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Anonymous
(In Progress) on May 15, 2013
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Brick & Mortar Snobbery??
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on May 11, 2013
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So far so good
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.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on April 21, 2013
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Learn from the mistake of others
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.
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Davidpmartin
(Graduate) on February 4, 2013
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High Quality Education
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.
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Ktomlinson
(In Progress) on November 30, 2012
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Best Education I have EVER had
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.
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Rjerrell
(In Progress) on October 27, 2012
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Run, run, run away!
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.
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Kellyameredith
(In Progress) on September 27, 2012
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...well, it's better than UoP...
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.
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Jeffreyisaac
(Graduate) on September 21, 2012
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Capella University is wonderful!
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!
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Jurgen.bach
(In Progress) on August 5, 2012
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Better Than Expected
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on May 25, 2012
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No help from instructors
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!!!!
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 20, 2012
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Not a wise investment if you want to be a Professional or even gradute
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.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on February 9, 2012
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psychology
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on January 20, 2012
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Recommended with Reservations
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on August 2, 2011
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The Independent traveler
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.
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Caffeinejunky6
(In Progress) on May 19, 2011
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Good and Bad-Do your research
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on May 11, 2011
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PhD: IT - Information Assurance & Security
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.
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Tenaheff
(In Progress) on April 4, 2011
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Excellent School
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!
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 20, 2010
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You get what you give...
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 17, 2010
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So so
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on November 22, 2010
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Satisfied
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.
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Brenda.l.johnson
(In Progress) on November 10, 2010
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Like anything else, YOU have to do your homework!!
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.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on November 5, 2010
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Capella U.
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.
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Saffron_skye321
(In Progress) on October 25, 2010
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Buyer Beware
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on July 30, 2010
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PhD - General Psychology
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!
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on May 5, 2010
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it is what you make it
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.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on February 13, 2010
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PhD Organizational Behavior
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!
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on January 22, 2010
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PgD Educational Psychology
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.
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Mfurlong
(In Progress) on January 16, 2010
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General Psychology PhD Program
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)
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Nmoreau
(Graduate) on December 24, 2009
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IDOL - No Regrets from Me!!
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.
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David.unruh
(In Progress) on September 25, 2009
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Be Careful!!!
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.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on August 8, 2009
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You get what you put into it
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.
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Songinheart59
(Graduate) on July 8, 2009
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PhD Capella
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???!!!
2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
1 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Wsu50
(In Progress) on June 7, 2009
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Capella is great, yet extremely challenging.
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.
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2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Pdwade
(In Progress) on January 19, 2009
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A first-rate program
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.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 30, 2008
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Also Scammed
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.
0 of 3 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 1, 2008
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Felt Scammed
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on November 27, 2008
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This is a Real School!
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.
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2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Avatar
(Graduate) on September 29, 2008
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Students must adapt...
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 7, 2008
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Would not recommend
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.
3 of 4 people found the following review helpful
2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on March 18, 2008
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Positive and negative points
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.
2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on March 16, 2008
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Garbage In Garbage Out
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.
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on December 24, 2007
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Excellent Experience
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.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on October 30, 2007
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Big Technology GAP & bigger Administration Egos
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.
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
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Egrosenfeld
(In Progress) on October 6, 2007
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Pleased with my choice!
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.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Jbaugh
(In Progress) on September 28, 2007
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Indolents need not apply
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.
1 of 4 people found the following review helpful
1 of 4 people found the following review helpful
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Gbecker
(In Progress) on September 28, 2007
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A Great Phd Journey
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!
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Triciamayes
(In Progress) on May 18, 2007
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Capella is Exceptional
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.
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
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Angela.grabelle
(In Progress) on December 27, 2006
(email verified)
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A great opportunity
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.
0 of 2 people found the following review helpful
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Sphampe
(Graduate) on December 10, 2006
(email verified)
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As good as it should be, but ...
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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