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Anonymous
(In Progress) on February 27, 2012
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Ambibalent
I attended NCU in previous years for a few classes then re-enrolled a couple years ago. It is a good place to get the paper you want, but you will teach yourselves.
My biggest issue is how they make consistent changes during the same school year...(programs, financial increase, mentors...instructors) and pretend it is all for the benefit of students. This I do not believe.
Frankly I believe those in charge only care about the money. The mentors basically correct your papers and do the best they can, but it appears that they pretty much come and go also because of dissatisfaction. Tuition went from about $1300 to over $2300 in a few years,(doctorate) claiming that all costs are now inclusive. (Joke). In the end, you still have to pay a graduation fee. Some students who came in in prior years, due to administrative changes could not finish on time, and were NOT grandfathered in under the old rules. Well, the school made plenty of money from them and the student had no final degree.
The staff at NCU will back up anything or any choices that are made. They must to keep their jobs. I DO NOT THINK it is a good school, ethically or otherwise.Once you get into it, it is too costly to transfer elsewhere.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on January 18, 2012
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Frustrated and Angry in the Midst of NCU Chaos
NCU has been on a downward spiral for the past several years. Doing the basic coursework for the Ed.D. the school was satisfactory at best. The dissertation sequence, however, has been a nightmare. I already have three graduate degrees from excellent institutions, so it's not like school is new to me! Over the past year I have had four different committee chairs! Their expectations have evidently not been aligned with the requirements of the Office of Academic Research. Twice my committee has approved my proposal and it was twice rejected by the OAR. Although no one told me or any of my committee chairs (there had been three up to that point) the school no longer allows researchers to use phenomenology as a research method! The same OAR had approved the methodology when it approved my Concept Paper. Apparently, communication of such policy changes never made it to my various committee chairs.
So, I am now on Chair #4 and have resubmitted the DP for a third time, this time with an approved research method.
It seems to me that the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing. Leadership is in a constant state of flux. I have lost count of the deans and other leaders who have come and gone. In the three years that I have been in the program I have had, I believe, 6 or 7 different academic advisers.
The structure of the doctoral program itself is anything but user-friendly. The learner is not permitted to have any direct contact with his or her committee members! All communication must go through the committee chair. That might be fine if the committee chairs didn't keep changing!
This school gives scholarship in the 21st century a very bad name. They now have a lot of my money, so I keep plugging away wondering when the next change in policy, or the next change in committee chairs, or the next new dean is going to come along.
As a professional educational administrator myself, I do wonder how NCU survives!
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on August 30, 2011
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For-Profit is NOT student friendly
Folks,
This is a for-profit university. The economic incentives grossly retard HOW the education is pushed to you, the low, sub-par quality of student-peers and professors, and any agreement you make will be stacked against you. Sure, you may get through a for-profit program with little fuss, but if you find yourself unhappy, you WILL BE stuck.
So after high pressure sales tactics, I finally get my "Enrollment Agreement" that they really, really wanted me to electonrically sign, BUT they tried to get me to give them an open-ended e-signature that will give them open-ended consent on all furture agreements, changes, etc., unless you are seriouly paying attention. I call to complain, and stated my opinion as such.
Here's my e-mailed response to thier proposed Enrollment Agreement:
"You know you're in trouble when over a quarter of an "Enrollment Agreement" details arbitration. This is a sizable red flag.
So let me get this straight, I agree to allow this University to charge any and all fees throughout the duration of a 5-7 year program, all off which are subject to change; you want me to forgo my rights to sue this for-profit program in court in the event I am wronged; and, my favorite part, you get to change any term or condition at anytime you want?
Yeah right. I am quite amazed that people actually enter into such a decidedly one-sided agreement that utterly protects this University and affords no protections whatsoever for the student. None! What a waste of time. It violates every precept of contract law, fairness, and consideration. I'll be sure to articulate my observations on the social media / blog boards.
Please withdrawal my application from Northcentral University. I have exhaustively researched the for-profit model as well as this University, and I find them both to be comical at best, devastating to higher education at worst.
