Capella University
Capella University Reviews:
Stay away, don't attend
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Capella University is not a school, it is a business, and they will seek to lure you in and trap you with hidden charges. I was halfway, HALFWAY, through a semester being paid for with student loans when Capella called me up saying I needed to pay $700 right then and there or would be dropped. I'm not made of money, what do you think the student loans were for?? I tried to drop the class to save myself any trouble, since I didn't have $700 and wasn't going to any time soon, they said it was too late to drop or get a refund, so I got a "withdraw" grade for the class and charged an additional $600 on top of that. Now they expect me to pay $1300 or else they won't release my transcripts. I need my transcripts to apply for financial aid at other schools, as well as to enter the nursing program, so Capella has ruined my life and I got nothing out of it at all.
Proceed with Caution
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Cost more than better rated, more reputable colleges. Interested in money-making & a definite degree mill. Very upsetting experience.
Disappointment
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I have been at Capella four weeks. Certainly not a long time. I am so down on this university beyond hope. I have not talked to an academic counselor who knows what they are talking about yet. My professor tells me to be patient with the system which is constantly up and down. I went to SNHU to start my Masters degree and what a difference. They check in with me weekly at least and want to know how I am doing. When I contacted them to see if I could return for the third time they called right away. I am so sorry I did not ask to come back but I was super embarrassed with having to leave twice already. I am trying to transfer back next semester to finish my degree. Capella just does not seem to care and I feel like I am all alone in this venture.
Desperate to Finish up A Previous Degree
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Firstly, beware of the bait and switch. I was originally quoted 12 courses to graduate, as I had transfer credits, but when I received my academic plan, after signing up, the number was 20. Capella has some formula they use to calculate credits, which is about half. So if you have 70 transferable credits, you really only have about 35. When I inquired about it with my advisor, she said that the enrollment counsellor made a mistake and took off 1 course, 19. I like many people who are considering Capella, I did not finish my original degree due to a life-threatening illness and this seemed like a way to get it done quickly, DESPERATE! The second issue is in order to have a tutoring session, you have to make an appointment, as you may already imagine, there is 1 tutor per course so more difficult courses have a longer wait time. I have experienced tutors skipping my confirmed session! The last point, it takes some instructors a long time to evaluate your assessments, wasting your money. I had a situation where I had finished assessments 1-5 within a week. 1-4 were evaluated within 12 hours of my submission. The 5th and final one took the instructor almost 3 days to evaluate. Wasting money. I am on my 5th course with 14 more to go. Overall, I would say that in my situation, I am desperate to finish quickly. If you are in a different situation, find another school. They take advantage of you b/c they know that you are desperate to finish-up a previous degree or in the case of many H1 Visa students, require the completion of an American degree to work in the US. I am going to stick it out, but if this helps anyone who is on the fence, I would not go to Capella.
They don't even have the Masters of Addiction Program listed ! THAT SAYS IT ALL!
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I never ever write these types of reviews but I wholeheartedly do NOT recommend this university. I am so so disappointed - 2 years of my time and over USD$ 20 K ... GONE. Whether or not there a scam, I don't know - all I know is that I am not able to graduate from this uni. and had to pay an insane amount of money. IF YOU ARE AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT (as in NOT a US CITIZEN)- AVOID AT ALL COSTS. There is false advertisment on the website saying they accomodate international students - when it's time to do your practicum or internship you receive 0 help. 1. Capella does not have a SEVIS ID because they are not registered as an "international university" 2. the MASTERS OF ADDICTION program is NOT recognized. 3. NO ONE will provide you with help, guidance, or advice. 4. they are unwilling to help accomodate tricky situations. Obviously I did not know all of this at first - they have great marketing and programs - flexible, study from all over the world blablabla. NO. Don't be fooled. I read reviews like the one I wrote and thought to myself those people were just unlucky or whatever, but now I am one of those people and I swear if I had more funds I would sue this university. PS. Check their graduation rate. 17 %. Really?
Very inconsistent in feedbAck about dissertation and during comp exams
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The student feedback during the development of the dissertation and during the comp exam process is extremely inconsistent between facility. For example, when submitting the DRP, in one residency students are given compliments on their work and told by one faculty member that the content meets all the required criteria. The next residency, a different faculty member says it is incorrect and needs to be rewritten to a different recommendation. By the third residency, another faculty member goes on to report that the second recommendation was incorrect and the student should have kept the work as it was initially submitted in the first residency. Then along comes the comp exams. The same inconsistency in feedback and grading occurs. There are three readers that review and grad the comp exam base upon their own interpretation of the content. One reader will give a very high grade in all sections, one will give similar feedback and recommendations and the third will report that none of the required criteria is met. If all three readers do not pass students on the comp exam, students are required to have the exam revised in 10 days. Again, the readers provide inconsistent feedback. The initial two readers grade the paper low due to the changes and the third grades it high according to the revisions the student made under the recommendations of that faculty member. The student is then required to redo the comp exam in another session with three different readers interpreting the content. This process is a set up for failure. In addition, there is a faculty assigned to students in the course room section of the comp exams and provides answers to questions about the guidelines of the comp exams if they are unclear to the student. The answers to questions again do not align either the readers. The student is given feedback that is initiated into the comp exams only to be told it is incorrect by those reading the exam. The initial course room content throughout the PhD program itself is reliable and consistent, but the residencies and comp exam aspect is terrible. Students work through several years of classroom material to get to the level of the program that should be considered an accomplishment; when in fact it becomes a nightmare of inconsistency among faculty. Unfortunately the level of inconsistency during the residencies and comp portion of the program is something that ruines the experience of the Phd program and I would NOT recommend it to learners that are truly in a program for learning, guidance and consistency in feedback for personal and professional development.
Financial Aid/Business office
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First and foremost I should have listened to an associate of a previous student. I was notified by a 3rd party collection agency that I had an outstanding balance due to the University nearly a year later. I NEVER received notice by the University. I completed the course taken, in good standing. And before completion, called about balances that I could possibly have after looking online to get an understanding of the financial breakdown. At the time I only saw dispersements and no balances after dispersements. I called to confirm was that correct and was told it was with a sense of uncertainty. All answers received from any person I spoke with, were give in a language of uncertainty or they gave you the run around, saying they will follow up and never would. It was their way of sweeping it under rug and hoping you wouldn't call back. Fast forward, I just recently a collection letter a couple of weeks ago, which my attendance there a year ago. I called right after receipt asking to have it pulled from collections due to not being properly notified of it and I was told NO we called you and emailed your university email (which was inactive for me after completion of the course). Therefore, I would not have received the email. I counter explained that they had 3 ways of reaching me and if 2 of 3 wasn't getting a response the next is postal mail. Their only argument was, since they are an online university they primarily communicate online. Well if that's the case why did you go as far as, to call? They should have taken it a step further and sent a mail notification as well. Why am I upset because, they have put a stain on my outstanding credit history. And I tried to correct it with them with complete honesty and was blown off. And apparently this is common because, as I stated in the beginning I should have listened, what happened to me is exactly what happened to that person. However, I was trying to remain hopeful and optimistic.
Great experience
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As I worked through my BS in Psychology at Capella University, I felt supported by instructors and staff at every capacity. I am proud to be a Capella graduate. I am currently applying for the Psy.D in Clinical Psychology at Capella. To be an online student it is vital to be a self-starter and disciplined. You must work hard and never give-up!
Doctor of Public Health Specialization Epidemiology
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What a year Capella Ambassadors, Let’s Go Out With A BANG, & In With A Plan!! We, have witness a year of ups and down’s. I myself went through the loss of a mother and middle sister. The loss of many lives, due to forest fires, schools shootings, drive-by, Hurricanes, tornado's, flash floods, and terrorist attacks. The up-roar of America politics and clouds of smoke parades throughout every living room in America, in which a child dreams of going to college, may be in limbo, but for what I know there is a higher power says there dreams will come true. This has been other great year for me at Capella, my expectations were met, windows and doors of opportunities invited me in. Capella pride, is the key to the great behavior of each Capella instructors, they are open, full of challenges, answers to complex questions, well knowledgeable, and quick to aid our needs. I look forward to continue my education with Capella, at the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. I encourage and challenge all that is thinking about going to college or looking to complete something you started and ready to get back on the horse and ride the success online learning pony express with Capella University FlexPath learning or join us full-time, now come join me let’s finish the race. Chaplain Perry McClinton School: School of Nursing & Health Sciences Program: Doctor of Public Health Specialization: Epidemiology
Disappointed
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The classes are either so easy it's stealing an easy A or so hard that I spent way too much time and money completing a class. The work load I experienced was far greater than that of the other college I had attended.
Shameful Capella University
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Here's what you need to know about Capella University: I worked on my Ph.D. from 2008 to 2010. It was an arduous process with little support provided. Once I completed it, there was NO career support provided, NONE. Then I applied for adjunct online teaching positions with Capella from 2010 to 2017, at least twice per year, and each time I was told they wouldn't hire me because I was a graduate. Yet they would gladly hire someone with NO experience to teach online doctoral classes, especially if you are female and of color. This year I applied for an online teaching position with Capella, titled Education, Postsecondary Adult Education. My doctorate: Postsecondary Adult Education. What was Capella's response? They would not move forward with my application, even though I have 12+ years online teaching experience. This is a shameful practice and one I have come to expect from Capella University. Dr. J
DNP Capstone mentored by earth's GREATEST INEXPERIENCED instructos who's goal is to prolong the project for thier personal financial gain!!!!!
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The actual academic portion of the DNP program was engaging and effective in teaching students, however it was poorly organized, and the steps in the program were poorly explained. Most of the time the instructors themselves do not know how to explain the programs expectations. Once I started the capstone portion of the program the mentor and committee members provided poor feedback, and it was not until I hired an outside source to read my intended capstone proposal did I learned that the inexperienced, poor faculty at Capella University had not realized that I wrote a research project and not the specific required project per the capstone expectations. One particular instructor gives the worse directions that the school's higher level reviewers find inappropriate, then she tries to clean her azz by saying the site needed the changes (she is a pathetic, compulsive liar). She wastes our time with vague posts, fails to read our proposals on time, then returns it with only minimal portions reviewed, having minimal unhelpful feedback. Each time a student submits the proposal for review the mentor has 10 days to review it, they do not care that the quarter is ending and you will need to pay another $3200 for the next quarter to repeat the same process. They try to justify it by telling students it is a reiterative process meaning the student will need to rewrite until their brains are traumatized, and the faculty exhausted of reading the same song and dance, before they will allow you to progress through the milestones that they themselves do not understand. Basically, these pathetic instructors are getting paid to do absolutely nothing, until the student has spends 8 or 9 quaters of this back and forth mundane nonsense. Then the academic advisor, who is supposed to be your support, and who initially sold you the program to get you to join tells you the capstone will only take 5 quarters to oomplete, but once you complain about the mentors poor practices changes the story and says completion of the capstone depends on the student, when clearly it is NOT dependent on the students at all but on the lazy instructors who are there getting paid to do absolutely nothing, but get into altercations with students when they are held accountable for not providing timely/helpful feedback. They are making easy money working from home to play the role of a "Mentor" when they now nothing about mentoring DNP students, or the steps needed to facilitate the steps to completion of the program for the students. STAY AWAY FROM CAPELLA UNIVERSITY!!!!! They misguide the customers (students), change program guidelines and apply it to all students just to make you stay there longer!!!!!!!
UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU ARE GETTING
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All of you who are giving positive reviews of this institution and the type of degree it is conferring, do not understand comparatively what you could have received. If you had gone to an accredited, high-end Ph.D. program, you would better understand how unfounded is your confidence in Capella. You will not be hired at my university unless education has just fallen apart (which I believe is close).
PhD
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I graduated with my PhD in General Psychology in 2015 and had an excellent experience. I am now a full time Assistant Professor of Psychology and this program prepared me well - both in general content and in research literacy. It was a very rigorous program and the professors were both challenging and supportive. As I was working full time and raising three children at the same time, it was a real challenge to keep myself organized. Capella seemed to understand the demands of a working parent, but continued to keep pushing me to the high standard of academic excellence. My dissertation mentor was especially helpful. I am happy to recommend Capella to future students and colleagues. Jane Whitaker
Excellent Doctoral Experience
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Capella University's instructional faculty and support staff were simply phenomenal. When I had an issue, it was readily resolved without having to elevate any concerns. As well, I felt my education was superb, especially in light of having colleagues in other institutions!
Online Experience with Human Touch
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My doctoral experience was awesome. The exposure to scholar/practitioner world through my DBA program has opened my eyes to many opportunities I never thought were possible. That, you can contribute to the society at multiple directions while earning income from various sources. The education was very engaging and allowed high connectivity with other learners and instructors. I still stay in touch with many of my school colleagues and my dissertation mentors. Indeed, Capella for me was an online experience with human touch.
Capella University
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Capella is a great university; I am so glad that I chose this university to pursue my MSN with a focus in leadership and administration. There is always someone available to help in every department that I have contacted. I would refer this institution to anyone.
General Psychology
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Capella University has been my biggest inspiration to pursue a degree that I never thought I would be interested in. I started at Capella University in the Fall of 2016 nervous, scared, and a bit worried that I was not prepared to take on Graduate school. After talking with the advisors and faculty, I felt much more confident in myself and ready to take on the challenge at Capella. I love my choice here and would not have done anything differently. This tuition makes sure that as a student, you are happy with your courses and not trying to take on more than you can handle.
Proud Capella University Ambassador
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I am Dennis Wharton and I am proud student and ambassador for Capella University. I have been a student of Capella University for almost three years trying to earn my PhD in General Information Technology. I wanted to provide my thanks to Capella University for helping me become more highly educated and trained student in the career world of information technology. I try to set a positive example as a American citizen who encourages those to continue in higher education. I am also a person who recommends Capella University as a great academic institution for higher learning. I would to encourage Capella University students to do their best within earning their degrees as earning their degrees can be very beneficial for their future. I also encourage Capella University student to take advantage of all the additional resources (such as writing, mathematic, and job career online centers) to help prepare to be not only an outstanding student, but to help aid them into getting into the career they desire.
Capella University: A Great University That Challenges Its Learners
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I was already a little apprehensive about beginning the doctoral process, and making the decision to complete my studies online added to that feeling. After being enrolled at Capella University for one quarter, my comfort level and respect for online learning grew. The faculty and staff were always available and helpful, and the colloquiums were simply outstanding. Through the colloquiums, I met individuals that I am still in contact with to this day. Commencement...Capella University really celebrates their graduates. I would not trade my Capella experience for the world!
MSN nursing business administration
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I will graduate March 2018. I am very proud to be a student at Capella. Everyone is very supportive since before I started my program. Online classes are easy to maneuver through. This was the best choice I have made coming to Capella.
Amazing school with tons of helpful options
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I have been attending for one year now. I am finding, with each new course, that I am drawn in deeper. I love the instructors, the courses, the technology options, and the residencies. I would encourage anyone looking to increase their knowledge to consider Capella
Excellence and standards of Capella Uniersity
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Capella University is an excellent school of study. The support and learning process is an embodiment of the school,s integrity, drive, credible accreditation of the principles and policies that make Capella stands out as the school of choice.
Review of Capella University's MPH Program
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If you are searching for an excellent online education for a Master's of Public Health degree, look no further. You will find everything you need here.
Master program
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Great option in education for those who don't have the flexibility to sit in regular classrooms.
My Review
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Teachers, could get more involved with students, than they are now. Starting up programs or clubs, should be easier, sometimes it's not about whether or not there is enough to keep it running but that there is an opportunity for it, obtainable by the students, over all excellent job couldn't be prouder. There is always room for improvement no matter what
Capella University Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling. 1st year student review.
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They made my transition from bachelors degree to masters degree very easy. They adhere to the requirements necessary for everyone to succeed. The teachers are wonderful and the materials are also extremely helpful. I am not near graduation yet but i have already advanced in my career.
My Experience
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I started spring of 2016 and hope to finish my bachelors in general psychology. I love the freedom of online classes and most instructors are great.
Loved it
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You need to be a self starter and go above and beyond to get what you want out of this program. There is always staff there to help but it's up to you to utilize your peers, the discussions, your personal experience and know how to spot read to complete all reading assignments. It takes some getting used to but it's worth it. I got a lot out of the program and even more out of the networking of fellow students and colloquias. What I will say is you get what you put in. I only experienced one professor that did not see my own clinical reasons for diagnosis in one class and I got B because I went a different way then he did. I don't like over diagnosing and I use clinical terms to support the evidence. Besides that, it went well. I don't like most advisors because they aren't as helpful as Austin C in financial aid. He was my go to.
Excellent School with Full Accreditation!!
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Capella University is an amazing school! It may be difficult for people who need constant interactions with professors, but for people who are self-motivated and able to teach themselves the course material, this is an excellent option that is fully accredited. Some of the professors create interactive videos and also live discussions that also help students feel more connected to the classroom and it also allows a chance to ask questions and receive feedback face to face. There are also residency training seminars that meet each year where you get to spend almost a week with your classmates and professors. Overall, Capella is a great school that offers opportunities for people who want to advance their education on their own schedule, while still keeping their current life and job. If someone doesn't like Capella, they may just need more hand holding from a local brick and mortar school, or they may just not be good at figuring out the coursework on their own. It certainly takes a lot of self-discipline and motivation to stay ahead with a school like Capella... but in the end it is definitely worth it because you will end up with a solid degree that is fully accredited. Their tuition is a bit on the expensive side, but again, this is definitely not one of the crappy online schools. It is a very challenging and legitimate school with very qualified professors. That is why CACREP gave them full accreditation for their counseling programs. This is the equivalent of the APA for psychologists or AMA for physicians.
Learning in Public Health.
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The learning examples that were given to us in some of the classes really helped me look at different fields of public health. This degree literally gives you a little piece of every public health topic there is and you become very well rounded. I feel like I now have more options than the field focus that I have, which is in the field of HIV prevention.
Capella MBA
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The MBA program offered by Capella is one of unique value and quality. It provides learners the opportunity to grow in the idea of business, the idea of the supply chain & the idea of making a conscious difference in today's and the future of our economy. What I have learned is a priceless authentication of information that has helped my growth as an entrepreneur and will help develop the minds of future businessmen and women.
Emergency Managment
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In the BS of Public Safety concentration in Emergency Management, the professors are knowledgeable and aid towards the completion of each class. Course rooms are easy to follow and provide a helping hand towards completing each unit through the 10 weeks. Books are easily located through the vitalsource bookshelf.
Capella University: Excellence in Virtual Education
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My experience as an adult learner that started my degree working full time has been above reproach. I entered the Doctoral Program for Adult Education (EdD) in 2014 with some trepidation. I was unsure of what was to come, and if I could handle the workload and balance my other obligations. I chose Capella after doing research on other schools that offered what I wanted to do in a format that I was comfortable with. Capella gave me the option to work in a digital environment without having to travel for residencies. This was exceptionally flexible for me. That alone was enough to solidify my choice. An added bonus was that this degree was less expensive than other schools. This was the final factor. Once my journey started, I found that the faculty and other staff were accessible and very willing to help with any issue I had, which were few. Every professor was willing to work with me to overcome personal obstacles, of which I had a few, and as a result, I was able to push through, instead of quitting. The curriculum is challenging but well designed and the learning platform is easy to use. A sense of community is built into the structure, and I feel that I am a part of a student body. There is plenty of support, from help with writing to conducting a job search and marketing your new skills. I have had a completely positive experience and would recommend Capella to everyone looking for an affordable and flexible educational experience.
Masters in Information Technology
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I completed my masters in Information Technology concentrating in Project Management at Capella. I was pleasantly surprised with the knowledge I gained via the program! I've been a project manager for a number of years, but I added to my skill set immensely with my Capella degree! I also made some great contacts/friends through the class projects and even after graduation we keep in contact and support each other. My Capella degree allowed me to advance my career goals. I now have an excellent job with upward mobility all because of my Capella degree! In fact, I felt that my masters was so valuable that I continued on with the PhD program!
Excellent Program!
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Joining the Capella adventure has been the best decision I've made in a long time. My husband did his Master in Public Health at Capella University, and I became curious about the process and the learning style. So, I decided to enroll in the doctoral program of Public Administration. This happened three years ago, and I am now on my way to begin writing my dissertation. I thought I would not make it this far, but the Professors at Capella made the process attractive and engaging. Therefore, I encourage everyone who is looking to increase their education to try taking classes at Capella. I promise you will fall in love, just like I did.
Great Course for the Training Counselor!
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The degree I am on is of a very high standard and is accredited by CACREP which is essential if you want to go onto obtain a counseling license. The interaction amongst students is very important and for an online course we have excellent peer discussions and sharing of our experience of the Profession. I only did not grade a ten as I have not yet completed the program so I am sure there is room for improvement all around by my completion date. The support is fabulous: from academic advising to the work study program,finance and disability
PHD Program (Stay away)
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Stay away from this institution. They are only concerned with being a for profit organization. If you are looking for a PHD program do not attend Capella University. Once you complete your course work and enter into the dissertation process/course, the whole process slows down and is stretched out as long as possible so they can get all the money they can from students. The financial aid office is dishonest and disorganized.
Has been wonderful!
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I am glad that I chose Capella University to achieve my Masters in Public Health. At first, I was a bit nervous, because of the things I would hear people say about online classes, but it is convenient. My professors have been wonderful and very helpful. They share so much information and encourage you a lot. The classes can be a bit challenging, but it's not hard to ask for help and most of the time you will receive that help or they will provide with resources. I don't expect achieving my MPH to be easy, but I haven't failed a class yet all while earning my grades fairly. I am glad I chose Capella University and guess what? I will complete my Doctoral program with them also!
Do your homework!
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My degree will ultimately lead to a license in the state I live in. I am fortunate enough to live in a state that aligns with the national guidelines. However, there are some states that have more or less requirements and some that do not even hire for my specific field. I highly recommend Capella University, there help and support throughout this journey has been unparalleled! Land based programs have offered me less but I always feel like I am talking to someone who knows me and understands me. I have had several instructors who are amazing in their knowledge and skill. They are remarkable in their fields and offer so much more insight into the world of work. My experience would not have been the same without them.
Tammy Tabak's Review
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My experience at Capella University has been very rewarding and wonderful! I am in my third year of completing my degree and I love everything about the college! The staff is very understanding and extremely compassionate about their students and they do everything they can to provide encouragement and the support each student needs. The courserooms online are very simple and easy to use and comprehend. The only thing I do not really approve of is that Capella makes every student get the books from their bookstore and it gets delivered to us electronically, I am the type of student that needs and actual textbook right in front of me because it is easier for me to learn. As far as everything else I love the University and I look forward to completing my degree here.
review on masters in human services
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Overall i am happy i chose this school i love that registration is taken care of for you. There are some teachers that were awesome and others i didnt vibe with. I would definitely recommend this school to others
The Best Decision I Have Ever Made
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When I began my search for the right university to attend after going to a community college I considered a lot of different things. I needed the flexibility to be a stay at home mother of three young children who are very involved in life. I also need the ability to obtain the best degree I can while attending school online. When I began my search I wanted to make sure that I would be able to use my degree where ever my career path may take me and I feel that Capella has given me the best of both worlds. At Capella, I have the ability to grow as an individual as well as a student. The information that is taught here is something that I can use not only in the professional world but also in my everyday life. I am able to learn and grown from all of the feedback that my instructors have given me and I must say, I feel as though I have become a better person since starting here at Capella University.
Emergency Management
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• Public Service Leadership/Emergency Management o The course materials were oriented primarily for Police and then for fire and military learners. o There should be an alternative degree with a business orientation. • The key hear is Public Service. • There needs to be Business Continuity/Emergency Management. • There can and should be a coordination of these two programs as disasters and emergencies have a distinct overlap for the effected responders. • There is also a need to provide training to deal with volunteers to differentiate when Command and Control orientation is needed and when Transformational or Situational Management are needed
Experience of my Master's in Education
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During my higher educational course study, at Capella University, I was stressed from personal life experiences. I wasn't sure I was going to make it through, but I had some awesome professors that took my struggles and encouraged me to keep going. How? The professors went beyond teaching and became a positive voice that guided me through it! No school is perfect, because people aren't perfect, and I had two professors that I was displeased with, but for the years I attended, the great professors out weighed the two bad experiences!! I recommend keeping your goals posted where you can see them everyday. My personal muse was my daughters. I wanted to show them that they can go to college and graduate, no matter what life brings them. I went through being laid off to homeless. I wanted to quit, but when I looked at my girls faces, there was no why I was going to quit. There has to be a goal that drives you to the finish line! Finally, I suggest that you interact with your professors to cross the finish line and obtain your degree. The interaction I had with my professor, during my capstone,helped me finish. She had a good tone, and I felt her sincerity. She corrected my errors with care and complimented my successes. More importantly, you have to believe in yourself and you will win, because you are a master of knowledge!!
Welcome to Capella University
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Welcome to Capella University. Choosing Capella University is a wise choice because of their excellent concentrations in learning at the Masters, PhD, and Doctorate degree levels of education. Learning about Capella University was through a Mentor's experience while completing my undergraduate studies. Academic planing at Capella University, has proven to be beneficial throughout numerous changes and challenges. Capella has a distinguished blackboard and open door approach in education, when attaining individual degree goal requirements and completion. With more than twenty years as an online learning institution, Capella University has flexible paths to offer diverse learners academic success.
Follow your dreams with endurance
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If you are deciding to continue or embark upon furthering your education, I would highly recommend attending Capella University. This adult learner investigated many online schools before choosing Capella University as a way to progress forward in a graduate program in Human Services / Counseling. The professors and instructors are willing to work with adult learners as they know of the various "hats" of life students wear to accomplish family and educational goals. The academic advising teams are always responsive and respectful when answering questions and making suggestive comments about program completion. What I found most encouraging about being part of Capella University team as an adult student is their many support systems to assist learners to achieve their passions of gaining quality education for advancement and participation in making a positive difference in the world.
Great Program at Capella University!
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The MS in School Counseling program at Capella University is stellar! The professors are competent in their field and are not only willing to help, but also engage in class discussions and provide feedback on assignments. The program format lends itself to student success and true, deeper learning. The technical side of Capella University is also excellent with ease of access and technical support; students never have to worry about the website or mobile app being down. The university library is loaded with an incredible amount of resources and every search yields ample resources for any subject of research. The course materials at Capella University are always easy to use, search, and are always available to use in plenty of time for the first assignment. Having attended several schools, both on campus and online, I can say with confidence and enthusiasm that the programs at Capella University are the BEST out there! I am proud to call myself a Capella University student and cannot wait to call myself an alumni!!!
Happy Doctoral Student
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Capella has restored by faith in believing I am able to succeed. No matter the journey or the task, instructors are valuable to my learning abilities. I have been able to go beyond my expectations and continue to climb the latter. Capella University has set the bar high for my Counseling Education specialization. I truly believe I am better at processing information, writing, and research due to my time at Capella.
My Journey
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My journey has been great and I've learned a great deal alone the way. One thing Capella has given me as a learner is the confidence to move forward in my career as a professional. Choosing Capella was the best decision I made to continue my educational journey.
Capella Opens Doors
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After an attempt at a traditional degree years previous, Capella Faculty opened doors for me to obtain my PhD. The Faculty were present and very informative to guide me to success. In the previous attempt, I was left to guess and flounder with no guidance and little learning.
My PhD Journey
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I began my journey in graduate school with a traditional brick and mortar environment. The challenges of work and school's conflicting schedules left no choice but to move to a distance education environment. After the initial learning curve, I can honestly say that Capella has not only changed my career but also my life. I have been able to use the knowledge that I have learned at Capella in my current position and have also used it to seek even greater opportunities. I am a proud Capella learner and I take that very seriously.
Why I Chose Capella for an EdD
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When I became ready to embark upon a doctoral degree, my research began by speaking to colleagues in various online programs at varying institutions. After determining an online experience was best for me, researching program offerings was the next step, including typical completion times, and finally, online college rankings were reviewed. At the time (2011), Capella University was in the top 5 nationally and once I considered the Doctor of Education Program and factors therein, it became an easy choice. As well, Capella had, and continues to have, impressive statistics for graduates' promotions, which I found very appealing.
