resort. I am out of it and registering for a local, in state and well-known university. It is a business, and they will treat you like that. And believe me, I can distinguish between meaningful work and ajust work. Nov 29 2008 Business - Management and Administration

I have about two months to go before completing my Walden's Masters program - Educational Strategies, Curriculum, and Assessment. This fully accredited distance learning university has been extremely beneficial, and I would (and do) recommend it to any of my friends, family,or colleagues. Each of the 10 8-week courses are formatted to introduce interesting, thought-provoking theories and strategies regarding successful teaching and learning. Then, importantly, we are given the opportunity to put the theory into practice in our classrooms. I am an Intermediate Special Education, supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities, and I know that I have learned strategies that will improve my students' learning and, in fact, help them become self-directed learners. Nov 27 2008 Education portfolio - no thesis

I enjoy the program I am in. I am not sure what it will mean when I finish but I am one that thinks it is what you make it. I have found the caliber of some of my colleagues are really not prepared for Ph.D. work. I have found some of my professors are simply looking for people to turn in something and they will do well... though I do not know where I stand in comparison to others in my classes. I think over all it is a good school. I did NOT really enjoy my residency but believe that is because my facilitator was too busy telling us how wonderful he was. I am looking forward to finishing my degree. Oct 25 2008 Business - Management and Administration

I've recently completed my first residency with Walden. I have to say that it was one of the most rewarding, insightful, and positive experiences of my life. The faculty are kind, supportive, and truly interested in seeing that each student receives the attention that he or she requires. I highly recommend it. I'm focused on earning my PhD. I know that I am succeeding as a student at Walden University. Oct 23 2008 Psychology

I've recently completed my first residency with Walden. I have to say that it was one of the most rewarding, insightful, and positive experiences of my life. The faculty are kind, supportive, and truly interested in seeing that each student receives the attention that he or she requires. I highly recommend it. I'm focused on earning my PhD. I know that I am succeeding as a student at Walden University. Oct 23 2008 Psychology

I have just completed 2 1/2 yrs at Walden in the MS in Nursing program. It is a strange program in that one class it can be very rigorous and in the next class very easy. I would say 75% of the instructors are engaged and truly interested in advancing the practice of nursing. The other 25% seemingly could care less. Many of the instructors are hung up on the title "Doctor" and there is much academic snobbery! The MS in Nursing is accredited by the CCNE which was important to me as this accrediting body is known nationally for accrediting graduate nursing programs and frankly, in my opinion legitimizes the degree. The CCNE accreditation does remove some of the stigma attached to a "online degree". Without this accreditation I would not have enrolled in Walden's program. The courses are set up with one or two main posts each week with responses required to at least 3 other postings. There is a hefty amount of reading required each week and DVD lectures from some of the most recognized names in nursing. Additionally, there is usually an application (research paper) due every week. All submitted work must use APA style and each post and research papers must have appropriate references to support your stance (no original thoughts allowed!) I typically have spent between 12-18 hours per week, reading, responding to other students and writing papers. I chose an online degree program because of my current position requires frequent travel and so obviously that does not allow for a traditional brick and mortar setting. The online setting requires discipline to complete all work on time. I would have to say that this program will give you back what you put into it. I have utilized the education I have received so far to implement change in my work setting. Hope this helps! Oct 19 2008 Nursing

The standards at Walden University are not measurable or visible and I regret making the decision to enroll here. The Administration, policies and graduate procedures are lacking in compassion, inovation, student respect and teamwork. The graduation process is very long and drawn out and I have had to invest much more in tuition fees and time than what was expected. I would not recommend this university to anyone. Oct 13 2008 Psychology

I am a wife and working mother of two children. My workplace supports my continued education. I have finished several classes and all of them have contained valuable information that I have applied directly to my work. Walden is suppling me with an education that I can use on a daily basis. As a result it is taking my career to the next level. Someone else mentioned it is really what you do with what you learn. I am going into the world and establishing myself as an educated professional. It is what I do in life with the gifts I have, not what I say that is the most important. It know one person said having Walden on their resume seemed to be an issue. Yet, what I have learned at Walden was the ability to network through generosity. With this skill getting jobs is about the relationships that have been built over time and not blindly sending out resumes. Education is important and should be available to anyone looking for it. People are searching for different ways to accomplish similar things. Personally, with my time restraints Walden is a perfect fit for me. My kids to bed at 8:30, I can study at night and everyone is successful. Aug 21 2008 Business - Management and Administration