Respectfully,
Eric"
Take the time to read. Your not engaging a student-friendly education institution. You are entering in an agreement that was written for shareholders and the protection of the bottomline.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on July 30, 2011
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Progresive Review #1 of Many - Recently Started
I started a PhD in International Business Administration back in the beginning of May '11. I have been at this post education thing for the better side of a decade now, and find NCU to be just like any other school; you get out what you put into it. Having attended both B&M and online schools in the past years, I'm an advocate of online learning actually being more productive (to the right learner… I’ve graduated with honors in all degree programs attended) than B&M schools. I’m not going to bash anyone leaving a bad review on here… as they obviously had a bad experience in some manner, but I can offer you my findings for my own experience as I have witnessed them.
Online learning requires a learner with a great deal of initiative... Without this, you can coast through a course and get nothing for your $1500+ tuition bill. However, learners who take advantage of the independent learning models tend to walk away with a more comprehensive education than those who are spoon fed a "tunnel vision curriculum".
While NCU bears a close resemblance to a correspondence school (According to a few reviews here), it's got key differences that make it quite different than those types of schools. I've had learners who offer quite a bit of constructive insight when grading my materials. However, I've also had instructors who look at the paper, leave two comments, and give me a 98%. This is the same at NCU as it is at any other university. Professors are a lot like grade school kids... a few winners... a whooooole lot of losers. This is where that educational initiative comes in. I've had a horrid professor that might as well have slept at her desk while grading, and I still gained a massive amount of knowledge about managerial statistics. Why? Because I studied by backside off using the text, companion website, web, etc... I took the effort to learn what I wanted to, and succeeded quite well enough to believe that I could in turn teach the course myself if asked.
As far as the administration is concerned, I've had minimal issues with them, they stay out of my way, and I stay out of theirs. I've had more administrative issues with my wife attending the local community college than I've had with NCU remotely. I have had some bumps in the road, but it wasn't anything an email to the proper department didn’t fix. Also, the academic advisor I have seems to do fairly well with addressing my issues. Response times from him and all other NCU staff, including professors, is a bit slower than I like, but I'm used to an office environment where waiting no more than 12 hours for a comprehensive resolution is the norm. Response times from the university average about 48 hours... make of it what you will.
Tuition is what it is… I’ve seen much higher rates at much worse institutions. I feel for the effort I am putting into my PhD, and the amount of knowledge and guidance to that knowledge I get out of it, I’m getting a good value. At $2,200 per course, it’s what I expect from a post graduate program. The school could use a better financial aid portal for me to browse on my own, but any information I ask for from FA comes to me in a timely and complete manner.
The University’s true asset seems to be its resource databases. If the school has made a single smart decision, I’d base it in their purchasing access to index databases of research materials from organizations such as NexisLexis. I’ve gained about 70% of my knowledge through reading resources available in their dissertation and scholarly article databases. These are the true sources of a comprehensive education at any level. Extra effort excerpted to research areas that affect your day job, personal interest, and real world situations is the mark of an APPLIED education… The best kind of education in my opinion, is one that you can instantly relate to your professional career.
Likely, my biggest complaint about the University is its website layout. It looks like this thing was created using GeoCities back in the 90s. For what I pay in tuition, you’d think these guys could afford a java developer or two. However, if aesthetics is my biggest concern so far, I’m happy. It will be interesting to see where things end up as I approach my dissertation process… I’ve heard murderous things about the process here at NCU… then again I hear murderous things about the dissertation process at any promising school. I’m far from calling NCU top of their field, but if the process makes me look further into my research and make an effort to better present my data, it’s serving its purpose.
A final comment here… NCU is starting their 8 compressed course offerings on September 8th for all education levels and programs. I have one more round of courses before I can migrate to the 8 week model and hopefully finish my research degree much sooner. I’ll be posting subsequent reviews as I progress through my degree so that other prospective learners can get an honest and detailed insight into what they are in for.
Moral of the story so far: If you’re not prepared to shoot for a 4.0 GPA… you don’t belong in a PhD program. Get ready to put on your big boy/girl pants and crank out 50 – 100 pages of research MINIMUM per course; don’t be surprised if you easily double that when making a solid effort... My first round of classes produced almost 250 pages of research… all of which can be reused when doing my dissertation research. If you aren’t willing to make a solid effort to teach yourself things outside of just what the syllabus suggests… You obviously don’t have a mind thirsty for abundant amounts of knowledge, and you’re making a poor decision to become a profession researcher anyway.