Re-introduction To Learning, My Capella Experience Part 1
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My experience with deciding on which online institute to attend was a very detailed one. I had a checklist of items that I needed answers to: from program of interest, accreditation, tuition cost, making sure there would be enough monies available to complete the program (which was dependent in part to the number of transfer credits Capella would accept), to the customer service encounters. Capella made my experience and decision really easy. Starting over after a 16 year absence can be daunting, but my Admission Counselor assured me every step of the way. He did everything he said he would do and even followed up with me after my classes had started. That for me was PRICELESS! My academic advisor, Instructors, Teaching Assistants have all made this transition back to fulfilling my educational dream an amazing reality. The online training before classes started enabled me to become familiar with online learning and moving around in course rooms. I am still getting adjusted to not having hardback books (old school, lol), but even that need has been dwindling away! I am now in my third quarter here and I am excited about what the future holds for me as a Capella University Graduate.... hmmm, I love the sound of that! I am really happy and satisfied with my experience and learning at Capella University! Tonya E. McKoy
Review of Capella- Choosing Capella for a Degree
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Capella University is a great online University because it is accredited and affordable, as well as has teachers that respond quickly and promptly to any issue that could present itself in relation to technological or personal problems. No matter the case, the highly trained and educated staff are always there to lend a helping hand. The school offers E-book solutions as well as books bundled so that students can save money, and even gives their students scholarships for good grades as well as a variety of variables. In researching Capella a prospective student can find that their tuition is fair, financial aide is offered, Flex path can be taken so that classes fit better into your schedule, it is accredited, and its programs not only offer the right education material, but the internships and on site fieldwork that has to be done for certain programs is offered easily and efficiently through the school with no added stressors. By doing your own personal research on Capella you can see how it is comparable to other institutions, as well as why it goes beyond expectations in areas like tuition rates, scholarships, on site work opportunities, etc. In all honesty, I enjoy my education at Capella as well as the added benefits and would suggest for anyone to apply so that they can appreciate and learn about the same factors I mentioned above.
April
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I currently have a 4.0 GPA and I couldn't have done it without the help of excellent teachers and staff at Capella University. I have really enjoyed the classes and feel that it will enrich my experience as a counselor and help me further myself in my career choice. I would recommend this University to anybody.
Challenging and Rewarding
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I am currently a PhD Learner in the School of Business and Technology, Business Management (Leadership Emphasis) in the last quarter of my first year. The work is real, the expectations are high, and the reward for your efforts is the internal change that you make happen. 100% of what you get out of this program, and others like it, depends on what you put into it. With that being said, the professors I have had up to this point have been tremendous guides with a true passion for teaching adult students. To them you are not just a student, you are a potential future peer in the academic world. The transformation from graduate student to PhD is long and challenging; the path to PhD is not for everyone and, as the zen hot dog vendor told his customer, "Change must come from within." So far, though, I am enjoying the transformation. Why not come join me?
My Experience with Capella University
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I chose an online degree because I am a married woman with three children. Capella is known to be a respected school and provides quality education. My experience was priceless. I felt supported and empowered for seven years. Despite life'so changes, Capella faculty were consistent in my life and guided me through my academic changes. I am so grateful to Capella facultyou. From day one, I NEVER regretted my decision to attend this university.
Great Experiene
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Capella, is a good school. The work is not easy but the instructors work with you. Many people says it is more expensive then the other schools but to me it is worth every penny. I am currently taking a statistic class and I fear this course but I have learned that I am not the only one. What is great is that Capella understands that many fear this course so they set up a week study group to assist us is completing our assignments and to get a better understanding. The instructors are there to help you to be successful.
Masters program
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For me, Capella was the best choice. The Masters program prepared me for the field, to the point I am now co-writing books for a program in Africa. The staff assured my progression through their commitment to helping me stay on track and to meet my goals along the way.
I Made the Right Decision
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It took a lot of research in order to decide what college I'd like to attend and I am happy that I chose Capella. Overall, my decision was based on how long it would take to obtain my degree, the amount of money it would cost to and I wanted to attend a school where myself as an older student didn't have to be bothered with a lot of children. Choosing to achieve my degree online at Capella was a great decision. Because it was my first time, I was so afraid of taking online classes but the staff at Capella was so helpful. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed but there is so much interactive material inside the classroom, that I always manage to figure things out on my own. This surprises me because I have always felt that I was the student who had to have an physical instructor there in order for me to learn- especially because I ask a lot of questions, but Capella makes everything so easy to figure out on your own. I tell everyone I know who is thinking about going back to school and who feel overwhelmed with taking online classes that if they choose Capella, they won't go wrong.
CAPELLA- ROAD TO YOUR IDEAL DEGREE
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Juggling between a full time job and two young kids is difficult enough, add to this a passion for learning! Definitely not an easy task, the mind ponders over a million questions and doubts plague your judgement. After going through a series of counseling and advice I opted for an online degree. I needed one which would fit my crazy schedule and allow me the flexibility to give my little ones the love and attention they needed. Another pivotal criterion was to let me choose the path I wanted to pursue. Having been in the medical field for almost fifteen years, there is no better field I would rather be in. A casual conversation with a coworker prompted me to give Capella a call and rest is history. Here I am, almost at the end of my journey and I could not have chosen a better university to make my dreams a reality. From the initial advice regarding options and transfer of credits to continuous financial and academic guidance, the counselors at Capella have been there for me at every step of the way. I am so grateful that I decided to give Capella a chance and there is not one thing I regret. I have never been so confident and grounded about my career and cannot wait to see what the future unfolds. Thank you Capella !
Exceptional Learning
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When I decided to go back to school, the research of which school to attend was daunting. After much deliberation with different schools and online research, I made the decision to attend Capella University. I requested information which was prompt and was followed by a no hassle, stress-free phone consultation. The individual I worked with answer many of my questions around accreditation status, financial aid, student loans, as well as helping evaluate my transfer credits from a community college. Each step of the way the team was friendly, helpful, and ensured that I was successful (for the first year you have a personal advisor that holds your hand if needed). Every single instructor I had was dedicated to my success. Offering faculty expectations early on, grading scales, when assignments and discussions would be due, as well contact information made for a great learning environment. Toward the end of my coursework many books were going electronic (ebooks) and although I am comfortable with using those types of documents, the software was a bit slow and, at times, a challenge to use (in all fairness this could have been the tablet I was using which was a few years old). The knowledge I gained was valuable and relative to my field (I have over 18 years in the IT field from PC to Network Technicians) and feel that the degree awarded corresponds to real world acceptance and relevance. My advice is to do your research, see how the school fits with your learning style and other personal commitments, and then take the plunge.
Choosing Capella
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I made the best choice when I chose Capella to pursue a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management. However, Capella was not my first choice. Being from Louisiana, my first choice was an in-state institution that many of my professors and colleagues had attended, and had success factors with. Unfortunately, for me, it was not the same. After my first semester, I knew it was not the place for me. In the meantime, I had networked with an Assistant Principal and a Curriculum Coordinator in which had received degrees from Capella; one a Masters in Educational Leadership and the other a Doctor of Education. Both told me how successful they were, how much the enjoyed both the University and their programs, as well as the support they received. I decided to give it a shot. Before then, no one really could read into me or understand the passion I had. I gave Capella a phone call and talked to an enrollment counselor. I told them that I wanted to inquire about their Doctoral programs in Education, and that I had been referred. They were excited to know that an alumni had referred me. What impressed me the most was that without trying to tell me what I needed to do, the enrollment counselor asked me to tell them a little about myself, as well as what I was interested in. After doing such, she then recommended that according to what I had told her, the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management seemed to be the degree I would be most interested in. With that, I made the decision to give it a go and enrolled. Because of the recommendation, I did not even have to pay an application fee. Enrollment was easy and I was well on my way. Being into my sixth semester, I do not regret any of it and am pleased with the my program, my instructors, and the support I have had all along the way. The abundance of resources that Capella provides for its learners is unreal. I would recommend Capella to anyone!
Decision was obvious
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Courses for MBA program exceed programming from other schools. Flexpath program aligns with business objectives to receive competent graduate-level performance. Each paper prepared takes a firm position about a topic, supported by relevant and timely printed resources. Professors' comments and mentoring of each paper prepares you to apply the concepts in life upon completion of each paper. The competency you develop will last many years into the future; you cannot ask for more value from a university. Tuition is affordable, facilitating payoff within 12-24 months.
It takes work
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I have read many negative comments on Capella. I can see that having a life issue can cause a disturbance in how you can attend your classes or actually do your work. Most believe that the school has to accommodate this, they don't. If you were in a brick n mortar, it would be the same.. Originally I had attended Kaplen University and through some mistake of mine and their stupidity I had changed to Capella. Lets say I was dropped for having a 3.0 due to "completion" rate. I had a bad 2 semesters which was not the schools fault, and after I petitioned to be re-enrolled they gave me the okay but only if I got a 4.0 in that semester. In the higher level classes A's are harder as the professors grade with much more scrutiny. I could have done it but if it was any other student they would not have said the same thing. I digress. Currently I am enrolled in Flex path. I thought this would be easy but boy was I absolutely wrong. This program, as with all online programs, takes self discipline. If you don't take the time and put effort into it, you will not pass and this is not the program for you. Unlike brick n mortar schools where you take test based off of memorizing facts, you actually have to take those facts and apply them to a real life situation. I believe this is where you find most of the negative comments. It was not as easy as they thought it would be, you cant just memorize and regurgitate facts. You have to use critical thinking and facts to analyse then assess an issue. If you like a challenge, want to have the most bang for your buck ( unlimited classes in a semester for $2000 is like a dream compared to most every other school online), and be able to use the information, then Capella is for you. If not I would suggest a community college or trade school instead. Those still interested, there are some downsides. The Guided path (which my husband is currently enrolled in)is not as interactive as other schools, so if you want to truly have a discussion or have some over the computer classes, Capella doesn't really offer that. maybe in the future. The Flex path there is really no interaction at all. I would love to see them have weekly seminars by professors which would help at least learn some of the concepts (accounting ugh) to help take that information.
Great Experience
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After reading so many reviews, I can see that many complain about issues that were probably due to their own problems/situations (not trying to fault people). You have to put in the work to get the grade. Online classes ARE NOT EASIER than brick and mortar, and I think that is what people see as "inferior courses" or thinking it would be a cake walk. I was able to transfer some of my course work from a community college and worked on the rest in 2 years (take anywhere from 9 to 15 units per term) while working full time in an IT position at a college district. It was hard. Many late nights, giving up social activities that interfered with my studying, research, and projects, but it was necessary. I graduated with highest honors in Dec of 2016 (4.0 although I almost missed it because of a challenging class the last term) and can say that if you apply yourself, do what is required, and not complain about how hard or unfair the work is, anyone can achieve their dreams! Good luck to all of you!
Liars
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I was enrolled into the DNP program for one quarter and a few weeks of the second quarter. I was told I would get a scholarship and I took out a financial aid loan. I was billed 2,600 for the first quarter. I never saw my scholarship applied. I was not told it did not take effect until the second semester. Also I was asked by one of your enrollment counselors if I could use my 2nd quarter refund to pay for the first quarter. I was not told why but I agreed as long as I wouldn't owe a balance. I got turned over to collections for 4,596. Because transferring funds across aid years is not permissible and I was not told that. Bridget Rewitzwr was the person whom I spoke to about this and I have a copy of the original email. Yes I withdrew from the college during my second quarter. I was not active in the course due to having surgery moving states changing jobs and a major health crisis with my parents and got removed for inactivity. I was expecting a $900 or so withdrawal pay back but not this. I have no way of paying this and now my credit is ruined because I was trying to better my life. Your staff is ill informed and misinforms it's students. I will never recommend your program to anyone. If I had known that my scholarship didn't activate until the second quarter I never would have enrolled in the first place. Poor communication. Worst university I ever attended! I will be sure to make this as public as I can!!! Thank you all for a waste of my time and for destroying my credit. I was enrolled under false pretenses!
Capella University = SCAM! THIEVES! Its CEO will be next @ Congressional hearing
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What's the wording I see on here, "teachers"? Really? CAPELLA UNIVERSITY is next on the government's chopping block! CAPELLA, its faculty & administration are CROOKS, and no better than University of Phoenix, Clinton's university, Devry, ANY of the for-profit so-called "universities". All its "leaders", "faculty", CEOs, administration - you name 'em need to appear in front of congress, fined and imprisoned! From a former Capella University PhD “learner” scammed by a crappy curriculum and a "school" that stole $130,000 in Federal School Loans and of course -- the infamous Wells Fargo Bank. Imagine! Capella University = SCAM DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME -OR- YOUR MONEY AT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY!!!!!!TRUST ME!!!!!! I KNOW!!!! I earned 2 masters degrees at brick/mortar school in Miami, Florida - without problems, making excellent grades, and having tremendous academic support from the faculty - even the dean. At Capella - you will not receive any support or communication - UNLESS YOU OWE THEM MONEY. In fact, the even enroll you in the next, upcoming quarter when you haven't even completed 6 weeks of your present Capella course. After EIGHT years of earning my Ph.D. at Capella, I was constantly mislead, communication/answers to my questions and concerns would take WEEKS for the academic advisor and my mentor. My mentor all of a sudden "disappeared", then I was assigned another mentor - having to practically START ALL OVER my dissertation phase/requirements! Capella then later introduced the SMR (Scientific Merit Review) - a new process to students, event though they (students) wear near completion of the dissertation phase or half-way there. The SMR phase was brutal - taking nearly TWO years to complete (PASS!), It did "pass" with 3 faculty members, but low a behold - they too disappeared and I had to START ALL OVER!!!! The new faculty advisor denied ("failed") my PhD proposal - even though I had "passed" and was already preparing for DATA COLLECTION and already in the writing phases of Chapter 4 & 5. Chapters 1, 2 & 3 were approved, written & completed. But - when this SMR was introduced, conveniently and to serve the financial interest (gain) of Capella, I was told I had to go backwards and re-write Chapter 1, 2 & 3. Well at this point, I already had my Ph.D. proposal approved, my research topic, data methods, etc - ALL APPROVED. In fact, I already collected all of my data and was in the data analysis phase - which positioned me to be near completion of my Ph.D. within a projected six (6) months. Again - another setback. Then, it GETS BETTER (or I should say [much] WORSE!). My THIRD assigned mentor up and quit mid-class, leaving me and many other doctoral learners stranded. I was ready to complete my Ph.D. but my third mentor and Capella faculty/administration led me on and were trying to penalize ME for this "professor" (if that's what I would call anyone associated being an educator at this university), told me I was late to re-enroll in my current class. This made no sense!!! Why did I have to re-enroll in a course that was actively ongoing and in week 6?!? Obviously this was for finances and to adhere to what I am assuming some sort of educational, legal standard. I was assigned ANOTHER mentor who had NO CLUE above my dissertation's topic, nor where I was (NEAR COMPLETION) of my Ph.D. ALL MY WORK WAS DONE! ALL MY DATA COLLECTION! ALL MY DATA ANALYSIS! I WAS DONE! Done with my paper and done with this university - a school that STOLE over $90,000 from me in government-assisted student $. Every quarter I was harassed for $4,200 in tuition! IN FACT, when I first enrolled with Capella to earn my Ph.D. ( ~ mid-2000s), Capella students did not have to pay $4,200/quarter. I believe the tuition once in the dissertation phase was ~ $1,200. They switch rules on you, leave you in the dark. Change rules of the game as they see fit; in fact, in the beginning of its doctoral education, the “university” didn’t even provide a graduate student’s handbook. The “university” misleads & lies. The only time you will get a response is if you owe them money! And, many occurrences transpired where I posed urgent questions regarding my dissertation – only to receive a vague response, and on many occasions, even having me wait an entire quarter for a response, while in the meantime I am “on hold”, paying $4,200 waiting. This university is NOT WORTH $4,200/quarter! AT ALL! Even if they were just issuing Ph.D.s without your having to complete ANY work - CAPELLA UNIVERSITY IS NOT WORTH YOUR TIME OR YOUR MONEY. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY HERE! THEY ARE A SCAM! Stay away! FILE YOUR COMPLAINT AGAINST CAPELLA UNIVERSITY (on this website, type in “Capella Education” in the required search field in their “complaint section”: http://shareholdersfoundation.com Also, file with the BBB @: https://www.bbb.org/minnesota/business-reviews/schools-academic-colleges-and-universities/capella-university-in-minneapolis-mn-11003265/reviews-and-complaints University of Phoenix students get relief from student loans following federal government investigation: http://aidingstudents.com/student-loans/breaking-news-university-of-phoenix-students-get-relief-from-student-loans-following-federal-government-investigation/ University of Phoenix owner gets out as 50,500 students flee: http://money.cnn.com/2016/02/08/pf/college/university-of-phoenix-online-sold/
Ph.D. In Psychology---Educational Psychology
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Capella University changed my life! The Graduate Education received at Capella University allowed me to qualify for State License to practice in California. I have also secured teaching positions with Community Colleges, and Accredited Universities. In addition, I APA Post-Doctoral Training have recognized Capella University's superior curriculum. Other friends that graduated with me are Practicing Psychology in Private Practice in the following states: Washington, California, and Arizona. Salary increased was present prior to graduation, but it is up to the individual to make the degree work them. Good luck to all of you pursuing ed to a higher level.
Master in Clinical Psychology
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I completed my MS in Clinical Psychology at Capella University and am currently pursuing my Psy D for Clinical Psychology through them. I found the programming to be more rewarding than sitting in a class room and have someone regurgitate something from a text book. Having the requirement to find articles that are scholarly to write posts on has only assisted me in strengthening my ability to research for information. I obtained a practicum with the Department of Corrections and have since been hired on and get payed well for what I do. If I were to have a criticism, the college should make more of an effort at developing sites where students can apply for practicums and internships instead of telling students "You're on your own to find a site". Yes, the books are expensive IF you go through their book store. I chose to purchase elsewhere due to the ridiculous costs at their book store. I would recommend, and have recommend, Capella to others for furthering their education, especially non-traditional students.
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling Student Perspective
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I am in the marriage and family therapy/counseling program and let me say that when it comes to finding fieldwork the university does a HORRIBLE job in assisting finding a place for students. If you reach out to them for help you will always be refer back to modules and resources on the websites. They have a fieldwork resource tool where it contains lists of places that you can try to do your fieldwork, but when i used it most of those places say they dont accept or offer internship opportunities. I had have some great classes and professors in the past but my whole complaint is the way they go about not helping students find places for internship and charge you a bundle if you drop a course.
Ed.D Doctorate of Education - you get what you put into it
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I started my Ed.D with a focus on Adult Ed in January, and so far so good. I have found that if you keep on top of assignments, and manage your time appropriately, you're golden. On the other hand, I have seen students drop off from the roster who I previously noticed during discussions were sorely lacking in writing and analysis skills, not to mention the basic skill of doing what the instructions tell you to do. I suspect that is what happened to many of the negative reviewers on this site (although certainly not all). The professors are pretty decent, although like any school they have their pluses and minuses. A lot of busy work early on and catering to the lowest common denominator, but as I said, that LCD has already started disappearing from classes and I am seeing rigor increase accordingly. I am a self-pay, so I can't comment on the student loan process or financial aid. They are a regionally accredited school so I have already been able to apply credits earned at Capella toward salary advancement at my work.
Run when you see the name Capella, If I could give a -10 rating I would
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I would not recommend Capella University to anyone. I completed my Masters at Capella and than was admitted into the Ph.D program. The program has 3 residencies that amount to a whole lot of just sitting in front of a computer for 3 days for each residency. They are supposed to prepare students for the comprehensive exam and dissertation, however the truth of the matter is that the residencies do nothing. Also Capella likes to change things at the last second without telling students. One such change they made was how they grade the comprehensive exam, they changed it from a point systems to some new system where you have to get proficient or distinguished on all sections and any section that is less than that will cause an automatic fail, however the residency instructors push the 30 point system. When I asked my residency instructor about the change, he said he did not even know of it. After failing comps I decided to transfer out of Capella and go to a school that focus on the students and not on the money. Capella is a for-profit school and they don't care about the students. More and more of my classmates are leaving Capella because they see what Capella really is. Capella is taking students money and not delivering on what they promised the students. Also Capella might be accredited, but the individual programs are not. Also classes at Capella don't transfer to other schools because of this one reason. Capella in my opinion is based on a business model that focuses on providing stockholders the most profits, while providing the students nothing. In my opinion I don't see Capella being around long if they continue to treat students as cattle as Capella only cares about how much money they can make off the students while providing them with little support, and little resources. I would not recommend Capella to anyone. This school only cares about money and not the students.
PhD Psychology Doctoral program (to the cleaners)
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I completed a MS which went rather good having some unstable support. The sale of books is outrageously high in price as compared to a normal college. Once you get into the doctoral program a learners scope becomes a moving target having constant change. I think this is done purbusly to run the clock out. There is no standardization on mentors. If you're unlucky and get acritical mentor your ship will sink. If you think you can read between the lines and not heed these comments, then take your loads and waste your money on a partially accredited college. DO DO IT You will only endup with an "ABD"
Capella University = SCAM
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DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME -OR- YOUR MONEY AT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY!!!!!!TRUST ME!!!!!! I KNOW!!!! I earned 2 masters degrees at brick/mortar school in Miami, Florida - without problems, making excellent grades, and having tremendous academic support from the faculty - even the dean. At Capella - you will not receive any support or communication - UNLESS YOU OWE THEM MONEY. In fact, the even enroll you in the next, upcoming quarter when you haven't even completed 6 weeks of your present Capella course. After EIGHT years of earning my Ph.D. at Capella, I was constantly mislead, communication/answers to my questions and concerns would take WEEKS for the academic advisor (MICHAEL) and my mentor (DR. STIKA). My mentor all of a sudden "disappeared", then I was assigned another mentor - having to practically START ALL OVER my dissertation phase/requirements! Capella then later introduced the SMR (Scientific Merit Review) - a new process to students, event though they (students) wear near completion of the dissertation phase or half-way there. The SMR phase was brutal - taking nearly TWO years to complete (PASS!), It did "pass" with 3 faculty members, but low a behold - they too disappeared and I had to START ALL OVER!!!! The new faculty advisor (Dr. Disch) denied ("failed") my PhD proposal - even though I had "passed" and was already preparing for DATA COLLECTION and already in the writing phases of Chapter 4 & 5. Chapters 1, 2 & 3 were approved, written & completed. But - when this SMR was introduced, conveniently and to serve the financial interest (gain) of Capella, I was told I had to go backwards and re-write Chapter 1, 2 & 3. Well at this point, I already had my Ph.D. proposal approved, my research topic, data methods, etc - ALL APPROVED. In fact, I already collected all of my data and was in the data analysis phase - which positioned me to be near completion of my Ph.D. within a projected six (6) months. Again - another setback. Then, it GETS BETTER (or I should say [much] WORSE!). Dr. Antunez (my THIRD assigned mentor) up and quit mid-class, leaving me and many other doctoral learners stranded. I was ready to complete my Ph.D. but Dr. Antunez and Capella faculty/administration led me on and were trying to penalize ME for this "professor" (if that's what I would call anyone associated being an educator at this university), told me I was late to re-enroll in my current class. This made no sense!!! Why did I have to re-enroll in a course that was actively ongoing and in week 6?!? Obviously this was for finances and to adhere to what I am assuming some sort of educational, legal standard. I was assigned ANOTHER mentor who had NO CLUE above my dissertation's topic, nor where I was (NEAR COMPLETION) of my Ph.D. ALL MY WORK WAS DONE! ALL MY DATA COLLECTION! ALL MY DATA ANALYSIS! I WAS DONE! Done with my paper and done with this university - a school that STOLE over $90,000 from me in government-assisted student $. Every quarter I was harassed for $4,200 in tuition! IN FACT, when I first enrolled with Capella to earn my Ph.D. ( ~ mid-2000s), Capella students did not have to pay $4,200/quarter. I believe the tuition once in the dissertation phase was ~ $1,200. They switch rules on you, leave you in the dark. Change rules of the game as they see fit; in fact, in the beginning of its doctoral education, the “university” didn’t even provide a graduate student’s handbook. The “university” misleads & lies. The only time you will get a response is if you owe them money! And, many occurrences transpired where I posed urgent questions regarding my dissertation – only to receive a vague response, and on many occasions, even having me wait an entire quarter for a response, while in the meantime I am “on hold”, paying $4,200 waiting. This university is NOT WORTH $4,200/quarter! AT ALL! Even if they were just issuing Ph.D.s without your having to complete ANY work - CAPELLA UNIVERSITY IS NOT WORTH YOUR TIME OR YOUR MONEY. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY HERE! THEY ARE A SCAM! Stay away!
Academic advising provides pot assistance
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My experience with my program was fine...minor issues with timely feedback, but overall fine. The support or lack thereof that I received from academic advising was poor. After being enrolled in the wrong course I spent several weeks in 2 sections of the same course. Multiple conversation with 'my' advisor were unproductive and unprofessional. I contact the advising supervisor and was told that a teleconference was required, requiring me to take time off work to submit to his schedule. During the discussion I was told that it was my fault that I had been enrolled incorrectly and that he did not believe there was any unprofessionalism im her lack of responses. When I asked who his supervisor was because I wasn't being satisfied with his response or customer service skills I was told there was no one else that he was the advising supervisor. They entire experience was incredible disappointing. I truly expected to be treated with professionals when dealing with this 'support' team but was met with hostility, dishonesty, and incompetence. I have contacted admissions to get the information that advising refused to give, but in the mean time have lost 6 weeks of course work time to a error that was made by the school. I would highly recommend on-line learning to many graduate degree students however I would also strongly recommend going sonewhere else. The learner support services within academic advising has significantly missed the mark on assisting student and instead seem to focus on shifting blame. I honestly expected more.
Horrible customer service
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I have to have a graduate date to review, but I did not stay with this college. The class I took when I started my master's was easy. The financial aid office messed up my money situation. They did not tell me, I had to find this out after it was too late. I tried multiple times to get it straightened out, and spent countless hours on the phone with different departments. No help. Finally, I quit and enrolled in a normal school with a great support system. I am left owing them money for their mistake and they will not take any responsibility. They want their money (side note: the course I am paying for is not accepted by any other university so it means nothing) and that is that. They sent me a bill, I made a small payment but they sent me to collections anyway. I asked how they can, legally, send someone to collections who is paying and they said the bill was to be paid in full and that I had to set up a formal payment plan with them, but I didn't....no one ever told me that. The business office has very rude people that do not care about the student. I would NEVER recommend Capella for this reason. When the financial aid office doesn't understand what they are doing, it can set you up for financial ruin. And when the university doesn't care about you, except for your money, that is a tragedy.
Limited Value
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Well, I only took one class out of curiosity...I was eventually steered away from friends and family. The class was well organized and interesting..but very easy. I ended up at my state university and am very glad I did not go this route. Capella is a business, not a university. No one in education respects a degree from there...so beware. Most educated people think its a joke. Once I realized this, I got out. I was the first in my family to go to college....as are many Capella students. So, I just didn't know how it all worked. As for the graduate programs...I have no idea why anyone would get a masters or PHd from here. Just my opinion. Its rep might change...but not likely.
Capella MS Graduate 2016
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I have just completed my MS Degree in Human Behavior. I had a wonderful experience at Capella. The work load was very challenging. I have attended a traditional college for my associate, and BA degree so I can honestly say that I have had the experience of both types of colleges. I will say that if you are not the type that has a problem with time management, this may not be the school for you. I had to learn how to pace myself, because of working a full time job while attending. I know my limit so therefore I took one class at a time, in the graduate program 4 hours is part time. I attended every quarter for the three year period and had no problems with registration or with financial aid. A friend of mine who is also a MS graduate of Capella is the one who told me about Capella. I was so impressed that I told a co-worker, and she enrolled and will graduate in June 2016. Neither of us had any problems with our instructors. They all held Phd degrees and everyone of them was most helpful. They graded and responded to questions in a timely manner. I once had to call for technical assistance and they helped me with my problem. My enrollment counselor called and checked on my progress the first year, and told me that if I ever had a problem do not hesitate to call. When it was time for me to take my elective classes I called and was emailed a four page list of classes that I could choose from. I chose, called back and was registered for those classes and my final class. I am sorry for any of you who have had a negative experience, but I really enjoyed my experience at Capella, and I made many friends who were also in class with me from the beginning and we all graduated together March 2016. If you are looking for an online school that is going to challenge you, this school is for you. Thank you Capella!!!!
Excellent Education
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I've seen several bad reviews, and I must admit I'm a bit surprised. I earned both my BS and MBA with Capella, and am now enrolled in my Doctorate of Business Administration. The professors have been top notch, especially in the graduate and post graduate courses. Even more, they are usually well rounded in a career that helps bring a touch of the real world to the material. I've referred several students because I believe the quality of the education is quite high. That being said, it's a lot of work. If you're not willing to put in a lot of time, and really work, you won't make it through. If you lack self-motivation or need the face-to-face interaction of a traditional school, the Capella environment may not work for you. However, they have excellent support staff that have always been available when I needed them. I couldn't be happier with my choice to attend Capella.
FLEXPATH MBA - EXCELLENT!
