ECPI College of Technology

I attended ECPI for networking security. The recruiter had me lickin my chops as he sweet talked me about how much money i would make, how quick i would graduate, how quick they would help me get a job, and how great the school would be for me. So i obtained student loans (almost $35k, which by the way, community colleges cost a fraction of that price to attend) and signed their oh sooo very biased contract. (read the contract, dont let the recruiter just point to where to sign, bc the find print will blow your mind). I attended about 8 terms. I learned absolutely nothing and i mean that...nothing...Everyone cheats, the intructers dont want to be there half the time, they are always short on books, and the computers that we used were so outdated it blew my mind, so i un-enrolled before i was a full $35k in debt. i now get collections calls saying i owe the school money, i had 100% covered student loans that i am currently paying back. Thats my story. Now, my friend  attended MCI for the RN program. Straight "A" average. She got to the part in the program where she was attending clinicals. She had to leave her clinicals 15 minutes early to pick up her daughter from the babysitter. ( I have no reason to exaggerate) She was informed the following day that she was be removed from that clinical term bc her leaving 15 minutes early was considered "patient abandonment" even though she checked out with the assigned patient nurse. But hey, it was ok and everything would be alright bc she would get to start back again whenever another spot opened in the next upcoming class. She never got a call until 4-5 months later. she was informed that she would be required to pay an additional $5000 for the clinical class she was dropped from, and an additional $5000 for the clinical class to take it again. She begged and cried to not be dropped, she pleaded but not to my surprise, the RN director said sorry, nothing she could do. So she dropped from the school, owing $15k in student loans and is attending a community college for a fraction of the price. Also, its not an accredited school. They failed their accredidation. So good luck trying to transfer anything. They are constantly being sued. My advice to all who have continued to read this post.....do not become legally locked into student loans with the government or any bank. bc by the time you realise how poorly taught the school is, or how after you sign that dotted line and enroll you are treated like a piece of crap, it will be too late, and you will owe the money to the banks or governement...ECPI aka " the business" not "the school/college", always makes sure it gets its money. ECPI/MCI cares nothing about you as a student or your future at all...If you still choose to enroll, I honestly, truley, wish you the best of luck, and hope your experience turns out different...

I'm not sure what ECPI your attending or your friend who in MCI but from my experience and from MANY of my friends experiences I we are al doing great. I have about five friends who graduated in the MCI's RN program and are RNs at various hospitals in our area. The school was hard for them and took A LOT of studying for them to pass their classes and graduate. I remember hardly seeing them for the years they were in the program but live very good lives now. Your friend who is constantly leaving 15 mins early to pick up their kid everyday deserves to be kicked out. Understandable that they have to pick up their kid by ECPI runs their college like a business, do you really think that at a hospital, (when your friend finally becomes an RN) is acceptable to leave 15 mins early everyday of her shift so she can pick up her kid? The answer is NO! Every company is like that, your personal life should never affect your work, and that's the bottom line. 

Yes, ECPI is a lot of money but if you went to a 4 year in state school you would spend the same amount of money, trust me I did the math plush I have a younger cousin in a 4 year school and we compared our tuition. 

Last, ECPI has been great for me, I'm in the Business Administration program and recently got offered a full time externship with NASA. I currently have a 3.8 GPA and have been taking classes with ECPI for less than a year. 

After 20 yrs in the military and a lot of experience and 20+ certificates and diplomas in the IT field , I finally retired and started looking for job. I do not have a degree but a lot of experience. I applie for job in the federal sectors and I got a GS10-12 Job because the experience. Now the only requirement to get the GS-12 is  having a degree, so I started in ECPI in Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer & information Science with concentration in network Security. The Network defense, network security, UNIX Administration and routers clases are opening doors for me , I've been offered a Network Security Officer promotion in the same agency with a salary range between 75,000 - 98,000. Sorry to hear that some of you have problems with ECPI but @ least in working for me and I'm half way my degree. 

I think that do not matter what institution you get the diploa with , is up to you to stay on top of the changing technology, even buying technical books or taking training clasess. 

By the way is the best way to find a job. My brother got a job in the IT field because one of the person he met taking a technical class in Productivity Point International were looking for an Interm and now they 're paying for his classes too

I am applying tomorrow to the Medical Assistant Program at ECPI in Greensboro, Nc. I was wondering if anyone had completed this program here? And what they thought? It seems like a great choice for me but after reading these things..I may reconsider. I want to after go to  University to get my Bachelors in Nursing. Will my credits transfer?

I attended ECPI in 2008, i don't have anything bad to say about the school or the people working there. However the school is very fast pace, i don't understand how you can learn and retain such important information in a five week period. I went to two mods and found the school not for me. I spoke to the Dean and explain that i wanted to transfer to Trident Tech College in my area. Six months later i received a bill stating i owed the school 1,372.05 (329.32) is for collection fees. I have called the school over the last year and can't get CLEAR ANSWER on why i have to pay for classes i never attend. The school states the classes i enrolled in costed 4,065.95, however they recieved 2,675 in pell grant and 250.00 in scholarship monies. I only took Four classes never started the other ones. If this has happen to anyone else please let me know how did you have this resolved. I cant even get a clear response on how much each class cost. People pls do your research before you attend any school it will effect your life in a good way and sometimes bad. Oh the classes i took was not transferable to any school in my area. THANKS ECPI YOUR THE BEST!!!!!!! :(

Another Update:

Just got the call from my admissions adviser and they are transferring in the following credits that I earned at Devry and ERAU:

College Algebra & Statistics
Psychology
Computers w/ Lab
College English 1 and 2 

So it looks like with GOOD grades, they were all A's and B's, you can transfer in college credits.

Continued:

I am on this thread to read reviews and hopefully give some insight to young people with little to no real world experience. A lot of the people complaining on here would be what I would consider people with little to no real world experience. Make a decision based on what is best for YOUR situation. I can already tell this college is going to be hard, but it is nothing that I can not handle as I have handled far worse.

If you are prior military you CAN succeed here!

Hey Everyone,

I am attending MCI Newport News right now for a prerequisite in Chemistry and if I get accepted I will be starting the RN program January 2011. I am still waiting to see if they will accept my transfer credits for the English and Math prerequisite and I have heard many different things from current students who could not transfer in credits. However I do not know how well they scored on entrance exams or their former GPA's which I am sure plays a HUGE part in this. Just a little background on me I have a Bachelors in Management, average 3.5 GPA and I am prior military. I have been an electronics technician for 8 years and after some life-altering experiences and some volunteer work at the VA Medical Center I found that Nursing is for me. 

I did my homework and I looked into all the nursing programs in the area. For my particular situation I think this college is best for me. I learned electronics in the Navy in accelerated courses, much quicker then this school teaches classes. Anyone who has gone through military technical training should not have a problem with the pace of this school. When I got my Bachelors I took 12 week classes part time at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University for 2.5 years and then transferred to Devry when I got out of the military and took 8 week classes for about 2 years full time. I am used to the quick pace and having to take the INITIATIVE to teach things to myself or ask for help when I need it. I will say that this chemistry pre-req at MCI is very hard and I study an average of 6 hours a day, but this is what you should expect to do when taking 5 week classes.

The price is pretty absurd in my opinion, however this place is cutting out all the "fat" and length of time found at community colleges. So I am paying for a quick education, which is what I want. I do have 13 months left of the GI Bill and after that I will have a tab of about $7,500 to pay the school out of pocket. To me that is a small price to play for such a lucrative and rewarding job field.

My Bachelors has a concentration in Human Resource Management. I learned in college that when recruiting for a company you do not look at the name of a college. You look at the individual. There are a million different ways to rate people for jobs. I know I have never, ever had a problem with my degree from DeVry because I have an outstanding professional reputation, I am motivated, and I am willing to learn and work hard. These are the things that matter and from my time in recruiting I can tell you these are the traits REAL HR departments look for, not the name of your college. Put in 200% and you will get that back! Like someone already said in this thread 100% is mediocre these days considering how competitive the job market is and how hard college is.

You are responsible for your own well-being and it is foolish of any of you to demand success simply because you sat in a chair, in a particular building, with a particular instructor. Get real. 
    You do not need a degree to find a technical job. Try your hardest to find SOMETHING related to your degree while you are studying. Volunteer your services; you will gain invaluable experience as well as something to put on your resume! If I were looking for an aspiring IT professional at any level I wouldn't even regard a resume that simply said "Bachelors Degree in XXXX"... especially with so many opportunities. 
   Read, learn, explore, experiment, try, fail, try harder, and most of all don't lose your spirit. This field is rewarding for those who are loyal.
   In conclusion, I am sure I have angered some but please do not take this as an insult. The world of Information Technology awaits you all!
   For those of you interested in a local society (Norfolk, VA Beach, VA area) there is a society starting up around the end of this year. AMCISP or the Association of Military and Civilian Information Security Professionals. You can email pdunn_99@hotmail.com for further inquiry.

Some people aren't made for the IT world. IT isn't to be taken lightly and a brief college encounter won't prepare you for much if anything at all. I have been an IT in the Navy for 3 years now. I currently am the Information Systems Security Officer on board... a position usually held by someone far higher rank than I. Prior to the USN I worked civilian sector for two years as an intern for a NFP company in Boston, MA. Those two years were my only prior IT training seeing as how I started ECPI (online) shortly after exiting training in Pensacola, FL. 
    With regards to the profession, it is a fast paced and evolving world. Unlike many collegiate programs which do not change from decade to decade, the IT profession changes constantly. If you are not willing to commit to a life of study and hard work then you need to seek entertainment elsewhere. If it's one thing I cannot stand at work it's IT "professionals" who are here to simply collect a pay check. IT takes a natural affinity towards mathematics, science, and other broad studies as well as the dedication necessary to be the best. 
   As for ECPI (COT) I have had a decent experience, neither great or poor. You have to put in the extra study to get what you need. They will provide you the basics but that won't get you far. As of this post, not very many colleges are offering degrees in Network Security, which is one of the fastest growing professions. In this particular instance (I cannot speak for their other programs)their programs are ground-breaking in a new and undefined field of collegiate study.
   I haven't had any issues with their staff what-so-ever. Being in the Navy (at a sea command) I often encounter problems. I am currently deployed and was scheduled for a class that I would not be able to complete (due to bandwidth reduction) and even though their policy states that internet connection is the responsibility of the student, they made a huge move for me and ultimately won my undying respect. They took me out of the two conflicting classes and talked with me about how it was possibly too late for them to put me into any other classes (this being my own fault). I expected to be suspended for the semester and resume school upon return. To my greatest surprise, the department head for CIS stepped up and offered to hold a class with me as the only student in a subject that would require less bandwidth. It was because of his undying devotion to education and the student body that I am able to continue school on this deployment.

Sad to say that people are not allowed to "test out" the ECPI environment before throwing their money at something they may regret.  As a former student of the Richmond-Innsbrook campus, there were many classes that I felt the instructor didn't know the material or wasn't prepared for day-to-day assignments, yet was put their to teach us (what, I have still no clue).  You'd be happy to know that part of your money goes towards the purchasing of iPods.  Not everyone gets them but those that do enjoy using them for anything but educational purposes.  If you're expecting a professional and knowledgeable environment, keep looking.  I'd only recommend ECPI for people that have need the degree quickly and already posses experience, intelligence and a good source of money.

10/7/2010 Anyone who lives in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia that has teenagers ready for college... Please do not send them to ECPI college of Technology / MCI Medical Career Institute. They are the same college with different names. The college is a private college that is a scam business. These guys are scam artist. Please research ECPI Ripoff before attending, To go to this school to become an LPN, the cost is $33,000.00. They are overpriced. You will do much better going to your closest community college. ECPI Charlotte, NC will manipulate grades for some students and will not do it for other students. The instructors will label each student with bad comments, which will be passed on to the next instructor. There is no student-instructor confidentality-meaning the instructors will tell all of your business to other students and faculty members. Instructors will believe all gossip/rumors without investigating them and will pass on to the next set of instructors. They will also set up the test for you to automatically fail. You will have an instructor, who will tell the whole class that you will not pass my first test - and believe me they will set the whole class up to fail the first test. If you fail out of the nursing program the first time, it will take you months to get back in with an exception if they decide to let you back into the program. You are not guranteed to get back into the program- if this is the case- they have collected your $33,000.00 at this time. Once they have collected all your money from finacial aid and loans, they have the right to not let you return to the program. This college is a hustler school... it is more about business and money than it is about education. Therefore they do not have to let you back in. There clinical sites are a joke. They take you to clinical sites where no one hires LPN's anymore. You constantly do more CNA work than you do LPN work. Some instructors have such a bad attitude, that certain ones can't attend to certain clinical sites because the clinical sites no longer want those instructors at that facilty. Save your money and go to your local community colleges. You will have a better chance to be all you can be at your local community colleges than attending to ECPI/MCI. If you see positive comments, then it is either instructor pets or ECPI/MCI faculty members writing in. There is nothing positive at all about this college. It is a total rip off and a waste of your time and money to attend.