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Usn1520
(In Progress) on July 12, 2011
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Gave it three of four attempts...
I have attended NCU off and on for the past 4 years. The materials required for the classes are on par with Brick and Mortar offerings. For the most part, the adjunct faculty (mentors) that I worked with at NCU were top notch. The value, support, and overall institutional quality is where I would continually get snagged. There is what NCU could be and then there is what it is. I applaud a for-profit model and Higher Ed Institutions could do so well if they would just get the focus right. Profitability through administration of a high quality program that leverages technology available in this century. CONS: No student email account, a student portal and course management system that looks like it was designed in the mid-90's, poor administrative support (particularly in financial aid/accounting), cookie cutter syllabi with no creativity based on subject content, zero teaching from the mentor (read the book, write the paper, repeat). PROS: Superb reference library and reference management tools. Regionally accredited at a fair tuition price.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on June 15, 2011
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NCU is what you make it to be
I am currently in my 6th course at NCU and I've had ups and downs with the school. HOWEVER, I've been attending college for many years and I have had similar ups and downs at all schools that I attended. Some professors you like, some you don't. It is frustrating when I want a question answered and it takes forever to get feedback. But, I love that I control how much I want to learn about a subject. If I want to read ten articles on a topic, I can, if not, I am not required to do so. Through my Master's program at a local college, I often had to sit through lectures where it seemed like the professor could care less about being there. Just because you're in a building, does not mean you're actually learning something. Going to school online was not my ideal choice, in fact I started at a local college for my PhD. At the end of my first year I was told that curriculum changed and I had to wait to get my degree, or drive two hours each way to a different campus for the next three years. Again I say, all schools have their issues. I hope that my dissertation process goes smoothly but from my understanding NO dissertation process ever does. NCU, like all educational institutions, requires hard work on your part. You have to be on top of your financial aid, your documentation, and your schoolwork. It's just part of being an adult learner. I'm enjoying the information I get to analyze for this degree and thankful that I don't have to spend 30 hours a week in a classroom, quit my job, and go deeper into debt to do it.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 21, 2011
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Stay Away
Since Rockbridge bought the school a couple of years ago, the school has been in a steady decline. Policies were being implemented constantly, with no warning, and no grandfathering. Tuition went way up, and support for students went way down. The program is fine until you begin the dissertation process, where it becomes a nightmare. There is NO support, NO proper feedback, NO proper mentoring. The professors play the "resubmit" game endlessly, causing students to continue paying for additional courses, often taking over a year without allowing progress. If you look at the dissertations that were approved, there is huge inconsistency in quality. Many students have invested all their time and money, only to be told "time's up, you lose". Meanwhile there has been no guidance or communication from so-called mentors. It is strictly for-profit, and its not the students who profit.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 19, 2011
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Mixed, and Getting Worse
I LOVED this school when I started the PhD program. I used to be its biggest ambassador- I told everyone about how great it was. I'd done brick/mortar grad programs for several years, but left after my children were born and needed something more flexible. NCU's PhD program seemed to be just the ticket. And for quite awhile, it was.
My classes were overall rather good. Mentors varied, but so do instructors anywhere. Mostly they were thought-provoking, responsive, and I learned from the assignments. I had a 3.7 gpa, which was roughly the same as my gpa in the B&M APA psych PhD program I had been in.
Then, about a year ago, things changed *radically*. Administration changed. The "guaranteed tuition" I'd had since paying in full at the beginning? GONE. No one in finance or administration would reply to my emails asking why they weren't honoring their agreement.
The dissertation process is simply awful. I'd heard complaints, but I thought I was pretty good at working with committees, so it would be ok. WRONG. Turnaround times? A joke! I've waited *weeks* for replies the handbook promises would take days. No accountability, either, not from the Dean, registrar, or review board. I'm strongly considering calling in third parties to address grievances. Students in the discussion rooms and chat groups are also experiencing the same.