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The FlexPath MBA program is for those who have a desire to put practical business knowledge to the test to see how it applies in an "MBA World". This program is designed in a self-paced format that allows you to excel based on your own capabilities. There are no timed courses; books to read; or, participatory events. It's just you and your work, evaluated independent of others. The beauty is the cost of the program is in your control based on what you can accomplish in a quarter. If you are excellent at accounting, then get it done quickly so you can spend time in areas that may not be your strength. I highly recommend this program for someone who is driven, disciplined and takes initiative. Every course is a set of problems that must be solved, very similar to the real world.
complaint
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I was going to attended Capella University. I went online and register for a class they sign me up for . I was not able to get on line so the admission office told me to email the teacher. It took the teacher a couple of days to email me back. By that time the classes had started. Capella want me to pay for a class that I never took. They are a RIP OFF. DON'T GO HERE.
Self Directed Learning and Success
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Any online degree program can be unfairly scrutinized and criticized by anyone. this program challenged every ounce of brain I had and I put the effort in to get the A's I received. The most important and life changing part is the knowledge derived from this program. It is not the letters that have changed my life but what I have learned about the world and myself. I am proficient in business and have been promoted not because of this degree but because of knowledge intelligence and applicability. I am a proud 2015 Capella University Graduate and this is my second masters. I attended an institution prior to this that did not challenge me intellectually as Capella. You get in what you put in, and you can used everything learned to not only grow professionally, but personally.
Good Education vs The Source of Complaints
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I have read many of the reviews online and I disagree with most. Yes Capella University is expensive, I believe this is a price you pay for the convenience of on-line learning. I am attending (since 6/2009) Capella University for a PhD in Counseling Studies. I have completed all course work with a 4.0 GPA. I completed and passed my Comprehensive Exams, I submitted my SMR within 1 year. In the time I have been attending Capella, I have experienced spine surgery, 3 moves (the second one to another state 1000 miles away), started up my own business which is very successful, have the experience of coping with a mother with dementia, and I myself suffer with several other illnesses (rheumatoid arthritis being one). I am a go getter and I always persevere. I have not allowed these issues to interfere with my education- any more than I would have in a brick and Mortar (which I 've also attended- 3 schools for 3 other degrees). I am currently in the dissertation review stage. My mentor has approved my dissertation (which I have been writing since May 2012) and it is currently with my committee for their approval. I am anticipating graduating in March 2016. I believe that the education I have received at Capella far exceeds any other school program I have attended (Adelphi University, St. Joseph's College, and Briarcliffe College). If you are a self-starter and motivated you will do well at this University. I paid a lot of money for my education and I am interested in getting my money's worth which requires hard work. If a PhD was an easy education than everyone would have one. It is not easy- it is worth it however. I have my regrets about my PhD but they have nothing to do with the institution itself and more to do with my choice of programs. I would and have recommended Capella University to others- they are CACREP accredited and they employ educators with specialized education in their field of study. In my opinion, before I would consider all the negative comments written in this post, I would take into consideration what their central complaints are (the ability to handle life's problems while engaging in school activities), they really are not about the quality of the schools education process- which in my opinion exceeds many others.
Suppression of Africans and related Research
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Universities which discriminate Africans because they are trying to choose their destiny is a violation of human rights and freedom as it goes. Capella is unquestionably one of those universities and should be closed because they don't help students learn anything of their choice if they are Africans.
Prior PhD learner
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I'm unhappy that I chose an institution that when it comes down to passing vs not-passing the comprehensive, you only get two attempts and then you are basically KICKED out of the program. Why only two attempts? Why not mandatory remedial classes after the 2nd attempt? Money wasted and transferred to a program that is not wanted. Will not refer anyone :(
Independant Study
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I am a MS student at Capella one course away from graduation with and undergraduate degree from a brick and mortar college in Ohio. There are some valid criticisms of Capella here that I would like to put into perspective. Financial aid- Capella makes it very easy to get a loan, and if you can possibly pay for the courses on your own then simply make the payments back to your loan with the balances. All the complaining about them being nonresponsive is valid, but I went through the exact same thing at my undergraduate college in Ohio, with the university sometimes not getting back to me fora week or more during course registration. The loan is just like a credit card, if you don’t have the self-discipline to manage your own money, give the responsibility to someone who can (parent relative guardian etc.). College is expensive, finish it up, or start making payments now, but stop complaining to everyone on the blog. Easy courses- Capella is a business, anyone who only took the opening salvo of courses didn’t get much of an education. Just like at traditional schools the first several courses are designed to get you into the next round. The courses get harder, the workload increases to the point where you will be asking yourself what the heck you were thinking when you started the process, and the professors grade much harder. If you cannot solve problems by finding solutions on your own, using the online tools they provide, then please go torture a professor face to face someplace else. This is independent study, if you are not self-motivated, then do yourself a huge favor, and find another college. If you do not you may become one of the unhappy posters listed in this blog. Licensing and Accreditation- Capella is regionally accredited that means they are not a diploma mill. I had the luxury of working with folks who graduated from unaccredited universities. I can verify that you will do more work at Capella in a one week session, than those individuals did for an entire course at unaccredited colleges. Self-study is heavy reading and heavy writing. If you don’t like to write and are not willing to learn how, then Capella is not for you. Next do your research! If the degree you are seeking is not eligible for the license that you are trying to obtain (this happens a lot in my field) then move along to a university who offers the program you need, Capella is not going to change their curriculum just for you. Employment- The job market is still horrible, nobody is going to hire you just because you obtained a graduate degree. More people have graduate educations now, and the value of the education has declined simply because more people have them. Online degrees in general are for people working in their occupation already who just need the piece of paper to advance. Career changes are iffy, especially when you went to college online and have zero experience in the field that you are applying for. The world is full of online degree graduates running successful businesses who hire people with online degrees. Don’t let the elitists snobs complaining about “for profit” universities get you down. They only hire their frat brothers and sisters anyway. Cheating and plagiarism- This one is valid criticism I read on this board. If you are the first one to post on the weekly discussion, all the other people in the course can see your references with page numbers, and possibly cut and paste. So who cares? If you were sitting at lecture in school, and the jerk who was out parting all night looked over at your textbook to see what page you are on, it would be the same thing. Websites like Citefast.com are awesome and do the same thing for you, and you can actually use your own work. Capella claims that all the discussion boards are checked for plagiarism and they may be, I have no idea. Before you turn in any paper in it must be checked by turnitin.com, and the amount of similar material within parameters. Nobody is plagiarizing their way to a degree at Capella. By the way most people’s citations are formatted incorrectly and the professors can tell who cut and pasted citations, simply by the error in the citation. Do your own work and you don’t have to worry about it.
All classes and colloquium completed but appeal denied
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I went through three years of course work passing all of the classes and completed all three colloquia under the Human Services PHD program. During the comp exams I got really sick with the flu and then was involved in a bad car wreck. I had two chances to complete the exam and could not because of my circumstances. The school denied my appeal and told me that I could not enroll in another phd program there and offered me the Masters in Human Services. I already have a Masters Degree. What I'm I going to do with another one. Don't attend this school and expect sympathy when it comes to life's unexpected. Now all of my dreams and aspirations of having an PHD as well as all of the hard work and travel that was put into the program is in the trash! Its truly a sad situation for me but Capella don't care. In the process of trying to get my credits transferred to another school.
Bad Representation
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RUN! RUN!! RUN!!! Attend this school for two years thought it was going pretty good until I got sick Spring 2014 and had to drop out with good legitimate reasons. They are making me pay for two classes plus other charges and told me that I had no more money through financial aid. Huh!! I have never heard of such a thing. I spoke to an so CALLED ADVISOR she told me she would have to investigate my case. I faxed her all my medical information, she told me that she spoke to the business office and they were going to charge me only a small fee huh!! a small fee my toe nail they are making me pay for two classes I had to drop because of my illness. I would RUN as fast as I could in opposite direction and never look back. I will never, never, never, RECOMMEND THIS SCHOOL OR GIVE IT A GOOD RATING FOR NOTHING IN THIS LIFE AND THE NEXT.
CAPELLA NOT RECOMMENDED
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I went to Capella for 2 semesters, took 4 classes, and I am now almost $7000.00 in student loan debt. My degree was supposed to be Information Technology with a minor in Web Application. I was forced into taking the core classes at the beginning which had nothing to do with what I wanted to learn. The academic adviser fought me every time I tried to take a web application class. I became so discouraged that I ended up dropping out of this university. The university admittance adviser was inadequate at the start. He didn't seem to know a lot about the IT degree programs. Therefore I was steered onto the wrong path in the beginning. He also said I would receive a discount on my classes and I had to contact him about the discount at least 4 times over the course of 2 months. I finally had to take the problem to someone two levels above his head to get it solved. The first core class in the curriculum that I was forced to take was a class on how to write an APA research paper! This class costs $2000.00! Really?!! If you enter college on a junior level and don't know how to write a research paper you need to go back to high school! Even though I made A's in all the classes I took, I can't tell you what I learned. All I did in every class was type research papers and answer questions in the class forums. I finally dropped out after taking Software Architecture which was one of the core classes. The scheduling adviser told me that I had to take this class before I could take any data base classes. This didn't make any sense because all I did in Software Architecture was draw software schematics. I've never even had a software class in my life! We were also supposed to create a game in JavaScript. The instructor was not helpful at all and I could have learned more JavaScript from a library book! I was ecstatic when it finally ended! In August of 2014 I wrote a letter to the president of Capella telling him of my experiences there. He immediately gave the letter to a Senior Academic Associate in Learner Affairs. She emailed me saying she would look into my concerns. I never heard from her again even though I sent another email to her in April of 2015. I would NOT RECOMMEND this college to anyone. I'm in debt now and I've not received any real education in my chosen field.
Questionable Ethics
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I have taken 6 Master level classes towards a degree in public administration from Capella. The university is accredited but the specific degree is not. That being said, an accredited degree from a competitive university is 2-3 times more expensive based on my research of online and brick & mortar schools. Given that I work in the public, government sector, I most likely would not recoup the academic investment from an accredited program. As to the instructors, I had one (1) instructor out of six (6) that called me on the phone and was actually engaged in my learning process for that course, he also graded accurately. All other instructors gave cursory feedback and very liberal grading. Without much effort, I continuously receive 100% on all discussions and papers. With a recent course, I made intentional, obvious errors (never plagiarism though) on the assignments to test my concerns for liberal grading and again received 100% grades. I also put lackluster effort into the discussions, receiving 100%'s. Fellow learners were submitting much better and/or some terrible work (APA style, grammar, content, ect.) I can only surmised that since the sub-par learners did not drop out and continued submitting garbage (yes, garbage, middle school style work, not advanced degree level) that they were getting acceptable grades to continue finishing the course. I actually inquired with some of my fellow learners that consistently submitted sub-par work and they repeatedly indicated getting excellent grading. From there, I researched the professor and found they are full of academic accolades, so it would seem they would grade critically. They did not. I am by no means a brilliant, academically inclined adult learner, so it's a bit perplexing that I can get straight 4.0/A grades. As to the financial aid office, they are all about you when your getting student loans but when you alter from the student loan funding stream, the financial aid office is less than professional towards you. As to the academic advisors... lets call them academic advertisers instead. Over my 2 years of learning, and my wife's time with Capella for her M.ED, the advisors have little knowledge about courses and your academic plan other than to read the main page of the degree programs offered. For easy A's and easy coursework towards a Master's degree, Capella's got you covered. If you desire more intensive learning, go elsewhere. Capella is clearly a For-Profit institution with very good marketing. Please note I submitted the anonymously to avoid retaliation (legal or academic) from Capella.
For Profit, not for education
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I was a learner at Capella in the MBA program. I took three classes and passed all (with As.) Now some people applaud my "As," but I tell everyone that EVERY STUDENT probably gets As. They are the easiest classes to complete and I feel I learned very little in the 3 classes I completed. When completing my last final paper, I barely put much gusto in it because I knew I’d still get an A. And to prove it, I did it without much work. Sure enough – I received an A. I have transferred to a more distinguished - REAL - school since then that I know will critique and grade appropriately. On another note, I also had issues with their financial aid department. On my third class, soon after the class was finished (and already paid for), I received a bill that I owed $1080. Because I receive partial education reimbursement from my employer, apparently now I owed them. It was never very clear why… even after I asked why this had never happened before. But that isn’t why I left. I left because I was embarrassed to call Capella my school when all they care about is money, not the quality of my education. I almost WISHED to get a B or even a C on an assignment just to have some real assessment of my work. Some people have said that maybe I’m just smarter than I think, but it is not the case in anyway. I have read reviews and have seen others bragging about their 4.0 status, but I should tell them now – don’t be proud. If Capella had a Honor’s system, every student would be on it. I work with two very intelligent men who are at two of the best brick-n-mortar schools in MN and they work incredibly hard to receive their As or even pass the class - up all night and studying every day. Capella doesn’t require this - it is maybe 5 hours a week working on assignments. But if you want an easy education – Capella is the school for you. I certainly was not proud to call Capella my school and I’m so happy I transferred out. If you want online, maybe University of Phoenix would be a better idea. But from now on, every person I talk to about schools will hear about my opinion of Capella. It is an embarrassment to higher education. Some good things about Capella: I don't blame the professors for the grading criteria. I have a feeling this is an institution thing. The Online Library - resources - is very impressive. To find academic resources was very easy and had a large inventory. I liked their iGuide as well. Technology was more than par.
Think Twice
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Although I found the website easy to navigate I did not find the instructors as user friendly. Courses list instructor contact forum yet once submitted in the three courses I completed that only few responded, and when they did it was with read the syllabus, etc... This is my first experience with online learning, and honestly I am not impressed. During my term I had some medical issues and found the institution overall handling of the situation inhumane. Little was done to accommodate the situation yet as business majors and discussions during course work we were learning how to deal with such a situation within the work environment. Finally, academic advising provided misinformation that resulted in adding stress to already stressful situation. If questions asked that can't answer due to lack of knowledge they fall back on to let me explain and repeat themselves. I changed colleges and found it very helpful and actually changed my view of online learning. All I can say is if you also have such an experience don't give up based on your experience with Capella, you can succeed. If you are thinking of enrolling here I would suggest that you do your research and don't base it on feedback provided on website.
Worth Every Penny
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My PhD experience at Capella was worth every penny invested. Due to the open admissions enrollment process, the first couple of classes were not great for student interaction. Many people could not write well enough to succeed. But the faculty never accepted excuses or low-quality work. If you could not do the work, you were out. My professors were national and international leaders in the field of instructional design. Even now, years later, most of them keep in touch with me via FB or LinkedIn, and they seem truly happy to see me successful in a career. When I was writing my dissertation, every member of my committee spent a lot of time trying to help me along and finish as quickly as possible. Any obstacles to a quick finish were my own creation. The degree completion let me quickly to a job with a significant raise over my past teaching experiences. There are always those who try to put down the value of an online degree, but as our numbers continually grow, I have never felt it hurt my chances at success. I was truly a working professional with two jobs and a large family when I decided to pursue a PhD. Capella welcomed me when brick and mortar institutions would have made me choose between work and school. Yes, the tuition was higher at Capella, but i was not forced to teach 100 level classes to slave my way through the process. I focused on study and kept my job. To me, the flexibility was a key to success.
Let's get real here
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I'm continuously amazed at the bimodal distribution of reviews for Capella. Seems like some folks don't really pay attention to simple things like what it takes to be a therapist or a licensed teacher in their state when Capella's website says quite plainly their various degrees may not be useful for licensing in your state but "check with your state agencies for their specific requirements", etc.. Seriously, are we 15 years old here? I graduated from their School of Business and Technology with a Ph.D. in Information Technology Mgmt. in 2011. Most of the faculty are NOT typical college teaching faculty. Most are Ph.D.s who went into the normal workplace and not academia but want to do some teaching on the side. That results in a bit of a wide variance in ability and approach. That's the way of the world in many colleges these days. They rely on very few tenured full-time faculty and load up on part-time adjuncts. I think it also makes the grading a bit easy as well. (Do you give faculty better reviews when they give you a better grade?) Capella also has a pretty open enrollment policy. Did you graduate from an accredited institution at one level lower than your next degree without any major blemishes on your transcript? Then you're in. It makes you wonder whether some folks are cut out for their next degree when you see their course postings early on. Are they exploiting people or giving an under-served population a shot and something many schools wouldn't give them? My bachelors and masters degrees were in engineering and I wound up in IT after several career changes along the way. I was hoping for more technical IT content in my coursework since that wasn't my strong-point, but got "how to do nresearch in..." topics courses, which was what I guess I should have expected out of a doctoral program since everything should be pointed towards your dissertation. I thought the coursework was pretty useful on the whole and had 2 or 3 courses where the instructors were just mailing it in. You are paying some decent coin for tuition at Capella so expecting good value isn't unreasonable. The Comprehensive exam stage was difficult but not unreasonable. I do often wonder if the easier than expected grading gives folks a false impression that the Comp Exams and Dissertation phases are a piece of cake. They aren't. Doing a dissertation with a virtual committee is VERY HARD. You can't just swing by your mentor's office to chat things over and Capella is very picky about making sure research plans meet some some very strict criteria so they won't be perceived as a diploma mill. I'm not sure the faculty who serve on committees absorb changes in school criteria fast enough. An example is that my dissertation broadcast my survey to everyone in a professional group's email list. I was told by my IRB reader that next quarter I would be required to perform a random sample design to get survey respondents. You have to bake in 2 week review times, quarter breaks, etc. into your expectations time-wise which can be very frustrating. They do graduate thousands of students a year, so when folks say "It can't be done. They only want your money and will keep you in the process forever" they usually are stuck on their own perceptions of their dissertation and have a hard time changing it for their committee or school requirements. That being said I have no real complaints about the content of my degree program or the dissertation process other than I wish Capella would have had some organizations to utilize for dissertation research. That's the part where I thought I really had to scramble. But Capella is an online school so there is a bias against that when it comes to hiring for faculty positions. For me, Capella is ACBSP accredited but not AACSB accredited so that limits school I could reasonably expect a good reception to my CV. If you already have a job and want to use it to further yourself in your company, then Capella is a really good school for you. If you think you want to teach at a major university, think again. Being an adjunct at a CC or smaller 4 year college is more in the cards. So think of $20K a year for 5 years. You can get your degree. I think it's a valid and serious degree. But can your recoup your "investment" given the bias against online degrees? Think long and hard about it before starting. Capella obviously thinks they're great and will sign you up if they think you can handle it. What do you expect them to do? I never had anyone lie to me or deceive me about anything and if they ever did they should be held to account, but I never go to nefarious actions when it's more easily explained by incompetence. Bottom line for me is most information you need is on the Capella student center, so take charge of your own education.
Capella- great for those who apply themselves!
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I've read a lot of comments and understandably everyone deserves their own opinion but just like any other educational institution the prospective learner should do their research on the institution so they know exactly what they are "signing up" for. Understandably an online education is not for everyone because you do need to be very self-motivated and an established independent worker but otherwise I had a great experience with this school. It offers a variety of programs and areas of study that are within my field of interest; plus, Capella is accredited by numerous nationally/regionally recognized bodies (but always make sure your program is accredited in the necessary areas). The online learning module itself is difficult at first but is easy to navigate once you understand the basics. The learning tools are up to date and relevant to your area of study. You receive interactions with your classmates during group projects (which are extremely unique considering the vast differences amongst learners i.e. physical location, background, work experiences etc). The professors are mostly those with doctoral degrees and often times very willing to help any student (all are available by phone, personal online conference and email). Lastly, I've read some comments that said you can "copy and paste" other students work and get by with passing grades which is completely false. Any individual work submitted to this institution needs to pass an online national database that identifies to an exact percentage how much a student potentially "stole" work from other submissions therefore verifying that all submitted work is unique and self-created. Overall, if you know what to look for in an advanced educational program and are willing to put in the time and effort to earn the degree then I would definetely recommend Capella Unviveristy. Sincerely, Crystal T. MHA class 2014
Convert no more!
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I don't even know how to rate the university. I used to think people were just crazy not to think that Capella offered a great education. Wow, was I bamboozled or what? I completed my courses with a 4.0 GPA and passed my comprehensive exams on the first round (not the first quarter, literally, I wrote them and passed with superior comments). I changed jobs and had some significant delays in my dissertation progress, which I readily admitted to Capella. I am only human!!!! Now that I am $200K in debt with student loans and can only turn to self funding, I am persona-non-grata. I was denied re-enrollment after taking time off. I asked the reasons for my denial and I am waiting for a response. I personally think, now, that Capella was fine with me when I could receive Federal Financial Aid, but I have run out, and they want nothing to do with me. I would think that somebody who has a 4.0 and a successful academic career to date would be worth investing in (even if it is simply letting me pay them full tuition to finish what I started for goodness sake!) for their graduate record. I guess not. Please go to a brick and mortar school until the Capella's of the world have matured enough. We, apparently, aren't there yet and I have the 2nd mortgage to prove it.
Great University
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Greetings, Thanks Capella University! Being graduate one would say my review would normally be biased. I agree, but in this instance, it is not. I completed the PhD, OM-Leadership; and was so satisfied, I returned and completed Post Bacc-HRM, Post Bacc-MNA; Post Bacc-CJ, and Post Masters-College Education. The only thing that I was reserved on was the APA effort; but in the end, it was one of my strongest points. As a matter of fact, any and all of my writings are distinctly noticeable as having "style". Capella is not responsible for that, but the insistence of the professors surely played an integral role! Returning to school after 21 years of absence, the flexibility of attendance put Capella in that special category of schools - though expensive. But as a previous learner said, if you are looking for an easy way out, Capella is not the place to go; look elsewhere! Regards, Edward E. Smith, PhD
DO NOT GO TO CAPELLA!
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I went to Capella and followed exactly what the degree plan said and I took classes which were horrible I just copied and pasted others work and teachers did not even read the papers or provide any feedback. And if you called the guidance staff they transfer you to voice mails and no one calls you back. DO NOT GO to Capella all they care about is MONEY. I was not allowed to graduate because they said I did not take the classes in the right order and now have 15 classes complete (3.9 GPA) and am not allowed to submit my dissertation. The dissertation is 3 years after you finish the 15 classes then they make you pay for the same class 10 times. DO NOT GO TO CAPELLA!
Great School!
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I have been through many online institutions over the last few years. I made a decision to come back to Capella because I LOVE how their online experience is so much better than the other schools. You can tell they actually have invested in the online platform and videos. I like that they now offer the Flex Path program (core competency) based degrees. I think this will help a lot of people save money and get their degrees quicker. It offers a great curriculum and I like that the classes are 5-10 weeks! I have a very demanding job, so I glad Capella is working for me!
For profit, not for education
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I'm towards the end of an MBA program. I had a couple of good professors, involved in class discussions. Most of them though just grade and have limited involvement. Most claim to be super accessible and give you their cell phone. If you call be ready to give them the course# because they have no idea who you are. They are grading a bunch of courses at the same time while also working on their main job. You are pretty much on your own. If you can handle it, some courses have good textbooks that you can study on your own and work on papers. I ran though into a couple courses without textbooks, just a few irrelevant articles, and zero involvement from the instructor. Paying $2,000 to get nothing in return is grand theft. What do you expect though, it's a for-profit university. They never said they were for-education. Once you're in they get you cornered, you pay till the end just to get the diploma hoping that it will not be worthless.
Master's Program
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I attended Capella for two weeks and was very happy with the experience.The biggest regret was that I was depending on the admission counselor to do their part and they didn't. The reason why I say that is because I paid for my first book and had also completed several assignments and then I get a phone call from the financial aid person telling me that I had to withdraw from the course.I did just that then the next week I received a letter in the mail with a big balance. What I am trying to say is that the school has a lazy administration staff.
Capella!
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I am currently in the PhD program for Human Behavior and although I've come a long way I am saddened by the way I have been treated. In the past I really loved attending this school and even to this day I enjoy the classes and the instructors. The problem is with the Financial Aid department. In my opinion in the past, when after a call was made and their was a customer evaluation their was better customer service. Now I have gone through numerous staff and told a million stories about a refund check that has not come and I get the feeling that they may be a little bias when it come to students who have received assistance for some time. No one wants to be in school forever. Even though I love the Career Placement Department, try to have the tools that are easily accessible to students and also make getting on Workstudy easier. If the money is their provide the opportunity for students. Everybody careers experiences aren't the same. Also, the Counseling Program needs to be revamped in the sense that their should be classes one can take in order to obtain a licensure without having to take a whole other program. This school is making money and needs to be more open to helping and assisting all students in a professional way, particularly people in the PhD program because their is very little financial assistance available unless one qualifies for a scholarship which is next to none, because I have applied for many and no luck. I think this is a good school, but really needs to collaborative more with students in providing better career opportunities, particularly with student assistant positions. Why make it so hard to qualify? It's hard enough in the real work world why make it harder when some one is just trying to get ahead! Thank you
Great school
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I went through the courses fairly quickly and stalled out a bit writing my dissertation. That was my choice and doing. Once I started my dissertation, it went fairly quickly. You get out of anything what you put into it, and this is especially true for online learning. This type of program isn't for everyone. You have to stay on top of your courses and hit your deadlines. There is no one there to tell you that you must do your homework, do the readings, etc. It was a great fit for me and I'm very proud of what I learned and my accomplishment.
Not APA approved, beware
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Staff is not very helpful at all, they will take your money, then you fend for yourself.
Bad School
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This school is just out for your money and they don't give you the correct information concerning your degree. Most of these majors does not lead to license in your state and therefore its a wasted of time. The school will also charge you a bunch of money if you drop a class. I dropped a class because my mother had surgery and they billed me a big bill and wouldn't work with me. It's just best to sit in the class and get your education.
Not For Everyone
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If you require a lot of hand-holding or tutoring, this program may be difficult for you to complete. For example, College Algebra is not a strength of mine, and shortly after the course started I began to struggle completing the assignments. Thankfully, Capella had tutors available a couple evenings a week and I was able to get a grip and successfully complete the course. Suffice to say, I would not have made it through that course without it. But that is not always the case. The Degree related courses were not easy by any means (after all, if it was easy everyone would have a degree, no?), and you have to be able to figure a lot of it out on your own. I tend to be stubborn and not ask many questions. The times I did ask they were responded too in a reasonable amount of time (and I payed attention to other students questions and the instructors responses). Course room discussions are a vital part of the online learning experience, so take advantage of it as much as possible. Some classmates provide valuable insight and getting involved with their discussions and being receptive to constructive criticism is important online as well (there are plenty of peer reviews for APA formatted papers). All courses have time restraints and the instructors can only bend so much. Some instructors are more flexible than others and some are very strict. If they say one discussion assignment is due by Wednesday and the other is due by Sunday, then they mean it and if you miss it your grade will reflect it (like it or not). It is important to read and adhere to each instructors expectations. Also, it takes a lot of discipline to come home after work and put 2 to 4 hours of research/discussion in a few times a week (and likely additional time on the weekends). I spent many Sunday evenings working to beat assignment deadlines. You have to have the will to succeed and the discipline to stay caught up. Most of the courses are well-designed making the learning experience positive. A couple of the courses were flawed and the instructors were well aware it. Adjustments were made as the courses unfolded and the instructors were very communicative and almost apologetic at times for issues that occurred. However, this was a very small percentage of the overall program during my experience at Capella. Yes, it is expensive. Yes, I have school loans to pay off now. But now I have a degree I am proud of from an accredited learning institution. It will more than pay for itself in due time. Like I said, if you require a lot of learning attention, and are unable to absorb the loads of information in a productive manner, then online school is likely not for you. All in all, I recommend Capella's BA in IT program whether you are currently employed or not. Coming straight home for college rather than the hassle of going to a B&M institution worked best for my lifestyle. Your mileage may vary. Good luck!
UNLESS YOU HAVE UNLIMITED FUNDS - GO ELSEWHERE!!!
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AL WAS WELL UNTIL I HADA A DEATH IN THE FAMILY AND HAD TO DROP OUT. I WAS A STRAIGHT A STUDENT UNTIL THAT TIME. THEN I GOT STUCK WITH A HUGE BILL AND THEY REFUSED TO WORK WITH ME!! THEY WERE ALL HANDS ON DECK HELPFUL DURING THE ENROLLMENT AND AS LONG AS I HAD THE FUNDS TO GET THINGS DONE, BUT WHEN I NEEDED HELP, THEY BASICALLY SAID SCREW YOU, PAY OR BE SENT TO COLLECTIONS???? REALLY? I DO NOT GIVE NEGATIVE REVIEWS OFTEN BUT FOR THE AVERAGE PERSON< I"D SAY SEEK YOUR EDUCATION ELSEWHERE, CAPELLA DOES NOT CARE ABOUT YOU AS AN INDIVIDUAL!