Great school. Working hard will get you good grades. Regionally accredited and employers accept the degree. Excellent choice for a PhD. Aug 19 2008 Public Policy

Im having a great time at Walden. Walden is not a diploma mill, you can tell that person isn't a Walden student, just an angry ex-student or ex-employee. Ask any Walden student and they will tell you that you have to work to get your degree, you will learn, and your degree has value in your field. They won't hold your hand in class, you have to do the work Aug 06 2008 Other

The school's financial aid department is the most incompetent department I have ever seen anywhere. Jul 22 2008 Nursing

I will have to start off by saying that I have been to both traditional and on-line schools. I can honestly say that at this point the only reason that I have not left this school is because I have already wasted so much of my money and time. Please do not be fooled by the nice admissions sales person you will talk to. Trust me. The helpfulness stops there. Here is this school in bullet points. 1)Get ready for busy work that has nothing to do with your class subject. You will be doing it and doing it often. 2)Get used to not having an advisor. When you call them they are not helpful and will harm you more than they should. You can try to e-mail them but good luck at getting a response. 3)You professors are allowed to ignore you. Don't contact the administration about it. They don't care because they already have your tuition money. 4)Never forget this is a corporation and nobody there has to assist you with anything. 5)Most of the students at this school are miserable. When you are reading these reviews, be cautious that Walden faculty and staff can post on these sites too and yes some of them are students. If you want to get the most out of your education and be respected by the community that will someday hire you, choose another school besides Walden. Jun 19 2008 Psychology

I will have to start off by saying that I have been to both traditional and on-line schools. I can honestly say that at this point the only reason that I have not left this school is because I have already wasted so much of my money and time. Please do not be fooled by the nice admissions sales person you will talk to. Trust me. The helpfulness stops there. Here is this school in bullet points. 1)Get ready for busy work that has nothing to do with your class subject. You will be doing it and doing it often. 2)Get used to not having an advisor. When you call them they are not helpful and will harm you more than they should. You can try to e-mail them but good luck at getting a response. 3)You professors are allowed to ignore you. Don't contact the administration about it. They don't care because they already have your tuition money. 4)Never forget this is a corporation and nobody there has to assist you with anything. 5)Most of the students at this school are miserable. When you are reading these reviews, be cautious that Walden faculty and staff can post on these sites too and yes some of them are students. If you want to get the most out of your education and be respected by the community that will someday hire you, choose another school besides Walden. Jun 19 2008 Psychology

I am pleased with my selection of Walden. I am an MBA/PhD student. The coursework was relevant to my personal business goals. In most group assignments that activities mirrored what would happen in a real life situation. My opinion may be biased toward situations that lend themselves to self employment. Looking for a job is not part of my future success plan. Generating revenues as a business owner is my goal. Walden helped to prepare me for my goal. May 10 2008 Business - Management and Administration

I am pleased with my selection of Walden. I am an MBA/PhD student. The coursework was relevant to my personal business goals. In most group assignments that activities mirrored what would happen in a real life situation. My opinion may be biased toward situations that lend themselves to self employment. Looking for a job is not part of my future success plan. Generating revenues as a business owner is my goal. Walden helped to prepare me for my goal. May 10 2008 Business - Management and Administration

Walden University offers an excellent opportunity for individuals who are achievement oriented. Walden's PhD programs are supportive and nurturing. My profession requires me to travel extensively and I have family obligations, which make it very difficult for me to go to a brick and mortar school. Without Walden, I would not have a PhD. I applaud Walden for inventing an academic format that meets the needs of working adults seeking to upgrade their academic credentials. Walden is clearly designed for hardworking highly motivated professionals who are accomplishment oriented. If you are that type of individual, then go to Walden and you will not be sorry. Walden's reputation will only get better due to the high quality of its graduates, professors, technology, and administration. Apr 24 2008 Business - Management and Administration

With the support you receive from Walden, it becomes quite evident that the only reason for failure or mediocrity is due to the work ethic and ability of the individual student. Walden is a special place for exceptional students. The educational model takes a moment to get used to but once you've mastered the various communication modes and structures, you can soar if you're a serious student. The school's reputation will grow as Walden graduates make their marks in the world. Apr 23 2008 Education

The school is wonderful. I have no complaints. It uses the latest technology and learning approaches to education. You will not be disappointed if you are willing to work hard. If you are planning to go into the PhD prgram, prepare to publish or perish if you intend to have a successful career. Apr 18 2008 Business - Management and Administration