ECPI... when you start, they give you 3 pieces of advice:

1.) Come to class.
2.) Do the work.
3.) Ask for help when you need it.

The administration claims if you do these things, you'll be successful.  I did: I came to class on time, did the work and asked for help when I needed it, which wasn't often.  They said their job placement was over 99%.  Out of the six months I spent of searching for a job on Monster, Dice and LinkedIn, it was a connection from Career Services which got me hired.  I make over $50,000 a year.  I wasn't established in IT before I started ECPI.  I paid attention and studied outside of class to learn more about what they were teaching.  There were several instructors there I highly respected and still do.

Doctor Bulysheva at the Virginia Beach campus was a wonderful mentor, mainly because she never did make it easy as so many have mentioned below.  Lots of instructors were pressured to make students pass instead of fail when they all started griping that the course was too difficult.  By not pandering to the students and by presenting the material as it is, Doctor Bulysheva and several other instructors (Litchmore, for one) helped forge those who were willing to study and progress into professional developers.

The cost is expensive, yes.  It could have been lowered.  It's not that important, considering other local colleges (such as ODU) are far more expensive and often more lackadaisical in their instruction.  If you're going for IT, the Virginia Beach campus can and will give you what you need to get your foot in the door.  It's up to you to continue your education after the fact.

There is nothing wrong with ECPI. these problems seem to occur with any school, meaning someones always complaining. not every school is made for you, you have to choose a school that is its that simple. The money? yeah you can't go to any school and not pay money and the higher the cost of schools yeah the more and longer you have to pay back that is school man, theres no way around it. every person that has a negative post, the school didnt' work for them and they are telling you that you will  have the same experience. look at it like this you always here "O that weight loss pill doesnt do nothing, i didnt lose any weight, and will try to persuade you not to use it but what about the people that did lost weight? i bet you it wasnt because of their body type, it was because they dieted and exercised, just like studying and focusing will make you a better student. to be honest any school will be good enough, but are ready to say that im going to make more money and better my career or am i simply just going back to school. hard work will pay off tenfold trust me, if you want it bad enough 

I am looking into attending ECPI at their Manassas VA location if anyone has any insight on this particular campus please let me know!!

It's a "school" that isn't worth it. If they actually fulfilled their promises, then just maybe they'd be able to say that their tuition cost of $27,000+ was worth the loans and half-ass financial aid. 

They promise you with career placement aid and all they really have to do is send an email to a hiring manager and go along their marry way. As if we can't do that ourselves. You don't even get a choice on if you want to buy a book used or not, they tact it onto your tuition (I'm guessing to up the cost). I found that a lot of my books were $90 - $120, which a used book was only $30. It really enthralled me with rage when I found this out. 

I was a student and I graduated with 3.7 GPA with Perfect Attendance and made it on the Dean's list several terms at the Charlotte campus. I'm not going to argue that the teachers were awesome because I am grateful that I met all of them, but as I grew an extraneous relationship with a few of the instructors, they told me that they doubted the school's credibility. The recruiters earn a nice bonus of $500 per student they recruit (part of your "tuition") and the financial aid department is ran by the utmost rudest female with no empathy towards the students and their circumstances. Some of the teachers were horrible at their job. They had "doctors" working there that were no longer within their license and couldn't answer simple medical questions. I only met just about 4 teachers that were passionate about their profession and they only took the instructional job as a part time. 

I am a single mother looking for a way to earn money until I decide what it is I actually want to do in my career and I thought ECPI was worth it. Financial Aid takes a while to process and unfortunately at the end of my program, one of the instructors/career advisers told me that sometimes if FA didn't process, they'll take out a loan that you did not approve of. It's duplicitous and I highly regret going to the school that is full of lies and deceit. It is my fault for trying to take an easy way out, but options as unethical as ECPI shouldn't be legal. The career adviser even closed the door of her office and asked me if I felt that I was being cheated, she told me that she let someone know about the school's ethics so it is now being investigated (she was a new employee). 

I now do have a job, but I feel that my efforts would've been equivocal if I just went to the local community college that cost no less than $6G. Yes, it is on me that I chose this school and that I failed to do my research, but I am speaking on behalf of possible candidates searching for a way to get their lives in order. Take a few jobs and go to the next best community college or public university! It's well worth it and you'll gain more from it! It's my route now.

If your study is your passion, regardless what school you go to, you will ultimately be the guide of your career. In short if you like what you do and do it well and would like to support your passion with education quickly, well then it may work for you. Be honest with yourself, we all live in America you get what you pay for nothing more or less. Its accelerated learning you can always get money back but time on the other hand is priceless hence the cost. You do the math what more valuable to you.

I fully paid off my past due account with ECPI by taking out a personal loan for 5,000 dollars for the time I attended. It is now 3 years later and now they are saying I owe them another 4,000. How can they get away with this? This is outrageous to me. I am military and I would like to know what legal actions are available to me. Please beware if you are considering this College. Its shady business practice. If you go just make sure you are prepared to pay thousands of dollars regardless of how long you attend and for whatever reason you must drop out. 

ECPI is a great school. I went there paid attention, did the work, and got my certs. I have a good job making pretty good money. When it comes to all of the negative posts here's what I have to say. When you go to this school you take 2 classes a term a term lasts for 5 weeks. It is IMPOSSIBLE to learn everything in a class within 5 weeks especially in IT. In order to excel you have to dedicate a lot of home time to read, and use the tools given to you so you can practice at home. I can guarantee 40 percent of the students in my classes didn't do that. The folks with the negative posts didn't go the extra mile which is why they are crying that they didn't learn anything or they cant get a good job. These are the people who showed up late, played on facebook, and then left class early. The I graduated and my major was network security. I HIGHLY suggest that if you go to ECPI make sure you get EVERYTHING you can out of it. Don't just think you can half ass it, get a degree, and then get a job...It doesn't work like that. This goes for any major. Good Luck Future Students!

I graduated from ECPI with a degree in Telecommunications Technology.  I transfered to New England Institute of Technology earned a degree in Electronics Engineering Tech and I also graduated from DeVry University with a degree in Technical Management.
I'm now finishing up my Masters in Telecommunications Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology. 

I have read so many negative post about DeVry and ECPI.  As I mention earlier I was successful at both these schools and they were very challenging.  It seems to me most of you did not apply yourselves or stayed up on your financial responsibilities at the these schools.  You are adults not children, things are not just taken care of it for you.  It is your responsibility to keep up on everything when attending school.  Not just class assignments but the financial aspects of it too. 

None of these negative post hold weight you cannot discredit any of these schools for your irresponsibility.  I enjoyed every minute of these educational institution and what they provided to me.  I attend classes and did well at each one of them.  So when I see these negative post and misleading information that the school is not regionally accredited shows me why you failed!

@ Doubtful: My friend...if that's how you recruit, then you are a very bad recruiter. Each person that works in IT or networking, or what have you either has passed their A+, CCNE, C+, etc...or they haven't. If one can pass the certs, then one can do the job. What'd you do? Hire two workers with ECPI degrees that didn't turn out and then made a snap judgement about all ECPI grads? Do you do that with skin color too? Maybe nationality? Gender?

Its recruiters like you that have contributed to the job situation in the US. You clearly suck at your job and should be pushing a broom somewhere. I say that with all due respect lol.

This is a terrible school,do not go here. There engineering degree online is a joke. I can tell you with the exception of one instructor none of them know anything about real world electronics. 
I can make this claim because I work on the front line of electronics in the industrial sector with knowledge in high/low voltage controls,robotics,switchgear and circuit component repair. Don't waste you time and money

ECPI is obviously SACS accredits...go to the SACS website people.  And ECPI is now a University because they also offer master's degrees.  ECPI i sjust like any other SACS accredited educational institution: they provide HIGHLY qualified instructors (all must have a master's or doctorate degere) and they expect THE STUDENTS to do their part. THIS IS NOT HIGH SCHOOL...IT IS COLLEGE...IT IS A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT BALLGAME.  In fact, ECPI instructors offer more "one-on-one" time with students than any other institution I know if...go to UNC-Chapel Hill, or Duke, or UVA and see how much "one-on-one" time you get with a professor that teaches a class of 150+ students.  As for the price...they do not cost any more than any other private institution...do the research before whining.  And for credits transferring...NO COLLEGE is good about transferring credits REGARDLESS of where the credits come from...they transfer general arts and sciences courses, but usually the specialized courses do not transfer...and that's that. 

I agre with some of the negative posts but my education at ECPI has turned out okay for the most part. Before I go into detail let me sum it up for those who won't read the whole thing. ECPI is expensive, the classes are lacking and you should avoid it if you don't have any experience with computers or the IT field. If you have the money, the experience and just need a degree from an accredited college then ECPI is for you.

I got my associates degree in CIS from ECPI back in June 2007. The type of experience I had was just being knowledgeable with computers in general. I went full time in the mornings and read the chapters we went over in class after I got home from school. It was tough but doable. If you don't read the material you won't do well. They simply can't and won't give you all the information you need in class. There just isn't enough time and some of the teacher's experience is questionable. I had some instructors that didn't know how to subnet yet are trying to teach it to me. I had instructors with masters & PhDs trying to teach switches & routers or server 2003 and didn't really know what they were teaching. I bought certification books to teach myself to augment my education and pass those certs because the classes from ECPI were definitely not enough. 

I was not well prepared for the jobs I would try to get. Don't believe that you will be a systems administrator or network administrator coming right out of school. Although not impossible it is very rare. You will need to settle for helpdesk jobs maybe paying 30k a year. Don't fall for the ads of making 50-70k a year. 

My first real job with the degree was an IT helpdesk job for a small company making 31k in January 2008. Went up to 32k the next year. Then I got laid off in September 2009 when the economy went bad. In June 2010 I finally got another job making 39k. In February 2011 I got a raise and now I'm making 40k. Although not everyone will have the same salary experience, I am telling you my experience so you have something to go by.

In January 2011 I decided to go back to ECPI at night to get my bachelors in CIS. I still hold the same opinions about it. Classes are lacking, teachers' experience and teaching abilities are questionable and tuition is still expensive. But I just want a bachelors degree from an accredited college and I already have 4 years experience in the IT field so I'm okay with it. 

There were three reason I chose ECPI again for my bachelors. First, they are accredited. Second, it's fast. I should be getting my bachelors by the end of 2011 or early 2012. Third, they took the majority of my credits. 

Credits will transfer but usually only for the general education courses. Like english and math courses. Most traditional colleges don't teach a lot of technical courses so you shouldn't expect your server or router classes to transfer over. 

This is my honest opinion of ECPI and probably one of the most detailed ones here. Take it for what it's worth. 

It's as though someone who is foreign to English has typed all these posts for everyone who has commented. Go back to school somewhere. Please!

It may not all be a scam but most or all of ECPI online degree's are.  $7,983.00 for a semester (3 terms).  Even if you only complete one term they charge you for 3.  Oh and by the way dont let them control your Grant money, they will steal that as well.  I give ECPI 2 thumbs down.  The only thing ECPI is good at is the BS propaganda to get you to sign up. On campus may be different but online is a joke.  For those of you who say the only ones who complain are those who dont give their all.  I held a 4.0, my attendence was 100%, I had to drop out do to my work hours increasing to 60 a week.  I managed to finish 2 full terms (10 weeks)cost me $7,000.00. Take it for what its worth and Im happy for those who have success with ECPI but they are a crooked money hungry institution.  Stick with the 4 year colleges it will save you a lot of heart ache and empty wallets @ the end.