Only for perfect lives
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Capella is excellent if you have a perfect life. If you live a real life where things happen, you are up the creek. Despite the fact that their website promises to work with students in life emergencies, they do not. They have set policy and they do not bend no matter what. I had a death in the family the last week of my second internship. I asked for additional time. I was told I had until the next quarter to turn things in. Instead, when I was turning things in, the instructor had written a different date and given me an unsatisfactory. Said I had to repeat the quarter. Personally, this is a money issue in my opinion. I had excellent grades. I had already completed more than 1000 hrs of internship. I had excellent remarks from my onsite supervisor. Even my faculty adviser could not understand why the instructor was doing this. It all comes down to he said/she said and the student is never believed. They just don't care.
Exceptional Program
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I happened upon these reviews looking to see if Capella still allowed 48 hours to be transferred in. I was amazed at some of the negative comments. My experience was nothing but positive. The expense is in line with other like universities - except, unless something has changed - the cost of a quarter is the same regardless of the number of courses you take. I always took three courses (even with a full time 60 hour per week job that required extensive travel). I read and studied in the cracks and airports and on lots of planes. I took the accelerated comps and had professors who worked with me all along the way so that my proposal was ready to go once I completed comps (I spent lots of time at the residencies finding out what I needed to do and how to go about it - amazing how the professors made themselves available). I have now taught at two other universities for almost 8 years. They are online, well-known universities, but they do not hold a candle to Capella. I wish I could work there, but they generally do not hire back their grads. Am loving my PhD and so proud that Capella is my alma mater!
My Ph.D. Experience was everything I wanted
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I loved my experience at Capella!! Most of the professors seemed to really care if I understood the concepts. Most posed thought-provoking questions. Since I was already a professor and knew my areas of interest, I was able to tailor every project and paper to what I was curious about. My dissertation research was directly tied into a topic I am passionate about, and the findings are applicable to my college and raised my profile at work. It was a lot of work though, and I'm glad it's over!!!!
Alerady Working in the Field
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My BS-General Psychology is almost complete through Capella and I am pursing the MS Masters-Clinical Psychology Program next. I am currently certified through MCBAP in the State of Michigan with my Development Plan to become a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC). My internship hours for the CADC can be completed where I currently work and asubstance abuse detox and residential rehab, but my TLLP (Temporary Limited License Psychologist) practicum hours will need to be completed under a fully licensed psychologist-off site from where I work, in order to meet the criteria for the State of Michigan Licensing Board. The State of Michigan honors a degree from Capella as I have coworkers and collaegues who also obtained their masters degrees from there. Notice anything different with my post as compared to the negative on this site about Capella University?? I DID my research first, I have made sure to check on what is required in my state, and what I need to do in order to get to where I want to be. You cannot expect the University to do that for you. Previously, I had received my Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice from a brick and mortar school, and also attended Wayne State University in Detroit for many of my undergrad studies in psychology. The drive alone was an hour just to get to campus, pay for fuel, wear and tear on my car, pay for parking in the secure parking structures, and sit in classrooms full of young college kids who didn't seem to want to be there anyway. I was a member of Psi Chi, the Honors Society in Psychology, and I was pretty proud of my achievements. However, I decided to switch to Capella because WSU had a Gen Ed requirement of 3-consecutive semesters of a foreign language. Seriously??? I'm not going into foreign language for a career, and at the age of 40 and being a single mom, this was not something my mind could comprehend. The difficulty of trying to learn something like that was too difficult and was not even related to my field, just a way for them to get $$$ in my opinion, the same with the physics class, American Music class, etc. NOT related to clinical psych whatsoever. When I switched to Capella in the spring of 2013, I was immediately impressed with the fact that you HAVE to know what you're talking about in the discussions or you'll make yourself look like an asshat. This requires deep and critical thinking, which I love. I am on the Dean's List, and that isn't just handed to you, you DO have to do the work and know the material. You could easily "get by" during a semester at a brick and mortar college simply by skipping classes and just getting notes from someone, cramming for a test, showing up for it, and that's it. (I watched many young kids do that at Wayne State-most professors do not take attendences at large brick and mortar universities). But what do they really learn by doing that? Nothing. At Capella, you need to be active each week in the discussion forums. Sure, every class has it's students who seem to do the minimal amount possible just to pass, but what college doesn't? (Except for places like Stanford, Yale, Princeton, etc.) As for the cost, it's no more expensive than what I was paying at Wayne State University, by the time I added the cost of tuition, gasoline, car maintence, books, food on the go, etc...it evens out, actually I spent more going to WSU than I do with Capella online. Not to mention, my stress level by not having to drive to Detroit is so much better. I can quietly work in my virtual classroom with other learners who are in similar shoes; has a full time job in their field of interest and also has a family. I am able to incorporate what I learn with what I do for a living with recovering addicts, and that in itself makes Capella a wise investiment for me. Research anything before you make a big move, don't get yourself involved in something until you have research it thoroughly and you have speak to people who have walked that path who can help guide you. YOU make the final decision, if you're not happy, more forward, but don't jump into something with dreams that everything will magically happen for you. YOU have to do the work, before and after attending ANY university.
Not a good choice to attend Capella
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I would not encourage anyone to attend Capella, due the fact that certain students are ear marked to be successful there. Professors take into consideration that brilliant and hardworking students may present a challenge to their salary and position status. High performing students earning a 4.0 in many cases are denied a degree or certificate in the field that they are pursuing. Please spend your money in a university that is fair and honest.
As good as it gets
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The best school I have attended and that includes Northeastern University and BU. Attentive instructors, up to date courses, great feed back. I suggest that for those who gave this school a bad rating that it was way to difficult for them to graduate from.
Honest Review
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I have been at Capella for several years now due to the fact that I switched degrees half way through my career. I am going to try to post an honest overall review about the University, as it is my belief that most things are neither all good nor all bad. GOOD: Capella's support system is not as bad as it is being made out to be. Granted, the staff do not "hunt you down" or call you all the time to check in. However, if you call advising they will gladly answer your questions. The material if fairly relevant to the degree being obtained, and the online library has some really good resources. You can do most of the work at your own pace as well, which is good for working adults. BAD: For the clinical programs you are required to attend 2-3 week long programs that are located throughout the country. Though a huge part of the program it is very difficult for a working parent like me to get away for that period of time. In addition it is very expensive with all of the additional costs related to the hotel stay, food and transportation...not to mention if you have to take the time off of work unpaid. In addition, the teachers are not often present in the classroom. Now, this is NOT always the case, but there certainly is not any type of regulating force making sure that the professors are active in their teaching. Finally, the clinical programs are not recognized by all states, including where I just moved. I am not sure what I am going to do at this point, but I will figure it out. As an online school goes Capella is not terrible. I do not feel that I am learning much, but I am not sure if that is due to shortcomings in the school or due to my having some experience in the field. However, I would check into the program you are planning to take as well as any state regulations regarding your degree.
Attitudes of Faculty Members
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I was looking for a Doctorate Program in Criminal Justice, and Capella University answered my request. I started September 4, 2012 and was passed over one Term (Fall), then I find out that I had to attend a Colloquium in January 2013 with no idea why or what to expect. I fail it and one other course. When I tried to explain that I had no idea what to do in a Research Program, nobody at this school offered me any help. I retake the course I failed, passed it with an "A", bring my GPA up from 3.0 to 3.429 and then I return to the Track 1 Colloquium in October, and the instructor literally put me down in front of 18 students and then humiliated me with another failure. He writes me up claiming I violated the Code of Conduct. When I told the Board the truth of what really happened, they took his word and threw me out of this school, making it a waste of my money now too. So I agree with everybody else on this Review, DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY AND TIME ON CAPELLA UNIVERSITY. THEY LIE ABOUT THEIR PROGRAMS. They are not even Military Sponsored with Military Grants or Scholarships.
Don't choose Capella for your education
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Capella's delivery of online classes is very poor. Assignments and materials are left over from previous classes. After paying a huge amount of tuition they don't even bother to upload current versions of templates we have to use. All their templates are in Word 97 - 03 because they're too lazy to update their materials. Today I was greeted by a video of the dean who was terminated 4 years ago. Sloppy, sloppy, sloppy delivery of online education. DO NOT GO TO THIS SCHOOL. I'm a doctoral learner taking comps. What a waste of my time and money.
Excellent program
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I finished my Master's in Education Spring of 2012. The ease of enrolling in the program and then courses were one of the many things I enjoyed about Capella. They were helpful with giving advice and gave me the correct information once I answered questions about what it was I was wanting with a Master's degree. I found the teachers to always be prompt with answering questions, very supportive when there were issues at home *my father because sick and died during this time* and the course work was challenging and appropriate for the degree I was receiving. I was able to use my students and the programs to assist with my studies which made things very relevant to the degree program. I have recommended Capella and will continue to recommend Capella for nontraditional learners.
Buyer beware!
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Beware beware beware. The most expensive school and so so many end up not being able to finish because during the studies tuition goes up every single year. But here is the absolute most disturbing part to me. They are the friendliest most helpful when they are SIGNING YOU UP! But if anything changes - health, money, anything, and you're not paying their salaries anymore you'll get the kiss of death. They will NEVER return a call, NEVER email you back (I have never got one back in years of trying to find out how I can finish my Phd - I was felled by illness in '08). You're nothing to them and when someone is in a Phd program and doing great (3.8) they should be working with you, not seeing you as a number, but they seriously, and I cannot state this any other way or clearly enough, KISS YOU OFF. They turn their attention to those with the bigger $ SO GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. Capella somehow got regional accreditation, but I don't know how. The "support" assessment alone must have been fabricated because there is none - except when you're hamding over your money
PHD AT CAPELLA
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After reading most of the reviews in this website, I find that my case is similar to several. The only thing is that I have hired the best lawyers in my State to help me because Capella does not deliver the services that they offer. And in this State, this is called fraud and a scam. I completed the doctoral studies with a 4.0 GPA and passed the Comprehensive Exam in 2011. This is September of 2013 and the faculty continues to bully me around with iterations keeping me in MP#3 (3 out of 16). This is done intentionally in order to prolong my stay in Capella and thus collect more tuition. My SMR (proposal) was completed in 2011 and I know that there is nothing wrong with the study. The study has been revised by scholars outside Capella and the proposal has been validated. What Capella is doing with me is penalized by the laws of this State. I am withdrawing before spending any more $$. I hope the national media gets a hold of Capella and makes this scam public. I think there are enough learners like me who have been victimized. This is sad. I mean that a scam like this is happening in the United States by "scholars," and that they are getting away with it with no accountability for their actions.
Not much for hand-holding
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I completed my doctorate December 2011 from Capella in Information Technology Management. I obtained an MS and started a PhD program at a B&M school 20 some years ago and got through the Comprehensive exam stage there before stalling out at the dissertation phase. I had no problem with the coursework. About 10-20% of the courses had professors who weren't very involved in the courserooms and that matched what I experienced at my other schools. For the most part the faculty were effective and engaged. WRT the dissertation process, I will say that the Comprehensive exam was fair and quite challenging. It's not just a matter of knowing facts and how to do technological tasks. That's an MS level concern. A doctoral program is for doing research and synthesizing and extending ideas. It's more than "knowing the material." I had a 3.9 GPA going into Comps and passed reasonably comfortably, but it wasn't a gimme. Dissertations are HARD. Only about 55% of doctoral students ever complete their degrees within 5 years and about 58% at 7 years. That's not just Capella, that's global. If I hadn't started the process once and knew some pitfalls, I might have stumbled a bit more. Capella doesn't just want your money, they want dissertations that reflect decent scholarship. Compared to my previous experience, I would say that Capella's procedures are a bit more Byzantine than a B&M school. I had no particular problem with it and was able to finish mine in 4 quarters, which is the exception and not the rule. By their own admission, the median time in the dissertation process is about 6 quarters. That's pretty typical. I have to say that I was hoping for more guidance and help from the school to keep things moving along, but as with a B&M, the most important choice you make is who your dissertation mentor is. If you and your mentor don't click, it's going to be a rough ride. When it comes to accreditations like APA and what not, Capella's website is very straightforward about which ones they have. If you don't know what you need to get a job in your chosen field and choose to ignore what is plain as day on their website, then draw your own conclusions.
The Research Plan (SMR) is a scam
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When I enrolled in Capella's PhD program in 2009 the program consisted of the coursework, comps exam, CITI training, IRB, and the dissertation. Half way through my studies they added an additional requirement, the Research Plan(RP), although it was called the Scientific Merit Review (SMR) at the time. They instituted the RP under the guise that it will help learners finish their dissertations quicker with less rewrites. Now understand that Capella is a for-profit University, and because of this fact they have to create ways to maximize their profits. In my opinion, the addition of RP approval prior to the IRB and dissertation phases was designed to do just that. The RP has effectively added an additional 18 months on to my program. They continually send your RP back to you for rewrites without effectively explaining to you wants wrong with it. I think this is Capella's way of stringing you along in an attempt to drain every bit of tuition money out of you that they can. I have come this far only to be disappointed in Capella in the end.
Please save your money and seek elsewhere
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PLEASE SAVE YOUR MONEY AND LOOK ELSEWHERE... Getting into this school is so easy . But please stay away and find another school. Once they take your money, you are on your own. And after you graduate, DO NOT expect to get a job saying you graduated from here. Because, believe me when I say, employers know what poor quality this school is. I recently graduated from this school and was requesting for professional references for jobs and NO professor is willing to give any even though i got all 'A' for those classes. Because they know their grades are only for the paper and their study material are horrible.. I wrote to the one of the top administrators a letter and left voice mails and EVEN THE HIGHEST ADMINISTRATION HAVE NO DECENCY TO WRITE BACK A REPLY or call back!!! What kind of a school have such callous practices?. This school cares about no student. But about their finances. HORRIBLE SCHOOL. THIS UNIVERSITY IS BY FAR THE WORST I've EVER ATTENDED!!! SAVE YOUR MONEY AND STAY HOME! If not, donate it to a charity. DO NOT ATTEND THIS SCHOOL. WORST UNIVERSITY I HAVE EVER ATTENDED!!! THE "professors" give you all "A"s and you know how bad your work is. They just wanted to say lot of students pass. So when we come out, we have good GPAs but no one would give us jobs!!!
Pretty good for me
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Finished a PhD in Counseling in 2 years, 10 months. Worked really hard at it. My BA and MA were both from 2 different traditional schools. My MA included a fair amount of online courses. Hands-down, Capella has mastered online content delivery and course management. I say this for 2 reasons: 1. It requires a lot of work and 2. I am an adjunct for 2 different universities and teach both traditional and online courses at both. Capella is better at online coursework than either of the two for which I teach. There are a lot of people that complain about Capella not being "understanding" or "compassionate." However, the fact is, no matter what happened during my degree program (and for my undergrad and master's as well), the work had to be completed. For me, this is not a flaw in any way. It is a mark of quality.
Healthcare Managment
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This was my first and last semester at capella.!!!!! I just started on May 6 2013 and today is June 27th 2013 I withdrew on June 22, 2013 . Please save yourself money and time and do not go there !!!! The enrollment advisors make it sound really supporting . They are a fraud nobody will ever give you a straight answer and when you do get an answer it is a lie and when you talk to someone else they tell you the truth . when I enrolled the price for the school was $58,500 the enrollment advisor did not tell me that there would be a tuition rate JUlY 8, 2013 . I enrolled in the class on May 6th and she told me that the school has not had a tuition raise in several years . When I talked to financial aid asking about how much the new tuition rate would be he told me that there is no way to calculate the new tuition rate because the rate changes yearly. Please do not be fooled by all the talk of the advisors you cannot ever get a straight answer from anyone . I was told that I had until the end of the class to withdraw without accessing a penalty of my financial aid funds by financial aid . I talked to advisement and they said I had to withdraw by Monday June 24 in order to get a W on my transcript for my class. If I had stayed in the class till the end I would have missed my withdrawal date for getting a W. I looked at several reviews before I started Capella and I did not believe the negative there were many good reviews. But if you never believe a negative review again please believe this one . Big Mistake !!!! If anyone has any questions they can email me at sshelicia@yahoo.com
Hate this university
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This university disappoints on all sorts of levels. The instructors do what they will and don't what they won't. It is amazing to me how MANY instructors have NO interaction AT ALL during the ENTIRE LENGTH OF THE CLASSES THEY ARE A PART OF IN SPITE OF IT BEING WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THEM BY THE "UNIVERSITY." So the students are basically doing a matchbook cover education, where they read some materials and then write an assignment in solitary---that is NOT what education is about---the "instructor" interacts with the CLASS and actually has to put some EFFORT into the classes vs. sitting behind the scenes until they want to jump in like angry leprechauns. THE BIGGEST PROBLEM I encounter class after class is how unflinching the characters of the instructors are having no interaction in class, have their personal thoughts become part of how they grade, are rude and unfriendly to the students week after week, and it is a COMPLETE DISTRACTION FROM THE LEARNING PROCESS! And then we are supposed to get good grades and feel that we are getting anything close to a real education---one I am more familiar with than the online processes---one where the instructors ARE FORCED TO BE PART OF CLASS BECAUSE THEY CENTER THE CLASS and if there are any problems you go to the dean. I have had a [instructor] as did my brothers for Accounting and Finance, and this instructor would go into torrents of anger outbursts --- that Capella could check into if they had half a brain to audit his classes and correspondences--- with the whole class for not having a post look a certain way, telling people how to speak, how to write to him, and use of exclamation points !!! after saying something to people in the class to assert his anger, and irritation if someone put words together that the SCHOOL didn't mind whether or not that student spoke competent English---yet in an Accounting class of all things, if they didn't use a capital l, then he would jump on them? FOCUS HERE! It is one thing to talk to someone on the side about how to proceed when they are the only one with a problem---and again a problem the school itself saw no problem with taking their money prior to class----and calling them out on using a lower case 'i' in the class discussion in yelling format!!!!. AS it happened the student he was yelling at did not know what the problem was about and so did not change the way they continued to communicate. The instructor's attitude was distracting and undermining to the class environment. There are ways of talking and I find it embarrassing that an instructor would make so much noise about that and be completely invisible in the class for things that mattered to the subject at hand. [This instructor] did not further anything "accounting" or "finance," did not have ANY discussions about anything with numbers, but told each of us only at the time of grading that we could contact him and take up even more of our time to go over what was wrong after he added nothing to the class experience---and did nothing to help before we turned something in. That is a waste of time in that he is not participating per what is listed on the schools' website says of what teachers are responsible for. This guy is a bad attitude individual who should not teach for a living, but should be somewhere where he could demonstrate his anger on a daily basis--like maybe in a jail or correctional institution---but not around people who are trying to learn. And Capella is a degree-mill---where they know people want an education, are cramped for time, and they over charge and provide some of the worst life has to offer all in the name of the mighty dollar on which other side lies an "education" that leaves a bad taste in your mouth.
Brick & Mortar Snobbery??
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I am always interested in the negative comments from people. Capella has tens of thousands of students. They are regionally accredited by the same organization that accredits Univ of Iowa, Michigan, Notre Dame, and many more. Their IT school is ABET certified, their nursing school is certified, etc.... I don't know if you complainers were ever told this, but, at the Masters and Doctoral level you are suppose to teach yourself. Professors are there to assign your tasks and judge your results. Not hold hand every step of the way. Grow up. One individual commented that his employer did not recognize his degree?? Find a different employer. There are a large number of Fortune 500 companies that have corporate alliances with Capella. United Airlines, Wachovia Bank, SAIC, and over 170 other corporations have an alliance. So, lots of employers recognize Capella.
So far so good
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I just started with Capella in April of this year for Graduate school. I started in the Public Safety-Criminal Justice program but switched to Homeland Security due to an interest change. So far, I'm pretty happy with what I have experienced. I was attending another online university (Ashford University) and it is nothing compared to Capella. I chose to switch to Capella because the school is accredited and also it is designated as a national center of academic excellence by the dept of homeland security and the national security agency. I am a full time employee with a non traditional work schedule so the online format for attending class works better for me. I have read reviews of how online schools are so expensive and that they cost more than brick and mortar schools but that isn't always true. I got my Bachelors from a traditional university. That left me in a pretty hefty loan debt situation. I compared the tuition it cost me per class at Capella to the tuiton cost for a Graduate to the same school I got my undergrad degree from and althought it wasn't the exact same, Capella is not costing much more than it would have been to attend the "traditional" school. It all depends on what program you choose, how many classes you take during one quarter, if your books are required and/or included in your class. Obviously MBA classes will cost more than others. Luckily, some of my classes will not require books and if they are required they are included in the tuition price. What money I would spend in books at a traditional school, the gas of driving back and forth, and also probably having to either 1-quit my job or 2-cut back on my work hours is much better spent paying a little more for tuition and having the convenience to work on my school at my time. For those that say it is a simple process to pass the classes, I would disagree. I can't speak for online undergrad classes or other grad classes other than what I have taken, but in the classes I have taken, a considerable amount of research, reading, critical thinking, and writing have came to pass. I may be singing a different tune sometime down the road but from what I have experienced so far, has been very pleasant.
bad online experience
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i recently decided to pursue an additional bachelors degree. i chose capella because their online program is reasonably priced and is accredited by ABET. i enrolled in my first class (which is 6 credit hours and required to be taken first) right before making a cross country move. the counselor i had been speaking with was very encouraging and had me anxious to start. i ran into a few hitches during my move and had to neglect the course for two weeks due to travel and lack of internet access. i decided to drop the course. i would have to get every point left to earn a respectable grade if i didn't. i contacted my counselor two days after the refund period. i was unaware of the 12 calender day refund time frame. this is a shorter time period than the university i had attended in the past. not having internet access during my move made it impossible to research this myself. i was communicating with the course instructor via email on my phone while traveling and i informed him of my situation. he was very encouraging about finishing the course, but failed to mention the drop date deadline. now i owed (still owe) about 2000$ for a course i dropped. i made an appeal to have the amount owed reduced. i was denied. in the end i know this is my fault, but i feel that capella should make it a priority to make their policies known at the onset. if i would have known the policy i would have dropped the course within the 75% refund period. the policy is on the website for you to find. and i do mean FIND. i had to use the search engine to find the link to the policy. they do not "advertise" it. if you decide to attend capella university online be sure to read all of the fine print before you start. you might pay for it if you don't. my on-campus college experience was a little different. the first day of class had time devoted to university policies (including drop dates). this is not the case in capella's online program. there was a clear lack of communication in my experience. if they would have reduced the amount owed i would still be excited about their program. location independence while pursuing an ABET accredited program sounds great. there aren't many of those to be found. i feel they do not advertise (make an effort to insure that you are aware of) their drop policy because more people might take advantage of it if they did. they are a private for-profit institution. i now have a bitter view of private online colleges. this experience has convinced me to pursue my degree on campus (not capella). it will be better to meet people in the same program. i prefer meeting people in person better than the internet anyway. just trying to put a positive spin on things. if you choose to attend capella online please heed my warning. it is not their concern that you are completely informed. you are on your own. make sure you know all of the rules before you start. inconvenient situations tend to happen in life. if life happens to you while you are attending capella you better know how to work the system or the system will work against you.
Corruption at capella
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Feel misled, degree is useless and school left me to hang. I did not get good advisement or support. They run a horrible PHD Psychology program and you can't get licensed with online courses. They got a lot of people in due to APA applications but never got the credentials. Waste of money...I am sorry I dint leave when I figured out the we're not honest or legitimate.
Dont listen to crap people post!!! Very good University
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I will start by saying I was skeptical as well. I have 2 Bachelor degrees and 2 Master degrees. I wanted to take Doctorate level classes and spent about a year doing research. I made the decision and its the best I could have made. The courses are very challenging and are taught by highly educated individuals from many various schools across the country. The reason, in my opinion, why people say negative things is because they have either thought courses would automatically give them a passing grade or the fact that online Universities are a newer concept compared to brick and mortar schools. Either reason, the University is challenging and I have learned so much in my first year. I believe as they continue to offer such a high level of instruction and the concept of online learning becomes more know, we will see Capella as University that set the bar high for online education.
Learn from the mistake of others
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I began my PhD with Capella with high hopes and expectations in 2004 and completed in 2009. While the core curriculum progressed nicely and I had no problems with my comprehensive exams, the dissertation phase lasted almost 2 years. I was, I was told, the Guinea Pig for revising the dissertation process. What a nightmare! As a lifelong learner, I have numerous Bachelors and Masters from "Brick and Mortar" schools. I am self-motivated and, throughout all, I have held 3.8-4.0 GPAs. Capella was no exception. After two years, my dissertation was completed and I was granted my PhD. Unfortunately, it is not worth the paper it is printed on. Not only will you not be eligible for licensure in most, if not all states, you are not even eligible for a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). To acquire these licenses, I had to complete additional work at a local university, in addition to an additional internship -- all of this for an over $130,000.00 price tag which I am still paying on. As a "for-profit" institution, it was, not only my belief, but also all of my fellow learners, the school protracted my degree program from four to over five years. I even took 3 courses per semester, which is 1 more than Capella recommended, with a 4.0 average. Bottom line: I was making nearly twice with an MS as I do now with a PhD. At nearly 60 years of age with numerous life experiences, including over a quarter-Century in military service as the single worse decision ever, one that I, and my family, will have to live with the remainder of my life. The only benefit of this exercise in futility is having PhD behind my name.
Hoops and Moving the Trophy
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Be astute. I saw where some students early in the program go on about how posters are basically those with an axe to grind. Well, they will see, just give them time. ABD for 4 yrs, approvals given, rescinded, committee changes- no organization here at all. The left hand and the right are clearly out of sync. You will get better support from a brick and mortar.
Just graduated
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I just graduated with a master's in mental health counseling. The only reason I went to Capella was the Ohio board ONLY accepted Capella and another online school with CACREP certification as acceptable. I found the experience very demanding, but if you can manage your time it is a worthy experience. I also have a doctorate in Oriental Medicine so I just wished to expand my scope of practice. The only reason I can see why Capella might not be acceptable is if a person needs to be spoon-fed information.
Student Beware!
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I have only three courses to go towards my Ph.D. and of course the residencies. I had to stop because of health reasons and costs. I was only working part-time and the costs were simply adding up. During my time at Capella the only outcome I really have is a huge debt! I found the instructors at Capella to be some of the worst I have come in contact with. Their lack of feedback and lack of presence in the classroom was outrageous. As I read other posts - the term - correspondence school came up - I agree but Capella has to be amongst the most expensive correspondence schools around! I am a full time faculty member for a small school in MA and work for another online university - I could never get away with what the instructors get away with at Capella. I now am at a cross-road with a choice to make - do I continue or not? Part of me says - but you are so close - the other says - how much more will it cost? At my age the cost will never be recouped. I have a friend who is finishing their dissertation now - almost 3 years of back and forth, lack of expertise from advisors, bad advising, it does seem like all they want is money. They either drag out the process so they get more of your money, or you get frustrated and drop. Either way - Capella doesn't care! They made a mistake early on in my program of about $2000.00 which I am still paying off. Until I pay that off - I can't even look at my grades. I know it does seem like a lot of money but after being out of work for over 3 years - it takes a lot of time to get back on your feet. Capella was unwilling to even help me in this regard. I guess I am rambling at this point - but I could go on forever about how displeased I am with Capella in general. I would strongly suggest picking another school!
Making the best out of a bad situation.
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I needed to get into a graduate school for psychology but the university in my city only accepts 5% of their applicants, and my undergraduate degree was not in psychology. I also have a family, and couldn't move out of state to pursue grad school. I finished my Master's at Capella and am about to start the PhD Comps & Dissertation phase. Honestly, the only good thing I can say about Capella is that you can use the school to make the best out of a bad situation. I have no clue why everything is so expensive. The only thing they offer are assignments on Blackboard. Most of the instructors are probably nice, not that you will ever get to know any of them. Other than grade your papers, I have no idea what else any of them do. Don't expect a lot of personal growth at Capella. Go to the school only if you are desperate and you have no other options. I have a gut feeling that even if they are accredited, people will criticize my degree for being from such a flimsy institution.
Funny
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I am leaving the settings as default since I have just started at Capella (my first semester just ended). What find funny are some of the comments on this site. People are ranting on here about the issues they have had with their PhD programs, yet in the posts you can see horrid sentence structure, incorrect subject-verb agreements and generally hideous grammar. Wow... These people believe they should be at a doctoral level? Another issue I see is the complaint that all they want is your money and the actual schooling is secondary. If that were the case there would not be people complaining about being kicked out at all, right? One last sticking point is one of the older rants on here that blames the courseroom for his lack of competency. If you profess to having two degrees already, in tech, yet you cannot make your computer act correctly with the courseroom, where is the real fail point? I use Mac almost exclusively and I have no issues with the courserooms at all. I will come back and post after another semester or two about my actual review of the content. I just felt the voice of reason had to be spoken about some of the negative posts I have seen on here.