It's sad- I brought two people into the school as learners, but from here on I am going to recommend against, rather than for, enrollment at NCU.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on February 6, 2011
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Still a GREAT Value for the Education
Northcentral University has provided me with an excellent education. I received my Master's degree in the traditional setting of a "Big 10" school. With only my Dissertation manuscript to complete, I have found my education at NCU to be on par with, if not above, my previous educational experiences. Education is always about what the student puts into their learning.
Although Northcentral University increased its tuition at the beginning of 2011, its rates are extremely competitive, and probably still cheaper, than almost any other online university. Furthermore, NCU doesn't require any kind of residency. When considering the total cost of an education, students must consider the added costs of travel and residency, not only tuition. With that, NCU remains a more affordable choice. Others have complained about how much tuition has risen in the past five years. However, NCU's tuition was extraordinarily low and has just now risen to be close to others.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on January 24, 2011
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The worst university that I have had
I used to work for NCU and took classes from NCU. It is a place for you to pay an obnoxious amount money for tuition and fees, do 99% of the work and fight to get your degree. Support from mentors was nearly zero. Sometimes I made errors in my assignments and still received an A with a short comment from mentors "Good job!" That's how much time they will spend on often a side job, teaching on line as adjuncts! Some of them are not qualified to teach and chose to ignore my questions for over a month and I finally had to request to switch to a different mentor. I finally withdrew from the university because I could no longer waste my time. Many times, I found syllabi were written poorly with many spelling errors, or incomplete sentences. Once time, NCU did not update the syllabus in the system so I bought a textbook that was too old based on the new syllabus. NCU is also a horrible place to work for. You’re not gona believe how incompetent some managers are. But they got paid very well for doing nothing but creating troubles for other employees who actually did the work every day. HR is not a place for you to go to get help if your manager treated you unfairly. You have no one to share and just have to shallow it all. HR director often avoided dealing with staff. She avoided eye contact or saying hello to you if she could. However, she fired employees very easily based on other employees' false accusation or make-up stories. It was quite depressing working there since you had no one that you could trust to share any feelings/thought about management.
Top management/president of the university is a scammer! Before NCU was visited by the Department of Education in 2007, he had meetings with staff to prepare them for not reporting issues/problems directly to DOE audit team. He said everyone could just tell him problems. But if you did, you received no answer from him. All the feel-good-photos, mission statements, direction panels on the interior walls of the building of NCU were just put up within the week before the visit of DOE. It was really fake! Once NCU received the accreditation for 3 years, management treated employees like trash. Pretty much every week, someone or a group of 3-5 employees will be fired with no good cause. Quicken was one of Wallstreet companies bought NCU in late 2008 bought its own people in and thus some good long time employees had to go! Management often makes up rules as it goes to keep you confused and frustrated. Yes, tuition hike is an obvious trend with this university. New owners are from WallStreet! They are extremely greedy! They're not gona thing about you or anyone out there but themselves. But from now and then, they will pay to have someone to write a good write up either through a local newspaper or a military magazine, or even through their own website. They pick and choose some learners who had good experience with the university to be the ambassadors to "vouch" for them. Of course, you had bad experience; you would never be chosen to write a review. All the reviews that you complete at the end of each class from NCU were never read by anyone there. It was just a making-you-feel-good feature. One last thing, the CFO and controller, payroll administrator, and accounting manager are the ones you certainly do not want to trust. They all suck up to each other and are willing to lie, make up stories when necessary to get rid of other employees that they foresee as a threat to their positions. NCU won't get nowhere if they continue the same direction with unethical management teams and HR. It's not a joke that NCU vouches for itself as the best place to work for. It can only fool people who have limited access to the internet and information. There have been and will be many of us willing to take time write factual reviews about NCU, an university that should have not received accreditation for DOE.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on January 3, 2011
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Not for those unwilling to work!
I have been in the PhD program since October 2009, and I am in the first course of the dissertation sequence.
Although I concur with some of the financial issues brought up in previous posts, NCU is attempting to bring its financial department in line with federal requirements, thereby giving access to more learners (and building its bottom line, of course.) This appears to be no different than what is happening at other institutions across the country.