Ok its not all a scam... its called an accelerated school for a reason if you can't handle the pressure then don't go.. its that simple my mom got her bachelors for ecpi and has an amazing job. People who say its sucks are the people who don't apply themselves and skip class 

I only have one thing to say about all the negative comments in this forum: It's your own fault!  I am a student at ECPI and I have seen, first hand, the students that always have something negative to say are the ones that are leaving class early or playing games on the computers/cell phones. These students do not apply what they have learned or refuse to learn the material.  ECPI is NOT perfect by no means but there is a "chain of command" that if used correctly and with tact will solve your problem 98% of the time.  ECPI is not for everyone. It is a fast tracked college meaning every class of instruction at ECPI is equivalent to 2 1/2 weeks at a community college.  If you are thinking about attending this college, I would suggest dedicating the time to study the material, do some self study about your major before signing the dotted line (You don't want to make a $33,000 mistake), and remember you are only going to get out of it what you are willing to put in (Set High Standards for yourself).  As for employment, I was lucky enough to have an IT job prior to attending ECPI but I can tell you that if you are willing to relocate and you have a sh!t-hot resume that speaks honestly of yourself and experience, you will not have any issues landing a job in the field of study that you chose.  I have had many opportunities since I have re-posted my resume stating that I am currently attending ECPI pursuing a Bachelor's of Science in Computer Information Systems with a focus in Network Security.

One more important fact that I personally like about ECPI is that they treat the classes like it's employment. Tardiness goes on your record, leaving before class is over goes on your record, missing the first day of a new class will constitute automatic disenrollment from the course, and more than 2 unexcused absences from a class will also disenroll you. You can't complain here because I don't know any employer that would allow this to happen!

This school is not for everyone.  If you are somebody who has some recent experience in the field you wish to be in, and a fast learner by all means attend this school.  If you are somebody who is a completely fresh to your major, beware.  

I'm right now attending ECPI for Web Design and I graduate with my bachelors this April.  Most of the learning I did at ECPI was literally on my own because the lectures just went right over my head no matter how many questions I asked.  The instructors there taught new students like we've done this before, and I'm like "Hello? This is my first time learning this. Skip the "techie" speak that an employee would use at the job to fellow employers and talk to me like I am a student."

Also Financial aid is ridiculous in my opinion.  When I was first being admitted they gave you an option of paying $100 a month to "help lighten" the load of your student loan upon graduating. I did it at first, but then times got rough so I was unable to do so for about 7 months, next thing I know I get a letter basically saying pay or get kicked out of school. Isn't it great being lied to?

Also Career services...yea they are a joke.  You know how they get those "connections" to those jobs?  Craig's List and google...Nothing ground breaking there, so basically what this means is you don't need them.  Don't waster your time with them and search on your own.  I found my 2 internships and 3 interviews for web design jobs all on my own.  The only job they informed me about was a seasonal position at UPS as a Driver's Helper which I ended up quitting because apparently its hard for UPS to follow my availability schedule (ie: calling me to come work in the middle of a lecture)  

My school for Career services also had horrible advice for writing resumes. Because my business teacher looked at my resume that Career services edited and shook his head at it (He reads resumes for a living).

I do not recommend this school to everyone.  I graduate in 2 months and all I have to show for it so far are internships which aren't bad, but come on I spent good money to come here and get a JOB before I graduate!

I WAS THINKING ABOUT ATTENDING. WE HAD A REPRESENTIVE COME TO MY HIGH SCHOOL TODAY..THE LPN PROGRAM STARTS IN JUNE...IM GLAD I CAME UPON THIS...THEY AIN GETTIN NONE OF MY MONEY IM GOING TO A COMMUNITY COLLEGE!! THANKS

do  you have to pay to go to ecpi if so how much im trying to find out beause i am a junior in high school i just need to kno a lil more about college :)

This school is &^%$. I have not learned anything from attending this school. as posted before you will continuously be screwed by them only giving you 1 class or no class for multiple terms. DO NOT GO TO THIS SCHOOL. 

Dhud.  I was in the military and went to (read: scammed by) this school.  DO NOT DO IT!!!  Read the warnings!  You will overpay, and not get a job.

I've been in the military for over 20 years and 
I start my school at ECPI the first part of 2011.  I know some you have never served in the military but
this type of school is really for those of us who have
a strict discipline.  A lot of you younger individuals find this type of training/school non functional for you but for me it's perfect.  I believe I'll do very well. 

Dhud, I'm active duty military and I recently moved to the Richmond, VA area.  Are you already taking courses with ECPI?  If so, how do you like it?  After reading some of the comments I'm a little scared the classes will be too intense to try  to handle while also working full time.  What do you think?

Well I dont work for ECPI nor do I care for their tactics. But I will say this.. I am a graduate of the Navys Advanced Electronics School and hold an Associates from ECPI. ECPI's training was very good yes some of the courses were lame and yes some of the teachers were lame. But, the fact that I could walk into a class have all the books (mostly straight from microsoft or novel)  waiting for me at my desk and have a computer that I could do anything I want to with was AWESOME.. 

Education is what you make it. I learned alot at that school because I was agressive and demanded answers. I received allot of info from the instructors and that was awesome. A community college doesnt come close to the depth of knowledge I got at ECPI. I know because I tried two before attending ECPI.. Tidewater CC and Austin Community College. 

Anyway again its what you make of it. I got my MCSE and Novell certs via the school. I miss the night classes and the friends I made. 

SUCKS dont take the online courses they were horrible and a waste of money. Goto to the in class school and demand answers. 

GOOD SCHOOL online Blows balls

I have read the same thing about ECPI as I read about DeVry "A degree from this college is not accepted by employers."  If this is the case then what degrees ARE acceptable? Only ones that take four years to obtain from the same types of instructors that are being maligned here and on the DeVry board as well?  At an even higher cost because there you have to pay for your books as well?  After reading the posts here as well as for any college that offers a faster degree for those of us that are older ie; nearly fifty, what options do we have?

From what I've been reading from all the naysayers; what's the point of trying to go back to college at all?  Why bother to further yourself if no one is going to just hand you all the knowledge and skills you require to make it in the world?  God forbid someone should actually put some effort into getting an education. 

I worked for nine years in Internet Technical support for a regional ISP.  I can tell you from experience; a degree doesn't make a whole lot of difference.  It's the person that is what matters.  I currently do not hold a degree and I am finding that I need one to return to the workforce again if I want to get a job in ANY sort of IT position.

After reading these reviews, if I were to base my decision to get a degree on them, I would not attend ANY "advertised" school.  And I can tell you, in Central Virginia, new ones are cropping up every week.

I WAS THINKING ABOUT GOING TO MCI FOR THE HEALTH CARE ADMIN. I WAS TRYING TO FING SOMEONE WHO HAVE ALREADY FINISHED SCHOOL AT ECPI FOR HELP MAKING MY MIND UP ON SHOULD I GO OR NOT.

At Malcolm Tyson. There is a screening process with this program, done by the director of the program prior to admission. I'm a student currently, and have my hopes set high...but if I could give you any advice it would be to proof read your writing before you submit, and present yourself well. I'm not sure how much weight this degree will hold, but we've been able to make a ton of connections, networking is always a good thing. Don't think that all you need is a degree from this school, you may need to further your education, and get some ojt as well. Good luck.

I attended ECPI in Charlotte...A waste of time and money. It makes me afraid to try again.

Now I am skeptical about obtaining my degree from this school.

Hey mvanbusk,

It's hard for me to take you and your complaints about ECPI serious considering the fact that you can't even spell AUGUST correctly.  Augest???? seriously???? perhaps this is why you FAILED to benefit from ECPI, because you are a moron.  As a matter of fact, I have noticed a trend here, the majority of the people complaining about ECPI have terrible grammatical skills, can't spell worth a damn and their sentence structure is lacking significantly.  The people on here that have good things to say about ECPI seem to have much better writing skills.  Coincidence?

Odds are that if you read a post that is positive about ECPI it is one of their staff writing it. This school spends a lot of money advertising to keep a fresh stream of dreamers/suckers in the pipeline.  Any school that pays their lawyers more than their teachers should be avoided. Students have to sign an arbitration agreement to have all disagreements settled through an arbitrator who they pick.  Talk about a stacked deck.  Basically they can't be sued for providing a substandard and overpriced education.  Real schools post the cost of the programs on their websites because they have nothing to hide, ECPI as you would guess does not.

I just graduated from ecpi's nursing program in Charlotte, NC. I could not be more happy, I'm going for my RN at Gaston CC, and yes my classes are transferring, except 2. The instructors are wonderful, I received a great education. As sum1 else pointed out, the classes do go pretty fast, so u should at least be familiar with your area of study. I workd as a cna2 so I knew a little about healthcare before going to ecpi. As far as thrm letting anyone in, that could not be further from the truth, I saw a few people turned away because of low teas test scores. You will have to apply yourself,allow for a lot of study time. It was a great decision for me.

HA! Chinese knockin US out of top spot? LOL! Thats all we need is a bunch of zipper heads thinking they know s%^t runnin around! Never happen, US will always remain top DAWG!!

Suck it hatinonwho?!! Commy bastard!!

I'm on my way to CalTech I didn't have to spend 50g's to go either HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA     :P
no wonder the government can't get #@$$#@ done, nobody's working!  those big bucks won't matter unless invested in the right places, i.e. when China's economy strengthen knocking the US out of the top spot--hope you learned Chinese!  oh, cant do that at ECPI

right on Doubtful!!

HaHa!!! All you suckers hating on ECPI are loosers who either expected to get a degree with no experience or just plain ignorrent!!! LMAO!! If your military and are reading this post, please dont let these posts discurage you. Honestly I was not looking to become an engineer from this school! I am in the Network Infrastructure field (IT). I wanted a BS degree from ECPI just to show I had a strong grasp in Electronics. After graduating with a BS in EET, a complete joke (YES) if trying to be an Engineer after graduating! ECPI is not even ABET accredited!! What would you be thinking!! I will tell you what though. I got my EET degree from ECPI, I have 9 years experience in the Telecom/Network career field with the military. TA paid for all my ECPI school. Now I am in my second semester at NYU PolyTechnic University! Thats right! they accepted my BS degree from ECPI and NYU PolyTechnic University is up there with MIT. I am now 18 credit Hours from a MS in Cyber Security!! LOL.. All you hating on ECPI are a F**king joke!! You get what you put in. I am a Veteran and I can be cocky about attending a school people are hating on, getting accepted to a serious institution, and "oh did I not mention?" yes I am making well over 6 digits sitting on my a$$ working for the federal Gov not using a damn thing I learned in any of my schools I have attended. I was given pieces of papers that have meant somthing. That is to include ECPI and CCAF. Basically its experience that matters, then certs, then education, then who the eduction is from, and then believe it or not; personality!LOL.. Please ALL; Dont hate on ECPI, their degrees are not trash, I graduated with a 3.6 GPA and was taken in by NYU Polytechnic University in which my GI Bill is now paying for. You can do great things if you do the research and planning ahead of time. Good luck to you all, and dont hate on ECPI COT!!! The peice of paper you can get from them is worth more than you think!!! Even if you dont have the experience...

I like ecpi. the staff is great. the one thing i've learned is that all teachers are different. at the end of the day its up to u to do your part and get your begree

The campus "director" sending out irrelevant emails sums up the professionalism and attention to detail here (he can't even spell popcorn or Redskins).

"
SUBJECT: Get your pop corn and jersey ready ... 

Thoughts 
 
We are family here at ECPI Innsbrook and are respectful of the fact some of us like Cowboys and others like Red Skins (that as close to pink as I could find) it’s all fair in love, war, and trash talking leading up to this weekend’s game … in honor of our favorite teams, Thursdays on campus is proclaimed as Team Jersey Day … but let me warn you Red Skin fans (I know there are only two of ya on campus who will publically identify yourself) that you will suffer greatly in this environment and your future success to limited because of a poor choice … Cowboys fans will inherit the earth … 
 
Jacob B. Pope, Jr., Ed.S.
ECPI College of Technology - Innsbrook Campus
EMBRACE… STRENGTHEN… SUCCEED… 
One student at time!
 
4305 Cox Road 
Glen Allen, VA  23060
 
804.934.0100 Ex. 78225
804.934.0054 Fax"

As an employer, I have fielded many IT applicants over the years.  I have yet to see a single qualified job applicant with a degree from ECPI.