High Quality Education
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Having just finished my Ph.D. in Information Technology in January, I think I received a very quality education from this University. All of the instructors were top-notch - it was clear from my interaction with them that most were considered somewhere near the top of their respective fields. I recieved much encouragement along the way, and just the right amout of guidance to complete all my degree requirements. At the same time, I think the instructors were very tough, as they should be. No one should expect ANY slack in a Ph.D. program - or any hand holding - but the instructors should be there to provide general guidance in guiding the learner. I was a little nervous about being able to complete the program, as I knew the Ph.D. was going to be a real 'step up' in the learning process - as it should be. But Capella's residency system of requiring the student to go through three specific 'colloquia' - three separate one-week in-residence, intensive seminars on how to do everything from quantitative vs qualitative analysis, literature reviews, writing, creative thinking, preparing for the comprehensive exam and dissertation - were immensely helpful in completing the overall program. With this Ph.D., I have completed five degree programs - a Ph.D., three Master's degrees, and a Bachelor's degree - all with different universities. Two of these universities were on-line, and three were 'brick and mortar' ones. My best experience was on-line with Capella (my worst? - a Master's degree program at a 'brick and mortar' university). The only reason I don't give this a 10 overall is because of their support staff. There seems to be a real high turn-over with their support staff, which caused me a little frustration from time to time. Fortunately, I required very little support from the support staff, and any problems I had were usually resolved by a call from my Ph.D. mentor. Overall, I thought is was a GREAT program. But one word of caution: the program is TOUGH! For those looking for a high-quality education that WILL teach you how to be a good researcher, this might just be the place for you. But if you are just trying to get the 'credentials', you might want to look elsewhere.
PhD Review
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I am working in my PhD, and my mentor approved my topic, and later cancelled the approval. Now, I am over a year to get my PhD and no topic approved. I want to change the mentor, and they don't want. They rejected. They don't want that obtain my degree. I am spending hours, and papers for nothing
Stay Away from Capella
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During recruitment process Capella was deceptive and I was given misleading information. In effect I was bambozzled. I found that Capella was Fraudulent and Engaged in Deceptive and Questionable Marketing Practices. For example, I was told that Capella had a solid support system in place to help get me through the program and a network of companies that Capella worked with to assist students with getting through their research. Once I reached the point of writing my dissertation, I found out that Capella had no affiliations with any company for me to work with during the dissertation process. Now after my constant complaints about their non responsive and incompetent staff members I am a victim of their retaliation. After receiving approval from the IRB I had a senior staff member asking me to re-write large portions of my dissertation. Now I have to ask myself, how can I get committee approval (3 PhD's), SMR (approved methodology) and IRB approval only now to be asked to do re-writes of chapters that have already been approved. Once you get IRB approval you are not suppose to go back and change anything. This is another example of Capella stringing along its students that will add to cost overruns and additional student loans going in their pockets. Capella want to take your money, run up cost and want you to keep your mouth shut while they do it. Stay far away.
Great School
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I began attending Capella in 2010 and graduated July 2012. I had an amazing experience. I read a lot of negative reviews on this site and others about Capella. The truth of it is that Capella is like any other university in the United States. I have attended so called "brick and mortar" institutions and can tell you that there is a little difference between online, as represented by Capella, and brick and mortars that I have attended. If many of these negative reviews were posted about Harvard or University of Michigan, no one would care of give them credence. Many people attend college and do not finish... That is the bottom line. If you want to get your degree, if you want support from a University, and if you are self disciplined enough then Capella is as good as any university in America and better than most.
Best Education I have EVER had
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I completed my Master's (MS) in Training and Performance Improvement with Capella and was pleased with the quality of the experience. When it came time to consider pursuing my terminal degree, I immediately enrolled at Capella. I can honestly say that during my Master's degree program, I was expecting it to be easier. I did well, but only after Capella taught me what it took to actually LEARN! I hated my undergrad experience at a brick and mortar (at a well-known liberal arts college on the east coast). The fact is, then I expected the professors to teach me. Neuroscience now supports that the only way actual long-term learning occurs is for the individual to fully and actively engage the material - it cannot be a passive enterprise. Once I learned HOW to learn, and what the university's expectations were, I flourished. I have had great professors-some more personable than others-but all have been experts in their fields. I have experienced compassion, humor, and support along the way. So, IF you are willing to do the work (research your weekly postings and weekly papers, contribute in a positive manner, and commit), I would highly recommend Capella University. Understand, you will not be able to sit back and hide in a classroom-you will be expected to contribute using correct grammar, appropriate citations (yes-even in your weekly responses), etc. They are educating you in your chosen field, but they are also training you as an academic.
Great experience, every bit as good as my "traditional" campus experience!
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I particularly enjoy participating in the classroom discussions. I reveive individual and relevant feedback from my professor and classmates! Just like any school, some professors are more or less involved than others. It is their class to teach! The required readings are spot on and the writing assignments require research and thought. I will be exceedingly proud of my Capella MBA once I earn it.
Run, run, run away!
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For an online institution that tauts their expertise in the Business and Information Technology degrees, the quality of their curriculum, faculty, and vision are null & void. You would be better off to go Barnes and Noble, grab some IT books, do the labs, and save yourself a lot of money. The courses are not really courses. They are a listing of things for you to research and write papers about. Of course, like all academia today, there is the extortion that accompanies the book store and the preferred $200 Microsoft Access books, for example, that are required but rarely used for anything meaningful. If you are not a complete self starter you will fail. If you are looking to Capella to teach you anything at all, you will be disappointed. If you can live with self-serviced education and a degree, then it may be for you. Lastly, note the requirements are for 180 credits to graduate while other schools are around 120. The difference is the money you gladly fork over the social sciences, arts, and history departments for their required liberal arts courses. I took 3 classes and transferred to WGU and love it.
Capella's Ph.D. for Professional Studies Program is Excellent!
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I just completed my IRB Review for my Ph.D. study in Professional Studies, Education. The university has provided me with an excellent mentor who is guiding me through my research. I have to say that with the rigor that Capella enforces on its Ph.D. students, it is worth the while to use ALL of its resources to the fullest extent to complete your degree. I started in 2009 and plan to become a Ph.D. in Spring 2013. I fully believed I have earned the degree and am fully prepared to give back to the educational field with my Capella educational experience.
...well, it's better than UoP...
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This "school" continues to confuse and astound me. I can't believe the horrible, rude, condescending, disconnected "professors" that Capella has chosen to "facilitate" their courses. In the PhD program, I have seen clear plagiarism, and it was met with praise from the professor, I have seen students be put down in completely unconstructive ways, and have shifted my thinking from "it's too expensive to withdrawal and start somewhere else" to "I would sell a kidney to get out". The school doesn't care, you are a bank account to them. The advising team is a JOKE. A team of 5 people monitoring an email box so you get totally disconnected and contradictory instructions and advice. And above all, it is EXPENSIVE. I took two courses my first term, so I have to argue with those who say otherwise, and every term after. Still, it sucks. It's expensive, and the quality is poor. These wanna be professors are just rude. Be prepared to be in a class with idiots who can't spell or put a sentence together, let alone grasp the context of a discussion post- but they'll still get through since they're paying. It's annoying, frustrating, and degrading. If I had to do it again- I'd suck it up and go to the university nearby and figure out the commute, etc. The flexibility is great, but I didn't want a PhD for the hell of it- I wanted to learn. That hasn't happened here.
Once they have your $$, you're on your own!!
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Do not expect to get any service, responses, help, or courtesy once you have given them your money... cause it's not happening!! They are awful, just awful. RUN, do not walk, away from Capella!
Capella University is wonderful!
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I have attended various types of colleges in my life including a US News and Consumer Report TOP REGIONAL UNIVERSITY, and Capella was as tough as this college. I found Capella University was exceptional in every way (teachers, instruction, online classrooms, technology, etc.). I attended for 4 years and 9 months, and I obtained my PhD in Education, and at the time I started in 2003 Capella was one of the only universities in America offering what I wanted online. At the time I didn't know much about Capella, but they were innovative and offered adult learners what they needed at the right time. Go Capella, my alma mater!
Just Two away!
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Except for a couple of PHD instructors that slow grade all is good. There are issues everywhere but I as of yet have had no major problems. I posted first in October of last year and I was then 7 classes away. I am now two classes away from my Bachelors in Information Technology. I took two classes in the summer [Not easy with full time job and night work two times a week] and look to finish my degree in March 2013. I have been at Capella since December of 2009. The class work has projects that can be related to real world situations.
Disappointed
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I never took an exam that wasn't open book nor did I need to complete a thesis (or similar) to receive a degree. The degree holds no weight. Their standards are poor.
Capella isn't sympathetic even if you experience a death!!!
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I attended Capella University because it received great recommendations from friends and former military personnel who stated that the program worked well for them. My experience with the professors was good and I have no complaints regarding the work load however my complaint comes from a different perspective. I lost my husband of 22 yrs in August of 2011 after battling 2 yrs. with colon cancer. While being in a course that began in January 2012 I decided that I needed to withdraw because of several personal issues that were occurring with my children, legal matters, finances and myself. I requested to withdraw and requested to receive a tuition credit to return a few quarters later after I had the ability to take care of all the pending issues. I was told that it shouldn't be a problem as long as I could provide adequate documentation that my situation was legitimate.I provided a death certificate, papers regarding the other issues along with 3 letters of various individuals who were working with me regarding the above scenarios. To my surprise the decision came back NO!!! they would not grant me a tutition credit because it had been 5 months after my husbands death and because I had successfully completed the quarter during his death it was determined that I should no longer be experiencing issues and was suitable to continue my coursework and would be responsible for the TOTAL cost of the 2 courses which was equivalent to over 4k!!! I was very upset as I wanted to return to school and couldnt possibly understand why they wouldnt grant a tuition credit because my intention was to return after I resolved the pending matters. Clearly they have no regard or sympathe/empathy for someone who has lost a loved one. The individual in the business office was terribly rude and stated that I should have dropped out when my husband died otherwise I need to pay the money. I appealed to several others but hadn't received any response. I was told that I could enter into a payment plan to repay the money but I wouldn't be allowed to attend classes until all the money was paid in full. While working out a payment arrangement that was suitable to my surprise I received a call from a bill collector stating he was collecting on behalf of his client Capella University!! I was in awe. If you think that death is an exceptable excuse at Capella or pending/pressing personal matters think again they don't care they just want their money!!!
Better Than Expected
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The time it takes to get to class, and all the disruptions in the traditional brick and mortar classrooms, makes online programs highly attractive. So much time is taken up trying to get to class at Boston University. I graduated with a MBA from City University, having spent time sitting in class rooms waiting for lectures. I have MS in Accounting, too. Let me tell you how awesome Capella University compares for me. I say for me, because your priorities may dictate a traditional education, and what is best for me may not be for you. There was concern Capella University would not be rigorous enough. I did not want to go to a school that would pass anyone, and not be concerned about the quality of work students produced. That did not happen. Capella University lends more than enough support to help students produce quality papers and assignments, so more is expected of them than other schools I’ve been to. Brick and mortar does not necessarily mean quality, and certainly not efficiency. Many traditional schools have online programs. Pick any traditional school and chances are you will find a degree offered online. Each of these schools is trying to become better at offering online degree programs. Capella University is leading the way, and many universities are trying to catch up. You can get a very good education at Capella University. Just be prepared to work for it. I am in the Ph.D. program in Psychology. I work at one of the largest brick and mortar universities in the U.S. I also was accepted to an Ivy League school. I absolutely enjoy every minute of learning at Capella. It is challenging, and I’m learning at a pace I did not experience while in a traditional university setting. I will be just as proud to graduate from Capella as anywhere, because I will have worked just has hard as I would have worked anywhere. Pick the school that works for you. If traditional is your thing, then go for it. Capella may not be for you, but it was a perfect fit for me. I work full time, and I don’t have time to travel to and from school waiting for lectures, listening to students conversing about the latest party, or some other bs. Best of success to you.
Educational Excellence
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I am proud to be a Capella Student. I attended a brick and mortar school for undergraduate studies; it is a good school that is nationally ranked in Engineering. However, I must confess that the education that I have received at Capella exceeds that of my undergraduate program. It saddens my heart that so many students have degraded the program at Capella. The instructors are available as you need them my phone, email, or video conference. Most are very engaged in classroom discussions. You will get out of Capella University what you put in to it. It is not an easy program. You will have to spend about 8 hours per week reading and preparing discussion posts for each class. Residency is an AWESOME experience. The instructors, many who attended brick and mortar schools, state that they did not receive the counseling skill development that Capella students aquire during residency.
PhD PSY I/O Program is Simply Poorly Organized
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Received masters at Capella. Great Experience. PhD Psy I/O program seems an unorganized mess. Advisors are ill informed and make costly errors for the student. The institutions reputation is also taking a severe beating as mistakes and missteps seem constant. The various department of independent education does not favor Capella U and the many complaints and bad reviews along with constant lawsuits could be the reason why. I would not suggest this organization for military veterans, working mothers or anyone with a normal life. Capella is being beaten down and unfortunately, they can't open their eyes and realize that their bad reputation for students services in the PhD program is the reason why.
Capella Gave me a fair shot
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I attended Capella a few years ago as a Ph.D student in the I/O Psychology program. I have graduate degrees from the University of Southern California and the University of Northern Colorado. The difficulty and quantity of work at Capella by far exceeded anything I have experienced. It was tough and time consuming. I could not work full time, raise kids, and get the grades I needed, so I set it aside. I like the fact almost anyone can get a shot at an advanced education and the process will weed them out. Thats a big plus for Capella I think. Most folks can get a shot and yes Capella collects some fees either way. Good business! Now that things have calmed down in my life, I am ready to try again and have no problem with returning to Capella. They treated me fairly and I learned alot. Yes, I feel it was and is vastly more expensive then it should be. Seems online should have less overhead and be much cheaper. Cost may well preclude me from reaching my goal. But thats my only concern.
You will likely not become a Licensed Psychologist if you attend Capella
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If you plan to devote several years and thousands of dollars toward obtaining a Doctoral Degree in Psychology, my advice is to attend an APA accredited program. I have few regrets in life but getting my PsyD from Capella was the worst decision I have ever made. It has nearly ruined my professional career. Even though I completed an APA approved internship, passed the EPPP, earned a doctoral degree, I cannot be licensed in the state in which I live because my degree from Capella is WORTHLESS in the eyes of the state board (and most all professionals in the field of psychology). When I asked for support from Capella to appear before the state board they offered NO SUPPORT!!! And this is a common theme. If you want support during and after your program look for another school. If you want to become a Licensed Psychologist - ATTEND AN APA ACCREDITED SCHOOL!!! I hope this helps someone avoid the huge mistake that I made by getting my degree at Capella.
Self motivated
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I think that prospective students need to understand that an on line education is not a free pass to an easy diploma. The work is a lot for a full time professional, but worth it in the end. I have only had one professor during my time at Capella that I had any issue with and it was not unresolvable. A person with good work ethic wanting to do well has the opportunity to succeed at Capella.
Instructors don't show up
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I attended this school for their Masters program in 2006 and found it to be less than helpful. The program modeled on and uses the ASTD manuals which is ok; however, the instructors are spotty at best. In one course the instructor was unavailable for contact and advise for two weeks while the final projects were being prepared. She never did actually show up. When I escalated the issue I was met with discourtesy to say the least. Their courses are NOT transferable. Long on hype and short on support.
Comprehensive Exam leads to Administrative Withdrawl from the program
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Capella School of Education - faculty lack intelligence, expertise, and civility. This experience has been degrading and humiliating as a nursing professional and educator. If you are intelligent, articulate, and have the ability to provide insight - don't enroll in the PhD in Education with a specialization in Nursing Education Program. Once the three ignorant, arrogant, and unprofessional faculty members decide "you" will be the target of their retaliation - you will not pass your comprehensive examination. I was not aware of the business practices at Capella University, and I take full responsibility for not researching their academic standing and reputation in higher education. You will read numerous comments about Capella and their unprofessional business practices - I suggest you think very cautiously before enrolling in any of their programs. You might just end up like me, no longer in the PhD program!!!!! Oh by the way did I mention my gpa is over 3.5? You do the math!!!!
Dont waste yor time
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Go to real school before you waste your time and money with a business that cares nothing about your success. I have been at Capella for 3 and I wish every day that I did not chose this school. Beware and find a school where if you need to go there you can.
I'm suing this school for violation of privacy.
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I was medically removed from school and advised it was no problem to withdrawl in the first two weeks of school. 8 weeks later, I was advised I needed to pay the school $5000 to continue in the program. I was then advised the individual that told me "no problem" when I withdrew was no longer there. So- I've requested all the documentation they have requested to prove I could not medically attend school- including a doctor's note that said I could attend- and they state the information regarding my medical information is not "detailed" enough for them. At this point, I have obtained an attorney and I am suing the school for violation of privacy and EEOC issues. They have violated my HIPAA rights by requesting more and more medical information that is none of their business. I would never suggest this school to anyone.
No help from instructors
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Capella University will take your money, as stated in other comments here, they only care about your money. When taking my course-work, I maintained a 3.6 GPA. But, when I took my first comprehensive exam, man was I surprised. The readers did not care whether you knew anything about the subject or not. I have been in the IT field all of my professional life, from 1983 to be exact. The comprehensive exam is so hard that I believe it is a mechanism for "academic hazing". During the comp exam, the "facilitator" said he would communicate and answer any questions on a bi-weekly phone call. That did not happen. I have taken the exam, twice. They don't even care what you have learned. Its all about whether or not you can do research for them, post-doctorates are slaves. I do not want to become a slave. Its ashamed to spend 95K for nothing. Not sure if I want to continue or not. The comprehensive exam is a joke, and does not gauge a person's ability to do any type of research. This is why many schools are going to a "portfolio" format. Teaching you how to do research "all" through your time in school. THIS SUCKS... I HOPE I HAVE NOT WASTED MY TIME!!!!
Personal Accountability
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Every college is as good as the students. You get as much out of it as you put in. I have maintained a 4.0 throughout my college career from AA to PhD. I love the grad instructors, the classes are applicable to teaching (especially online), and I have learned as much as I allowed myself to learn. If you are a serious college student and professional, you will do well at Capella University. If you want to skate through college for a diploma without learning a darn thing, you are better off at a diploma mill. The college provided many rewards for meeting certain milestones. I am proud to be a Capella learner! The responsibility is squarely on your shoulders.
Falsely accusing and dropping students for Plagiarism.
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I have went to Capella for a year and a half. I noticed in the beginning the called to see how I was doing all the time. But once I was in my second semester they did not even check up on me at all only to re enroll in there school for my next class. I have done my work the same way the whole way through. In this class I started I got a professor who accused me of plagiarism and docs me for a who bunch of points when I did not plagiarize in my discussions like she stated I did. Even the college is saying I copied another student and is dropping me from the class. I know for a fact I did not copy this student and I have never been accused of this before. If I truly did this then I would not be typing this on here. I have went and finished my degree in Human Services at a previous college before I went to Capella and not once have I had this happen and I did my work the same way the whole time. If you want to do online school do not chose Capella they may ruin your online experience for you and make you fear your choice in online college.
Pleased with Capella
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As someone who is two classes from graduation with an MBA with a focus in IT Management, I can honestly say that this university is a good one. I first want to say that school is not meant to be hard. There will be "busy work" at any university. I can say with confidence that I have not had a bad experience. I received my bachelor's at a "traditional" university and I have pros and cons about that place as well. Not every professor will be great, you will see cons about the place you choose. My company helped me choose Capella. I am the first person to go to an online university at my company. I am the "test machine" for them :) They are VERY satisfied with the course content. It has NOT been easy to pass these courses. I have had to write a lot of papers and research a lot to help me get through these courses. THIS IS NORMAL. If it's hard for you, that's a good thing! This is an accredited university that our US government uses for their departments that is affiliated with Harvard University. I cannot imagine another university out there that is better than this. I am not affiliated with Capella in any way. Take this for what it's worth. I don't see any problems that some of these people who are bad mouthing the university are claiming. I am a hard working student who would easily recommend this university. Yes, their technology is second to none...but everyone is coming to that. Choose Capella because you see that it's the best for you. Take these comments with a grain of salt...yes, even mine.
Not a wise investment if you want to be a Professional or even gradute
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First of all consider the cost, for this amount of tuition you want to learn something. The course material is very good. With that said you can complete the same work in an independent study format, the instructors are either complacent or bullies, no middle. Consider that some degrees require that you leave your job and/or family for 1 week at least 2 times for residency. The additional out of pocket expense is a challenge without this inconvenience you do not graduate. Consider that other schools offering these same programs give students the option of "Virtual Residency" where the excessive expense, time from work, family and the travel eliminated. Capella does not offer this. Unavailability of necessary technology, if the school is to support people who work, have family's and do not wish to use family vacation time to sit in a residency for 1 week. Consider that Capella's open Courseroom encourages plagiarism. No matter who the information is copied from it is Plagiarism. If you took it from someone else, without citing them it is cheating. If you are a hard worker, go to a traditional school or a school where students are not allowed to view other students work until their work has been posted in the course room. The open course format allows other students who choose to wait for others who have done the research and finished their post first, simply to copy bits and pieces of everyone’s work to complete their work. Sometimes it is not just bits and pieces, sometimes it whole sections or paragraphs. If you find that someone has copied your work as well as others and you report it, it is of no consequence to the cheaters. It has gotten Ridiculous. Suggestions, not to allow students to see other student’s posts until they have posted theirs have been ignored. Consider that the idea of attending an online school is for the convenience of managing life, family, employment and the opportunity for an education. Very important...If you consider Capella be prepared for their administrative changes to cost you some money. If you do all that you believe you need to, to be successful and one of Capella's policies change in mid stream the only options you have of leaving is transferring and losing almost all of your credits. Quitting and wasting all of that tuition, or simply going with the flow and still not being able to graduate because, you decide against the aforementioned. Consider the external resources that you may need to complete the program such as supervised internships. Capella does not actively assist in the REQUIREMENT, so if you are unable to locate the required internship locations, you don’t graduate and time runs out after 3 quarters. Some students have been trying to find internships in their areas for over a year. No help from Capella and this is a graduation requirement. Guess what, while you are in internship status Capella, gets no money, so why should they help. Granted these things could happen anywhere. But before you decide to spend your hard earned money or become buried in loans consider, just how much you are willing to sacrifice by attending Capella. Be strategic in obtaining transferrable credits. Do not stay long if you foresee issues with traveling out of town twice for a week. Consider programs that offer virtual residency to accommodate this inconvenience and expense. If you want to glide through the course content without having to do your own research, then Capella is the school for you. Their open Courseroom encourages students to cheat. However, if you are a dedicated hard worker and want to do the work Do Not, I repeat Do Not attend Capella, to help others glide through the process. Doing this disparages the profession the cheaters are supposedly working to become a member of.
Capella Professor's Are Terrible!!
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During my first semester Capella seemed to be a great school to enter. I have done well in all of my classes expect for one in which I obtained a C. I had an horrible experience with the professor of this course as she was unprofessional and did not reply to her students in a timely fashion. I am displeased with the school's hiring process. It seems as if they hire anyone. I feel as though if I am paying for my education then they should be able to teach accordingly and grade assignments throughly. Although I have opted not to mention this professor's name I am not happy with her at all. Capella needs to take responsibly for its professors as they should not be excused for their actions, but they should be reprimanded as well.
Ed.D. Doctor of Education
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Only a few classes left before I finish my degree. Spent a year researching programs before applying to Capella. I work for a college, so I know quality when I see it, and this program is a quality program.
Progam not conducive to busy professionals
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The school is VERY expensive- $4,500 a quarter. Teachers are very inflexible and the coursework is not conducive to a working professional's schedule.
psychology
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I have two Master's degrees from both online and traditional brick and mortar college institutions. When I decided to return for an advanced psychology degree, I had problems from the start. That should have been my first clue. The application process was painful, and the advising process does not work. You will often get whatever advisor is available when you call, regardless of whether they work in the Master's degree or Doctoral program area. Many of the classes lack good interactions with the faculty, which is often due to the high number of students/classes that each teacher must teach. Master's degree candidates take classes with doctoral students with the same amount of work, and learning modules and final projects. Connection with your fellow students is left up to you to do online and hope for the best. I understand that this is part of the online degree process, but I have taken many classes at other online colleges where the process of connection was far easier. I felt that I was often training my advisors as to what was needed for my degree, and also having to email some teachers more than once to get any sort of feedback if I was on the right track in a class, or if I needed clarification. Usually, the faculty would give a brief answer but ask the other classmates for their support and assistance in the answer. This is clearly a for profit, market driven institution where numbers matter more than the student. Career services has 'webinars' which are not face to face skype presentations but rather a discussion/power point format with an area on the side to type your question. It did not give me the confidence in the school's ability to assist student's in their job search in the career that they have paid a large amount of money to the college to complete. My advice is to look at college that offer a more interactive model of support, and teaching. collaborative and supportive versus scholar learner centered which is at capella.
Capella not recognized for licensure
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I hold a PhD in Psychology from Capella University (2006). It is nice to be called Doc, but the reality is that you cannot get licensure as a Psychologist anywhere in the US or its territories from this degree. If you have the appropriate practicums you can get a counseling license. Be sure you have 3 practicums, however, or you will be doing the entire Masters program over again even to get 1 necesary practicum. No other school will accept Capella credits toward a degree, and even Capella will only take a couple toward a new degree. Go to a real school. When you are competing in the field with others who did not cut corners, you will be at a loss if you went to Capella, not to mention the exorbatent expense. Don't forget that you will be paying off Capella student loans FOREVER (really like 30 years). They are federal loans and you can't get out of them even through bankruptcy.
Let's be clear: This is INDEPENDENT study.
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I am in the last class of my master's degree in psychology. This degree will end up costing me almost 40,000. I agree with the other poster who said that the "professor" do not teach. It is an INDEPENDENT study course. Capella brags that only Ph.D's are allowed to be instructors, but that is meaningless because they don't share knowledge and experience with you anyway. It truly is the fast food of college degrees....at a very high premium price. I would not do it again. If you want to try it, make a decision early on...because soon you will not be able to afford not to finish.
Recommended with Reservations
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I have finished my coursework and comprehensive examination and am currently writing my dissertation. My sole purpose for obtaining a PhD is to be able to teach at a university at the professorial level (versus instructor) after a 20+ year career as a federal law enforcement officer. My agency offered to pay tuition for any personnel who could justify the need for advanced education; it provided a list of about 30 online schools to choose from. That being said, I cannot comment on value for the money since I’m not paying for my degree. Before entering the LE field, I was a high school science teacher. I earned both my BS and MSc in Biology from traditional brick and mortar universities. I was expecting Capella to be a bit more challenging than it was but that may be due to my science background. Advanced degrees in hard sciences are traditionally more difficult to obtain than other fields. I have nothing but positive things to say about my instructors at Capella. Most are professors at traditional brick and mortar universities and are simply teaching additional classes online in their spare time. With the exception of one, all of them were of high standards and knew the material very well. My biggest complaint with Capella is not so much with the school, but with the students. Capella adheres to an open enrollment policy. This means that they accept pretty much everyone that applies and weeds them out in the end. This is contrary to the traditional method of having to apply to grad school where you are required to pass the GRE (both general and subject), submit an application essay, and network with a professor so you have a research topic already in mind when you apply. Capella students are not subjected to this so there is no entrance standard of writing skills. I would estimate that at least 80% of my classmates were writing at a junior high level. I spent more time trying to decipher what they were writing than actually answering their discussion posts. For the most part, there was absolutely no evidence of critical thinking or advanced writing skills. There would be no way you would encounter this issue in a traditional university as they would’ve not survived the application process. Additionally, whenever you question their writings about theory or sources (most of these people have no concept of citing sources), you’re met with defensive answers and criticism. Spellcheck is a foreign concept to most Capella students. All in all, Capella is a good university. Just be prepared to have to deal with illiterate classmates who end up being weeded out at the end of the process.
Capella University General Psychology PhD program
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Near completing a General Psychology PhD. Capella's program is superior to my brick and mortar undergrad and MA at traditional schools. This is due to the well designed and thorough syllabus driven, research oriented classes.
three semesters in...
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I realized from the faculty's comments during the first course that she had not ever actually read my papers. I brushed it off as a bad instructor. You find them everywhere, right? Then the next quarter same thing. I realized that the faculty basically award the grade based on phrasing within the document that matches the ruberic they are using. I tested this theory and scored better with a 50 word document than when I wrote expansively. Expensive and not really worth that much.
Great school
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I completed my MS in Human Services in 2005. I found Capella to be a great school that met my needs and I found the cirriculum comparable to a local brick and mortar offering the same degree. My instructors were all active in their fields, which I felt was a plus. Most of my instructors were good with creating lessons but some just did the minimum to get by. I had instructors that gave a lot of great feedback and some that I had to beg to get feedback. But I saw that as an undergrad in my brick and mortar so I see this more as instructor issue and not a school issue. My degree got me a raise with my last employer and helped me get my current position. Going to Capella was well worth it.
Great if you want a high priced correspondence school...