Thusfar, NCU is far superior to other institutions. I have taken on-campus and online courses, and I am an on-campus and online instructor for two other institutions. I hold a BS Ed. and MS Ed. (GPA 3.318 and 4.0 respectively) from two prominent Texas universities, and NCU coursework is far more rigorous than in either state institution. Although it has been difficult, I have managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA. Again, I stress, it is not easy!
Mentors are excellent overall; only one has not met my expectations. Feedback is timely and generally useful.
There are no "learning teams" at NCU, and this fact alone makes it unsuitable for individuals who are not competent to work on their own or with only their mentors. Northcentral is classified as a Doctoral Research University (DRU) by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching (carnegiefoundation.org). As such, learners who are successful at NCU are capable of individual thought and hold a substantial work ethic.
What I see in most of the negative posts about NCU is the same lack of work ethic I see in many of my learners: many expect an "A" with little or no effort, and many expect to be spoonfed. This attitude seems to be the norm for K-12 learners, and in the last decade, it has spread to those pursuing higher education. The bottom line is--if you are not willing to work hard for your degree, do not enroll. If you are "one of many" or incapable of individual thought/work, do not enroll. You will work hard to achieve here, but I believe it is worth it!
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 9, 2010
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School is Average
If you can teach yourself, it is fine. The mentors are 90% great. The school sucks because they always change things mid-stream. They just changed where students had to start paying mandatory dissertation fees in beginning research courses. Then a few months later, beginning Jan 1, 2011, classes are offered at an all-inclusive tuition rate.I believe this was made to get more financial aid money from students, and what about those who have already paid part of their dissertation fees, even though it is 4-5 classes away. Many good instructors/ mentors have left. I understand it was about receiving no tenure. Regardless, it is about money to the board members and owners, not people receiving (teaching themselves) a good education. Many schools, online or resident, are the same even if it is a state school. I have found after taking classes at about 10 different schools over a 45 year period, Junior colleges are the best.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on August 26, 2010
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PhD in Business Administration
Before enrolling in NCU's PHD in Business Administration, I did thorough reseach on accredited online schools, considering Colorado State University, Walden, Capella, SNHU, IndianaTECH, and many other well respected institutions. I found out that NCU offered best ROI, with tuition much lower that its competition. During my PhD core classes, I found the assignments to be rather challenging, but rewarding. My concept paper was revised several times by my Dissertation Chair, before being sent for university review. The mentor wanted to make sure that my concept paper will be approved if not in the first try, with some minor modifications on the second try. Needless to say, my concept paper was approved first time around. Additionally, I found out that comprehensive exam is just as challenging as any traditional PhD program out there. I am currently finishing my Dissertation at NCU, and if everything goes well, I will graduate in few months. Overall, I am very satisfied with NCU’s programs, delivery methods, and available resources. One-on-One mentoring is the greatest feature that this university offers. Too bad they do not have degrees in other areas or my interests, otherwise I would be taking several more Master degrees from NCU.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on August 19, 2010
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A Positive Experience
While NCU has some issues to work out like any school, especially a relatively new online school, I love the fact they don't use the same marketing tactics as some others. A lot of people have never heard of NCU and to me, that is a good thing. Folks have definitely heard of the main ones that use ridiculous marketing tactics.
One issue is that NCU will admit most anyone with the proper prerequisite degree, who can find the funding. This can be a good thing but also has a downside because not everyone is cut out to be able to earn a doctorate, but they don't realize it and NCU does not screen them for this before entrance.
Many of these people are dedicated hard workers, but determination alone, and taking the time and spending the money does not "entitle" everyone to earn a doctorate degree. It is very hard and very challenging. It seems to me that those who don't make it drop out after repeating a few courses, or failing their COMPS exam, and then blame the school for being "only about money."
This is not true. I made it through and several new students do their final oral defense every month (they are announced and Learners can listen to other learners' defense. I would choose the same school again if I had to do all over.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on July 9, 2010
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NCU is a good deal
I am a third year PhD student in Applied Computer Science at NCU and I am pleased with their program. After a college career of 6 previous degrees, the majority of them earned at traditional B&M schools (and all regionally accredited), NCU was a breath of fresh air due to the fact that it offered a PhD online.Most of the mentors I have had were very knowledgable about their subjects.