I hired one once, overlooked the degree from ECPI and instead focused on the career experience.  This person's knowledge proved to be extremely lacking in the long run and only furthered my opinion of the quality of people coming out of this institution.

I don't know whether it's the quality of people who are inclined to attend this school, the quality of the education, or a combination of the two.  Whatever the cause, there seems to be a distinct trend of sub-par IT workers having attended ECPI.

I suggest the school both raise it's educational standards AND screen prospective students more selectively if it truly desires to eliminate this stigma.

Until that happens, I will continue to consider degrees from ECPI to be a detractor from one's resume.  I would be more inclined to hire an applicant with no degree at all rather than one who has a degree from ECPI.

I think most of the individuals complaining here could not have done well any where other than Burger King whopper 101. Are you the master of your destiny then take control and stop looking for supporters like your in a political race...Go take charge of your life for once.

I attended ECPI a while back and after being repeatly given answers for upcoming tests, not teaching, but test teaching, I quit. I truely believe ECPI preys on the weak on promises of a job.

Be careful, be very careful.  Attend one class only before you sign a contract with these thieves and liars.  Also are you nuts?  (IP addresses are being recorded....)

Tell the whole truth Bobby.  The credits will transfer ............................  ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
AS ELECTIVES!

That is not true I am attending in 2010 all credits transfer to George Mason. Goto there website ECPI is listed UNDER TRANSFER and all of the credits are good. DO YOUR HOME WORK !

Nothing transfers the only REAL thing about this place is the loans you have to pay back!!!!! It's crazy don't attend this "college" I have to retake everything and payback everything they are thieves and liars!!!!

I am a current student at ECPI-COT in Raleigh and I am enrolled in the Medical Assisting program. And I must say that I have been so close to quitting completely and going to a Community College to get my ADN. I find the school more informatative than actually trying to prepare you for the medical field. Like said before if you have some prior experience in the medical field (CNA) this is right for you. But someone who is fresh minded I wouldnt recommend taking the 5 week course because personally I've failed a class on purpose simply because I did not understand. I have 2 terms left and I am terrifed to know if I am even able to qualify for a job because of how unprepared I feel. Like today for example was our practicals for our phlembotomy class and my instructor wasn't even there. And the instructor who was there was speaking in another language to me that I didn't understand because apparently my teacher was teaching some off the wall irrelevant BS that we should have known, and she's suppose to be a "Doctor" a retired doctor at that. I mean there are some pretty good teachers there but there are some that really could care less. My biggest issue with ECPI is that if I wanted to transfer my credits to a community college like Wake Tech or CCCC. They wont take them because I'm seriously about to take a CNA 2 job and start over at Wake Tech to became a RN. I'm only 22 with a newborn so I have time to get my career right. I just feel like its a waste of time seriously. I feel ashamed for going here and wasting my summers because YOU DO NOT GET A SUMMER BREAK! besides a Week out for 4th of July. Seriously I'm pregnant and I drive 45 minutes every morning to come to class. It's killing me. But I do want my degree so when I do get a job I will have more experience.

"Their job is to help you. Don't put down a college just because you were the one that did not come to class on or after the first day, you were late on your assignments, got smart with your instructors, and did not return once you received a refund check."

ECPI does not return excess funds in the form of a refund check. They pocket everything.  And the reinstatement fee?  What a crock of .....

"To be honest, a good majority of students were not the individuals that were deemed to go to college one day in life. Isn't it funny how they are the same individuals complaining." 
 This is not a phenomenon affecting just ECPI...but these are exactly the type of students ECPI makes the most money off of--they are the group that is easiest to sell a pipe dream to.  Darn, I do hate ending sentences with prepositions...Anyhoo
 
Success no More and TechGirl seems to have the most realistic views on ECPI that I have read.  Just because it was peachy for you does not mean other students or faculty  shared that experience.  If it was great then please expound upon the greatness! These reviews should help guide potential students in their decision to attend or not.  If you need to balance the negative reviews, then give us something about ECPI that is positive and not some general bullsh*** about putting in 150% and the like.  What is so darn great about ECPI that makes it worth attending this school rather than another?  Thats what we should be on about...sure, yeah, dedication, 1000%, blah, blah, blah.  These attributes factor regardless of the institution. At the end of the day, is this school worth it or not? 

My thoughts:
ECPI is a bit predatory, they exist to give hope to the disadvantaged--and yes while I agree, research should be done, it doesn't change the fact that the degree is overpriced for what is actually taught, who its taught by and what its taught on. SuccessNoMore, I am not quite in the salary range you are in, but ECPI got me so far.  I learned the rest while I was on the job.  Pity I took the 50,000 route when I just could've taken a couple of classes at TCC or just read a few books.  SMH.  

When you find that your expensive trade degree is not up to par with the others on that label(degree) whore's list, then please learn carefully the following phrase:  Do you want fries with that?

It amazes me how so many individuals post the negative to everything.  When those individuals had nothing else to do with his or her life, they saw a glimpse of hope in the college they chose.  But, one thing they failed to do was research it and determine what would be best for them.  For many students that go to colleges like ECPI College of Technology, they are not the traditional students.  To be honest, a good majority of students were not the individuals that were deemed to go to college one day in life.  Isn't it funny how they are the same individuals complaining.  In life, nothing is perfect.  No matter what school you attend, you will have good and bad.  You definitely have to make the most out of your situation instead of looking for the bad. Always remember, you have to give 150% to see a return in anything you do.  In education, 100% is mediocre.  Also, do not be ashame to speak with your instructors.  Their job is to help you. Don't put down a college just because you were the one that did not come to class on or after the first day, you were late on your assignments, got smart with your instructors, and did not return once you received a refund check. Shame on you.  For those that are looking to go to ECPI COT, make sure you have taken the time to research before you begin your educational journey, and go into your program with a positive mind. In order for you to be successful in the end, you have to be productive and dedicated throughout.

I'm currently enrolled at ECPI. I've been in college before. James is right, if you are looking for getting spoiled, this place is not for your. There is PLENTY of homework involved. After the end of each term you fill a review for about your teachers. They also unexpectedly get review by coordinators during class. Teachers always offer tutoring after class or on days off just to make sure you understood. The tools are, there is up to you if you want to use them. You won't have to much time for social life, at least during your time at ECPI, they'll keep you busy.

I'm going to enroll in the richmond RN program. Has anyone attend south or west ECPI school for nursing?? thanks!!

I'll be graduating in November of this year with a BSEET. I've attended classes at several different colleges and universities, and ECPI has provided me with the best challenge so far. The classes are five weeks long, their fast and furious, so, if you're looking for someone to hold your hand and rub your belly you should go to a community college. If you can't hack the saturate and regurgitate methodology, like they use in the military, you shouldn't apply. You're required to work at ECPI and you'll have a research assignment for nearly every class. If you don't want to work stay home... it's easier that way.

I am waiting for their IATP program to get enough students enorolled to start.  The tentative start date is June 28th, this course will supposedly prepare you for the A+, net+, and security+ certifications.  At the end of each semester, you will actually take each exam.  I still cannot get any replies about how much all this will cost tho.............

I Thinking about moving from atlanta to greenvile and want to enroll in the LPN program .. ???

They don't give a F**K about you...or teaching!!! Every negative comment you have read in this forum, is true at least in Charlotte. I have had one good teacher since I have been here and the classes are soooo easy, I know more than the teachers! Why am I paying 30000 to learn nothing. The teachers at this school are not even qualified, just like every comment before mine has stated! What does that tell you? If every one is saying the same thing at different locations of the same school....something has to be going on! I know bs when I see it and I'm looking at it as I type. Yes, I'm sitting in ECPI right now and wondering why I am still here. OH yeah, I will still owe the money! To all that consider this school....RECONSIDER!!!!!!!

I graduated from ECPI-Charlotte in 2009 from the practical nursing program. I can't say there was anything bad going on because they considered nursing student separate from all the other programs. My instructors had bachelors and master degrees, and came with a whole lot of experience. Of course it was costly, but I enjoyed my time there, and gained a lot of experience. They have 98%-100% pass rates on the nursing boards, and they are doing better than the main campus in Virginia. I can't say anything bad about this school, and when they do open up a RN program on this campus I'll be there too.

People have to realize that the students who are happy with ECPI College of Technology (or any school) do not usually go to discussion boards like this to say their good experiences.

They are just happy to move on with their lives and get the jobs that they are longing for.

Those who are NOT happy with the school are usually the ones who frequent the discussion boards.

What a exciting forum,to learn all these negative comment about ecpi. I was about to call the school or representative to make an appointment to tour the campus but I learn my lesson through this negative comment about the institution.
Ladies and gentlemen I also submit my application
to other online school call UMUC(that is university of maryland university college online)anyone with info about this school or another rip off institution .feedback please folk

I am a graduate of ECPI, circa 2004 and I have done extremely well for myself.  I am a .NET programmer making 75k a year in the Va Beach area.  While attending ECPI I noticed that the first year I attended were obnoxious and a lot of the teachers were mediocre at best though when I started getting into more advanced classes within my field I found a couple instructors who were absolutely marvelous--none of which are still at the school. I became friends with some of the good instructors and have discovered since leaving that the administration treated the instructors rather poorly at times and thus a lack-luster instructing style for their students.  Their Career Services is a crock, when I went to enroll they supposidly had a 95% placement rate which is now "78%" according to my recent inquiery yet some fields that placement rate is 0% (EET for example).  When I graduated they got me an Interview with Trader Publishing (along with every other graduate that I went to class with) as though they had 2 potential companies and send everyone to those same employers who pay just barely above minimum wage.  I cannot stress enough the importance of making contacts, going to job fairs (especially ones OUTSIDE the college) and joining user groups.  Networking will get you a job 10x faster than the college ever will.  I feel that ECPI DID give me a foundation for being productive but my own personality and drive brought me the rest of the way.  Though the school I loved back in 2001-2004 is sadly in decline.  By my recommendation two of my friends enrolled and they are having a miserable time.  When one friend's aunt died and needed a week off to attend the funeral we discovered they have NO bereavement plan for students and flat out dropped him wanting him to pay $100 to "re-enroll".  Their "small" classrooms was a lie with over 50 students in some classes forcing folks to share computers and a lot of equipment just plain doesn't work.  Bottom line, if you already know your field and just need a piece of paper to prove it go ahead and get a quick piece of paper from ECPI.  If you want a real education--try somewhere else they charge too much and give you little for it.

I am a current student at the Greensboro campus.  I am so disappointed! They have an instructor that is teaching Law & Ethics. She has a MD after her name but the truth is...she lost her MD license in 1996. She was a cocaine user! What is wrong with this picture people? I am very close to quitting.

SAVE YOUR MONEY!! This school is NOT worth $35k!!! The instructors are incompetent, the director is lazy, and the place just plain old sucks! If I didn't already have so much time and money invested, I would definitely go elsewhere! But guess what? Oh so conveniently, their credits don't transfer to other schools because of being unaccredited! That means you're stuck if you want your degree! Don't even waste your time contacting this worthless school!

I am currently at Ecpi, I wont say anything bad about the school, I will just say the truth. If you are a regular ex-military student, you are in great shape because thats easy money for them(very little hassle). With anybody else they actually have to do their jobs, thats when you see the difference in quality between a real school and Ecpi. The place just flat out sucks when you have a genuine problem. The VA rep will not believe anything you say without documentation. Everyday in school I feel like a walking credit card that they would hate to lose. Not because they want to see me succeed, because they would hate to lose my money. This semester will be my last.

If you want to waste your money and get a "not worth a damn" education, go to ECPI. They will see to it that you believe their lies, will not be able to find a decent job, and suck the life out of you. I don't know about other campuses but the Greensboro campus is ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE.
Please save yourself and stay away from ECPI Greensboro.

I admit that I was someone who had waited until last minute to get my Sh*t together and ECPI was a dream come true. I started attending in i think August of 09. I admit that while the staff is friendly, and all of the teachers know their subject, TEACHING isnt the highest quality. They do not teach 'blank' students. i.e those who dont know about the subject. Aside from two instructors no one seems to understand "hey! talk to me like im learning this for the first time." And the only people who seem to get full benefits from the school are nursing. I am returning to my community college because sadly their IT degrees are held in high regard than ECPI.

