Kennedy Western University

I received a BS in the MIS program in 2000. This was before they had everything online. I would study the book for an hour every morning before work taking notes and reviewing weekly. Then at the end of the month I would go to a chosen proxy site who would administer my exam and verify I took it alone. I passed every class and received my diploma. I worked at Dell Computer at the time and could not apply for most upper level jobs because I did not have a BS level degree. I produced my degree to HR and was then allowed to apply for other jobs. My salary was increased by 30%. It took me six months to finish the classes and write the final paper. I was given credit for previous college courses and industry certifications that allowed me to reduce the number of classes. They did exactly what they said and I now make a lot more money because of that decision it changed everything. Most companies want to know you put the effort forth and do not really do much research. I work as an engineer today in the IT field and continue to have companies hire me and still recognize Kennedy Western as a requirement completed. I did sign up for the Masters program but never completed it, just got too busy and started traveling as a public speaker for Dell.

I chose Kennedy Western primarily because it was recognized by the US Government (including the military), and it allowed me to work at a pace that fit with running my own business. I found the course work comparable with universities in my area, as I checked first before committing to the program. I worked hard on the thesis and my adviser was first rate. I've been confused by all the criticism and would put my Thesis up against any other, and have had many requests for it over the past five years since its completion.

After doing a web search, I find that Kennedy-Western University no longer exist. I'm left with three words to describe my thoughts and feelings; DISAPPOINTED, HURT, and MAD. I feel as though I was taken advantage of and nothing can be done about it now. If this was to get back to the job, Can anyone imagine the gossip amoung co-workers about this worthless degree. Its like not having a degree at all.

I had one course to complete and write the final paper for my business management degree when WNU merged / changed to KWU. I couldn't get access to the on-line system and the student advisor was of no help. I suddenly receive an email from KWU about the realtionship with Grand Canyon and only found out KWU was closing its doors when I went to their website. I spent close to $9k plus books and all I have to show for it are the books. I had to challenge several final exams because of inconsistencies between the books and the tests ‘correct’ answers. The only requirement to passing a course was to read the book and pass the final exam. This wasn’t what I expected and really didn’t see much value in what they offered. The degree wasn’t for job advancement or to satisfy a job requirement. I enrolled to finish something I had started thirty plus years ago and to motivate my son to earn his degree. Basically, if dad can work 40 plus hours a week and still have time for school work why not the son (who wasn’t working).

The professors were excellent, a were currently holding full time positions at regionally accredited (RA) universities. The text books and courses were the same as what they taught at their RA universities. Because of completing this program, I have been offered teaching and consulting positons. It was well worth the investment in time and money. WNU has a well organized staff and management. They shouldn't have any problems achieving regional accreditation.