Capella University : Master of Science Reviews

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Great school

By: Anonymous (Graduate) on November 3, 2011

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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.

MS in Child and Adolescent Development with a second specialization in Psychology and a concentration in Family Psychology

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on August 8, 2011

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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

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on August 2, 2011

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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

By: sontaylor2001 (Graduate) on July 11, 2011

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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!

Rude, no communication, just want your $$$$

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on June 28, 2011

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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!

Happy

By: drkristie82 (In Progress) on April 3, 2011

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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.

You get what you give...

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on December 20, 2010

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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

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on December 17, 2010

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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.

Buyer Beware

By: Anonymous (Graduate) on July 22, 2010

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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!

By: Anonymous (Graduate) on July 15, 2010

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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.

IDOL

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on January 23, 2010

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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

By: Anonymous (Graduate) on January 23, 2010

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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.

This is a Real School!

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on November 27, 2008

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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

By: determined06grad (In Progress) on November 27, 2008

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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.

Academics OK - Business Support Poor

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on October 17, 2008

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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

Students must adapt...

By: avatar (Graduate) on September 29, 2008

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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.

Great School

By: poneil (Graduate) on June 18, 2008

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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.

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on June 13, 2008

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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.

Would not recommend

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on April 7, 2008

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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.

Positive and negative points

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on March 18, 2008

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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

By: pattismokefan20 (In Progress) on March 17, 2008

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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.

Your experience will be what you make it

By: lfilla (Graduate) on August 15, 2007

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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.

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