I was a student at ECPI Innsbrook campus and graduated in 2008. I loved it while there and I still love it. 
I had my BS degree in MIS and working a fulltime job with a web-hosting company. Before going to ECPI, I knew nothing about PC, but now, I can run a company's network and secure it. I have nothing against the school, except for the fact that it's a little expensive, but then again, their in business to make money. The school or instructors at a school can't open your head and put the book in there for you to know everything, all they can do is point the way to you and it's your call to run with the opportunity.

WOW! I was considering enrolling, but now I will definitely not go. The positive statements all sound like the same marketing scam that the recruiters feed out. Only the negative comments offer any type of logical explanations, and contact email addresses. This scam should be illegal. When I graduate from a respected nursing school, I will check to see if this one is still in business. I'm seriously doubting it. It's not just this website, but all of the websites with comments about this school are consistent. It is scary how close all of the positive comments are to the other websites and how generic they sound...

I am graduating from an Ivy-league school in May 2010 and will receive my BS. I am only thinking about going to ECPI-COT to get my certification in Massage Therapy. I am getting a huge range of views and I am thoroughly confused. I met with a representative today and they did not hassle me about anything. They actually did not even pressure me into signing up, they gave me the information and told them to let them know. If I decide to go here I will be attending the NC-Raleigh branch. Has anyone attended this one or are in or have completed the Massage Therapy program? I just want to get certified and then go to grad school for my doctorate's in Physical Therapy. Do these reviews still apply?

@Kim,

Actually, your assessment that ECPI is a last ditch school for people who can not go elsewhere is incorrect.  When I was at ECPI which was only a few years ago, there were some bright kids fresh out of high school.  One which I know is currently in graduate school.  Additionally, there are a lot of students who are military, in the reserves, or who are ex-military.  Do you consider going to the military instead of straight to college a bad life decision?  If so, then shame on you.  There are also adults there who wish to change the direction of their careers.  You seem like one of those employers and/or hiring managers that tend to pick applicants based on the "school name" that they attended rather than their experience and innate ability.  Studies show that this is not an effective method of screening applicants and by doing so you are doing your organization harm.  So perhaps YOU are the one who is not truly qualified here.  The truth is that there are plenty of people who graduate from big name or top universities who may not be the best for a technical position.  I've found that in IT you either have the true analytical ability and aptitude to perform the real world job duties OR YOU DON'T.  Keep in mind that while a bachelors is the new high school degree, its not uncommon to find that some of the most experienced older techies do not even hold a degree.  Furthermore, you are correct in that ECPI does not require an SAT.  However, they DO require their own entrance exam to be sure that one is capable of grasping the material and DO turn students away who do not pass it.  I recall someone being turned away when I was taking my exam.  To say that not requiring an entrance exam is the reason the school is bad, is simply not true.  NYU has programs that you do not have to take SAT's for, on the Graduate level Columbia University, NYU, and Harvard university have programs that do not have a gre and/or gmat requirement.  Sorry to tell you but if you knew anything about the current trends in academia you would know that many colleges around the US are no longer evaluating applications on the sole basis of entrance exams.  Statistically speaking they do not really depict how well someone will do in college.  I know we all have been taught the opposite, but its just not true.  If someone wants to succeed they will period.  Furthermore, to take this a little bit further EVERY COLLEGE IN THE USA has a good portion of students who made bad life decisions.  So your point is a tad bit moot! I do not believe that ECPI revolutionized the term Non-traditional student.

I attended ECPI for a while, but I left and decided to check out a different school.Some of the instructors were great, but most of them were very irritating.They tried their hardest(annoyed me non-stop) to get me to refer friends to their school even when I said most of my friends were already attending school somewhere else.Most of the students there acted like they were still in middle school and it was very uncomfortable to be around most of them.I suggest checking out your local community colleges before you even think about putting down the $30,000.

This school is absolutly rediculus. I am three months from graduating so they tell me. My original graduation date was Augest 2009 then it moved to November and now its March. They have already called and harrassed me and I have had several potential employers laugh at me beucase they don't consider ECPI a real school. I had an emergancy one term my grandmother passed away and I had to fly to NY I let them know but they dropped me from the class after 4 consecutive days out of class even though as long as you tell them they can't legally do that. Well that was the only class I had that term so even though it was excused absence they droped me from school. Then I played hell to get re enrolled. If you are thinking about this school DON'T they are nothing but greedy liars and theifs.

Hello.I am now enrolled at ecpi college of technology and have been for 8 terms.Yes the classes move pretty fast but i think that its ok for the most part.At times i get a little worried that im not learning anywhere near as much as i would at your a regular university.Of course i would rather go to a 4 year university but i just dont have the time.Like alot of the others i made some bad choices and life but i feel its never to late to at least try to get your life back on track and as for now i think that ecpi is going to be the best way for me to do that.I meet someone who graduated from ecpi not long ago with a bachelors in criminal justice just like i will,and she is now a probation officer just like i will be and she had no one laugh at her degree.I also have spoken with employers in this field and asked if a degree from this school would hold the same amount of weight as your traditional 4 year university and they explained that it does not matter where the degree come from.They look for they quality of the employee and the amount of knowlege.So with that said i feel better about my choice and more sure of my ability to land a job in my field.I also know that its going to take a little more effort and discipline to get there but thats something that im more than willing to do.So wish me luck and i hope that my information can help some of you.

I graduated in 6/2006 Network Security AAS from Virginia Beach/online making a mid life career change and it has been a great experience for me. I now have a clearance and work on DoD projects as a consultant for Deloitte in Rosslyn, va.  I am making three times what I did in the past mainly due to my education at ECPI. I only have the ECPI AAS as my education credential and employers don't care or comment. 

You can compare ECPI against whatever school you like but in the end it is up to you to do the work and make things happen.

Like a few others I attended about 6 online classes in early 2006 prior to a deployment. Once I deployed told them I had to disenroll and made sure I had a zero balance. They told me I was good to go and just call if I ever wanted to return. 3 dam years later these guys have turned me over to a collection agency claiming I owe them 5k+ for classes I never took or signed up for. I paid for all my classes up front out of pocket. These guys are total crooks...someone mentioned they can't turn you over to the credit bureau? But they turned me over to a debt collector who has already pulled my credit report but not ruined it YET. I've read of others with the same issue on rip off reports.com saying they placed judgement against them...sigh..I've wrote my local congressman and virginias attorney general. If anyone else could give me any info on how to fight these crooks please let me know. So pissed off I have perfect credit and don't want it ruined. Paulguidry25@yahoo.com

ECPI is not a private college. It is a for-profit college. There is a difference. As an employer, I throw these resumes into the trash because ECPI has no entrance requirements aside from ability to pay. No SAT is required, nothing. 

This is a last ditch "school" for people who cannot get into a real school because they made lousy life decisions. Avoid.

Anybody run through the Network Security program in GBORO?  Advice?

Don't go to ecpi!! This school is a joke. The reality of it all has hit me 5 months into the lpn program. Not sure if it's because this is their first time running this program here in Greensboro nc or not but it's a mess. It's so unorganized and our questions always go unanswered. I want to get out but am stuck. I've made so many sacrifices, less time with my kid, had to leave my job because of the schedule, added more stress to my husband and for what? I've gotten nothing but headaches from this school. The
 only way to get by is if you kiss the DON's back side and I'm not that type of person. So I advise any of you considering signing up for the lpn program at the Greensboro nc campus, look elsewhere because it's not worth the hell you'll have to pay while here.

DO NOT GO!!!!!!! IT IS A COMPLETE WASTE OF MONEY!! 'Part 1: ECPI College of Technology is regionally accredited by SACS, the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools. Check out their website at ww.sacs.org, and click on commission on colleges. " why yes that is true; your credits will never transfer to a another 4 year college. It's all a bunch of crock to get your money. Seriously don't do it. There are so many more options. I went there and why everyone is super nice feeding you certificates every month (to make you feel better about spending $30,000 a month)it's all a bunch a crap that in the end will only get you a entry level position. Financial Aid department sucks as well. I'm very against this school and I believe they should be shut down. STOP FEEDING THEM MONEY!!

i am going to attend the one in Greenvile S.C. does anyone have any positive feedback about this campus

I AM ABOUT TO START THE LPN PROGRAM IN JANUARY. NOW IM A LITTLE SCARED OF FAILURE WHICH IS NOT AN OPTION. I HAVE A WIFE AND A SIX YR OLD THAT IS DEPENDING ON ME TO FINISH AND GET A JOB. PLEASE ADVISE

Know what you're paying for before you pay for it. Most colleges are a scam with the logic most of you people are going with. Personally, I teach myself better than any college could hope to teach me.

I HAD to come out of lurkdom for this.  Do, pray tell, which negative comments are incorrect?  I can relate to Techgirl's comments as I have attended ECPI in Virginia Beach.  And like Techgirl, if I can go back and do it differently, I will choose to attend a different school. I took many challenge exams to keep from taking the same re-branded class.  But one in particular, covered material that was not even heard of. The challenge exams >>seemed<< as if they are driven to generate guaranteed income by forcing the student to take the class anyway.  It was only through complaint, that I got credit for the class.  I suppose this is incorrect and will mislead readers.  Baloney!  You sound like administration sent in for PR control.  I know FA's that left because of the BS.  Teachers that sit on their ass reading romance novels.  One actually had us do 7th grade course work online.  Its no surprise some employers are leary of ECPI grads, they should be.  Physics consisted of middle school fill in the blank assignments. It was insulting!  The classes that promise to teach real-world experience via hands-on learning, well it is hands-on.  Those classes allow the instructors to collect easy pay checks while we drudge through tutorial after tutorial.  Male students are generally given the attention--I have a question, I was told to read the book, joe smoe next to me has same question, and is lavished with a hand-holding walkthrough.  Open your eyes, take off the rose colored glasses.  ECPI is what it is, a money machine.  A for-profit institution.  This means that profit is priority one, everything else is secondary.  Displeased customer, well its their fault for not being proactive.  Horse Scat! Career services can't offer anything more than a person can do for his or herself.  As for genuine concern, one criminal justice faculty said to another faculty member outside in ear shot of everyone smoking, students are nothing but dollar signs to him.  So much for interest in our futures!

Step 2:  I ask that anyone looking to attend ECPI College of Technology to consider the source.  Most issues are caused by lack of communication, and lack of understanding or even lack of listening when vital information is given.  ECPI College of Technology is about career services, student-focused, hands-on learning, and genuine concern for the student's future, but if the student makes excuses or can care less himself, no school in the entire world can satisfy that.  Take your education seriously, and stop blaming the schools for everything when sometimes you must look deep inside.  I write all of this to open the eyes of the readers to see that every college and university can have issues, and cannot satify all, but I can tell you for certain, some of these negative comments are incorrect.  The one thing to be careful about is any college that is not regionally accredited.  National accreditation is fine, but it's not the accrediting body that will allow transfer of credits at all.  Many of the non-regionally accredited colleges or institutes say they are fully accredited, which means nothing.

Part 1:  ECPI College of Technology is regionally accredited by SACS, the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools.  Check out their website at www.sacs.org, and click on commission on colleges.  There you will find that information.  ECPI offers more core curriculum than any traditional school (in the field classes).  ECPI is not traditional, but the faculty, instructors, and staff are there to assist with graduates getting a career in their field, not just a piece of paper.  

Most of the comments I read are callege-wide.  If you drop a class, you will pay for it, at least whatever portion you have attended according to the school's policy.  If you do not communicate with the instructors, they cannot read minds.  All individuals looking to earn his or her degree should take responsibility for his or her actions.  No college with hand it all to you, nor can any promise that.  
It is clear to me that most negative comments come from lack of understanding, reading, communicating, and lack of proactivity on their part.  

I understand that most negatives come from ECPI Technical College, which is not part of ECPI College of Technology, although they are connected in certain ways.  When a person earns an Associate of Applied Science from any college, local community colleges included, those degrees are considered non-transferable, terminal degrees meant for someone to get knowledge and skill and go into the workforce, having no plans to further their education.  If you have an old ECPI AAS, ECPI will do all they can to make good with the classes they can transfer (via SACS regulation), and the previous student can challenge the rest (if they do indeed know what they've learned).  The regional accrediting body has rules & regulations to follow; therefore, transferring in credits isn't an ECPI issue, it's a college issue.  ECPI does not offer 60 credits in general education for any of their degree programs (math, science, etc.); therefore, they will not transfer it in.  It's about the knowledge you gain from attending the classes that are offered, which are designed by the companies on a quarterly basis.  