I find it interesting that the individuals who are posting negative reviews don't seem to have even a basic grasp of grammar and sentence structure, yet the individuals who are posted positive reviews seem to be very succinct. I think the negative reviewers were hoping for an easy degree and are disappointed that NCU has high standards that they can’t live up to. For someone like me with a full time research career, having this flexible schedule in a work study format is a blessing. I could never earn enough as a traditional PhD student to support a family.
The main issue to focus on in regards a school’s reputation is regional accreditation, and NCU is regionally accredited. Even if they are under review, they have been approved, and from what I understand it is difficult to lose regional accreditation once a school has it. None of this means I think NCU is perfect. It has experienced growing pains and does not always do things efficiently. However, no school I have attended ever has or will, and that includes a traditional Ivy-league level institution. This is just human nature. For what I am paying to complete my dissertation plus the regional accreditation, NCU is definitely worth the time. However, for prospective students, don’t think this will be an easy ride. I have had to work harder than any other degree, but in the end it will be worth it.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 30, 2010
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NCU is in TURMOIL!!
This was a great school until the last year, but now is not the time to enroll in NCU. They only have a three year accreditation, which means that there are some problems to be addressed. Having said this, NCU is flailing about to rectify some of the issues, but this has created turmoil and angst at the Research Phase of the process. Policies change at the whim of the President, and which are not always publicized. Student programs are not honored.... Students are moved from program to program without recourse. The last research course was shortened without changing the syllabus, and students are made to repeat this shortened course, and are given an "F" until the requirements have been met. Staff support is abysmal, there is no proper business courtesy from "Academic" Advisors (AA), who do not acknowledge correspondence sent, and who need to be prompted for replies to concerns. AAs are changed frequently, so along with faculty firings and resignations, the academic climate is in turmoil.
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Niccole23
(In Progress) on February 27, 2010
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I can not recommend NCU
I am currently registered. I like the idea (theory and concept) of NCU. I have summarized my experience over the past couple of semesters. I hope you find this review beneficial.
Institution & Support: The admissions department is great! They were and continue to be upfront, well-informed, and courteous. They come across as sincere and genuinely concerned. The rest of NCU Administration is simply poor. Staff members routinely fail to return calls and emails. If you need information on degree requirements, accounts, etc., please understand that you will have to deal with NCUs voicemail hell. On the rare occasions when I did receive a call back, I was given incorrect and/or inconclusive information.
Materials & Books: I have a serious problem with some of the books doctoral students are forced to buy. In one courses, NCU used books that were not academically appropriate on any level (undergrad or grad). I purchased 3 books for the course (cost $300). The books were missing scholarly references. For example, the books defined management terms without references attached.
Every book that is used on a college/univ campus (traditional or non-traditional) has references. I take my education serious and weak learning materials/books are a big problem for me.
Teachers: Thus far, I have not had a problem with my instructors. NCU will change your instructor in the middle of a course. However, the new instructors have been accommodating and I appreciate that.
At this time, I can not recommend NCU. I would like to see staff mature and grow in their professional positions. Specifically, learning and understanding how to provide basic customer service (ie answer questions and return calls). Academically, I would like to see appropriate books selected for all courses!
If anyone is is having serious problems (breach, failure to release info, billing errors), please follow the grievance procedures. Document all interaction carefully and follow-up via email. If you find a "legitimate" issue is not being handled and you have exhausted NCUs grievance procedures, submit a complaint with the Arizona Department of Education - Private Postsecondary.
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Redsox1man
(Graduate) on November 9, 2009
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Rigorous Program---Rewarding Experience
I highly recommend NCU. As many others have listed on this site, it is not a program for students who are not highly self-motivated and capable of independent work. I am just finishing a PhD in the Education program. I have found the entire process to be extremely challenging, rigorous, and rewarding. I have had the kind of experience that I anticipated having in a doctoral level program. NCU pushed my talents and abilities to the max while offering the support that I needed. The NCU faculty and staff always listened to my legitimate concerns and offered their encouragement and support. I anticipated a difficult and frustrating experience, I would assume the same from ANY or ALL universities... after all, this was doctoral level work.
