Capella University

Date: Dec 31 1969
Major: Education (This Major's Salary over time)
After earning my BSBA and MBA at a nationally ranked brick & mortar school in the midwest 20 years prior, I chose to attend Capella University because if I wanted to earn my PhD an online program was the only real option. I teach at 2 other online institutions and a brick and morter university so have some basis of comparison of quality of programs and the learning philosophies and processes. Capella University, and online learning in general, is not for everyone, to be sure. Online learning demands much more initiative, self-discipline and self-direction than b&m schools, which is probably understated in the university's recruiting efforts. If you understand the concept of "earning" a degree v. buying one, then you will appreciate and benefit greatly from your Capella University experience. If you believe you are entitled to an outcome that you haven't legitimately earned, you aren't likely to appreciate the Capella experience - or any other learning experience, for that matter. All for-profit institutions have gaps between their recruiting propaganda and program realities; although the state institution I teach for doesn't understate student expectations, there are nightmare stories about poor advising, shoddy teaching, and greedy politicians picking the pockets of students through hefty raises in tuition and fees that are not reflected in an enhanced learning experience (yes, I'm in California :) Bottom line, Capella University is a great opportunity to achieve your terminal degree goals but don't think that because it is pricey it entitles you to a smooth academic journey - that doesn't exist anywhere and the more you focus on the negative the less likely your program will benefit your learning and/or career goals.