If the person earns an Associates in Science or Art, or a Bachelors in Science or Art, these credits are considered transferable, but it's up to the incoming institution to take them.  If you are earning a degree in a particular field, why would you want to transfer in old, useless credits anyway?  You will just hurt yourself in the end by missing out on the vital, more up-to-date classes.

joe, an alternative for an adult student who wants to go back to school would be any university (they usually all have a school of professional or continuing studies/education department).  You just have to look them up as they are not as prominent.  However, they cater to adults who maybe started a bachelors, but never finished, or who just decide they want to go to school.  The admissions usually look at work experience and things of that nature rather than high school stats.

I hope this helps.

I felt the need to add somethings on here.  I think only ECPI College of Technology is accredited by SACS.  I do not think other divisions are.

Also, I was speaking to one of my friends  whom I went to ECPI with about these reviews.  We both agreed that if we had to make the choice again we would NOT enroll in ECPI, but rather go elsewhere.  

So eventhough my experience was not bad (except for the incident with the faculty member make a statement to me about not being able to find employment because of my Race/Gender READ my comments above about that) if I had the choice again I would have gone to a local university.  

Also, for those of you who wondered... after going to ECPI COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY the accredited one.  I applied to and was accepted to BOTH the University of Maryland and Liberty University. I am currently 18 credits into my masters degree. 

I do think that level of education should be in accordance with the tuition rates.  So I would not choose ECPI again.  Additionally, after a 50g education you definitely should not have to deal with gender issues.  Sometimes I'm hesitant to recommend ECPI to females because there is definitely faculty that is not female friendly.  However, this is the real world and that is out there.  I think you can get good quality education with professional instructors at a lower rate elsewhere.  

As I said above if you are persistent on going "I recommend ECPI for those who are disciplined enough to put in a good amount of self study time, those who have prior knowledge in the tech field, or fast learners... I say this because you are condensing what you should spend on average 4-5 years (because that's how long it usually takes IT grads at 4 year schools to get a bachelors) into 2.5. BUT!  I would always promote a 4 yr school or community college first.

I'm in the same boat as most of you. I went to the school back in 06 for the Microsoft certified software engineering certification and it was a total joke. I'm military btw and that was suppose to cover the classes. Nope now they want 10 grand for a 7k class and they already been payed 2500 from the military. The school is crap they lie, just to get money out of you and they don't care where the money comes from either. The teach of the class was just some retired navy chief and i knew more then he did and I was 20 at the time. So who said lawsuit.... my email is gennro2004@yahoo.com if anyone wants to send me information. The contract says nothing about a 12% intrest rate and also mine has been chnaged after it was signed. Also the have a collection Agency Recovery Management Services that will harass the hell out you also.

im thinking of going to ecpi for their  network security program any thoughts jnd34@hotmail.com

I was a victim of the ECPI scam. I attended one and almost 2 so called "TERMS".(about 7 and half weeks) Well, I had an illness that caused me to miss a couple of days at the end of my 2nd term I had a week left in the 2nd term and they terminated me from returning unless I paid $2,500 deficit for the stupid classes I was making straight A's and B's in. My GPA was 3.75 and they would not let me come back AFTER THEY ALREADY WERE OVERPAID!!! I used up $8,000 that was dispursed from Direct Loans, that I have to pay back for only 8 weeks and they still want that balance of $2,500 because I missed three days(for outpatient treatment for cervical cancer.)They recently located me and they NOW want $4,800 for late fees and intrest penalties which their rate is 12%. A four year institution, well I'll go ahead and say who.. Winthrop U. insists that I HAVE to submitt a transcript from ECPI. I told her that they are not accredited, she argued that they were. Heck, Greenville Tech told me when (I went there in lieu of overpriced, idiotic Winthrop)They are NOT accredited by SACS and don't worry. But, I'm like WTF, what if another school pulls that sh** when I try to go on to  Grad school. ECPI has to be stopped. I want my money back and that unreal BS balance gone.Oh, I found out that they can't have you defaulted by Stafford because they get their money and use that contract as a veil you can't see through. I also found out they cannot report to the credit bureau. So, there is the proof they are doing something shady and I think illegal. If anyone out there wants to file another lawsuit, please let me know.

Also in my opinion the career center for the most part is BS.  Furthermore, you should never pick a school because you think they will help you find a job.  Your resume and cover letter presence, background, ability to effectively communicate, having a good balance of soft skills along with tech skills, and being able to interview well will get you a job.  I remember having my exit interview with a career services rep and telling her I would not accept less than X amount.  Her reply was that you may not receive that.  I told her well in that case I should have not gotten a degree because I already MAKE THAT.   Obviously, that interview had a different tone than the admissions interview (where your earning potential is seems limitless lol).

Overall, I just say do your research on all schools that you wish to attend.  Talk to some people that are currently going there and make the best decision for your lifestyle.  To be honest there are so many colleges that have online, distance, campus based, and blended format programs that the choices are vast. ~ Good Luck

To Sadly Disappointed:

I wish I would have known about your story when I was @ ECPI.  I graduated with a Bachelors in 08 as well and I also had a faculty member make a statement to me about not being able to find employment because of my Race/Gender (funny thing is I was already employed full time in IT and had been throughout my entire tenure at ECPI).   There is a certain faculty member there that really discriminates on women.   It would be wise of the school to weed them out as soon as possible or that person could cause some legal trouble for them in the future.

Now regarding the school....   If I had to offer advice to a young person just graduating out of high school I would advise them to take the traditional 4 year college route.  However, I was older and had already gone to college previously.  Also I already worked in the technical field prior to going to ECPI.  In fact it was my job that made me want to pursue IT further so that's why I enrolled.  I did get a promotion and a pay raise 2x in one year after graduating (one after presenting my degree and asking for a new position, I received both. The second raise came with my normal yearly performance review). Also, I just got another performance review,  my new raise will go into effect in October and these raises were all during bad economic times......   For me ECPI worked for my circumstance.  I am also in Grad school now.  Therefore, if you get a Bachelors degree from the Virginia Beach campus it will be accredited and the credits will transfer.  You can also continue on to grad school, etc...  

So if you don't like the way ECPI looks on your resume, continue your education and go to a university for grad school like I am.

I also know people who work for government contractors as well who graduated from ECPI. 

I think that those who are complaining about the school not being accredited, need to realize that it was up to them to fact check that before enrolling.

Also a point to make is that there are plenty of colleges where a Grad student/ teacher assistant teaches the class and not the professor with the Phd (i have had several classes like this at other colleges).  However, most of the instructors at ECPI have master's and a few have Phd's.

I recommend ECPI for those who are disciplined enough to put in a good amount of self study time, those who have prior knowledge in the tech field, or fast learners...  I say this because you are condensing what you should spend on average 4-5 years (because that's how long it usually takes IT grads at 4 year schools to get a bachelors) into 2.5.   It's a lot of money though.  If you have the time and can do it I would always promote a 4 yr school or community college first.  If you are like I, in the fact that you can't afford to take time away from full time work to go back to school then ECPI may be for you.  However, consider the traditional route first.

Aqila, which nursing program did you graduate from? LPN? And which location did you attend? I am very interested in the LPN program. Any thought? Thanks alot!

I must say that something is not right about this school. I saw their ad on TV(which should have been red flag #1), was interested, and visited their website. I gave them my info and they called to set up an appointment for the next week at the Medical Careers Institute Richmond, VA campus. I was curious as to why they have NO information about their program on the website, such as tuition (red flag #2). I drove 2 hrs to the nearest campus to meet with a representative. They were super friendly, but it unnerved me that the entire nursing program was on 1 very very small floor of a 3 story, multi-business complex. Ignoring the bells going off in my head, I got swept up in the idea that I could start classes the next month, as long as I took the pre-requisite classes that lasted 5 weeks. I've never in my life heard of college classes that only last 5 weeks. I was applying to the RN program and despite my high test scores, he told me I may not be accepted because I'm only 18 and they usually accept older applicants. That sounded like a load of crap but whatever. They told me to come back the next week with 100 dollars and a deposit, and my tax returns. I was made out to believe that the total program cost only 8000. During the second meeting, after handing over my 100 dollars, the rep informed me that it was actually more than 30000 dollars. I was floored and asked why it was so much. He looked at me like I was stupid and said that I would be paying double that if I had stayed at UVA. I wanted to say, well duh you idiot, I would be getting a BACHELORS degree, but I just kept quiet. Why any associate's degree program is 30000 dollars is beyond me. He kept saying how great it was that ECPI has no waiting list and that most schools require more than 6 years of schooling for what I could complete in 14 mo. I don't think he was aware that this is only an associate's degree program.

All in all, this seemed like a great idea, but once I looked deeper, the school seemed like one big money scheme. After talking with various Nurse Administrators who said that this school had a bad reputation among other nursing schools, I withdrew my application. Apparently, once you get a degree from their school, finding a good job is difficult, and trying to transfer to a BSN program is impossible, because no one accepts their credits. You don't always get what you pay for.

Hey - I am thinking about attending the medical assistant program at ECPI - meet with someone tomorrow - anyone have any insight to whether this is a good place to go for it?

To John Doe
the school is accredited, but imagine not having classes already taken AT ECPI, transfer to another ECPI degree program.  The switch from AAS to AS to BS degree programs was a complete FIASCO. I only finished for the sake of finishing what  started--I needed the paper at least to show for all the bs I had to go through to get it.

To Patrick

The merit of other SACs schools are evidenced by their lack of on-air advertisements--in other words, any school that has a TV commercial, you should consider very carefully.  Funny, I have yet to see Duke or William and Mary advertise their degree programs on TV. Yet every other buy-your-degree -here type schools are yelling at me to get off the couch and do something(Everest) or ask me if i feel left behind(ECPI)  
I even saw a new one, Colorado Technical University.  LOL, think about it....



To Sherry

If you are thinking twice, it means doubt.  I say follow your instinct and way the options again carefully. There are other routes, unfortunately it will not be a 0 to Bachelors in 2 years situation.  We all want something NOW and sometimes the price is much more than monetary cost.  

The bottom line is, either it is a good fit for you or not.  Some will have good experiences, and others will not.  We will never know the real reasons behind this, but saying someone didn't apply themselves is more of a slap in the face than saying ECPI hired an instructor that didn't teach.  SACs doesn't guarantee quality instruction.   It means they met the minimum qualifacations and managed to squeak by the review...

I don't think i want to attend this school, after reading all these reviews. Does anyone know what route to take if i already signed up? I'm suppose to start next week, and now im thinking twice.

I have noticed over the years that most of the people that have something negative to say are usually the ones who do not apply themselves and/or expect something for nothing. ECPI is  college and is accredited by SACS (same as Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, William and Mary, etc.) By saying ECPI is not a school that doesn't hire qualified instructors are also slapping the other schools in the face. SACS requires that ALL schools they accredit meet the same stringent requirements for certification. I am a current student at ECPI and have had a wonderful experience and have been taught by very qualified instructors. I have attended both community college and a traditional four year college and find ECPI to rank as high or higher than the other schools attended. As far as the price, yeah, its expensive, but that's what you pay for schools that offer accelerated programs. PS: To those that are complaining about the price, ECPI discloses that to you before you start. You don't have to attend unless you agree to the tuition.

I graduated from ECPI and got a great job in electronics.
I find no fault with the school. You get what you put into it.

I currently attend ECPI and after reviewing the comments I can say the comments from jm, aqila, Patrick and "It just depends" gave some very real assesments about ECPI and a dose of truth to the haters. This school is not for the faint at heart, you get out of it what you put into it, good in good out, garbage in garbage out it's simple. It sounds like a lot of those complaining did not do good research if any or at all because if you did you would have known what school accreditation is all about therefore making a smart decision not to deal with ECPI when they was not accredited, so your pockets parish due to your lack of knowledge, don't feel bad the best lessons learned usually has dollar signs and the end of them. My experience so far in the past year has been a good one, all my instructors holds masters or better I have two that holds a phd. Every school has its flaws but its up to you to do the risk analyist and make the best decision on what school will provide the best training possible for you to function in society as a professional. Some one touched on being pro active out side of the walls of education by getting certified. I work for a company that demands each employee to be certified and if you're in the IT world it will benificial to get the certs because a degree alone will not get you in the big money positions.