My background: BA in Psych from UCSB 95, MPA from USC 01, 10+ years of social service, 7+ years in government contracted work and I want to work to develop public policy or do policy analysis. I am now a parent of a toddler and am also a f/t employee of a cultural exchange program, so I travel internationally and need flexibility in a graduate program. I was looking for ways to develop my skills in public policy analysis and academic research, and I am not as interested in completing a PhD as I was in getting more "school" out of my prior schooling. My earlier degrees were from better known schools and were very easy. This one is online and is also easy, for me, but takes more juggling to accomplish. The level of reading is average, straightforward and educational. The writing requirements have brought me back up to an elevated level that I have missed, as I do not write for academics anymore in my professional sphere. I find it suspicious that a lot of the reviewers criticizing the education and the psychology academic programs cannot seem to spell. That might explain a lot of the problems they are having with the program itself! I noticed that many other low scorers somehow missed the warning that their degree may *not* be useful in the state they are living in. I agree that can make you pretty frustrated, but that's why you are supposed to check out the information about your school of choice before applying. Anyway, if you want to do a lot of writing, read a lot of peer reviewed journals and develop strengths in a specific project from your area of interest, this is a good school to do it with. If you want prestige from a degree, go to a well recognized school like USC or a UC and get it done before you have a kid. If you've already done that for your lower degrees and did well and crave more, then Walden's a nice fit. It's less expensive than a school like USC, is more attentive than the grant driven professors at UC, and it's the wave of the future in education and online/distance learning. People who say it's a diploma mill probably got very little out of their Bachelor's or Master's degrees. I always say it's what you put into something that makes what you get out of it worth the effort. What you make of yourself is up to you! There are incredible people at Walden, and when you get the chance to have online chats with people from around the world and the country who are doing the same assignments, and feeling the same frustrations as yourself, it makes you realize just how globally enervating the education is at Walden. Apr 18 2008 Public Policy

My Masters in Education has hurt my career more than it has helped. Employers see it and immediately associate it with mediocrity or, even worse, a degree mill. It does not matter that I worked to get it, and that Walden is accredited, all they see is the name and they turn up their noses. You will have to live with your Masters for the rest of your life. So get your degree from a better school. Apr 17 2008 Education

The school is quite wonderful. The one on one experience with your assigned faculty advisor is priceless in and of itself. The program was most rewarding because of the caliber of instructors and students. My interactions were extremely positve. If you are a working professional, the synergy of attending Walden coupled with your professional day to day experience is an extermely powerful learning experience. I grew as an intellectual and scholar due to my Walden experience. Apr 11 2008 Business - Management and Administration

My masters from Walden is worthless. No one will even consider me and thinks that this school is a diploma mill. It's hard to argue when they advertise through spam mail and had their start in a hotel in Miami. I wasted two years of my life, and tens of thousands of dollars, for a degree that people laugh at. Mar 24 2008 Education

I graduated last year with a PhD in Public Health from Walden University and have since realized that it was a complete waste of my time and money. Sure the knowledge that I gained was wonderful, but I cannot get anyone to accept my degree as a reputable degree. I have since fallen back on my MBA for employment. Walden’s name in the marketplace is not good nor does Walden provide any help in connections or job placement. This is extremely rare for a graduate school and shows that they really don't care where you land on your feet after you get your degree. The professors at Walden are usually professional and competent. Walden does an excellent job at recruiting seasoned professors from other schools to work part time at Walden. They can do so because the classes are canned. No matter who you have, the class is the same. Individual instruction or attention is not an option no matter how much trouble you may have or promise you may show. The administrative staff at Walden is abysmal. Their turnover is high, politeness is rare, and the departments refuse to talk to one another. Most of the complaints that I heard while going through school was of the distance of the administrative staff. I don’t think that anyone expects an all online school to be exactly like a traditional campus, but it really doesn’t need to be so unfriendly and inept. Take it from this graduate: find another school because this one will not help your career. Mar 13 2008 Public Health

My experience in the Master's Program for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment was terrific. I can't stand being a student. I'm tired after teaching all day and ended up falling asleep in my classes. This was a great alternative. I was able to use my lesson plans in class, and we still use the theoretical components in our faculty meetings for best practices. The speakers on the DVDs have published books that we also use for staff development in best practices. The work I did not find to be difficult. If you are self-disciplined, then I would absolutely reccommend this program for you! Feb 29 2008 Education