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Nothing more than read the materials and answer questions in short paragraph form of small subsets of information (just to see if you read the material). Write a paper based on material and experience... Not impressed. Teachers are uninvoled and uninterested in helping you or seeing you succeed. They are looking for an easy paycheck at the expense of your education. I would not recommend this school for anyone! Beware, you get what you pay for, and the quality of the education will be revealed the first time you are asked to demonstrate your education.
BSIT is a good program
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Capella review I have been at Capella since December 2009. It is a good school in my view. As of this writing I have seven classes to go for my BS in IT. In a ten week course I think is just long enough to get what I need out of the course before mental fatigue kicks in. The instructors so far have been challenging and engaging. I am doing well, but I do put in a lot of time for my part time situation. Capella technical support has been quick to answer my issues or questions. There are a sea of on-line schools out here so I don't have a lot to compare to but the school being accredited as this one is is very important to me. Capella just received ABET accreditation. I am an IT manager and getting my Undergraduate degree would help solidify my position.
A Dream Come True
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I am a Capella learner and an ambassador for the school. I am enrolled in their program for the degree of Master of business administration an ambassador for their programs and their standards are very high, I have aways enjoyed my learning. I can honestly say that although I am almost finished with their Master of Business Administration degree, I have had a wonderful experience. The professors are awesome. The professors are very committed to the success of their students. I am not just saying the commitment of the professors is great. It really is great. I had a professor who challenged me to improve my business writing skills by critiquing my papers and giving me "lessons" in graduate level mechanics. I had another professor who conferred with me over the phone and very generously helped me with the writing skills with respect to the citation process and even gave me a link to several books and a writing lab. Capella is a pioneer in the field of online education I have done several in-depth studies in my Master of Business Administration career at Capella this far, one of s=which is on Capella Education, the organization that owns and operates Capella University. I can say with confidence that although Capella University is online and the programs are project based, they are accredited and their accreditation standards are under annual review. Capella University is an excellent school that caters to the adult working professionals with a busy home and working life. I come from a family of school teachers, college and university professors and business professionals. I am very familiar with the quality of education and the need for quality education in today's world. Capella University is proud to display their degree and career outcomes. In their oxide to display these outcomes, they allow learners the opportunity to post comments about their experiences in programs. I have never attended a school where I have had so much fun learning while working so hard at the same time.
Do your research before complaining
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First off Capella is a great school. But before you attend any college you have to make sure that the degree you are going for fits your states regulations. NOW Capella's masters degree program in Psychology DOES offer a license. They are cacrep certified meaning that after obtaining the Masters in psychology you can get certified to be a Licensed counselor. BUT you have to actually take a specialization through there school. Either drug rehab, Marriage counseling, Mental health ect ect. Obviously EVERYONE knows that to be an actual Psychologist you have to get A PhD. But you can become a licensed Counselor. There is so much misinformation out there from bitter students who couldn't cut it at online colleges. They give out false information and infect the rest of us..
IT PhD's and technical abilities...
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Any IT PhD earner should at the very least be capable of using the Capella online learning environment. I personally have used non-compliant software (Linux, Chromium, Libre Office) and have completed all assignments and DQs on time. If you can't figure out how to use your primary tool in the IT field, you should change career tracks as well as schools. Anyway, 5 classes in and I am fairly well pleased with the courses and environment.
MS in Child and Adolescent Development with a second specialization in Psychology and a concentration in Family Psychology
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This is an absolutely amazing school. Im half way done with my 1st year here and I couldnt be happier. I got my Bachelors from Ashford University (another amazing online school) and I was skeptical about wether I could find another online college that was as great, and met my needs as perfectly, as Ashford did. Well, not only does Capella meet them, they have far exceeded them. Not only are the classes interesting and challenging, but every instructor I have had thus far has really known their stuff. They have really helped me think outside the box and reach my potential. My advisors have been wonderful. I couldnt ask for anything better. And of course the programs they offer are second to none. I HIGHLY recommend Capella to any and everyone who wants a high quality education without the burden of attending a brick and mortar school for 6-8 hours a day.
The Independent traveler
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I'm currently a 2nd year MBA student concentrating in various fields of business at Capella. Prior to joining, I had several reservations. Specifically, regarding issues such as accreditation, reputation, faculty, and the level of education available. I'm thoroughly convinced that Capella University is an excellent institution to learn, lead, serve and grow. Clearly the process of raising one's level of thinking depends solely on oneself. What you put in, is what you get out. Shockingly enough, you may have heard that many people have trouble writing, reading and/or communicating effectively. This is a problem at every university which includes, Harvard ,Yale, Wharton,etc. To this end, education is the same everywhere. However, dedication, integrity, drive, willingness, etc are all individual traits that take you to next level. The institution simply brings out what's there already.
Awesome Experience
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I just completed my MS in Human Service...I had a great experience at Capella. I am a little upset by the negative comments but it seems as if those are from people who did not complete their degree for various reasons. Once I gave my employer my letter of completion in about 7 days I got a letter from our district payroll department with my pay increase which was from 48,000 to 57,000 yearly. I think before all the negative reviews those people should have researched the program and Capella prior to applying. My degree has not been a waste, nor was it easy or a joke! I hope all the negative people find happiness on their new journey...I would not trade my experience...I never waited on the phone, always got correct information, no issues with billing etc!
PhD very successful!
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Earned my PhD in Educational Psychology in 2008. Quickly was hired as an associate professor for a state university. If you are worried about earning an online degree from Capella- don't! I was hired out of a pool of 215 applicants with doctoral degrees. It isn't an easy school, but your degree is worth something when you are done.
Rude, no communication, just want your $$$$
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I can not believe I have wasted thousands of dollars on this joke of a "university." I should have known that something was wrong when they admitted me over the phone based on my verbal academic history, waved the application fee, etc. The first course is a joke to lure you in to the program, and after that they give you no support and are rude every time you contact the "university." My instructors were arrogant and no one I would take seriously in relation to my abilities. I am transferring to my alma mater and taking my money with me!
Grateful, yet reserved in my recommendations
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I was able to obtain an APA accredited pre-doctoral internship as a Capella University Student. The only reservation I have is that Capella University is not APA accredited as an institution and this was a big disappointment. I will say I am a licensed psychologist in California now, but without that accreditation I will have an up hill battle in some areas. I will never be eligible for ABPP certification and may have trouble moving and becoming licensed in other states. The program itself (the years I attended) was excellent overall. What a student gets out of it, is what they put into it. I am also glad they did manage to discourage or dismiss some students that would have been problematic working for the public or would have been dismissed from an internship program. For those with life situations where another accredited university is not an option, I recommend Capella as second only to fielding (again as they are an an accredited on line program in clinical psychology). For those who are looking at other programs in psychology and who are not looking to be licensed as a clinical psychologist . Capella would be my first choice for an on-line program. Depending on the state Capella's degree program may work well for those who wish to be doctoral level licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, or other types of behavioral health professionals. Sincerely, Ed
Excellent choice for an upper level educational experience
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I am in my second term with Capella University and am enrolled in the Organization and Managment PhD program. I have also completed Track 1 Colloquium and my overall experience thus far has been exceptional. In the past, I have always attended the traditional "brick & mortar" universities, however, I can state without a doubt the online learning environment adds so much more value and flexibility to the educational experience. I highly recommend Capella to anyone who is seeking to advance themselves forward in their careers or life in general.
Good and Bad-Do your research
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This is my 2nd quarter at Capella, but I'm only a little over a year away from finishing my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and Project Management. My first was great up until week 10. The Professor Sherwood was fantastic, the coursework was very challenging, and overall the classmates were great. Then out of nowhere, one of the classmates verbally attacked me on the public final discussion, saying inappropriate things, and basically bullying me. I did nothing to warrant this, and even the professor was shocked. She later tried to cover her ass by hinting that she felt intimidated by me, but never apologized. I can't say what she said on the board, but it's almost as bad as being called a racial slur, as well as a few other things. I was so humiliated and hurt, especially since this person was someone I regularly supported in the class. That was almost 6 weeks ago when I demanded Capella do something about this incident. I'm still waiting. Supposedly, they gathered a panel to review what to do. And guess what happened around the same time? Suddenly my financial aid was only going to cover one class per quarter going forward, when from the beginning I was told taking 2 classes per quarter "should not be a problem" since I'm unemployed. This quarter is so-so. I'm not impressed too much with one of the instructors (my other one, Dr. Dave, is great though). I'm very disappointed that Capella obviously doesn't care about how that woman made me feel with her attack on a public class board. I'm very disappointed that all of a sudden my financial aid has changed as well, when my situation hasn't, so I find this very fishy. Taking just one class per quarter is not going to work for me, which is what I would have to do starting next quarter. Another negative is having to deal with classmates that CLEARLY do not belong at this level of schooling. They use improper grammar, their spelling is awful, don't follow the class rules, and don't do their part of team assignments. In other words-lazy and half-ass they belong back in Junior College. Very annoying. I've learned to ignore this type this quarter and it seems to be working for me, thank God. Overall, while the coursework and assignments are definitely challenging, and the professors are probably mostly good (too soon for me to really tell, but I have had 2 out of 3 being good). But I'm very concerned about how this verbal attack is going to play out, and then potentially have another class with this woman or anyone who saw the post. I also don't trust that they have my best interest in mind pertaining to assisting me with financial aid. I'm trying to decide what I'm going to do, but think carefully and really do your research and compare before you jump in for sure.
PhD: IT - Information Assurance & Security
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I am currently taking my 6th course for my PhD in IT - Information Assurance and Security. Like many reviews that I have seen for Capella's IT programs, I am very satisfied and feel it is a great value for the money. It is quite challenging. There are two research responses that are due during the week and four responses to other students' posts that are required weekly. In addition, each week typically has at least one paper due. All of the courses that I have taken so far required a larger paper, approximately 20 pages without the cover page and references, due as the last assignment. The instructors are not easy graders. Besides the content of the paper, they are quick to knock off points for APA and any grammatical errors. If I did something wrong, I correct it for the next assignment, but I have seen responses from students to instructors that can be belligerent. I have not seen an instructor respond in anything but a professional manner. I have not turned in any assignments late, so I cannot give a review on this, but I have read reviews from others that stated that they have run into issues with this - which is why I turn everything in by the due date! I do want to state that I have been able to move up in my career due to taking courses towards my PhD. The company is a top Fortune company and they seemed to be more interested in the fact that I am managing to take PhD courses while working rather than where I was taking courses.
IF YOU ONLY READ ONE REVIEW READ THIS ONE!
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Capella does not care out you as a student they only care about getting your money. If you are looking for a school to attend for psychology please go elsewhere. I have found out, and so have many of my classmates, that their degree is useless. I sought support from the advising staff at Capella today and was told this "our classes are not designed for licensure". Why else would some seek a masters degree in psychology if they were not going to see a license? I was also told my only option was to transfer to another school. When I spoke with the advising staff about my licensure worries a couple of years ago I was assured I needn't worry. Now that they have $120K of my money they do not care if I transfer to another school for my last semester. For your safety and sanity please seek another school.
Excellent School
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I have read a number of the reviews. Most of the negative reviews I see seem to have been written by people who either didn't properly research what would be required in their line of work (psychology majors, mainly) or have complaints that would be no different from any other on-line school. I received an Associates at a brick and mortar, a BS and MSM online (from another school). Capella is most definitely not a diploma mill. Students must work hard if they are to be successful. If I have any complaint at all it is that too much is expected. I thought I was overworked when pursuing my BS and MSM, but at Capella I am working significantly harder (wouldn't have believed it possible). The courses are tough, but the education is well worth the effort. I love the Colloquia required of all doctoral students. It is a time to meeting others in your program, comparing experiences and bonding with others. Many of the people you meet at these residencies are students in the very classes you are taking. This adds to the bonding experience and makes future classes with these fellow students more enjoyable. In addition, valuable information is gained by attending this residencies. Track one helped me to make the transition from practitioner/scholar to scholar/practitioner, which helped me be a better student. Track two gave me valuable information regarding research methodologies and research in general. I haven't attended track three, but I am sure it will also be well worth the trip. If you attend Capella, be sure to go to the Colloquia as early in the program as possible. Capella is an excellent school. I do not regret my decision to attend one bit!
Happy
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I am currently working on my masters with this school and I am very happy with this school. From the beginning I have always had help behind me and always had my questions answered. I have only had one teacher that was very slow to response but otherwise my teachers have always pushed me. I like the school's colloquims because it offers the student to meet some of the teachers and "higher ups" in the school. It is a good way for a psychology student to learn the trade about what they may encounter when they start working in the field. Everything with this school has been outstanding and I am seriously considering them for my PhD.
Capella University is phenomenal
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As someone who has been on a doctoral committee at the Union Institute and University prior to my PhD at Capella University, I know that the quality of the phenomenal mentors, committee members, and professors at Capella is top notch. I have taught in the Biology Dept. at Syracuse University and I know that the PhD I received from Capella has been unbelievably worthwhile. You are treated like an adult and you are not micromanaged at all (unlike what I hear from other PhD candidates at other institutions). There are so many advantages with online education and specifically Capella, that I only have positive reviews for the education I received with Capella University.
Very disappointing
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I enrolled in the directed studies programs at the doctoral level and the work was easy mainly because I was able to work at my own pace, develop my own course completion goals and objectives, and presenting thesis pertaining to my passions health policy and health services research. However, I felt sabotaged two years into the program. I suffered through mentor changes each year thereafter, frequent policy changes, and longer response times from faculty, and faculty whose integrity I still question to this day. Mentor changes during the dissertation period is a death sentence for completing in a timely manner. Compared to my Masters program at Central Michigan University, Capella fails miserably. As a writer mentioned in this post, I wish I also had known just how bad they were and are.
Great Experience Thus Far...
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This is my third semester with Capella and I must say that I am very pleased with the rigor and relevance of the assignments and classes. As a doctoral student I recognize that my assignments should be challenging and I should be able to work independently and that is exactly the opportunity I am given at Capella. Feedback is immediate and I am able to converse and learn from other professionals in my field. The quarters are pricey but you have the opportunity to take as many classes as you choose for the same rate so it is advantageous to load up with classes if possible. I look forward to completing my studies within the next 2 years and hope my experience continues to be positive.
You get what you give...
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I am writing this review after having taken three courses in my program. I have too say that Capella has been very good to me. My GPA from my undergraduate studies is not very reflective of my actual abilities because I had some severe illnesses during my college experiences. With that said, this is going to an honest and what I believe to be a fair evaluation of Capella. First things first, Capella's Admission requirements for my program is 2.3 GPA if you're not specializing and 3.0 if you are. I find these requirements to be a little low. I have looked at Brick and Mortar schools and most of them require a GPA of at least 3.0 for admission to graduate programs. Second, I have done well and met all of my requirements. However, I will say this: The major problem with these online programs is that there isn't enough of a "classroom" experience. By that I mean that in a classroom, a Professor can tell if you have not done your reading or did not prepare for a presentation. In this online classroom, students can very easily not read and simply skim the chapter assigned until they get to the part that answers their discussion for the week. Third, the one part of the classes that I find to be challenging are the course projects. A project is assigned for every class. So far, some of them have actually been fun and interesting to do. Finally, let me point out that Capella is what you make of it. I personally have applied to a Brick and Mortar School in my area for the same program I am doing at Capella because I feel that a Brick and Mortar classroom environment would better serve my educational needs. FYI PLEASE READ THIS: One day after requesting transcripts be sent to the University I applied to, my financial aid was reduced. I also called Capella to ask why and they said I had met my budget for the year. NOTHING about my financial status had changed. They are currently reviewing my budget, I think they're trying to punish me for applying somewhere else but then again we shall see when my review is complete.
So so
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I just wanted to post this because I have taken three graduate level courses from Capella. I have too say that so far, I have recieved very positive feedback from my instructors, and I have done very well gradewise. However, after careful thought and reasearch I have applied to a graduate program from a local university that is offering a scholarship for the same program I am doing at Capella. Here's the thing that kind of made me mad. They overestimated my cost of attendance by almost 2K per quarter and have been giving me refunds each quarter. Now, I DO NOT expect and DID NOT expect to recieve that kind of money back because first of all I have too pay it back in the end and It's not necessary. Just an FYI, They sent me an email two days after I requested that Transcripts be sent to the University that I applied to. This email said that my financial aid award had been changed. In fact, it was reduced by over 1600 dollars per quarter! They never even called or notified me in any way at all that my award was changed. Just beware, I think that as soon as they knew that I was applying to transfer somewhere else, they magically found a way to reduce my aid. They are all about the money. If you have the money or get tuition reimbursement from work then go for it. BUT, do not go here if you plan on using Financial Aid. P.S. I had an interview for my scholarship application this morning and I can't wait to get an acceptance letter! Goodbye Capella.
MSIT - Information Assurance and Security
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I chose Capella University over several others because they were A) accredited B) offered US Gov certifications upon graduation in my field given I took the required courses and C) because there are scholarships available for those in my field. I have Bachelors degrees from University of Phoenix (UOP)(brick and mortar school in Michigan) and De Vry. Columbus. I have over 25 years in Information Technology and I felt then and do now, that Capella is my best choice. I have read complaints about instructors at Capella and I have had a few that were substandard but I have also had instructors that were of the highest caliber. I think the same could be said of any University. At University of Phoenix I had the same experience with the quality of instruction. All of my professors at Capella have been PhD's. I feel that the course work at Capella is very challenging and does indeed pertain to my major. I have a perfect GPA in my masters program so far but, I am only taking one class per quarter. I would and do recommend Capella university to anyone interested in obtaining an advanced degree.
Satisfied
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After reading a number of reviews, I feel it is fair to give everyone an actual idea of what they might be getting themselves into. Heads up, if you are not willing to go the extra mile do not take an online class. I completed my BS at a University where I got the classroom experience. In my opinion it is more difficult in an online environment because face it people, you have to teach yourself and make time to teach yourself. Yes there are tons of readings per week, yes there are discussions and replies you have to do, yes there are 15 page papers you have write. Reading through the reviews about how "I'm too busy to complete the requirements, this is a bad school blah blah" are all excuses by the individual. IF you pursue a degree you should know it's not going to be a cake walk, you will actually have to put some effort forth. Personally, I find this education to be more fulfilling then the classroom experience I had. Every teacher I had always got back to me immediately on any questions and actually helped when I needed it. I have 3 classes left and have found this school to be worth the time. Make the decision based on how busy your life is, because I'm here to tell you, you will have to put some time into your degree plan.
Like anything else, YOU have to do your homework!!
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Capella is what it is. Its a for-profit university. Not quite the same as the tech school that are springing up like wells across the country but not far off. I checked them up one side and down the other as my goal is to pursue a PhD or PsyD down the line. I will not pursue it with Capella unless the boards change their rules. I am honestly disturbed that students pursuing a PhD did not check into the school any further than they did. Its not Capella's fault. They have their limitations, being primarily an on-line university; however, for many students, these limitations DO NOT IMPACT the quality of education they receive. If you are pursuing an undergraduate degree, rock on at Capella. If you are pursuing an advanced degree, this is where you need to do your homework. Anyone in a program that has a governing board or requires certification/licensure after completion of the program, I would recommend looking elsewhere. I have yet to find an on-line college that the boards will accept, except one and only in California, your on-line education. I like Capella and so does my employer. They are paying $15,000 towards the cost of my education. Thanks Capella.
I will let you know...
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I am about to attend Capella for my first class in their MS Information Technology program. So, I can't say a whole lot YET since I haven't started. What I can say is this- I work for a Fortune 50 company and they highly encourage attendance at this institution. They provide tuition reimbursement for the program as well. They employ over 250,000 people. I would say that has to speak for something. This company will hire someone with a degree from Capella, and encourages its employees to enhance their careers by obtaining an advanced degree at this institution.
Capella U.
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I lived overseas and was looking for a DE Ph.D. program that I could complete with limited required time on campus in the US. I looked into several programs and Capella fit my requirements. I was sold because they let me start immediately, took my 29 year old masters degree, and did not require that I attend a stateside seminar prior to beginning the program. I was also impressed that it was a full blown Ph.D. and not a E.Ed. doctorate, that included emphasis on a complete doctoral dissertation. It wasn't cheap and when I took the program I had to pay full tuition each term, whether I took no courses or loaded up, so I usually loaded up and took extra courses. I was able to take off a term during the degree, which saved some tuition. Warning. If you require lots of guidance, immediate feedback, and are not self-motivated or disciplined this is not the program for you. You get out of it what you put into it. Most courses were interesting and valuable. I was able to write research papers related to my experiences living in an overseas environment, and that made the experience all the more valuable. I had an excellent mentor to guide my studies, who also acted as the chair of each committee for the comps, proposal and final defense of the dissertation, which was done by phone conference. Most course work included reading, online weekly class discussions and a course paper. Writing these papers helped in gaining experience for the 6 large comp papers required and eventually the dissertation. It took me three years. One year of taking at least two courses per term, one year plus of writing comps, the dissertation proposal, researching and writing the dissertation, and almost a year to get it approved. The approval process and getting feedback on the comps and dissertation was not always timely and could get frustrating. Some professors were not responsive, but this is not unusual for any graduate program. Most were very good and had a lot of experience in the field. The most enjoyable and valuable experience was the required two week summer seminar. Meeting other adult learners, professors, and getting lots of guidance for research and writing for the dissertation made it a great two weeks. There were a variety of short seminars to choose from, given by faculty, some of whom I had taken courses with online. Three weekend seminars were also required, but some could be back to back with the required seminar. These were useful in preparing for research. I was also able to do an independent studies class, self-designed, to practice research I would later do for my dissertation topic, and to do an internship, also related to my research. I finished in 2003, so the program may have evolved since then.
Buyer Beware
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Buyer beware! This school is all about the money. If you're taking the time to read through reviews of Capella (hopefully before you enroll), you'll likely see many that say Capella is a scam. I'm hear to tell you, from my first-hand point of view, those reviews are true. If you enroll in a PhD program, here's what you're going to encounter. First, in whichever quarter you decide to begin, Capella will only allow you to take 1 class that first quarter. Still, Capella will charge you the full amount, generally around $4,500. Once the class starts you'll be asked to perform very remedial exercises that you probably never even encountered as an undergraduate: activities like assessing your learning style or picking 2 or 3 learning styles from a book written by a Capella insider that you think will help you. (Honestly, if you've made it to the PhD level, do you really need to assess your learning style at this point?) Then the real fun begins. Tons of mindless busy work, condescending instructors who provide vague feedback but are quick to give you a poor grade with little reasoning, poor communication from faculty and staff, etc. And, here's the kicker, when you finally realize you may have made a mistake with Capella and want to withdraw, good luck finding someone who will call you back. If you're lucky enough to find withdrawal forms yourself online, go ahead and fill one out. Just be prepared to receive a bill for the full amount of the quarter if you withdraw after the first week of class, regardless of you have financial aid or are a self-payer. That's right, Capella will bill you for the ENTIRE cost of the quarter even if you've only completed 3 weeks of class. On the positive side, Capella's online classroom is pretty easy to navigate.
Does not teach
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Capella University does not TEACH. If you are interested in a gloried correspondence school - Capella is for you. They assign reading then ask you to write on a very specific subset of the reading assignment. If you are in a hurry to get that degree - just read the portion of the assignment related to the writing assignment. Comprehension or mastery of the topic is not required to pass a course. I want an education. This does not meet my needs. Looking for a brick and mortar university with lectures, interaction with fellow students and professors and the requirement to master the subject matter.
Excellent
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I chose the Capella PhD for their excellent customer service. From day one throught to graduation, my support was excllent. The quality of the professors is high, you can see their CV listed online. I had professors from Harvard, Yale, etc. I wish they were accredited by AACSB. The structure of the courses is excllent I learned more there than my previous 2 degrees combined. I am now a full time teacher at a four year University.
Excellent education
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I am presently writing my dissertation in my field of human services and am continuing to find the process fulfilling and expanding. My experience with the professors at Capella has been positive in most instances. Capella utilizes faculty from other colleges as adjunct teachers. I have had professors from Catholic U., U of PA, Berkley, etc., in addition to faculty specific to Capella. I am very satisfied and have grown a great deal from my time here.
So far so good however........
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Some of the instructors have been very involved in the classroom and then there are a few that have not. Some instructors provide critical but helpful feedback and then there are some instructors that simply provide a grade.
Excellent Education
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I had an excellent experience at Capella University. The PhD program requires the learner to have a strong level of discipline and already enter the university with the appropriate skill set to analyze, synthesis, and write well. I have found that those who are easily frustrated with the program often do not have the skill set or the appropriate tools to be successful. This is a great program for learners who enjoy learning without constant face-to-face interaction or support. I highly recommend this program to others. I have found that other PhD holders are very respectful of my PhD degree and admire the discipline involved in obtaining such a high level degree online.
A wonderful choice!
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After obtaining my undergraduate degree back in 1990 I decided to go back for my MBA in Human Resources Management and am getting ready to wrap up my first class at Capella. I had orgionally looked into the University of Phoenix and their program. While the University of Phoenix is a very good intitution, I felt Capella was much better with a fantastic online support system. The course has been challenging but extremely enrichning. I am excited about my next class and so far am highly impressed with the quality of learning. I highly recommend Capella to others.
PhD - General Psychology
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Firstly, I cannot for the life of me get the faintest idea where some of these negative reviews are coming from . Before I get into my review I feel you should know some background information on my education. I graduated with a B.S. degree in Accounting from a big ten school in the early 2000s (Penn State to be exact) and earned my master's from a locally accredited university. I wanted to go back to school for a PhD in Psychology, yet I could not devote a fixed time every week for classes due to my work schedule and the fact that I have a life. I did MUCH research on where to find an accredited Psychology PhD and my research lead me to Capella. So this was me "I can get my PhD online... is that credible?" Look at Capella's accreditation, that are accredited top to bottom (minus APA) and have the same accreditation, if not more, than brick and mortar schools. My enrollment advisor never once pressured me into signing the dotted line and was VERY patient and helpful throughout my entire enrollment process. Let's face it, if I am going to spend nearly 55k on a degree I want to know how well it will hold up and if the school will be there for me when I need them to be, Capella has never let me down yet. Capella is a for-profit university, this means they are in the education business to make money. Their employees work even harder to make sure the student (the customer) is happy because the university does not get nor rely on state funding to operate. And for those who complain of lack of feedback from your professors, how old are you people? Undergraduate students should have their hand held, graduate students should not! The majority of my teachers have always given me consistent feedback and there have been a few oddball professors who have not. All of my teachers have extremely credible backgrounds and are not some shmucks Capella hired. If people are complaining about hand holding at this level, then you should nut be pursuing an advanced degree. Also, on a side note, Capella mandates that their professors post grades every three weeks so the students can change their studying habit if need be; lets face it - the grade is the bottom line. If you want a QUALITY education that is flexible to your needs, then go with Capella. I am glad I did!
Buyer Beware
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Although the support from the Capella staff was very good; the level of education received from this institution was a joke. I have received multiple masters degree from traditional state and private institutions. The level of instruction from these institutions far surpassed what was received from Capella. My undergraduate degree was more difficult to obtain than my masters degree from Capella. Instructors did not have PhDs,; they could not write; and many were out of their league in the classes they taught.
Great Experience!
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I received my MS in Human Services from Capella in 2005. I am quite puzzled by some of the reviews here. I busted my tail through the program and graduated with a 3.83 GPA. The professors really pushed me and other students. The one thing I liked best about the online format was the requirement to cite sources within our postings, as well as postings to classmates. This really separated the students that were serious about their degree and those who perhaps thought, 'Oh, this is online, it will be easy!' My enrollment counselor is also in the MPH program and she told me to be ready for 20-25 page papers that are due at the end of each course. Anyone that thinks this is easy, step right up. I am returning to Capella for my MPH (Master's of Public Health) and couldn't be more excited! The flexibility it offers is excellent. I've always had immediate response to questions from advisors and professors...which is more than I can about a public university I contemplated attending in my city, for the same degree.
Questionable
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As someone who once hailed Capella for its Masters program and personal conveniences, I absolutely kick myself for returning to the PhD program. Throughout this process I have received NO formative feedback and have been constrained by inflexible rules and people. I hope other learn from my mistakes.