I would like to advise any one that wish to transfer credits after completion of the course  other schools will not take the transfer for any crdits before 2008.

The online program is not all what it seems to be and the staff in VA is not organized at all. Turned in High School three different times and they still lost it. When I asked for a document for the classes have been paid for, I was never given a answer. As for my graduation date, it has changed 4 times in the last 6 months, and more classes have been added in that I was not informed of. This school is all about taking your money and that's all to it. It really frustrates me, because 90 percent of the classes I have taken at ECPI online will not transfer because it is not accredited by universitys and community colleges. Do don't waste your time and money on a school that is after your money and not willing to help with your education.

JM--nice job as your outcome is clearly not typical. 
 Most students do not have the military background to apply the life experience learned.  
I am in IT--more than applied myself, great GPA even was in the Honors Society.  In fact, I upset certain faculty by requesting additional classes that would benefit my "major" as the degree I was working on obtaining was not worth the paper it was printed on.  Only one instructor seemed to understand the trends in IT--this instructor made my stay worthwhile.  ECPI is very slow to update.  At the company I work for, an instructor applied for a programming position  but couln't get past the interview questions dealing with basic programming practices!  An instructor!  As ECPI alumni, I am embarrassed how we are represented.  True its anectdotal, but most employers it seems, including mine, especially the hiring managers have found that ECPI students are not as prepared for the workforce as they claim to be on resumes or interviews.  Again this may rely heavily on the degree earned and the type of work sought.  I'm lucky that I was given the chance to do the work I do, but it wasnt because of an education earned at ECPI.  I am lucky enough to work with a group of talented individuals who saw past the school but decided to work with the 'potential' factor. 
 I cannot claim an outright scam because the school does work for some individuals.  ***It is very true that one has to apply themselves to succeed*** but, unfortunately, it did not work for me. 45,000 to learn on one's own is just too expensive. Google MIT's OCW--now THATS an excellent, nonprofit way to push out educational materials--and its free!! Remember that line from Goodwill Hunting about earning an education for the price of a library card? There is definite wisdom there.
 I had several classes where the instructors were not even familiar with the material they had to teach.  Some, I kid you not, were more concerned with sports scores and gaining buddies than teaching.    The weed out of these instructors were slow and gradual, but boy do I become incensed when i read comments about hand holding and the difference between grade school and college.  For the price of tuition, I DO EXPECT a little more from an institution than a teacher looking up football scores.

To all that say you were suckered out of 30k, blah blah blah, it sucks, blah, its a waste of your time, blah blah; you probably do not belong in the IT field anyways.  ECPI is NOT a College for someone that does not understand or want to understand the IT field.  You have to WANT to be there, and actually have an interest in IT.  The instructors at the Virginia Beach, Virginia campus are top notch.  I spent 8 years in the Air Force as a 3C051, have numerous certs (A+, Network +, Security +, CCNA, CCDA, CCNP, MSCE) and I still learned something from these guys.  And yes some of my training transferred to ECPI so I did not have to go the full 2.5 years.  After receiving my degree, I was picked up by CACI within 1 month of graduating.  I have a 95K salary, which is more than enough for the Hampton Roads area to live high-class, I own my own house now as well, I am 29.  If you are really serious about the IT field go for it.  If you are just doing the IT bandwagon to "make more money" then you really need to re-evaluate yourself.  Just because you have a degree from ECPI does not mean you will get a good job.  You actually have to know and APPLY + DEMONSTRATE what you learn.  Thinking outside of the box is what makes an awesome IT person.

I was suckered into ECPI also. I was in the Navy and was offered a "Scholarship" My dumb@## did it. I was deployed right after the first semester. I provided the school with the letter from my command. They said I was good to go and would not be charged for the remainder of the year. Well five years later I get a letter saying that I owe them 10K. WTF!!!! This school is a joke in first place. I received all the same schooling online and still got a great job at a third of the price. STAY AWAY if you are thinking of attending.

I received my degree at ecpi and no one has laughed at me and my credits transfered to two other colleges. I made 75,000.00 my first year out of school and even more my second and I plan to max both years my third year out of college. It doesn't matter what college a degree is a degree and all 32 students in my class had jobs before we even took our nursing boards. All private colleges are expensive show me one that not.

ECPI's siste school MCI has an LPN program; LPNs are in much lower demand and make less money then RNs due to the decreased scope of practice. The only way you made 75k as an LPN is if you were working 2 full time jobs.

what ecpi campus did you attend?

I am pretty sure your comment is a lie!   First, most people who graduate as a nurse (I know a lot graduating from 4 yr accredited universities) don't make that much.  Also, you say you transferred your credits to 2 other colleges. This is very strange.  Did you not work out at one? I think you are a ECPI rep who is trying to tell people their credits will transfer, and using hyperbole to get your point across.  I mean, who needs college credits to transfer to another school.  And please don't insult me by telling me the credits transferred to a college and a higher level, because you can't transfer credits for a higher level degree like Masters.

wow what a broad spectrum of views....really don't know what to believe because you have some saying it rocks the house if you apply yourself and others that say they suck a big one.  Well if you take money out of it (GI bill covers all) would you say this school is worth it?  and if not, then what is an alternative?  Strayer has lousy reviews, the good ones, VT UVA are all for kids who are coming out of high school with a 4.0.  So where do 25 year olds with a GED go for higher education?  Good question huh?

I'm in a weird position when it comes to responding to this board.  I went to the Hampton Va. campus in 1992-1993 and I didn't think that the teachers or courses were that great, I also thought that the students who were there on Government funded work training deals were a bunch of clowns. In retrospect however I actually learned a lot.  My opinion is that this school provides an opportunity to learn for those who apply themselves.  I had a job working for GTE before I graduated and within 6 months I was working in Argentina installing a cellular network.  Here I am 16 years later sitting in a NOC in Brussels as an operations consultant making really good money and wondering if ECPI might be an option for me to pursue my BA.   

It’s hard to say, although companies do appear to be wary of certain schools these days and University of Phoenix is one that has come up as a “Diploma Mill”.  I will most likely look to see what courses are available at nearby Colleges, but because of my travel requirements I need to find a reputable place that offers courses online.  In any event I wish all of you the best of luck, and suggest that you make an extra effort to learn what you can while you’re in school because you’re paying the same price either way.

I would advise anyone who is even entertaining the thought of attending this school to think seriously about the negative comments you see here before even meeting with anyone on campus.  The negative comments are all true!  If you decide to meet with a campus representative, be aware that the reps will use high powered, "used car salesman" sales techniques to hook you.  They talk fast, harass and intimidate you until you ultimately feel you have no choice in signing up.  You will have to take out a number of huge loans to pay for your substandard education.  They will harass you for money and in the end, you will suffer for it.  Most schools return excess funds to the students once their bills have been paid, ECPI will not do this and will think that you are crazy because you expected any money from them.  The instructors are poorly trained and unqualified, many don't even possess a bachelors degree, nevermind a masters.  Some of the instructors have very little work experience in their area, the school will hire instructors to fill an immediate need.  Since students are paying for the lousy education, they need to make sure that they have instructors who are able to teach that class, thay way, you graduate.  There's always another class for you to take, just when you think you're done, they add something else! 
Trust me, the doors of ECPI should be closed permanently because it's a complete rip off.  Before even considering a school like ECPI, do your homework.  If you're not convinced, visit the school and speak with some of the students if you can.  They will tell you the truth.  Request a visit to a class and if you are denied, ask why.  Ask alot of questions and don't meet with a representative alone, bring someone with you.  Ask them about their graduation and retention rates, then do your homework.  Last check, their retention rate was a little more than 65%, not 85%, not 95%. No matter what they tell you, they cannot guarantee you a job and many employers, especially in the medical field, don't like ECPI graduates.  They are often unprepared to work in their fields of study. The school neither cares about its student's or supports them.  To the school, you are nothing but cash.  Students leave this school, angry! Those who manage to graduate will tell you that they wouldn't do it again if they had a chance!  ECPI isn't a school for anyone. ECPI is also know as the MCI Medical Career Institute.  Don't be fooled!

This is the worst f***ing school of all time, do not waste your time and money in this garbage.  I know this piece s*** will eventually go out of business and get shut down due to their unethical practices.  F*** this school.

I'm getting alot of mix signals here, most of it seems that this school is not worth it. I'm thinking of going to the Newport News, Virginia campus and acutally have a meeting on tuesday to discuss attending there. I'm having second thoughts now. I guess i'll look more into ECPI COT here in Newport News and check out some others aswell. 
Cheers.

I went to ECPI March 2008 and signed a lot of paperwork, one of which included the book fees?  Did you guys have to do that in the Virginia Beach Campus?  DO you guys know anybody that got a job in their fields ever since graduation from this lovely school that everybody degrades on this page?  I think it has more features than a community college, which it definitely beats University of Phoenix.  I'm attending there now and it sucks.  Whatever you guys do, do not drop few weeks when you start your first set of classes.  They would charge you the entire tuition.  They have too many English classes galore than any other college in my life.  Wouldn't one agree with me?

Please don't waste your money. And if you do, please don't blame us. I attended the ECPI in Charleston SC. It was a waste of money and time. The instructors changed more often than the seasons. Classes were very slack. There career services were non-existent. Credits didn't carry over in most instances. As an employer, I'll never hire anyone that has a degree from there. The school is a joke.

I have been a student here for 8 months. Great school, great staff. I love it here and I am learning a new career in Computers. A bit pricy, but it includes your books and everything. Also very flexible and  regionally accreditted by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

I'm glade that it has worked out for some of you guys but like so many others... I'm stuck in the money down the drain group and I graduated at the end of 2006. I went to carry on with my eduation and was told that NONE of my credits would transfer. I attended ECPI College of Technology at Innsbrook in Richmond, VA. I'm not the only one. A friend of mine went for the bacholars and when he went to move on to his masters they pretty much laughed at him and told him that his degrees were worthless. It was my understanding that when I applied the school was acredited which is why I joined. They pretty much said that once I graduated I would have a job in less then three months in my field of study. Almost 3 years later... I'm still making pizzas and trying to pay off monster loans and retaking classes I've already taken once. Now for those of you who are in the same boat as mine. My friend whom I went to school with is doing what he can to get goverment officals, lawyers, and media involved. He's suppose to be emailing me more details about sending a letter to the Attorny General. Any one who would like to take legal action in this matter please send me an email at amethy702@hotmail.com and i'll pass that infromation along to you. The more people we have involved the better our chances will be. I know I for one would like to have my money back. I'll even give the degrees back as well. Oh yeah and last time i checked inorder to have the degree you're suppose to take all the required courses. They let me graduate without taking all the classes and I still had to pay the same as if i did take those classes. 

If you're apply now... I'm not saying you'll have problems but just know that this is what we're going through now and to keep an eye on it.

I'll jump on the positive bandwagon. I graduated with my AAS from ECPI COT (not TC) and am now continuing on and finishing my BS in Electronics Engineering. And yes, ECPI College of Technology is accredited by SACS, which is one of the six regional accreditation boards. Its expensive, but that's something I knew and accepted ahead of time. Additionally, you can breeze through classes not knowing anything, or you can do the work and actually take away something from the course...AS WITH ANY ONLINE COURSE. After my AAS, I transferred to DeVry and continued for a year towards my BS with them. That was my big mistake, not ECPI. DeVry is $550 per credit hour! PLUS you don't actually get any books!! Im glad that I am finishing up my BS with ECPI. Sorry you all had a bad experience with ECPI Technical College, sounds like that division is similar to ITT Tech which offers courses and "degrees" but nothing is transferable because nothing is accredited. Good luck to all in the future.

Shawn

I am graduating this month from ECPI and I must admit my experience was far better than what I am reading here. I have already been placed in a promising position with a wonderful company. Yes, some of the instructors are worthless but it is up to you to graduate not the instructors to do it for you. I know many people are used to being guided in high school but college is very much different.

5.	I know someone that was being recruited by the CIA, based on a recruitment session the agency did at ECPI.  I know this person got past the interview step and received an conditional offer, however they were not at liberty to share what happened after that.  The FBI also did a recruitment session at ECPI.

