Picking the right college can feel like one of the biggest decisions of your life. Between figuring out costs, flexibility, and career goals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two schools that often come up in this debate are Ashford University (now known as University of Arizona Global Campus) and Grand Canyon University (GCU). Both offer online programs, and they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.
In this guide, I’ll break down the key differences between these two schools to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for you. Let’s dive in!
Overview: Ashford University (UAGC) vs. Grand Canyon University
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a quick look at what these schools are all about.
| School | Type | Established | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arizona Global Campus | Private, non-profit (formerly for-profit) | 1918 (as Ashford) | San Diego, CA (online-focused) | Online programs for adult learners |
| Grand Canyon University (GCU) | Private, for-profit | 1949 | Phoenix, AZ (physical and online) | Christian-based, wide range of programs |
Accreditation and Reputation
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a school is accreditation. You don’t want to spend time and money on a degree that employers or other schools don’t recognize.
- Ashford University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The school switched from for-profit to non-profit when it became part of the University of Arizona Global Campus in 2020, which helped boost its reputation.
- Grand Canyon University, on the other hand, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). GCU has been both a non-profit and for-profit institution, with its latest transition back to for-profit raising some eyebrows. However, GCU remains well-respected, especially in education and healthcare fields.
Bottom line: Both schools are properly accredited, but if you’re more comfortable with a non-profit institution, UAGC might appeal to you more.
Program Variety and Flexibility
When it comes to variety, both schools offer a wide range of programs, but they serve slightly different audiences.
University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)
UAGC focuses heavily on online programs, specifically targeting adult learners and working professionals. Some popular areas include:
- Business
- Psychology
- Healthcare
- Education
Their programs are structured to be flexible, making it easy for people who are already juggling work and family to pursue a degree.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
While GCU offers a robust online program, it also has a large physical campus in Phoenix. GCU provides degrees in:
- Nursing and Healthcare
- Education
- Business
- STEM
GCU is known for its focus on Christian values, and many of its programs have a religious perspective. If you’re looking for a more traditional campus experience, GCU’s physical campus is a major draw.
Bottom line: UAGC is perfect if you’re looking for online flexibility. If you want the option to attend classes on a traditional campus or prefer a Christian-based education, GCU could be the better fit.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Ah, the big question: How much is this going to cost?
University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)
For UAGC, tuition depends on the program, but it’s generally $510 per credit hour for undergraduates. They also have a tuition guarantee, meaning the price you pay when you start stays the same throughout your time there.
- Financial aid: UAGC offers federal financial aid, scholarships, and military discounts. You can even transfer credits from previous college courses, saving you money.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
GCU’s tuition for online programs is around $470 per credit hour, slightly cheaper than UAGC. On-campus tuition for full-time students is about $16,500 per year, which is actually lower than many other private universities.
- Financial aid: GCU has scholarships, grants, federal aid, and offers tuition freezes for continuing students. They also have special rates for military students.
Bottom line: Both schools are competitively priced, but GCU tends to be a little cheaper, especially if you’re going to be attending classes on campus.
Student Support and Resources
It’s not just about academics—support services can make or break your college experience.
University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)
Since UAGC is entirely online, they focus on offering strong digital resources. This includes:
- 24/7 tech support
- Online tutoring
- Career services
- Writing center
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
GCU also provides a wide range of student services both online and on-campus, including:
- Academic counseling
- Career services
- Tutoring and mentoring programs
- Spiritual guidance
Bottom line: If you’re going to school online, UAGC’s 24/7 support could be a game-changer. But GCU offers a more holistic, in-person support system for those on campus.
Campus Life and Culture
Campus life can be a huge factor in your decision—especially if you’re thinking about attending in person.
University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)
Because UAGC is an online school, there’s no physical campus. If you’re someone who thrives on-campus activities, this might not be ideal. However, the online community is strong, with virtual clubs and organizations you can join.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
GCU, on the other hand, has a thriving campus life. They’ve invested heavily in their Phoenix campus, offering:
- Modern dorms and student apartments
- Sports teams (Division I)
- Religious activities
- Student clubs and organizations
Bottom line: If you want the full college experience with sports, dorms, and weekend events, GCU wins here hands down. For students who prefer to stay virtual, UAGC might be better suited.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
When it comes down to it, what really matters is how well these schools prepare you for the real world.
University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)
UAGC boasts a solid alumni network, especially for those who pursued careers in business, healthcare, and psychology. The flexibility of online learning means many graduates have been able to advance their careers while studying.
- Popular employers: Graduates work for companies like Amazon, United Healthcare, and Wells Fargo.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
GCU’s alumni network is larger, especially thanks to its on-campus programs. Graduates from GCU often find success in fields like nursing, education, and business. Their Christian focus attracts students looking to work in faith-based organizations.
- Popular employers: Many GCU grads work in healthcare and education, with companies like Mayo Clinic, Banner Health, and Arizona Public Schools.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for career advancement in a field like business or healthcare, both schools have strong alumni networks. GCU might have the edge if you’re interested in faith-based careers or want more on-campus networking opportunities.
FAQs
Q: Is UAGC a for-profit school?
– A: UAGC was formerly known as Ashford University, a for-profit school. However, it is now a non-profit institution under the University of Arizona Global Campus.
Q: Can I transfer credits to GCU?
– A: Yes, GCU accepts transfer credits, and they even offer specific pathways for community college transfers.
Q: Does UAGC have a physical campus?
– A: No, UAGC is an online-only university.
Q: Is GCU more expensive than UAGC?
– A: On average, GCU’s online programs are slightly cheaper, but it depends on your specific degree and if you’re attending in person or online.
Q: Which school is better for online learning?
– A: Both schools offer strong online programs, but UAGC is designed entirely for online students, making it a great choice for those who need maximum flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the University of Arizona Global Campus and Grand Canyon University depends on your personal needs. If you’re looking for a fully online program with flexibility for working adults, UAGC might be your top pick. However, if you want a traditional campus experience with strong Christian values, GCU could be the better fit.
No matter what, both schools have a lot to offer, and your decision should be based on what’s most important to you—whether that’s flexibility, cost, or campus life.
Now it’s up to you! What’s your priority—flexibility or community?