Capella University

Date: Dec 31 1969
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2008. It was the worst academic experience of my career. I wanted to go back to school and get a degree that actually got me a job and actually prepared me to DO something, which I didn't get at EMU, but I was not interested in doing the on-campus thing ever again. I enrolled in Capella and it has been the BEST academic experience I have had.

The professors have been friendly, available, fair, and provide feedback right away. All of them I have had thus far have accepted drafts of papers early, provided feedback for me to improve, then given me enough time to make the necessary changes so I can grow as an academic writer and get a great grade as well. Most of the students in my program are in their thirties or forties, a few are in their fifties, and there is a great camaraderie amongst us even though the program is online. I have connected with people during this online experience unlike when I was at EMU, when the students there were too clique-y for me to make friends and the faculty were unavailable and unhelpful.

The classes are ten weeks. Students have the option to take only one class at a time or multiple. With the schedule I have, I am currently taking only one class, but plan to take two so I can complete my program faster. The grading rubric is fair and similar in each class: the instructors MUST adhere to the grading policies and they have so far. I have been graded fairly and feel confident that I have earned each and every grade I've achieved. So far I have a 4.0.

My favorite aspect of this program is that it's not just a bunch of busy work like my undergrad coursework at EMU. I actually get a chance to LEARN. Not memorize and recite for a test and then forget it, LEARN. I have an academic advisor who is readily available; the online library is a great tool, and there is on online writing center as well as other resources. I've received better help through Capella than I EVER did at EMU. The school was poorly ran—Capella has been the opposite for me.

At times there has been a lot of work, but nothing I wasn't prepared for. At the beginning of each class my instructors have been crystal clear about expectations, assignments, and due dates, and with few exceptions, they have adhered to them. Any changes that have been made have been for the benefit of the students.

I am very pleased with Capella and would recommend it to anyone who has what it takes to be an online learner. I would prefer never to have to set foot on a campus again, and this is definitely the way to go.