Excellent Experience
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I earned my BS from a large public research university working under some of the brightest minds in psychology. I completed my MHR with a small liberal arts college hearalded for being the best private college in the south. Having taught online and on-site for my alma mater I decided to move online for my PhD. Capella's webCT platform is great for an all online program. The courses are relavant and bring together instructors and learners of all backgrounds. While the courses are heavily structured by the University, the instuctors have freedom to adjust and add some content in how they teach the class. Capella courses require effort from the learner or else you will not learn anything. This is one of the best attributes of the school. It forces you to think, reserach, extrapolate, and collaborate. I have never written so professionally in my life and am proud of each reasearch item I have submitted. I recently changed from PhD to MS program because I cannot meet the requirements for the PhD residencies and will be running out of financial aid. Hopefully, I can return and complete the PhD in the future. Capella's open enrollment policy does give any learner with an accredited prior degree the chance to pursue an advanced degree. However, the FirstCourse in the program weeds out those who are not able to make the grade. My FirstCourse instructor was so keen on developing the skills needed at the doctoral level that I am sure some students did not pass. And if you do not pass the first course in the program, designed to acclimate you to online learning and the Capella learning model, you are dismissed from the University. My couses past that one have been filled with great professionals that I have really helped me broaden my horizons.
it is what you make it
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I completed my PhD in October 2009. It took me four years from start to finish, while working full time teaching at the college level (2 years for coursework and comps, two years to write my dissertation). People looking for an easy way out should not consider Capella - it is a high quality school, and can work well for someone who is organized, motivated and self directed (and being able to write well helps). I was hesitant to go on line for my doctorate, having a BS, an MEd, and MS from traditional schools. But after researching programs for a few years, I chose Capella for a number of reasons that worked for me. Sure, there were frustrations along the way, as there are in any major endeavor, but in the grand scheme of things they were minor and I was always able to work things out. At this level, no one gives you anything - it is what you make it.
This School absolutly STUNK!
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To all who are thinking about taking online courses, Do NOT even bother with Capella. The school is awful. The cost is high! The credit system stinks. And the teachers are only there to collect a check. They do not care about student goals. Be very cautious when looking at this school. I would recommend a University from your local state. It will be much cheaper, and the degree will be more impressive to prospective employers.
Proud of my Capella MBA
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Education was superior to the highly regarded 'brick and mortar' school I went to for my Bachelor's. Professors were top notch and all had relevant experience. Courses were as challenging as you make them. Grading was relatively easy, although being a proficient writer helped. A lot of writing and discussions and it got 'old' after 10 courses, let alone 16. They only negative is explaining Capella every time someone asks were I got my MBA. Sometimes there is a perception about online schools that does not resonate well with most people. Many will question the validity, especially since 95% have never heard of Capella. At the end of the day, though, it is an accredited school and an MBA so who cares.
Capella University is outstanding!
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I researched online universities for several weeks before I decided to join Capella University. In my opinion, Capella University offers the highest quality and most advanced online education available. My entire learning experience at Capella University has been absolutely superb! Capella University is fantastic!
PhD Organizational Behavior
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I just completed the PhD and am excited! Just so people know my background: I earned a Bachelor's and MBA from Southern New Hampshire University, a top ranked business school in New England. Have over 22 years experience in business and adult education and currently work as faculty of a doctoral program at a reputable traditional university with over 100 years of history. My Capella experience was excellent and I met a network of individuals (both professors and students) who are proving to be a great value personally and professionally. The courses were current and quite rigorous, but the comprehensive exam seemed to have been focused on grammar rather than content. Anyway, once at the dissertation stage the experience became quite candidate friendly as my dissertation committee chair was always available and willing to provide recommendations. The rest of the committee was also helpful and their insights took my dissertation to places I did not foresaw. I have been provided approval to publish an article based on the dissertation from a major academic publication (peer reviewed). My degree just opened the doors for a tenure track position and several online university offers to teach both as adjunct and core faculty. Capella is a great University and one whose reputation increases on a daily basis! For those who had a bad experience with Capella you should know that not all universities are appropriate for everyone! Especially, online education is not cut out for anyone! There will always be individuals happy with a university and others very unhappy with the same university. My recommendation to all: everyone is entitled to their opinions, but attempting to discredit an organization because you had a bad experience with it says a lot about your character. If you work for a world class organization and your boss fires you, is the entire organization bad? Maybe some of the frustration comes out off misunderstandings and lack of good communication skills. Besides, there is a movement towards discrediting all online schools because brick and mortar schools are losing millions to lost tuition dollars. Gain back a lot off those dollars with other strategies, negative publicity to your competitors ia a sure way to fail. Only time will tell! Lastly, what really matters is what a particular school can do for you and their accreditation being in good standing! Capella is fully accredited and is seeking to do what no other online university has been able to do and what brick and mortar schoold don't want to happen: AACSB Accreditation!
shady
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Shady school. Heavy recruiting. Education average. Regional accreditation is under scrutiny.
Use caution with this college
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I enrolled several years ago in the Cappella PhD program in School Psychology. I am a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. I wanted to earn a doctorate but needed to find a program that I could complete without quiting my current job as a school psych. After a phone conversation with the Capella school psychology department chair I was assured completing the program while remaining employed in my present position would not be a problem. Additionally, I asked if the university would accept dissertations with a small number of subjects. I was assured that Capella was adult learner friendly and this would not be a problem. I completed the required classes and comprehensive exams. I submitted a dissertation proposal and completed a conference call with my committee. I was again assured my dissertation was on track. The next step was to have a university reviewer to approve the proposal. This is when the trouble began. I was told I did not have a sufficient number of subjects for my study. Also, the dept that controls internships would not approve a placement in my current position. I contacted the dept chair and my dissertation chair. Both just referred me back to the university reviewer and internship dept. I was very disappointed that my dissertation chair encouraged and approved of my proposal but when the university reviewer rejected it, he provided no help on how to resolve the situation. The PhD advisor was also of no help. Thus in short, I feel I was misled by several staff members. I recommend anyone considering enrolling in a Cappella program to use caution. The promises made to get you to enroll may not be remembered when you are at the end of the program.
IDOL
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Currently in my third quarter in the MS IDOL program and am very impressed so far. I work for a leading college in online learning and was skeptical about a fully online program at a for-profit but have had nothing but good experiences so far. The textbooks used for every course have been such high quality that I don't intend to resell them - they have become a valued part of my personal library. The lessons have been the best part - they are of higher quality than my undergraduate program at a public university. The instructors are very involved in the classroom discussions and respond in a timely manner. They all seem to be quite experienced in their fields. I am more than satisfied with my experience in the classroom. That said, there are a few areas where I would like to see improvement. The mentoring service is impossible to find on the Capella site - even typing in the word "mentoring" in the search only brings up mentor profiles. The only reason I know mentoring exists is because last quarter Capella emailed me a link which I absentmindedly deleted. Also, my advisor is new and so far very hands-off. He mentioned that he advises several hundred students so no mystery there. For self-motivated, busy, working adults who are disciplined to do the work, Capella is like the ideal graduate experience. If you need to ask questions every 5 minutes and are going to put in only the minimum effort required for an assignment, this isn't the "easy road" you might be looking for. The assignments will challenge you. Regarding the negative reviews, I personally know someone who got bad grades because she can't write a complete sentence and is still blaming Capella for it. Take the bad reviews with a grain of salt. You really DO get out what you put in.
Bad Investment
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A very bad choice. The quality of education offered and delivered by Capella does not compare with what you stand to gain form an established University. My aspirations to earn an PhD at Capella upon my graduation were quashed when I realized that the time and money invested was truly wasted. A degree from Capella is a liability in the job market, demonstrating to most any employer or recruiter that you couldn't make it anywhere else. Moreover, Capella is eager to sue any critics into silence... now what University advocates restricting free speech, and prefers to sue their student body rather than use the feedback to realize excellence in learning? Think hard... very, very hard, and re-read the real critics that are bold enough to post their sentiment on this site and ask yourself: What is their incentive to risk all that they have invested and damaging their own credential? That takes real heart... My doctorate begins very soon, but not with Capella.
PgD Educational Psychology
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I received my BA and MA from a traditional well-ranked university and am currently in my fifth year with Capella University. In truth, I am pounding away at the third chapter of my dissertation. I have read the various remarks posted to this site, and find I am confused by some and in agreement with others. Online learning is not for the “faint at heart” and doctoral learning in an online venue requires a set of personal characteristics beyond cognitive ability: Conscientiousness, self-regulation, tenacity, a strong sense of self (e.g. weaknesses and strengths), a proactive (rather than reactive) disposition, and self-sacrifice. Of course, all of these characteristics are necessary to success in any doctoral programs. However, in my experience, online study is comparatively more demanding. Be prepared to hone your writing abilities constantly, and engage in deep critical evaluation of your existing knowledge, skills, and abilities in your selected discipline and beyond. When weighing my educational options, I was most concerned about rigor, and I was not disappointed curricula at Capella. In fact, I found it challenging and intellectually stimulating. In some respects, the secondary research and writing demands were exceptionally challenging. The real question is, would I make the same decision knowing what I know now? Yes. My grades, references, and GRE scores were excellent, and I had an opportunity to pursue my degree at three traditional colleges that offered similar degree programs. However, my campus tours uncovered a simple fact: A lack of fit between myself (demographically and otherwise), other doctoral students, and the entire tenor of “traditional college life.” I was, after all, 44 years old, had a wealth of practical experience, and planned to pursue a doctorate to improve my marketability within my field rather than become some newly minted faculty member. Further, such a commitment required I move, leave my husband of 20 years, and move in with a family member in the area. No thanks. It is worthwhile to note that one of the “selling points” of two of the three universities was the ability to complete “some” of the core prerequisite courses online.
General Psychology PhD Program
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I am adult learner with a full time career as a licensed counselor in higher education and a young family. Up until the last course I had at Capella, the professors were fair when it came to deadlines. Two scholarly research projects and discussions per week in the midst of being an adult learner can be taxing as I set the standards high for myself when it comes to quality. The last course, Research Methods, was one of my 4 courses prior to comprehensive exam and dissertation. Throughout the course, I kept the professor apprised that although my work was late, it was of high quality. On my final course project, I submitted a 25 page qualitative research design which was to be the basis of my dissertation. I received the grade of 'Distinguished' on my final project and, as I have had about 11 courses prior to this, submitted what prudent professionals would consider 'A' work throughout the course. To my dismay, I received my final grade of 59 F for the course and the rationale that the professor gave was that I had earned zero credit for anything that missed a deadline. ZERO CREDIT. I was quite shocked and appalled; I challenged my grade to no avail. I tried to contact the Dean and there was NO response whatsoever. I'm not sure how a professor, the dean who oversees the program, or or the institution who employs them, can justify how a student who SUBMITTED ALL THE WORK has to take the course over when all I missed throughout the 10 weeks were arbitrary deadlines. What Capella was basically saying was that the professor has the final say on the grading and that I would have to take the course over just to submit the work I had already done ON TIME THIS TIME. Give me a break. I have since transferred to Northcentral University out of Phoenix who are much more flexible when it comes to the adult learner. Avoid the trite discussion forums and colloquia at Capella like the plague; Northcentral is THE option you need to be choosing when it comes to online doctoral pursuit in Psychology. Goodbye Capella, enjoy the deadlines you set for your discussions. Matt F., LPC Former Capella Learner (2006-2009)
Capella was the right choice for me
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I am in the process of completing my MBA in Marketing and hands down, Capella was the best choice for me, as a fulltime working mom. My employer is very supportive of me purusing my degree and I was very impressed of how many Fortune 500 companies support and even reimburse tuition for their employees that attend Capella. I received my BS from a "traditional" brick and mortar school from a VERY reputable institution and can say I am just as proud to get my MBA from Capella. Good luck to all that pursue their dreams! AD/MBA Graduate, Spring 2010
IDOL - No Regrets from Me!!
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I just finished my PhD in the IDOL - Instructional Design For Online Learners - program at Capella. Online worked for me because I have a full-time position and and live hours aways from a degree granting institution. Online is not for everyone. Go into it with your eyes open. If you want to be a PhD candidate, you should be an independent learner with some level of maturity and the knowledge of how to find help locally if you need it. Capella charges a flat fee per quarter if you take one, two or three courses. During my first and last quarters, I took two courses. All other quarters I took three courses - that was a full-time load. Two of my colleagues are enrolled in PhD programs at on site Universities. We have compared assignments, textbooks, and professors course by course. Capella's professors, textbooks, and courses compare favorably to the brick and mortor universities. The courses were enjoyable, informative and useful. The comprehensive and the dissertation are the areas which seem to separate out students. Your comprehensive is based on four area which are explained to you. The actual questions are related to your proposed dissertation topic. According to my own research over 80% of Capella students pass the comprehensives. The next phase is completely self directed dissertation. Your mentor is assigned to you based on your interests. But it is up to you to finish each milestone within a certain time limit. Extensions are available for emergencies. Beginning with a pre-proposal, the learner works with a mentor and a committee to develop a study. Just like every other PhD, you must go before the IRB, produce a scholarly report and defend your research. It is a planned, focused program. It took me 3 years to complete this program. A number of students finished before me and a number of studens are languishing behind. The journey to a PhD is not usually a smooth road, but rather it is filled with job and family responsibilities, disappointments and frustrations. Its important that you reach deep into yourself to get the inner strength to finish the program. My 2 colleagues are still working on their proposals with at least a year to go once the proposal is approved. This is not an "easy" degree, but it will open doors to you in the future. Most people who don't get the degree fail because "life" gets in the way. Remember, if you don't have at least 20 hours PER WEEK to commit to this program (or any other PhD program), you are not going to be successful. I'm happy I chose an online college. Capella was a good choice for the major I wanted. Choose with your eyes open, allow enough time to study, make sure you are in a supportive environment, and before long your friends will be calling you, "Dr." also.
Love Capella!
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I have been with Capella for 5 years. I have had a wonderful experience with all my courses and with every professor. I love to work independently so online courses are for me. Whenever I needed help there was always a friendly and knowledgeable person ready to step in. I feel that I have literally "grown up" with Capella. The scholar practitioner model is perfect because I'm not just an "egghead" with lots of knowledge. I have knowledge and can apply it in my everyday life. I am just about down with my dissertation and will soon have my PhD. It's been a great journey.
Be Careful!!!
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I am a Capella student in their undergraduate program. I am about 1 year from graduating. So far, I have to say that the instruction has been good. The courses aren't too demanding and the online environment is good. My problem is when I enrolled the admissions counselor stated that a CISSP certification would fulfill 5 course requirements. After I enrolled, my learning advisor told me the same thing. Up to this point, there was no mention of any associated fees. Once I received my certification, I informed my new advisor, now all of a sudden, there are fees involved. $2250 to be exact. My advice, if they say that a certification, license, prior learning, etc., will fulfill some requirements, be sure to ask about associated fees. They won't tell you until you have no choice but to pay them. Overall, my experience has been pretty good, but this latest issue has really disappointed me. If you are looking at Capella, do yourself a favor and ask a TON of questions. You don't want a $2250 surprise like I got.
Educational Psychology at Capella
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I have found the materials and books required for the courses to be well worth the money. The scholarly articles are generally an asset to the readings. Professors tend to respond to questions in a timely manner. The cost of attending Capella is equivalent to attending a traditional state or private college in Ohio. Capella provides many tools for student success (e.g., the Assignment Calculator for writing research papers, Smarthinking for paper reviews and constructive feedback, etc.). The only complaint I have, is that sometimes the site is difficult to navigate; however, the tools are available to any students with a mindset for completing their PhD with success.
You get what you put into it
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I think online schools should have much more media-rich content. Much of the work at Capella was reading textbook material, interacting with my classmates in newsgroup-like threaded discussions, and weekly projects. Traditional brick-and-mortar colleges provide textbooks, some class interaction, and weekly projects. You also get a lecture from the instructor. Capella provides a written lecture in PDF format every week; some courses have a video. In the MBA programs I was able to take advantage of their MBA Coaching service at no additional cost. Over the course of my degree program I met with my coach quarterly to discuss my professional & personal goals. For this service, I give Capella a gold star. The Career Center team was also excellent. They were responsive and knowledgeable. They provided seminars on how to use social networking tools in the job hunt, interviewing skills, and a few other topics. The Career Center also helped to map out a personalized career search strategy with me. Much better than my counselors from the brick-and-mortar schools I have attended. I have attended a few online courses from other colleges. In my time at Capella, I never had a day of system downtime. In my experience, they manage their technology operations well. They are accredited and sponsored by some major employers. I learned about their corporate alliances program because my employer was one of them - which gave me a tuition discount! During my time there I also built a number of valuable professional relationships with staff and classmates. I keep in frequent contact with about a dozen people. We help each other solve business problems in the real-world. Whether it is Marketing, Finance, or Human Resources, I know someone who is an expert in their field & willing to help me out because we attended Capella together. If I choose to go for my Doctorate degree, I would definitely choose Capella again. But with all these positive remarks, I have to say that the degree is only as good as the effort you put into it. If you go above-and-beyond, use all the resources that Capella offers, go out of the way to form relationships with your classmates, and study hard then you will get a lot of value from attending Capella.
It works
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I recently graduated with my PhD. This program was tougher than my Masters at one of the public universities. I had some really outstanding instructors, and some poor ones. It's no different than the people you work with. I had a wonderful mentor (3rd time was a charm) who really knew the process and helped me through it. I even ended with a better product as a result. I know people who completed the program in 3 1/2 years - 7 years, which is the same as the local universities. It all depends on how organized you are, and your life activities.
Loved It!
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Capella is a great school and I am glad I attended. I am in the post-proposal dissertation phase and should graduate by the end of the year. This is not a 'degree mill' university and students actually earn their degree through hardwork and scholarship. I have learned a lot during this journey and believe it is worth it. I am currently a full-time human resources professor and my appointment was based on my impending PhD from Capella. Here's my only recommendation for improvement: although Capella is fully accredited, it needs to obtain the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation that signifies it is a good business school for those of us who are business majors.
Don't do it!
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There are some fine instructors here, but there are also a lot of poor ones and a few that are truly a danger to society. The school knows about these bad ones but does nothing despite multiple calls, emails, and conference calls with the General Counsel. This place is cheap, but you get what you pay for. Don't do it
PhD Capella
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For those of you who are going to Capella for the doctorate programs or are in the planning stage - beware! Capella is a rip-off! I completed my phd program while I lived in Florida and then relocated here in Kansas. When I attempted to apply for licensure here in Kansas, imagine my surprise when I was informed that Kansas does not recognize Capella University due to their residency requirement (no face to face with your professor)! I then contacted Florida's Board and they informed me of the same thing! As a matter of fact they went so far as to tell me that no state recognizes their program except Minnesota! I then contacted Capella and spoke with my advisor (whom I had for four years) and she told me "yes that's true." Why didn't you tell me this prior to my loss of $107,000? Of course if you want to do nothing but write books, then Capella is the place for you. But if your like me and want to counsel, then you're SOL!!! I can't believe this! Now in order for me to counsel here in Kansas where I plan to live for quite a while, I need to obtain another masters degree, but one in social work at which time I can obtain a license and practice! One last thing, when I spoke with the Kansas Board, they were shocked that no-one had told me of this problem, and suggested that I find a really good lawyer. Ya Think???!!!
PhD Graduate- Excellent Reputation!
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As a PhD graduate (2008) of Capella, I can say that my experience was fantastic. The professors are leaders in their fields and they are more than willing to work with you. My committee for my dissertation was outstanding! They went above and beyond throughout the process. If you are looking for an easy degree, Capella is not the University for you! The course work is demanding and requires a lot of outside work. However, the quality of the program is outstanding. My degree from Capella has enabled me to obtain a 20k raise!
Capella is great, yet extremely challenging.
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I am not sure why so many reviews are tied to this institution, yet I would like to write a few words about my personal experience in the Ph.D. program in Information Security and Assurance. joining Capella was a personal decision, I though to myself that working and going to school would only be possible by joining a Online Program from an accredited institution, so I choose Capella. By enrolling in Capella since the beginning I realize that I was doing more work than my previous graduate degree (MBA) at the State University of New York, yet I psychologically set myself to face the challenge. I have been in the program for about 1 year now and I could tell you that the amount of work giving to students is enormous, yet for those of you that like to challenge yourself in getting a excellent education Capella is the only answer. Off course, I evaluate various other online universities prior to making the decision to apply to Capella, yet I do not regret one bit my own judgment. One word of advise, any student attending any online university should not take more courses than the ones you are capable of doing. I personally started working with 3 courses at Capella and have been doing that until this present quarter, I am planning on doing my last quarter this coming summer with four courses ( The challenge of my life), I know it will be hard I should say extremely hard because I have a full time job and a family to take care of, but I have prepare myself psychologically and physically to face that challenge. I know people that take two courses and struggle all the way to the end of the class and fail, you must be aware of the load of work you can handle. Do not try to take three courses or even four courses if you do not have any experience doing this sort of things, I guarantee you that if you do without a prior self-assessment you are more than likely to fail multiple of those courses. I feel ready to face those challenges and have assure my mentor and the dean of the school of technology that every course I take will result in a "A" grade, yet if I fail I ensure them that a "B" will be my last option, but failure is out of the question. Again, try to do a self analysis of how much work you can deal with and just register for it, do not try to be a super hero by taking four classes unless you are "READY" to do that. Capella University is the best thing that ever happen to me as it allows me to have a normal life and help me progress in an academic setting. I guarantee you that joining Capella will be the best decision you will ever make, yet I can't guarantee you how well you will do in your courses, that will be up to you. Remember, in every course you start with an "A" is up to you to stay with that grade. Best of luck to all.
Capella is a good School...
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I am not sure what the negative hype is all about. I completed a little over 2 years at Texas A&M in the mid 90's, and a few classes at the University of Houston. I recently enrolled at Capella and completed 2 core classes. I had a great experience and the instructor was very knowledgeable with a wealth of experience. The assignments were actually more intense (in some cases)than my work at A&M and UH. The student portal is very easy to navigate. The staff was always helpful and professional. My wife graduated from the University of Texas. She regularly made comments on the assignments and how they are just as comprehensive as any assignments at UT. I recommend Capella University.
Good school
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A good school overall and I would recommend this program to anyone. I do teach at a traditional B&M campus and I the degree has helped secure a tenure track spot.
Great Job
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I have finished all my courses except one and will be starting my comps. I have really enjoyed attending Capella and have had no problems at Capella. What I have really enjoyed is the Residencies that Capella have for the students. The reseidencies are very informative and give great insight for what is ahead for a student working toward their degree.
A first-rate program
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A dilemma I faced after receiving my BS Degree was finding a reputable academic program to pursue a Doctorate in Psychology. I had a previous up-close experience with asynchronous learning and felt it left something to be desired. Primarily, it was a lack of emphasis on student issues. The school staff had become complacent in the asynchronous model, and priorities had shifted away from student needs. I began looking elsewhere and researched Capella University as well as a handful of other programs, which offered similar models compatible with working adults attempting to meld education into their life priorities. In my research, I found Capella University not only offered several degrees in the area of mental health services, but also few schools provided Capella’s level of flexibility and rigorous academic standards I believe necessary to obtain a creditable degree. Additionally, the program Capella offered met the high standards mandated by my state’s licensing board. I enrolled in a Masters Program in Psychology in 2003. I was able to complete my degree in three years while working two jobs. Toward the completion of my Masters Degree I contacted my advisor, he was extremely helpful and not only facilitated my application process for the Doctoral Program in Psychology but also helped me to think through what credits from my masters program were acceptable for enrollment in a doctoral program at Capella. My advisor was also clear that although he was not in a position to make these types of decisions, I was in a good position since I was completing my Masters Degree at the same institution. Capella University accepted me into their Doctoral Program in April 2006. I had to make changes in my life because of the rigors of the program but in many ways Capella’s format made it possible. This journey began in June 2003 at Capella University since beginning the masters program. I am now working on my doctoral dissertation. In this time since 2003 I have only taken one quarter off school, I have worked two jobs most of this time, and Capella University’s format, focus on high curriculum standards, and attentiveness to student needs, have given me the opportunity to balance my life priorities and stay focused on my professional goals. I could not be happier with the decision to enroll at Capella. It is a fully accredited university with exceptional academic rigor and first-rate attentive staff dedicated to student needs.
Red Flag Warning
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BEWARE - This university does not have their act together to provide a valuable PhD program. They have a system of minimal connection between people and expectations. I will tell everyone I come into contact with that a PhD program needs to be one where you can interact with your dissertation committee. My mentor gives little or no consideration of me. My 80 page dissertation proposal cost me 20,000 in tuition. That is The cost of my dissertation proposal was 20,000. That is $250 per page. NOT worth it and not a value. Briefly, the program is designed to suck the money out of you and they could care less about you as an individual. Run Run Run Away
Also Scammed
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I feel like I was scammed also. I completed one quarter in the PhD General PSych program, and found the course to be much of the same work as I completed as an undergrad, I was only able to speak to an advisor once, as they kept changing my advisor around. Once I did get an advisor, he suggested that I add another class, and could drop without penalty within 5 days. I signed up, couldn't get the books in time and was given a near-impossible alternate assignment to complete in a couple of days. When I dropped the class in 4 days, they charged me over $500.00!!!! This is a corporation whose primary responsibility is to their shareholders. this, I believe, has resulted in a cheap, canned education that is profitable, and they know how to maximize their profits from both you and the federal student aid loans that they are so very willing to assist you with. If you just want an expensive degree without any real learning, stay at Capella. I have moved to Walden, where I will be designing my own course of learning, which will focus on the areas that I want to work in. I am hoping this will result in a real and applicable education.
Long Island University
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Before attending Capella I was attending Long Island University MBA program (stopped because I moved). LIU was a joke compared to Capella. Capella is more work, more intense and much harder. I also graduated from Cornell University.
Felt Scammed
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I don't think my experience is the norm, but I will say I felt scammed since I am not (nor will I ever be, due to my experience) a student of Capella University. I called Capella University in my efforts to do some school comparisons. I had a pleasant conversation with the representative. She collected some information about me, and we talked about what Capella had to offer, program options and how the program works. When I hung up I thought it was over. About a month and a half later I get a bill for $75. I called and let them know I'm not a student of Capella, but I did have a conversation with a representative. They told me it was a non-refundable application fee, and to "go to your student site and click the option to pay it". Since I'm not a student I don't have a student site. When I asked how to appeal the fee, the representative told me I should e-mail the appeal to her, and she would direct it to where it needs to be, "but you'll get the same answer." I say this to those considering calling Capella as a warning. Do not give your personal information to them unless you are sure you are planning to attend. Even if they ask for it up front DON'T DO IT. Get your information from them with out giving yours to them until you are absolutely sure you want to attend.
Lots of hard work but worth it.
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Capella has made many improvements in the past four years. I have learned a lot. Most of the classes are hard. I learned a lot about the research process and have published several papers since I started the Capella degree. Once Capella earns AACSB designation, there is no stopping it. I received 11 offers at colleges and universities and I haven't graduated yet.
This is a Real School!
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Some people are saying that it is simple to graduate from Capella or an online school in general. That is completely..false. Yes, it is easy to get in, but isn't that a good thing? Now people have NO excuse in regards to furthering their education. None. Secondly, I am by no means dumb, underachiever, or whatever some people "claim" online university students are. The numerous hours searching through peer reviewed journals, writing 10-20 page papers (you see that, plural) for one class in APA format, is not "easy." This should be expected! Even though it can be tough, it teaches you a lot and become increasingly confident about your abilities as a student and as a future professional. I appreciate that Capella cand do this through distance learning! Capella is a real school, with real teachers, and real coursework. I laugh at anyone who thinks Capella is just a breeze.
Very Good School
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I am currently pursuing my master's in mental health counseling and the addictions counseling certificate program. My only complaints is the long wait over the phone when you need information. Some days is pretty fast, but other days...be prepared to be put on hold for more than ten minutes! Other than that, I love the way the classroom is structured. The instructors are experienced and actually are supportive. The ones I have had provide very useful resources and answer all of my questions related to my field of study. Financial aid isn't a problem either. Everything falls into place on schedule. So far I have learned so much and I feel like I know just as much or more than a student in a traditional classroom. I do have a little bit of school pride.
Improvements are Big Steps Backwards
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I somehow managed to survive this program, but it was not what it was advertised to be. Completing the coursework was the easy part. The comps process is, as a fellow-student aptly described it, a crap-shoot due to its subjectivity. The dissertation process turned into a tightly-scripted series of steps that holds the student to a set amount of time for each, but the school and faculty can take a long time to respond, causing delays. I would not recommend this college to anyone. And echoing another review here, I had also heard that the IDOL program was the worst of the education department.
Great Experience
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I'm a bit confused by the individuals who state that Capella instructors can not find jobs anywhere else. I am currently working on my dissertation, and I just put together my committee. I spent a good deal of time exploring Capella instructors and reading their resumes. Many have full-time jobs as professors at other institutions and work part-time for Capella. Many are also full-time Capella professors. Several are deans or associate deans at universities. Such feedback is simply ridiculous. Have you explored the competition for positions in higher education? There are more than enough Ph.D.s with "brick and mortar" doctorates who are THRILLED to have the opportunity to work at Capella. There are IVY league Ph.D.s who struggle to find work.