6.	You have to leverage everything in life.  Obviously some people have taken advantage of the ECPI education, and others were unable to.  Instead of complaining – soul search and find ways to leverage your degree.  Ie, get out of your neighborhood.  I read where one stated the employers laughed at their degree.  I’m sure this employer was local, as how would a employer from another region know ECPI from any other school?

7.	I had decent instructors and poor ones.  What I learned was up to me.

8.	The administrative faculty does suck, and I’ve been told this is common in many schools. 

9.	$30,000 is a lot of money to spend on an associate degree so you may want to look into other options based on that fact alone.

I also went to ECPI College of Technology and I graduated with two AAS degrees before the Bachelors were offered, and followed up by pursuing my bachelors at Strayer University .  I understand a lot of your complaints, but to be fair I want to give you a short list of FACTS about the school from my own personal experience.
1.	ECPI College of Technolgy and ECPI Technical College are owned by the same person but are not the same schools.  ECPI College of Technology is SACS accredited and ECPI Technical College is not so If you went to ECPI COT then you are able (As was I) to transfer your credits to other SACS accredited schools (ie Virginia State, VCU, GA State, etc)  and even some Middle States Accredited schools such as Strayer University, Georgetown, NYU, and even the CUNY schools.  Please take the time to research the accreditation of your school.  This is likely the most important thing you can do if you will eventually attend another institution.  Not only did my credits transfer into Strayer, but based on my grades, I also had partial scholarship offers to some great institutions in VA, NC, GA, DC, MD, & NY…  Some were (believe it or not) considered Ivey league.  I ended up choosing strayer simply because my lifestyle was too hectic to sit in an institution on their schedule and at the time there were a lot less schools offering online degrees.

2.	As with anything in life, you have to make strategic moves, and you have to put work, & thought into what you do.  If you think you’re going to walk out of ANY institution and have all the tools you need to succeed, you are sadly mistaken!!!  Education is a life-long process so if you thought 18 months worth of technology schooling was enough to be the foundation the jokes on you and you told the joke.

3.	I have a young colleague who graduated from ECPI COT and broke into the IT field by accepting a contract to work at NASA.  She put in a lot of extra work studying above and beyond what the school teaches in its classes.  The classes are only 5 – 6 weeks   each, so how much could you possibly learn and/or retain in that period of time?  I suggest you look at what the market is demanding.  What positions are employers looking for?  Study that above and beyond what the school is offering…  

4.  I have two young colleagues who graduated from ECPI TC and broke into the IT field by accepting full time positions from one of the Country’s Largest Banks.  For one, It took two years after graduating to secure this job but by age 23 he owned a home, a luxury automobile, and  had a mid 5 figure balance in his 401K and the other was able to get employment right after college and he also purchased a home by age 23.  It takes tenacity!  The IT field is very saturated with competition so you have to be very tenacious these days.

You are aware there are laws as to how much goes into a 401(k).  Since my degree directly relates to this, I would have to call your friend a liar.

I had enrolled at ecpi and was to start feb.23 but I didnt. My next start date is march.30. If I dont go to the school will i still owe anything to the school.

Yours Tuely,

I don't believe that you should owe anything to the school if you haven't started yet, but it all depends.  If you have questions regarding that, you should contact your admissions and Financial Aid advisor ASAP and let them know your intent.  Only then will you know for sure if you owe anything.  If you don't feel comfortable with what they explained to you, and they haven't given you a clear good understanding of your financial aid, I would be very careful on signing anything, the last thing you would want is to end up with a $4,000 shortfall at graduation time.  If they can't give you a clear explanation of your financial aid without moaning, groaning, and generally making you feel stupid, then they are not the school for you.  Financial Aid is not very difficult to understand but they have a nack for throwing in a bunch of garbage to try and confuse you.  so just be careful!

I was a student from 2004-2005 and I thought that I had a good experience until after graduation when things started to rear it's ugly head.  First, they enrolled me into Bachelor degree for MIS and I told them I wanted to finish my degree in Business.  Well, they have this knack for not listening and it shows.  Also, if you're offering financial aid, then why do I still have to come out of pocket and pay $50-100 a month.  That's crazy.  The real kicker is I'm now a student a Strayer University and had to start all over because none of my credits from ECPI transferred over.  Now as of today, they say I owe over $800 in tuition.  Just sent me a notice this month and I call to see if I can get on a payment arrangement and they said "oh your account is now in collections" I'm so pissed off I don't know what to do.  I left them 4 years ago and now they tell me I owe this, during this economic crisis stuff.  My goodness.  My sister just enrolled yesterday in their sister school MCI for nursing, they told her she needed to be a Medical Assistant first.  What crap!  I'm personally going with her to drop the school and go to a real school to be a Nurse.  So, I feel everyone's pain regarding ECPI - they suck and they need to recognize that they are liars and fraudsters.

Yeah, tell me about it!  I am in my first month of my Bachelors at University of Phoenix, and have learned more than I did in my first month of ECPI.  For freshman Orientation at ECPI, the teacher and the students just sat around talking about reality tv episodes (Particualrly Flava of love)and played online flash games.

this school is a rip off

well i have a friend that went to ecpi and she did great and loved going there she now works for the new your times in the programming department so is very glad she went there. i have looked into your so called community colleges and they dont offer the same type of computer classes as what the tech schools do. for me i am going to a community college to get some classes done that will transfer to ecpi then take the computer classes at ecpi.  that way the cost wont be as high. there are bad schools and good schools. take the university that hired bill aires. hes a terroist but the university hired him enough said about that. my suggestion is talk to students that are going there. they will give you a good idea of what its like and make your decission from there. pay attention to what you sign and keep all paperwork.

I too attended ECPI from 2006 to 2008.  From the time I had started I was lied to.  I was working full time, unable to attend classes full time, so I opted for part time courses instead, they told me that it would only take me 26 months to complete my degree.  After spending a year and a half in school, watching my graduation date change at least 3 times, I was told that I wouldn't be able to graduate until November of 2009!!!  
I then Decided to transfer to the online campus in VA Beach, and it was practically an act of congress for my information and financial aid to transfer over to the new location.  VA Beach was blaming Moorefield and Moorefield was blaming Va Beach.  I lost a month of school due to that "battle of the stupids" session.  I finally came within about a month of Graduating with My AAS in Networking and Security Management, and Financial Aid decided to drop a bombshell on me.  They proceeded to tell me that I had a shortfall of $4,000!  They were able to cover all but $1,300 of it, so in order to get my degree, I had to make 1,300 in cash magically appear from my posterior.  Then they tell me that the laws on Excess funds changed, and so that I can get some of the loan money properly credited to my 'shortfall' They had to send me a check for $1349 which I would deposit into my account and then send them a check for the same amount.  They proceeded to send me a check for $1339, so I sent them a check back for the same amount.  
They then emailed me acting irate and acting as though I was some idiot who couldn't count blaming me in a round about way, that the check was $10 short and that I had to pay it or my degree would be held hostage until I did.  Thats when the fur began to fly, I called up their financial aid department and let them have it in a voicemail.  2 days later they emailed me saying that they were forgiving the $10.00 discrepancy and sending out my degree.   
In my final opinion, ECPI is a lousy school.  They have some decent instructors and some bad ones as well.  But my biggest issue was with their administrative staff.  They were rude, inconsiderate, consistantly screwed up my financial aid, and messed up my class scheduling on many occasions.  Their Financial aid group are among the dumbest, least knowledgeable group of "professionals" (I use this term EXTREMELY loosely) that has ever been my displeasure to deal with.  I have actually decided to go through the University of Phoenix since their Bachelors program is better, and half the cost of what ECPI quoted me for their bachelors program.
If anyone decides to go to ECPI be advised, they are a bunch of serpents, and need to be treated as such!  READ EVERYTHING!!!  ASK ABOUT EVERYTHING!!! and most importantly ---Make sure you get everything (EVERYTHING) they say and promise in writing.

It is true, employers laugh in their faces, although I would never be so rude.

ECPI College of Technology has denied the claims of 49 current or former students that its computer training is "severely deficient" and asked a federal judge to dismiss the complaint and award it attorney fees and other "appropriate relief."

The college also said the enrollment agreements students must sign requiring them to file complaints with a private arbitrator are "not unconscionable, unreasonable or oppressive" and that the court does not have the jurisdiction to intervene.

The former students, who want to combine their complaints as a class action, have alleged in court documents that the college made false claims about their ability to find work and transfer credits and that teachers were "unqualified" and course curricula "substandard."

They are seeking reimbursement for tuition costs of as much as $25,000 for 18 months of training, attorney Gary Poliakoff has said.

Poliakoff has said school recruiters told applicants that they would have a 98 percent placement rate after their training and make as much as $40,000 to $50,000. Instead, he told Anderson most are working $7-an-hour jobs, many are $25,000 in debt for 18 months of training and "employers laugh in their faces."

ECPI is a joke.  The only competent graduates they have are already deeply into their fields.  The ground campuses are teach yourself.  I can't imagine how bad it is online.  Don't expect to get a decent job.  It is a community college to employers and a poor one at that, no matter what degree they offer.  This school is a bigger joke than Devry.  Save your money and go to your local CC before you waste 32K on this dump.

I am almost completely enrolled in this school, I am located in southern VA,Hampton Roads.  I want to pursue a tech degree, but I have heard and read some pretty disappointing stories about ecpi.  Then again I know everything has good and bad so it is hard to sort this out. Please help!!

I am almost completely enrolled in this school, should I go somewhere else?

I'm really sorry to hear these things about ECPI. I graduated from the Charlotte, NC campus a few years ago, and I had some really great instructors. They all had engineering degrees from very good schools and were ex-military, and the only thing our government knows how to do right is teach technology and engineering. I compared what I learned from ECPI to what all the other people at the community colleges in the area (CPCC, Gaston College, York Tech)and my knowledge of the overall subject is superior to what they learned, but then again, that was 10 years ago, and things do sometimes change, and not always for the better.

To Saddly Disappointed, good for you for doing it on your own.  I attend ECPI for almost two years.  I thought the teachers were a joke.  It was a waste of time.  I was on leave of absent since we moved and I haven't heard from them yet.  I absolutely plan to do more research on my next school.

This school is a waste of your money.  $30,000 for tuition is not worth it from this school... stick to your local community technical college.  At least they know what they're doing.  I graduated from ECPI with a degree in their Security & Network Management major and I was an excellent student there, but because I was female I never got the respect that I deserved.  The Head of Academic Department said I wouldn't be able to make it in this field during my first month onboard.  I got the chance to do a work-study with the Network Admin at the school along with another male student.  However, that male student was given all the more advanced technical duties while I was given tasks like removing RAM sticks from unused computers and helping a technically-challenged staff plug in a speaker.  I had to ask for more challenging duties... it just wasn't immediately given to me.  Also, their Career Services Department is a joke.  I got laid off from my full-time job and went to them to help me find employment since I was a single mom.  The lady there told me to be a waitress.  It's not that I have anything against that profession, but my resume was good enough to find a job in my field.  She said I didn't qualify to get a "technical" job without my degree.  A month later, I gave her copies of 2 acceptance job offer letters.  Both from companies offering me a "technical" position with them.  One of those companies works closely with the Career Services department and the lady could hardly believe her eyes.  I later found out, she called that company to inquire about me.  She also called the other company that offered me a position to see if they would like to work with ECPI in the future.  I told my boss to tell them to go to hell.  Upon graduation, I had to go through an exit interview with Career Services and gave them my resume.  Although I wasn't looking to change job anytime soon, I wanted to see what was out there.  The guy called a week later to give me some good news.  He'd found 2 prospective employers... both of which I had to go through temp agencies and I would no longer be salaried.  He also asked me out on a date.  I said no thanks to all and hung up.  I'm almost done here... haha... last, but not least.  To add insult to injuries, I didn't get my degree sent to me until two months after I graduated and it was only sent after I spent a week calling the Registar repeatedly.  After $30,000 spent on this degree, you'd think they could afford a padded, textured leatherette cover instead of the cheap, plastic, vinyl diploma cover.

Their programs are the worst kind of false hope. They take the students money pas or fail. Students rarely fail out but are rather removed from the program unethically. Their programs are not accredited.  So if you pass their classes and need to change schools for any reason forget it. Your classes are garbage. This is because they have not coherent programs. They basically make it up as they go along. Sad but true.