Based on a very good friend’s recommendation I enrolled in Walden’s online (e college) master’s in education program (curriculum, design, and assessment). My friend told me that she had a great experience with the program, I valued her thoughts and opinions. She also told me it was tough, but very doable. Without really looking around too much, I dove right into program. I am set to finish my masters at Walden in 2008 My intention of this review is to give an honest and thoughtful critique of this program. Therefore, I will present both the upside and downside of Walden based on my experience and opinion, so that there are no surprises should you decide to take this route to earn your master’s degree in education. From the onset let me point out that this is program is very different from anything out there, and might be a good fit for some, but not for everyone. The online environment presents its own issues that are very unlike what you would experience in a “brick and mortar� college. Walden promotes the idea of building an online community, but the reality is that you are “pretty much� on your own, so before you even think about going this route, you better be a somewhat self motivated person or “forget about it!� Below I have listed both the positive and the negatives aspects of this online program. First the positive: 1. The DVDs for each course does have a number top-notch speakers who present the information well. 2. There is not an overwhelming of material to read, and much of it is very interesting. 3. Their online situation means you do not have to waste lot of time and gas driving to school. You have the convenience of accessing your classroom at anytime 4. Most of the teachers are very fair and reasonable 5. The support staff seems to be very patient and friendly. 6. The cost is comparable to most master’s programs Now the downside or real “skinny� on the program 1. Unlike many programs, Walden does not require a thesis project. However, before you jump for joy, and say “what’s wrong with that?� Let me tell you that you “will� do a 30 to 40 plus page collaborative action research paper. This paper must be completed in 8 weeks, and it is every bit as rigorous and demanding as a thesis paper. However, a final project is due and consists of a portfolio that you must submit at the end of your 20 months of classes that focuses on meeting 18 different outcomes. Essentially you have to match these 18 different outcomes (or standards) with different papers you have written through your tenure in the program. Sounds confusing, it is! 2. As a student enrolled in this program you are required to write at least one 3 to 4 page APA style paper (sometimes longer, but rarely shorter) once a week. Some weeks you are required to write two papers (an application and reflective paper). 3. Walden is “very strict� about the APA format. I actually experienced one professor that verbally “brow beat� the whole class because some students were not following every jot and tittle of the APA format. 4. Along with the application and reflective papers you are also required to write a discussion piece that is posted on an online forum for your classmates and professor to read (APA style with 2 to 3 references, one of those references must be from an outside source). During the week you must post three responses to other people’s posts, and complete a 4-question review on the readings and DVD program. Remember, this is once a week. Most of the time I spent an average of 20 hours or more a week trying to complete all of this work (rarely less). 5. Though Walden preaches that their curriculum is meant to be meaningful and applicable to your teaching situation, in my opinion the program is only somewhat applicable, and the course work is really overwhelming, to the point that they almost work you to death. 6. Total papers written in this program, not counting discussion posts or responses will be well over 100 (not counting the 30 to 40 page collaborative action Research project). Remember all of these papers must in APA style and contain both outside and course references. If you love to write, then this may not be an issue for you. All that I have described to you is my opinion based on my experience enrolled at Walden. If you have no other options for earning a master’s degree, then I would not discourage you from enrolling in this program. However, if your district accepts National University (online or “brick and mortar� program), or another ten-month master’s programs, or you have a local university that is offering a “cohort� program then I would implore you to look into it, and if looks at all inviting, then go for it! However, if you have a family and do not care about seeing them very much for over 20 months, then Walden will fit the bill (get my drift). For the record, by the time I really got the gist of this program I was in way too deep. Had I know that this program would be so demanding and inapplicable to my teaching situation I would have never enrolled in it in the first place. Sure, a master’s program should not be easy, but you have to consider both the demands of your job and family life in the equation. There is a price to pay, but is a master’s degree that is so demanding worth the price when it has the potential to cause both your job and family life to suffer? There are probably more difficult programs out there, but if your goal is to get a bump in pay, you want to watch your children grow up, and want to keep a good balance in your life, then this program is “definitely� not for you (unless you are single and don’t have any other options in your area to get a master’s degree). Be that as it may, there is light at the end of the tunnel, I will finish in a few months and wipe the dust off my feet. But in the wake of this program are many doubts, regrets, and hours spent in front of a computer screen that I will never get back. For the record I am still friends with the person that suggested Walden to me in the first place. However, she has apologized profusely for not giving me the whole story. She also failed to tell me that her sister was an English teacher who continually helped her with all of her papers. (OOPS! Live and learn!). Nevertheless, I am sure that there are many that would disagree with my assessment of Walden, and that is their right, just like it is my right to express my opinion. With that said, I would encourage you to do the research and make up your own mind about where you want to get your master’s degree. But please consider what I have written here, because I have given it to you straight (something you will not get from Walden). Good luck with whatever route you decide to take, but you have been warned! Feb 19 2008 Education