Academics OK - Business Support Poor
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I began a Master's Degree program in Adult Education last year but had to withdraw when my son became very ill. I found the classes and instructors adequate, but the business/financial aid support was horrendous. I was repeatedly double billed for one course even after I provided copies of the cancelled check used to pay. Individuals would promise to "reasearch my question and get back to me" and never did. I was so disgusted by the experience that once my son recovered I did not re-enroll
Hard work but well worth it!
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This has been a very rigorous and demanding journey but I have learned so much both academically as well as personally. The online environment was extremely interactive and engaging. I felt compelled to keep pushing myself to learn more and I feel that I am a much more well rounded person than I was before I took any courses with Capella.
Capella....what?
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I am a Capella Learner and want to be objective about the program, but I am having difficulty as I have now been placed in a position that I am wondering if this is the institution for me. I am in the military so this proved to be a perfect fit or so I thought. My misery starts with the fact that the technology will make you pull your hair out. Be prepared to have to try to post continously more than once or just have the program lock up before you can get your post in. This problem has been the nemesis for my experience at Capella. I have submitted and resubmitted and resubmitted postings only to actually get a facilitator on the phone and have them tell me they still did not get it or it was not visible. The next is the APA format. I have had different classes that seem to change how they want you to reference the information. I have even been told after mimicking the APA reference book that the citation was wrong. Lastly, as I sit here I am feeling truly upset because I received a dual master's in HRDV and HRMG and they transferred ONLY 5 credits, the equivalent of one class. They said in the I/O spec the words have to specifically be in the title of the class, it doesn't depend on the content of the class and whether the descriptive tells that the classes encompass components of what Capella describes as placing emphasis on. I have almost had my fill of Capella and think although I initially was going to another institution (online), I am going to have to go back to the drawing board. By the way, the other institution I considered does have a B&M component, but they are just more expensive. If I had to forego many of these issues I face with Capella, then the money will be spent better and more so worth it.
Students must adapt...
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I will break my comments down per category: OVERALL: I recently graduated from Capella with a Master of Science in IT-Security. In addition to this degree I also hold the CISSP and Security+ industry recognized certifications. The IT and Security related course work closely follows both the domains of knowledge around IT Security as well as general business and IT Management topics. Online learning does take a bit to get used to. Capella's paradigm (at least for my program) was essentially, read---->reflect---->write multiple essays weekly---> comment on peer essay postings, interact with other students ----> work on a final course paper or project to be turned in at the end of the quarter. APA style was taught in my first course (called: Technical Writing). Many professors also have students submit the output of 3rd party online citation checking (anti-plagerism) tools. Again, a lot of reading, thinking, and writing. Materials: The course used books, as well as articles from Capella's online library which is more extensive than I will take the time to explain here. The books I purchased through my coursework were outstanding and included: Harris's CISSP book, Hacking Exposed, and the CCNA book from Sybex to name a few. Teachers: The role of the professor is to take the class on a 10 week journey through the material while commenting on essays to challenge student thinking, and providing needed feedback on course projects. The teachers are there to ensure quality and create challening discussions. Institution: In my 2+ years at Capella, I was impressed with how hard the Administration was working to make additional options open to students. For example, mid way through my program in IT-Security, Capella obtained NSA certification and published a course list that would allow students to obtain NSA recognition in addition to their degree. Support: The vast majority of the time Capella's online couserooms worked just fine for me. Towards the end of my program I even used an 'un-supported' version of firefox without any issues. Capella has automated tools that check software versions and configuration settings. If you can pass this automated assessment, you shouldn't have any issues. When I did need support I typically submitted emails which were acknowledged immediately and answered in 1 day. Technology: When looking at online programs (traditional universities would not fit into my work schedule and I honestly dreaded the idea of sitting in 2 hour lectures again) Capella was by far the best. They continue to improve their online courseroom and as an alumni I really hope they keep this edge! Value: I am very happy with the quality of education I received in earning my Masters Degree from Capella University. I would recommend it (and have) to anyone who is willing to challenge themselves create thoughtful writing after some disciplined reading and reflection.
Excellent Education
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I don't understand some of these reviews that say Capella was easy. I completed an MBA degree in Marketing a few months ago, all online, and I can tell you it was NOT easy! This is no diploma mill. I chose Capella because it is accredited and it does have a physical campus. In fact, a few people who were in some of my classes were also day students. The courses were at a rigorous pace, 6 weeks long. Although a few times I took a session off for a vacation. The classes are small, I think the most people in one of my classes was about 23, and you have constant communication with the instructor and the other students. In fact, discussions among students is required. Assignments were given on a weekly basis and grades were given very fast, usually within a day or two. I feel I received a really good education and was able to use a lot of it in my career. LK
Great School
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I dont know what school the other reviewers were in that said the program was too easy. I know that in the school of psychology, the program was indeed very rigorous and challenging. This was by far the best college experience I have had. I can only speak for the Harold Abel School of Psychology. Therefore I suspect the other reviewers are talking about either of grad level business or technical offerings. In that case the negative comments are typical for those fields in most colleges. I would expect however the MBA program at a prestigious school would be an exception to those negative comments.
The school is outstanding.
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I graduated from a very good private B&M college. After doing extensive study, weighing family and work options, and looking at pertinent factors, Capella was a great choice. I am a Human Services grad student. Hard classes, fantastic instructors, very good staff. I am trying to determine what the source of contention is. I theorize that with some, it is the stigma of an online degree. Fair enough, I can't change that perspective. However, a lot of these reviews have dripped with the frustration of having been unable to fulfill their goals. This can produce alot of resentment that is best moved on from. I am not overly concerned with my comparative cognition and Capella has helped me immensely.
Online PHD
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I did undergraduate work online with the University of Maryland for my BS and MS. I started my PhD work a few years ago with Capella. I'm just going into my dissertation phase. Overall the program started off a little unformatted but for the last year or two I have seen a dramatic increase in quality, especially being that most of the class work is now focused of scholarly journals, research studies and book readings. The formatted writeup and understanding for each lesson objective has improved as well and keeps the readers in sync with where they should be when going through the course. It's definitely working out to be one of the best programs. It would be nice to incorporate webinars as well.
Learning Capella style
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I am in the process of earning my MBA from Capella University and am very impressed with the program! Even though textbooks are used, real life experiences are applied to each class. Not only do you learn online but you also have the opportunity to learn more about the organziation you work for. You have to work hard to earn that A in class. I feel that I'm getting a good quality education. I sincerely believe that the folks leaving bad reviews of Capella have not tried hard enough and are disgruntled students who haven't made the grade. I just don't see anything wrong with Capella. The professors I have had so far have been very helpful and my advisor and other staff members I have contacted so far have been very nice and supportive.
Would not recommend
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I was enrolled in a graduate program for over a year and dropped out due to financial issues. The classes were decent, but a bit on the easy side. I was very disappointed by the level of work in some of my classmates. I received the GI Bill for assistance which I used for books, tuition and the residency expenses. I rarely heard from my academic counselor and when I did contact her, it took on average of a week for a response. The financial department was TERRIBLE!!!!!!! In addition to my GI Bill I was also receiving aid – according to the invoices they gave me, I had enough to cover all of my expenses. Then after a year and a half I received a bill for $7,000. I talked to several people and after weeks of investigating I still to this day have NO idea where all of my aid and payments were going and how I could still have $7,000 to owe. The support was terrible and they didn’t seem to care about having me as a student. I finally said that I would just get a student loan to cover my outstanding balance. I was approved and it was sent to Capella for verification. After 3 WEEKS of not hearing anything I finally track down someone from support and they say that they denied it because I receive GI benefits so I didn’t need the loan – and then again reminded me how I had to pay the $7,000 before my next class. They claimed that I legally could not receive a private school loan due to the funds I was receiving from the VA. I dropped out and switched school. My new university not only approved me for enough financial aid to cover my costs, but they also said that they can approve a loan for me if for some reason I need one. I am very happy to have switched and now love my new school. But, the story doesn’t end there…… After dropping out I spoke with the financial department and business office about my outstanding loan. BOTH confirmed that they did not have payment plans but as long as I made consistent payments, I would be fine. I then proceeded to pay $250 a month towards my balance thinking that everything was fine. Then 3 months later (after continues payments) I receive a letter from a collection agency. Capella sent me to collections for nonpayment! Capella never responded to voicemails or emails. Whenever I would call they would send me to a generic voicemail box which never was returned. I ended up have to quickly secure a personal loan to pay off collections before it reached my credit report. To this day none of my messages, complaints, or concerns have been addresses and I still have no idea where all of my money went. I cannot recommend this university to anyone unless you are paying cash at each class and can see exactly where your funds are being applied.
IDOL
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The biggest mistake I made was doing this online degree. I have never been so upset about the lack of professionalism with the place. I don't want to get into it now, but not only do they lie (especially in IDOL), they expect you to be dishonest too. They are there for the handout of $$, you are worthless to them otherwise. Good luck trying to get a person on the phone who knows something. You only get through to a call center, and when on hold you are reminded to be sure you renew your FAFSA. Absolutely WORTHLESS. RUN LIKE THE WIND!
Positive and negative points
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I am in my second year at Capella pursuing a MS in Human Services. I have found the program to be quite easy, which is cause for some concern. Sometimes it seems a little too easy and I feel that I have received outstanding grades for substandard work. As an undergrad at a regular college, I struggled just to earn C's & B's. At Capella, I have a straight A average, which is not something I am used to. Then again, maybe I am overly critical of myself. Most of the instructors are excellent, although I have encountered a few who were absent from the courseroom too much, as in weeks would go by without any work being graded or questions being addressed. I am also hearing conflicting reports regarding the accreditation legitimacy of Capella. In New York state, a degree from Capella will not be considered for licensure. The degree basically means nothing, but then, New York is a ridiculous state that few people can actually make a decent living in. I just hope the Capella degree will pull more weight down south which is where I plan to move in the near future. Until then, my options seem to be very limited in NY and there are very few decent jobs for someone with my credentials. The online learning experience, for me, is infinitely better and more effective than sitting in a regular classroom. The input and experience from adult classmates is valuable and I have learned much from the work I have read from fellow students. The Capella library I find to be mediocre. It seems to have many limitations and repeated searches will frequently turn up irrelevant information or none at all. Overall, I am pleased with my progress but don't trust it. I feel that if I was criticized more often, it would feel more appropriate and more like college. I am just not used to being told that I have done great work. I hope it's really true and the instructors are not just being too nice. I want to earn my degree, not have it given to me.
MBA
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I am just finishing up my MBA with Capella and I could not have enjoyed it more. This is by far the best way to get a quality education without having to be somewhere at a specified time. This allows working individuals the flexibility to learn and grow without sacrificing work or family time. I also appreciate that the program is very writing extensive. This makes the learner to develop opinions and interpret the information more thoroughly than if this were in a typical campus setting. I enjoyed this experience very much and it was worth the cost involved to complete the program.
Garbage In Garbage Out
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After going through all of the reviews, all I can say is that you get out of something, that which you put into it. Garbage in, garbage out, as they used to say. I spent 3.5 years obtaining my PhD and used a Purdue PhD alumnus as one of my dissertation committee members, just to add an element of insurance to the credibility of my program, and I can honestly say that i think I got a quality education. A bit pricey, but quality nonetheless. The only problem I had with Capella was right at the end (December 2007), when they changed over their LMS and IGuide changed format. I understand that the staff is still learning their new system, but it has become quite a challenge to say the least. To those other naysayers who have imparted their little pearls of wisdom, via this conduit, I can only say this: either you went into the experience with your eyes shut, or the product you produced (all of you ABD'ers) just wasn't good enough. You cannot just fly through the coursework of any institution of higher learning and think you can throw some words on a piece of paper and pass your Comps. Its just not going to happen. And as far as the quality of instructors at Capella, most of them have obtained their PhD's from other institutions, like Notre Dame, USC, UCLA, Minnesota, Nebraska, Pitt, and the list goes on and on. Is that to say that those schools suck, too? Are these faculty really the dregs of those other schools? I think not. Capella is a good school that needs to get there act together from a support standpoint, only. It was great from 2004-2007, and has only recently gone sour. I am confident that they will get it together quickly, though, as it seems that a lot of students are already enrolled and having a good experience.
Masters in Curriculum and Instruction
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Resources were current and research based. Our county is moving forward with adopting and implementing the new standards for the 21st Century and I am a leader due to my recent coursework. My entire practicum and portfolio are based on evidences of work I completed during my coursework for the masters of Cuirriculum and Instruction. All my documents require an understanding of these standards and the ability to implement them within an instructional model. I have a high regard for the resources and expected assignments from this program.
MS - System Design and Programming
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I'm in my 5th class in the Systems Design and Programming curriculum. I find the course work emphasizes individual research with properly referenced papers. The programming classes are challenging and also encourage a high level of motiviation and research. My project this semester is to implement a client-server architecture using Java-RMI interacting with a MYSQL database. Need I say more?
Excellent Experience
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I graduated in 2003 from Capella University's Clinical Psychology program. I am now licensed in one state as a psychologist and currently trying for licensure in another state. My overall experience was excellent. I can honestly say that I worked harder in this program than in my two traditional programs, mostly due to the extensive writing requirements. The faculty I worked with both online and in residencies were excellent and gave tremendous support. I do know of other students that had professors who were less than stellar, but I personally never had one. I currently work in a private practice with psychologists, LPCs, and LCSWs. My doctorate degree has qualified me on numerous times to see patients with insurance that only pays for "PhD level" clinicians, for higher reimbursement from insurance companies, and to do work such as psychological and educational evaluations that LPCs and LCSWs cannot do. I also teach adjunctly in a local master's degree counseling program, a position that I could not have gained without a doctorate degree. (As an aside, I recently discovered another Capella PhD alum is teaching at a different local college's counseling program). I have found that my degree has been approached by others mostly in a positive fashion. Many colleagues, both clinical and academic, are curious and a few of my patients ask questions, but it seems that more and more online/distributed learning for professional programs are becoming accepted. Several recent academic colleagues have asked if the program I teach in should start offering courses online.
Good Program
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I have been with this school for one year and I am happy with the rigors of the program thus far. Most of the student and teacher interaction is valuable. Those that do cast a negative shadow on the program likely have not been a part of the program or one like it. I have a Bachelor degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from the University of Minnesota (both Tier I schools) and I am, at this point, to family oriented to pursue a B&M version of the Ph.D. However, from discussions with friends and evaluating the criteria, I assure you, the program is much the same as it would be at either of these two schools.
Poor Teaching Quality and Poor Student Support
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Capella will ask you to take OM8004 during the first quarter you are admitted. That course is probably designed to pay for the commissions of the enrollment advisors as it charges a flat fee of over $4,000 per quarter. Give yourself a break by going to other schools that charges by credit hours. Since I started with Capella, I received little to no support from their "academic advisors", many of whom do no even have a Ph.D. themselves. Their job is to make sure you continue to enroll and pay the quarterly dues. In terms of quality of their faculty members, few can be called decent, most of them consider online teaching as an extra income source. Course assignments are mostly busy work to keep you busy with a lot of nonsense assignments. Weekly discussions are waste of time if your classmates are a bunch of morons. Overall, don't waste your hard earned money with this Capella.
Great experience!
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I graduated from Capella University in June 2003 with my Master of Science degree in Educational Psychology. Overall, my experience with Capella was outstanding! I do not understand the negative reviews of this school. This school was perfect in every regard. Additionally, I have reaped the rewards of my Master's degree. I have since secured a professorship at a local community college in Tennessee and my degree has been respected by my colleagues and administrators. Capella was truly a rewarding and worthwhile academic experience. I highly recommend this school to anyone considering it. I am now pursuing my PhD at another online school (Northcentral University) and it too has been a wonderful experience thus far. The reason why I chose to attend NCU is because of the non-residential component. I wish that Capella's PhD residency requirement was not so stringent. Nevertheless, I would still recommend Capella's degree programs to anyone.
Big Technology GAP & bigger Administration Egos
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Any University that claims to be a big supporter of it’s students and that dares to offer “Technology” related courses, needs to back that up with clear and proven infrastructures, not just stop at misleading web page tools. After two masters, this PhD folly with Capella had been a complete mess! First, I am an Apple computer user and started my PhD program with an Apple computer system that exceeded the Capella computer requirements for Apple Users. The problems: 1. From the first class I experienced, “courseroom” freezes and issues that would keep me in a delayed mode for posting assignments. Since Capella uses WebCT (Vista 4.0 currently), there remains a WebCT published “incompatibility” with Apple’s Safari Browser and all other Browsers that are updated in support of Apple’s OS 10.4.X. The Capella program for checking a student’s computer will flag an Apple computer as not being compliant although the Capella system requirements are exceeded. Once assignments are missed and the IT department has been “working on the problem”, Capella will not be flexible enough to ensure student courseroom success vs. telling me to get a PC. 2. Most of the “Professors” seemed concern for the first few weeks of technical problems. However, the inability to perform weekly posts was soon met with notices of failing to meet University “participation” requirements. 3. There is certain hype about the three required Colloquiums and how informational they are. Only after attending the second one was there enough understanding regarding how to best manage the numerous sessions. Track 1 learners are typically at a complete loss and may waste many hours/days attempting to take advantage of a few good sessions. 4. The learners are continually kept in the dark about the real process of dissertation expectations unless they are able to quickly network with students from Track 2 or 3. Some students get the feeling that Capella intentionally keeps a shroud of vagueness around the dissertation process with student elimination as the goal. 5. The mass of students will be and still are forever attempting to determine if Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Method research analysis is what they should focus their main efforts on. Capella offers very little real help in this area and will only discuss related software (i.e., SPSS, etc.) if asked. However, do not expect to see this type of support software offered/mentioned in the Capella Bookstore! It is hard to see any advanced technology or thinking where the student is left with old or backward focused support technology and individuals that are lead by revenue focused administrators. Capella will drill you on following APA format and ding you hard if you screw it up. However, Capella will not prepare you for how to be a good researcher and how to be prepared to defend your dissertation successfully. If research and or education is inclusive in the basis of your PhD goal(s), look elsewhere.
Pleased with my choice!
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As with most things in life, you get out of the experience what you put into it. For the almost 3 years that I have been working on my degree, I know I am putting IN a tremendous amount AND I am certaining getting BACK, both from an educational experience. I also believe that the attitude with which you approach your journey makes a big difference. As one of the other posts mentioned, and it is often repeated at Colloquia, you are becoming a PhD - it is not a piece of paper I am given. At this point I have completed my coursework, passed my comps, and I am almost ready to submit my dissertation proposal. The overall experience that I have had has been a very positive one. As I read through the other reviews I find it quite interesting. On one end are individuals claiming Capella is a "diploma mill" and to watch out because the university will fail you for no apparent reason. It sounds as if it is being done TO you. As another learner indicated, if YOU are not able to perform at the required level, then I am pleased to hear that the university will not allow students to continue. I have worked exceptionally hard to reach this point in my studies and as others have said, I feel that I am EARNING my degree. In my program, many of the learners at Capella are adults who have extensive experience in the business world. I am also at the point in my accademic and professional career that I would not expect an educational institution to hold my hand every step of the way. If I need additional support, I need to stand up and ask for it. When I have done so, I have immediately be assisted. In looking back at the other educational institutions that I went to, I find Capella a refreshing change. Some posts mentioned Capella's focus on money - I hate to break it to you, but this is a business. I'm not sure many institutions that aren't concerned about money? Is the degree I am persuing a good "value"? I can not compare the cost at Capella to other schools, but I imagine that they are quite comparable. The personal and professional satisfaction and opportunities that I am capitalizing on are absolutely worth it! In life you always have choices. I believe that I made the right choice in selecting Capella.
Not worth it
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I'm almost done with all my coursework toward a Ph.D. degree at Capella. Compared to other online schools, Capella's web site is well structured, but that's the best you can get out of the school. Few of the instructors at Capella are great, and most of them are losers who cannot find a job anywhere else except doing online teaching at many other online schools. They don't even call themselves "professors", but course producers or classroom facilitators. Most of them did not any values to my learning process. I feel I've been in a Ph.D. program doing mostly MBA-level coursework. If you are serious about getting a Ph.D., go somewhere else that would help you build up solid research skills.
Indolents need not apply
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I am ABD in the School of Business and Technology, but am in the data analysis phase now and I hope to be completed with my dissertation by Thanksgiving. After earning an MBA at the Eller College of Management (a nationally ranked business school) at the University of Arizona, I freely admit that I was a little concerned about the value of an online PhD. However, working full-time and teaching part-time at the University level did not leave time to attend a traditional brick&mortar institution. I did a lot of research into different online programs and evaluated Capella as the best of the lot (I used Saaty's (1980) Analytic Hierarchy Process to do this evaluation, so I am confident in the validity of my procedures). Although expensive, the cost of the program is comparable to other institutions. While I would have liked for the SOBT to hold the AASCB accreditation, that was not a kill-point for me, as I was unable to locate any online school (in 2004) that had that accreditation. The Capella staff was very helpful in the enrollment process and transferred in the maximum 48 credit hours from my MBA program, which helped me immensely. Once enrolled in the program, I found that, the instructors were always available to me, and the rigor is definitely there. As one of the previous reviewers phrased it, you get out of any program what you put into it. I spent 20-25 hours a week throughout my coursework and maintained a 4.00 GPA in the program. I feel that I earned those marks and did not feel that they were given to me. I would not classify Capella as a diploma mill by any stretch of the imagination and feel that the argument above that addressed the attrition rate belies this charge. Diploma mills do not reject anyone. I believe the disgruntled reviewers above failed to achieve their goals because they were not fully committed to the rigor required by any credible PhD program. I found the program difficult, but feasible, given good time management skills. The comps process is all about completing a very difficult task in a timed manner. I felt that the Leadership program prepared me adequately for this challenge and I got through it on the expedited plan in 8 weeks. If certain people feel that they were unfairly weeded out at the comps stage, perhaps they should examine their own culpability and lack of commmitment to producing a quality product under strenuous conditions. My dissertation is taking longer than I orginally projected, but that is due to work and other life pressures that interfered with my educational schedule rather than any lack on the part of Capella itself. The staff, my mentor, and my committee have been very supportive during my dissertation. In fact, other instructors, who are not on my committee, gave freely of their own time to help me locate a suitable study organization. I can't say enough about the value of that support and I hope to carry that model into my own doctoral praxis.
Great School!
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My Ph.D. was conferred June, 2007, and I must say the process to complete was as strenuous as it was satisfying. This is no diploma mill - one must earn the degree. My paper has been accepted for presentation at the IABE Conference next month in Las Vegas, and for publishing in the International Journal of Business Research. Double-blind peer reviewed and accepted without modification. I also enjoyed the professional help of my Ph.D. committee as we progressed through the work. I have no regrets in choosing Capella, and recommend it heartily to others.
A Great Phd Journey
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Capella University should be praised for its standards of excellence, quality of teaching professionals, and commitment to learner support. I have over thirty years of professional experience in business, received my bachelors and masters at standard universities at night while working, and became a Phd at Capella. Make no mistake; Capella expects high standards of learner involvement, but nothing worth pursuing should be easy. In fact, online education is more challenging and required hard work. I am appalled when I see critiques of the university because someone failed; maybe they weren't ready for the challenge? I am proud to be associated with a university with such high standards, quality of teaching professionals, and most learners who wanted to work dilligently for their degrees. At Capella you become a Phd, you don't just get a Phd!
Excellent university-Best choice for you
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This experience was beyond my greatest expectations. It was so invigorating to attend Colloquia and to meet with my peers and professors. I think the best part was realizing how much the professors all really enjoy each other's company and how well they work together. Re: some of these reviews, if someone makes it to comps and fails to perform, yes they will not make it through. Those of us who have worked very hard for this degree do not wish to see it diminished by the university passing people who can't do the work required. I found everyone, in every dept across the board, to be sincerely helpful and wanting to help me succeed. I'm sorry for those who weren't able to meet the standards set by the university. I, however, feel confident that I am among equals with my fellow alumni.
Capella University Scams
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Capella University is running a scam on PhD learners. After successfully completing all the required coursework and three residencies, the university will subjectively fail you in comps for no apparent reason. Be aware of this educational institution. Their reputation and credibility is severly damaged.
Greatly disappointed
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I started with much enthusiasm at Capella. I did considerable research about on-line degrees. My wife, who has a PhD from Columbia cautioned against my undertaking the PhD program, but I pursued it anyway. I found it to be a disaster in the set up. I found the administrative organization and the focus on money obscuring the educational experience. Furthermore, the evaluation of my Master's degree credits was unbelievable in that less than half of my credits were transferred, and I graduated from Boston University. At work, the school was not recognized. I would strong urge people to avoid this school. Perhaps there are some on-line schools that are focused on education.
Capella Ph.D. Programs
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Overall, the program is okay. They lack AACSB accreditation and if you are looking at pysch, they lack APA accreditation (which is even worse than lacking AACSB accreditation). The instructors are generally okay, the materials are good, and the use of technology is good. Honestly though, what you take away is improved writing skills and materials. You could purchase the materials at a bookstore and the courses are to expensive to walk away with improved writing skills alone. I think Capella is average and once more B&M schools decide to go online with at least 75% of a business Ph.D., Capella is likely in big trouble. I have heard rumblings of Strayer buying out Capella, so that may be in the works.
I-O program was not satisfactory
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I attended there for several years and was not happy with the experience. The school is disorganized and while there are good instructors many of them are not available in the classroom. They do not compare well to many other schools in terms of curriculum and have failed to obtain APA status for good reason. They are all about the money and problems are met with abject frustration rather than productive solution. Their technology is good but their status is poor. They accept everyone who can pay and of those only about half graduate. One has to ask why their attrition rats is so high and why they don't offer national facilities for the cost of the programs they offer. This reduces their credibility as well as their ability to serve students well.
Your experience will be what you make it
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I've just completed my degree and I had a wonderful experience. It was a lot of hard work but it was all worth it. I think Capella is an exceptional organization - always looking for feedback from learners and working to improve. I felt supported and encouraged throughout my three years as a student. Not all instructors were great, but most were. The technology was excellent and I had very few issues. Tech support was helpful and friendly the two times I needed to contact them. Even the transition from Capella's old proprietary online learning environment to WebCT went smoothly for me. I learned a lot and would not hesitate to recommend Capella to others. Just understand that your experience will be what you make it. This is not high school -- it's up to you to create an excellent graduate school experience, just like it's up to you to create a great career.
Capella is Exceptional
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Capella University is by the most exceptional University online that I have found. They are very upfront about their policies and have never done anything reguarding my degree without my consent. I attended my undergrad at the University of Illinois, which by in large, was great, however, the staff at U of I was not always helpful, and I ended up doing an extra year of coursework because of the misdirection. Since coming to Capella, my roadmap, so to speak, has been clear and consise, and my team of advisors have kept in exceptional contact with me throughout the process. I will be completing my MBA very soon and hope to obtain my PhD here as well. I have recommended many collegues and close friends to the school, because I believe in the values this college promotes.
A satisfying experience
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I graduated with a PhD in Education and have since landed a tenure-track position; I had a rigorous and satisfying experience at Capella, where some of my instructors guided and mentored me so that my academic experience paid off in terms of publication and networking; the result, I got the job!
Good Online University
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The value comes from the real world experience of the instructors and the "adult" students. Most in the Ph.D. program have brick and mortar graduate and undergraduate degrees and extensive experience in their fields. All I know who have graduated where alike to use their degrees to advance.
A great opportunity
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I am enrolled and finish course work this summer. I have had some fabulous instructors, and a few that were mediocre at best (you find this everywhere). Instructors I have met at residencies have been absolutely AMAZING. The comraderie, the knowledge, and support make me feel like I made an excellent decision although I struggled as I did not want to get a "cookie cutter" degree at a diploma mill. However, there are people like me who have the ability, the drive, and the will, but do not have the program availability, the time, nor the money to devote 5-10 years earning a degree. I am a single mother of four young children and this university has given me the chance to earn the degree I have dreamed about. I love the fact that my peers who learn with me are from all walks of life, from countries all over the world, and my learning experiences have been far richer because of the students with whom I learn. I think Capella is doing great things and I am happy to be a part of it.
As good as it should be, but ...
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I finshed a teaching certificate online and which opened my eyes to the entire world of online learning, rekindling my desire to pursue a PhD. The education at Capella was as good as I would have expected at any conventional program. I had mostly good instructors -- diligent, involved, knowledgable, caring. And there were a few duds, but that is no different than one could expect at ANY institution of higher learning. My bigger concern isn't the quality of the program but its ability to interface with the profession at large. I hear this is diminishing, but I have encountered a pretty strong prejudice against online degrees -- especially in clinical psych. Even though I received high marks for competence and knowledge during my fieldwork, I am hitting a wall post-graduation. But to be fair, I have also discovered that professional psychology is not a great career potential field, with a lot of infighting and image problems. That is only compounded when you try to join the fight with an online degree. Bottom line: great program, poor profession.
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