Choosing the right school can feel like a huge decision, especially when you’re comparing big names like Ashford University (now known as the University of Arizona Global Campus) and the University of Phoenix. Both of these schools cater to working adults and online learners, but they’ve got their own pros and cons. I’m going to break it down so you can figure out which one fits your life and goals.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Ashford University | University of Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Name Change | Now called University of Arizona Global Campus | University of Phoenix, no recent name change |
| Focus | Online programs, working adults | Online & on-campus, working adults |
| Accreditation | Accredited by WASC | Accredited by HLC |
| Degree Levels | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate |
| Tuition (per credit) | Around $510 | Around $398 for undergrad programs |
| Support for Military | Strong military support, Yellow Ribbon Program | Strong military support, VA-approved programs |
| Flexibility | 5-week courses, year-round | 5-week and 7-week courses, year-round |
History and Reputation
Let’s start with the backstory. Ashford University was founded in 1918 as a small college but went fully online in recent years. In 2020, it became the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). This switch confused some people at first, but it’s still the same school—just with a new name and bigger connections to the University of Arizona.
The University of Phoenix, on the other hand, is one of the largest for-profit universities in the U.S. It’s been around since 1976 and really paved the way for working adults to go back to school. They’ve got a ton of experience in offering flexible online and in-person classes.
Bold claim: Both universities have faced some public scrutiny over the years about their for-profit model, but they’re still trusted by many for providing flexible education, especially for people juggling work and life.
Accreditation (Why It Matters)
This is the big question, right? Is your degree worth something? You want to make sure your credits will transfer and that employers will recognize your degree.
- Ashford/UAGC is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
- University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Both accreditations are legit, so you’re good to go there. If you’re planning to transfer credits, though, it’s always smart to double-check how your future school views these credits.
Programs and Degrees
Both schools offer a wide range of programs. Whether you’re looking for something in business, healthcare, education, or technology, you’ll find what you need.
- Ashford University offers degrees from associate to doctorate levels, with a big emphasis on business, social science, and education programs.
- University of Phoenix has a similar spread, but they also have certificate programs that might be a faster option if you’re looking to upskill quickly.
Popular Programs:
Ashford/UAGC:
– Business Administration
– Psychology
– Early Childhood Education
University of Phoenix:
– Business Management
– Information Technology
– Nursing
If you’re into shorter courses or certifications, University of Phoenix might have the edge here. But if you’re thinking about getting into social sciences or education, UAGC could be a better fit.
Flexibility
When it comes to online learning, flexibility is the name of the game. Both schools have designed their programs for people who are probably working, raising kids, or have a million other things going on.
- Ashford offers 5-week classes, and you can start at almost any time of the year. This means you can power through your degree faster if you want.
- University of Phoenix also offers 5-week and 7-week courses, depending on the program, with year-round starts.
They both have a similar model, but if you’re someone who likes shorter, intensive bursts, Ashford might feel a bit more manageable.
Tuition Costs
Let’s talk money. Tuition can be a deal-breaker, so here’s a breakdown:
- Ashford/UAGC: Around $510 per credit for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs tend to be a bit higher.
- University of Phoenix: Around $398 per credit for undergrad. Grad programs are pricier, too.
Now, these costs don’t include fees, books, or anything else you might need, so keep that in mind. But there’s some good news! Both schools have scholarships, financial aid, and military discounts. Plus, they offer payment plans to spread out the cost.
Support for Military Students
If you’re in the military or a veteran, both schools are great options. They have military support services, and their programs are eligible for GI Bill benefits.
- Ashford/UAGC participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, meaning they’ll help cover what the GI Bill doesn’t.
- University of Phoenix offers military tuition assistance and has been recognized for being military-friendly.
So, if you’re a service member, you’ll find a lot of support at both schools. Big win for both here.
Student Experience and Support
One of the most important things when choosing a school is how well they support you, especially if you’re doing most (or all) of your work online.
Ashford/UAGC: They have academic advisors, tech support, and resources like a career services department to help you after you graduate. Their online portal is pretty intuitive and easy to navigate.
University of Phoenix: Also offers strong student support. You’ll get access to advisors, tutoring services, and even mental health resources if things get a little stressful. They’ve got a big focus on career services as well, helping you prep for the job market.
Both schools know their students are mostly working adults, so they’ve tailored their support systems to make sure you’re never left hanging.
Career Outcomes
It’s one thing to get the degree; it’s another to actually land a job. Both universities market themselves as schools that help students improve their career prospects. But let’s see how they actually stack up.
Ashford/UAGC: They claim that their career services will help you with resume building, mock interviews, and job searches. The University of Arizona connection could open up networking opportunities.
University of Phoenix: Phoenix also offers solid career resources. They’ve been around longer, so they’ve built alumni networks and relationships with employers across different industries. They offer career fairs, internships, and job placement help.
Technology and Online Learning Platforms
Both schools have online programs that are designed to be user-friendly. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to navigate their platforms.
- Ashford/UAGC uses a system called Canvas, which is one of the most popular learning management systems. It’s pretty straightforward and easy to use.
- University of Phoenix has its own online platform that’s also very user-friendly. Plus, they’ve got a mobile app that lets you do your coursework on the go.
No matter where you’re working or studying from, both platforms give you the flexibility to get things done on your own schedule.
10. Alumni Success
Networking with alumni can be a huge advantage after you graduate.
- Ashford/UAGC has a smaller alumni network compared to Phoenix, but they’re still building connections, especially now that they’re part of the University of Arizona system.
- University of Phoenix has a massive alumni base. Since they’ve been around longer, they’ve got a bigger network of professionals across various industries.
If you’re looking to leverage alumni connections for jobs, Phoenix might have the edge here. But Ashford’s growing network is nothing to ignore either.
FAQs About Ashford University vs. University of Phoenix
1. Can I transfer credits between the two schools?
It depends. Both schools are accredited, but you’ll need to check with admissions to see if your specific credits will transfer.
2. Which is cheaper, Ashford or University of Phoenix?
University of Phoenix is generally a bit cheaper at $398 per credit versus Ashford’s $510 per credit, but the difference can vary based on your program and financial aid.
3. Is one school more flexible than the other?
Both are designed for flexibility, but Ashford might have a slight edge with their 5-week courses that let you complete classes more quickly.
4. Do employers respect degrees from these schools?
Yes, both schools are accredited and recognized. However, for-profit schools have had some stigma in the past, so it’s always smart to research how your degree will be viewed in your specific industry.
5. Can military students get financial aid at both schools?
Yes! Both schools offer strong military support and are VA-approved, with Ashford also participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
When it comes down to it, the decision between Ashford University (UAGC) and the University of Phoenix depends on your personal goals, budget, and what kind of support you need. Bottom line: Both offer flexible, career-focused education, but the little differences could make one a better fit for you. Keep your career goals in mind, check out their degree programs, and make sure the vibe matches what you’re looking for!