I found Walden University to be a sham. The instructors are automotons( every course is the same) and some of the instructors are downright dumb. I have found that the instructors either have an ax to grind and can hide behind the internet when doing it, or grade your papers within the hour! The administration is unapproachable. If you have a problem with an instructor, you might as well suck it up, because no one will listen to you anyway. Don't pay your bill until they threaten you, because they pull such shinnanigans, it is the only thing you can hold over their head. Their advising team is worse. I swear, they get them from a temp. agency. Save your money, choose another school. Jan 15 2008 Education

I have a M.S. in Ed, and am considering Walden for Special Ed endorsement. I do have a family and am concerned that the program may take away too much time from them. I alreadly sacrificed 5 years of family life. I am wondering about the rigors of the program, and i heard that there may be a special ed endorsement of only 20-25 credits, to be offered this spring, without student teaching. Please tell me about typical work expectations per week, per class - hours, length of papers, APA format demand, difficulty and format of quizzes, tests, clarity or confusion of online program, and the value of the special ed classes themselves, if you have personally taken them. Dec 14 2007 Education

Based on a very good friend’s recommendation I enrolled in Walden’s online (e college) masters in education program (curriculum, design, and assessment). My friend told me that she had a great experience with the program, I valued her thoughts and opinions. She also told me it was tough, but very doable. Without really looking around too much, I dove right into program. I am set to finish my masters at Walden in 2008 My intention of this review is to give an honest and thoughtful critique of this program. Therefore, I will present both the upside and downside of Walden based on my experience and opinion, so that there are no surprises should you decide to take this route to earn your master’s degree. From the onset let me point out that this is program is very different from anything out there, and might not be a good fit for some, but not for everyone. The online environment presents its own issues that are very unlike what you would experience in a “brick and mortar� college. Walden promotes the idea of building an online community, but the reality is that you are “pretty much� on your own, so before you even think about going this route, you better be a somewhat self motivated person or “forget about it!� Below I have listed both the positive and the negatives aspects of this online program. First the positive: 1. The DVD for each course does have a number top-notch speakers who present the information well. 2. There is not an overwhelming of material to read, and much of it is very interesting. 3. Their online situation means you do not have to waste lot of time and gas driving to school. You have the convenience of accessing your classroom at anytime 4. Most of the teachers are very fair and reasonable 5. The support staff seems to be very patient and friendly. 6. The cost is comparable to most master’s programs Now the downside or real “skinny� on the program 1. Unlike many programs, Walden does not require a thesis project. However, before you jump for joy, and say “what’s wrong with that?� let me tell you that you “will� do a 30 to 40 plus page collaborative action research paper. This paper must be completed in 8 weeks, and it is every bit as rigorous and demanding as a thesis paper. However, a final project is due and consists of a portfolio that you must submit at the end of your 20 months of classes that focuses on meeting 18 different outcomes. Essentially you have to match these 18 different outcomes (or standards) with different papers you have written through your tenure in the program. Sounds confusing, it is! 2. As a student enrolled in this program you are required to write at least one 3 to 4 page APA style paper (sometimes longer, but rarely shorter) once a week. Some weeks you are required to write two papers (an application and reflective paper). 3. Walden is “very strict� about the APA format. I actually experienced one professor that verbally “brow beat� the whole class because some students were not following every jot and tittle of the APA format. 4. Along with the application and reflective papers you are also required to write a discussion piece that is posted on an online forum for your classmates and professor to read (APA style with 2 to 3 references, one of those references must be from an outside source). During the week you must post three responses to other people’s posts, and complete a 4-question review on the readings and DVD program. Remember, this is once a week. Most of the time I spent an average of 20 hours or more a week trying to complete all of this work (rarely less). 5. Though Walden preaches that their curriculum is meant to be meaningful and applicable to your teaching situation, in my opinion the program is only somewhat applicable, and the course work is really overwhelming, to the point that they almost work you to death. 6. Total papers written in this program, not counting discussion posts or responses will be well over 100 (not counting the 30 to 40 page collaborative action Research project). Remember all of these papers must in APA style and contain both outside and course references. If you love to write, then this may not be an issue for you. All that I have described to you is my opinion based on my experience enrolled at Walden. If you have no other options for earning a master’s degree, then I would not discourage you from enrolling in this program. However, if your district accepts National University (online or “brick and mortar� program), or another ten-month master’s programs, or you have a local university that is offering a “cohort� program then I would implore you to look into it and if looks at all inviting, then go for it! However, if you have a family and do not care about seeing them very much for over 20 months, then Walden will fit the bill (get my drift). For the record, by the time I really got the gist of this program I was in way too deep. Had I know that this program would be so demanding and inapplicable to my teaching situation I would have never enrolled in it in the first place. Sure, a master’s program should not be easy, but you have to consider both the demands of your job and family life in the equation. There is a price to pay, but is a master’s degree that is so demanding worth the price when it has the potential to cause both your job and family life to suffer? There are probably more difficult programs out there, but if your goal is to get a bump in pay, you want to watch your children grow up, and want to keep a good balance in your life, then this program is “definitely� not for you (unless you are single and don’t have any other options in your area to get a master’s degree). Be that as it may, there is light at the end of the tunnel, I will finish in a few months and wipe the dust off my feet. But in the wake of this program are many doubts, regrets, and hours spent in front of a computer screen that I will never get back. For the record I am still friends with the person that suggested Walden to me in the first place. However, she has apologized profusely for not giving me the whole story. She also failed to tell me that her sister was an English teacher who continually helped her with all of her papers. (OOPS! Live and learn!). Nevertheless, I am sure that there are many that would disagree with my assessment of Walden, and that is their right, just like it is my right to express my opinion. With that said, I would encourage you to do the research and make up your own mind about where you want to get your master’s degree. But please consider what I have written here, because I have given it to you straight (something you will not get from Walden). Good luck with whatever route you decide to take, but you have been warned! Dec 08 2007 Education