The online factor does create some unique challenges for an already difficult process, but I feel that in my case there were many more positives than challenges. I found NCU to be respectable, professional, firm, fair, and consistent. I found that any problem that I encountered could be resolved and that the root of the frustration was generally a step that NCU was taking to improve and/or strengthen itself as an institution. NCU provided me with the kind of experience I wanted in a PhD program. The best things in life aren't easy.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on July 21, 2009
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Worst college I've ever attended
I was in my last course at NCU (before starting the dissertation sequence) when I received a bad instructor. I was informed by one of the Academic Advisors that most students complain about this instructor, and that her feedback, comments/expectations were rather far-fetched and irrelevant to the course. Anyhow, I submitted my first paper, only to receive one point above an F, with comments/feedback that made absolutely no sense. The instructor did not read the instructions for the assignment (so she had no idea what it was even about) and obviously did not use the book because the feedback/questions she asked were contradicted by the assignment and the questions in the book. I contacted my academic advisor about this problem, and after getting the run around, was surprised when the school informed me that this was my problem, my fault, and I needed to deal with it. I submitted a second assignment and, received the same far-fetched feedback and low grade from the instructor. I attempted to schedule a phone appointment with the instructor, but she declined. I e-mailed her several times trying to understand what exactly it was that she was looking for and why she wasn't going by the instructions outlined for the assignment and the questions listed in the book...but I kept receiving an evasive response. I contacted just about every administrator in the school, and finally received an e-mail from only one, and that was the dean of the business department. Once again, I was informed that this was my problem, my fault, and that the instructor was a wonderful asset to NCU. I have two MA degrees (from different schools) with a 3.9 and a 4.0 GPA average and NCU in effect tried to infer that I was some bumpkin who should have been honored to attend such a prestigious school. At this point, I realized that things were only going to get worse, and the last thing I wanted was to shell out more money only to be abandoned half-way through the dissertation process. At this point, I realized that the college was trying to rip students off by making them pay for the same class more than one time in order to make more money, hence, the purpose of hiring teachers who are out to give students a hard time and a bad grade. NCU does not have the best reputation, and a degree from that school isn't considerably valuable, and after talking to several college administrators, was informed that with a PhD from NCU, I was not going to get the job I was looking for. I have two Masters degrees from two other colleges and have had a good experience and both of those colleges, but this PhD program at NCU is awful. Going to NCU is like digging through the garbage can trying to find a piece of crumpled trash that looks like a degree. To me, an NCU degree isn't worth the paper it's printed on.
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Anonymous
(Graduate) on July 6, 2009
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NCU: A fine university
NCU is a fine university that has a strong academic focus. At the same time, I agree it is NOT for everybody. Students of distance learning programs ARE expected to be comfortable with a high degree of self-directed study. I did my Masters from a reputable and traditional B&M (via distance learning) so I can tell you that the NCU experience was even more challenging and worthy. I am proud of my time spent at NCU.
In this post, I want to address some of the common concerns regarding NCU: they are mostly related to lack of hand-holding and the dissertation process.
Concerning the lack of hand-holding, I am somewhat surprised that some post-graduate learners still require a significant amount of hand-holding. If this is the case, then you should examine whether academic post-graduate study is right for you as opposed to getting professional certification in your field. This is NOT meant as any disrespect to any individual - its just that some people like self-study and others thrive well in a regulated environment. Perhaps it is the failing of some under-graduate programs to inadequately prepare the expectation of some students for post-graduate study.
Concerning the dissertation process - I have read, talked to, and shared the NCU experience with other doctoral learners. Those reading this may want to choose NOT to believe this, but IT IS GENERALLY THE SAME EVERYWHERE. Please do NOT expect a doctorate to be handed to you on a platter. YES, some professors are better, and some are not. Some school reviewers are tougher, and others are less stringent. Some professors are the greatest scholars but some of these left their teaching brains in the other jacket at home.