Here's the thing, if you have the option to give up your time and your life offers flexibility to go to a land based institution, then it is probably a better program. What you are missing at Walden is being around coined PhD's and doing the internship/teaching part of the program. HOWEVER, this is all changing and less people have the ability to pause three to four years of their life to do so on a stipend, therefore distance education is gaining momentum. I would agree that Walden is profit oriented and accepts anyone, but as you go through the residencies and classes, the amount of students that actually make it through the end of the program are very few in number. You will be really frustrated in your first couple of classes, but after that your peers will have absolutely stepped up a few notches. I have gotten a lot out of my Walden degree (just moving into Dissertation), but I'd be lying if I said there were certain "traditionally degreed" individuals at the academic institution I've been teaching at for 3 years that haven't tried to poo poo it. I wouldn't have given up my well over 6 figure salary early on in my life to go that route though as I wasn't pursuing academia back then. Basically, It comes down to what you do with it. If you go this route, choose a tough dissertation committee and publish the hell out of it when you get yourself degreed. I agree with one of the above posts in that there is much you can do to validate your doctorate for those who poo poo it with how you use and apply it. Moral of the story, it is not an easy degree to achieve, and it is definitely inferior to land-based programs in reputation, BUT I'm going on tenure track in the fall at an AACSB institution with an ABD status from Walden. On a related note, I have a peer that has a PhD from a FAR INFERIOR institution than Walden, but he was extremely well published, and just left our university to go to move to a state school. It just further stresses that it is less about the degree and more about your research and publications. Couple of pieces of advice, if you choose Walden, use the self-paced structure to your advantage, you can get this done in 2 years without giving up a 6 figure salary...and be totally prepared and committed to backing up your degree with significant publications and contributions to your field. Good luck. Jun 02 2007 Finance

Walden does not issue school email IDs to students (this web site asked for my school email ID). I am at the end of my first year at Walden, and I am in the master's of general psychology program. Walden is not your usual university, but it has some advantages. 1) I had a good undergraduate record, but I took no psychology credits, and Walden accepted me. I was on probation for two quarters because I did not have a related undergraduate degree, but I got good grades, so it was not a problem. 2) The programs at Walden are designed for people who work and need flexibility. 3) Many minority students in my classes comment that they like being anonymous in the classroom. 4) You are presented with interesting course materials, and if you study you will learn a lot about your area of study. That's all the good things I that I can tell you at this point. Here are some not-so-good things: 1) I have not tried to transfer credits, but I expect to find it difficult. I am keeping a portfolio of my work to help me in the credit-transfer process. 2) Many teachers will give you minimal feedback. I generally do well on all my assignments, but I would still like to see feedback about minor problems that would be an issue at other schools. 3) I do not have any information about the grades that other students get, but based on the public postings of all of our homework, I would say that it is relatively easy to pass a course at Walden. I would estimate that half about1/3 of the posted homework assignments would get failing grades at a regular school. Surprisingly, about 1/3 also do very good work. Many of the students already have master's degrees in other areas and there is typically a person (or two) in each of my classes that already has a PhD in a different field (some come back to school for clinical psych after working in a related field). That is my list of pros and cons, and here are a few notes about how the program works at Walden: 1) Each online class has about 25 students. You read your textbooks each week and then write one or two research papers per week in each class. My papers are usually 2-5 pages each, single-spaced with anywhere from 2-6 references in a typical post. You then copy your essay in text format to the bulletin board, and you have to critique at least one other essay for every one that you post. You typically need to include journal articles in every post, but you can easily get passing grades by using only the textbook (which should not be the case). 2) Walden has online databases of research journals that you can use to do your research. The databases do not compare to the completeness that you would find at a state university, so I go to a local university to get some extra information. Most students rely on the Walden databases for research. There is also a program where you can get library books from a school in Indiana, but I have never used it. 3) Many classes have quizzes, and they are a joke. The questions are usually easy considering that they are open-book, but I have had a few bad questions. The quizzes are typically 10 multiple-guess questions, and sometimes a final exam will be 20 easy questions. I am registered for three classes now and only one has an exam (the rest use homework, term papers, and group projects). 4) Most classes will have a term paper of 15--20 pages double-spaced with about 30 or so references. I have a class this quarter in which our term paper is a consolidation of the weekly assignments, but usually you have to pick a relevant topic and write a paper (which I should be doing now instead of writing this!). 5) I graduated in the top 1% of my undergraduate class at a regular state school, so it is not surprising that I am getting good grades at an online school. I am also learning a lot, in part because I am a very independent learner and I work hard. Unfortunately, I do not expect other schools exhibit high regard for my work here. As I mentioned above, I am keeping a portfolio of my work to help me when I apply for a PhD program. 6) Some people in my classes find it difficult to learn on their own--you could say that they have “different learning styles” or that they have learning disabilities. If you are in this group, this may not be the school for you unless you have no alternative. 7) I suspect that you could get a degree from this school without doing quality work, but you will need to make a serious effort to complete your term papers and manage your time. The best way to fail at Walden is to not manage your time! 8) Although I gave Walden low scores in most areas, I am happy where I am because of my unique situation. If a conventional brick-and-mortar school does not suit your needs, maybe Walden will. Oct 12 2006 Psychology

Summary Walden University is all about social change. Minorities like myself find that intriguing. Wald is a great school to work towards a Masters or PhD, which affords the student an opportunity to get an education and still have a life. I find that I can still have a life despite my school work. Walden University has been around for over 30 years and it is name is not plastered all over the internet talking about fraud. If you're seeking a good education Walden may be for you. Reflection I chose Walden because I was coming from another school that treated me poorly. It was taking my money and I felt I wasn't getting a quality education. I found Walden and became interested in their doctoral programs. I found the school school psychology. Let me say, my experience here thus far is much easier to manage. From the moment I walked into their doors I was treated with respect and like an adult. I was allowed to make my own decisions. Financial aid was respectful and concise. And I liked that. When I made a phone call it was returned promptly. By the time I was ready to start courses everything was set. My courses are challenging and are not simply thesis based, but there are also test and quizzes. I am currently taking a course where not only do I have to take a quiz, post my discussion assignment, but do homework as well. So they work is definitely worth the time you put into it. Of course some students don't care while others can be consider snooty but that goes with anywhere. I enjoy my classes and the time I put into them. The course room uses Blackboard. Final thoughts -Walden is expensive as with most online schools. So filing for financial aid is important. -Walden is regionally accredited and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. -Walden has their own school magazine -Walden psychology students have their own group called the American Psychological Society (APS). -Walden is about research and social change Do your research and choose the school that best fits you. Mar 13 2006 Psychology

Summary Walden University is all about social change. Minorities like myself find that intriguing. Wald is a great school to work towards a Masters or PhD, which affords the student an opportunity to get an education and still have a life. I find that I can still have a life despite my school work. Walden University has been around for over 30 years and it is name is not plastered all over the internet talking about fraud. If you're seeking a good education Walden may be for you. Reflection I chose Walden because I was coming from another school that treated me poorly. It was taking my money and I felt I wasn't getting a quality education. I found Walden and became interested in their doctoral programs. I found the school school psychology. Let me say, my experience here thus far is much easier to manage. From the moment I walked into their doors I was treated with respect and like an adult. I was allowed to make my own decisions. Financial aid was respectful and concise. And I liked that. When I made a phone call it was returned promptly. By the time I was ready to start courses everything was set. My courses are challenging and are not simply thesis based, but there are also test and quizzes. I am currently taking a course where not only do I have to take a quiz, post my discussion assignment, but do homework as well. So they work is definitely worth the time you put into it. Of course some students don't care while others can be consider snooty but that goes with anywhere. I enjoy my classes and the time I put into them. The course room uses Blackboard. Final thoughts -Walden is expensive as with most online schools. So filing for financial aid is important. -Walden is regionally accredited and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. -Walden has their own school magazine -Walden psychology students have their own group called the American Psychological Society (APS). -Walden is about research and social change Do your research and choose the school that best fits you. Mar 13 2006 Psychology

Summary Walden University is all about social change. Minorities like myself find that intriguing. Wald is a great school to work towards a Masters or PhD, which affords the student an opportunity to get an education and still have a life. I find that I can still have a life despite my school work. Walden University has been around for over 30 years and it is name is not plastered all over the internet talking about fraud. If you're seeking a good education Walden may be for you. Reflection I chose Walden because I was coming from another school that treated me poorly. It was taking my money and I felt I wasn't getting a quality education. I found Walden and became interested in their doctoral programs. I found the school school psychology. Let me say, my experience here thus far is much easier to manage. From the moment I walked into their doors I was treated with respect and like an adult. I was allowed to make my own decisions. Financial aid was respectful and concise. And I liked that. When I made a phone call it was returned promptly. By the time I was ready to start courses everything was set. My courses are challenging and are not simply thesis based, but there are also test and quizzes. I am currently taking a course where not only do I have to take a quiz, post my discussion assignment, but do homework as well. So they work is definitely worth the time you put into it. Of course some students don't care while others can be consider snooty but that goes with anywhere. I enjoy my classes and the time I put into them. The course room uses Blackboard. Final thoughts -Walden is expensive as with most online schools. So filing for financial aid is important. -Walden is regionally accredited and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. -Walden has their own school magazine -Walden psychology students have their own group called the American Psychological Society (APS). -Walden is about research and social change Do your research and choose the school that best fits you. Mar 13 2006 Psychology

Walden put the "distance" in distance learning. The lack of responsive human contact is stunning. It's not a bad program on paper, but that is where it ends. Nov 14 2005 Business - Management and Administration

Walden put the "distance" in distance learning. The lack of responsive human contact is stunning. It's not a bad program on paper, but that is where it ends. Nov 14 2005 Business - Management and Administration

Walden put the "distance" in distance learning. The lack of responsive human contact is stunning. It's not a bad program on paper, but that is where it ends. Nov 14 2005 Business - Management and Administration

Walden University faculty and staff has been there for me since day one. My faculty mentor and I happen to be alumni of the same undergraduate university and the quality of training and education I receive is equivalent to that of the top ten schools. Walden is accredited by the same regional organization that accredits schools such as Purdue and Notre Dame. I had no issues getting financial aid and everyone is there to help. Jan 14 2005 Business - Management and Administration

I advise that you beware of Walden University all together. While there are some good professors, the organization as a whole seems to be very uniterested in teaching and much more interested in making money. They have poor record keeping financially, they earn little respect professionally, and most universities will not accept any transfer credits from Walden. While I had some good courses, I have regreted using Walden to attain my graduate degree, because it cost more money and caused more stress and disappointment than it was worth. Most professional businesses and Universities scoff at this poor excuse for an education, as well they should. Aug 09 2003 Psychology

I advise that you beware of Walden University all together. While there are some very good professors (that teach online part time), the Walden organization as a whole seems to be very uniterested in teaching and much more interested in making money. They have poor record keeping financially, evidenced by monthly turnovers of Bursar staff and no continuity. They are not accredited by APA, they earn little respect professionally, and most universities will not accept any transfer credits from Walden. While I had some good courses, I have regreted using Walden to attain my graduate degree, because it cost more money and caused more stress and disappointment than it was worth. While I did learn a significant amount, and I earned an accredited graduate degree, most professional businesses and Universities scoff at this poor excuse for an education, as well they should. If I had to describe Walden in one word, I would use the word SCAM! Aug 09 2003 Psychology Military Deployment Satisfaction

 

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