Is NCU perfect? No. Can it improve? FOR SURE. The school should improve. The professors should improve. The administration should improve. And hey, I'm guessing, ... some of their students could improve themselves too.
For the esteemed readers reading my post, let me pose two questions: (1) Why does one study for a PhD? (2) What is the purpose of a PhD program? If the ONLY answer you have was so that people can call you "Dr", then you still have a long way to go.
To all the NCU / online-education bashers out there, please earn your doctorate from a RA-school, then come back and maybe some of us will take you a bit more seriously.
Finally, to the rest of you pursuing your degree at NCU or other online schools, BE ENCOURAGED. Online learning requires a high degree of independence and self-study. You are all people of a certain quality but you must persevere and complete the program. Nothing that is of value is easy; and great success is only attained through much tears and toil. I wish you all the very best!
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 18, 2009
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PhD in Business
I only enrolled in one course in the PhD program and never heard from an instructor. It was very difficult getting the administration to follow up with me. The technology did not work and I complained that the school used deception in their promotion. They would not refund my money or show any concerned for my issues. They intentionally did not respond to me. At the time I considered NCU a fly by night operation and ran as fast as possible away from this organization and wrote this experience and as a loss. There are many issues that I will not draw out here.
Overall, I can see that there are more favorable ratings on this site for NCU then unfavorable ones. It is obvious that some students do believe that they are getting value for their money and at least for them, this is the best program. However, candidate searching for a doctorate program should go beyond just student satisfaction ratings of a school. That is only one indicator. What do you what to do with your degree? If full time teaching beyond the community college level is your main goal, then you should seriously consider another program and meet with deans and faculty members from some of the schools you would most likely teach for to discuss your career options. Do not overlook this. You can avoid an economic and career disaster.
Here are some simple tips for selecting a PhD in business program. If you are looking for a PhD and plan to teach business in academia, you should contact the types of schools that you would like to teach at. They will tell you which programs they will accept. Most business schools will only employ candidates for tenure positions from an AACSB programs and or schools that have a high-level full time research faculty, not part time adjunct faculty. So be very careful before you invest your time in a PhD in business program.
NCU may be able to point to a few successful candidates that have successful publication records but these students or graduates may have been successful before the program or in spite of the program. So you may want to see which schools has a greater number of full time research faculty, their publication record and turnover of faculty experience. Accreditation should be only a minimum standard. You should also interview students who dropped out and or where not successful in the program to get a more balanced perspective then just the school.
Not all PhD in business programs are viewed the same just because they have an accreditation seal. There will be a problem for candidates who have completed the program before any credible changes take place.
For many who just want to teach on the side, a community college or use the PhD credential at your job, this may be the place for you. Hopefully, the new equity partners will clean up many of the serious problems cited on the Web. Perhaps a merger or name change is in order. Then maybe you may not to have to worry about listing
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 9, 2009
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NCU no more
This school is a waste of your time and money. If you want to do Doctorate degree, seek for a well established state University not one with 100% online. What do you plan to do with your PhD or DBA after graduated? Teaching? too bad, NCU PhD graduate is not up to the standard to teach in other state universities. But you can try your luck with NCU. May be, to use that Online Phd degree to get an executive position? Unfortunately, most executive position do not require PhD degree. Even if a company is looking for a PhD candidate to fill a position, it wouldn't be NCU.
From personal experience, the homework turnaround is more than 24 hours. Some courses simply lack of students where the lecture do not bother to do anything. I have been in a DBA course with only 3 students, 2 dropped and I was the only one left. Requesting more information on assignment will get response 2 days later and only couple days left to finish up a 20 pages paper with strict guidelines. This school has dropped the writting assistance in the middle of my program. I have to pay local writting professional for editing for couple of my courses. Those costs added up fast!
Also, just wait till you want to get out of the school, you will be charged with all kind of fees. Withdrawing from NCU will be more expensive than registering.
NCU has one advantage I must admit. They have very good online research library. But hey, you pay big money for it and expecting to solely use it for the rest of the program. Most professors have unknown degree to teach a class. English major is teaching OB???? I am expecting to learn real Organization Behavior from the professor not from textbook. I don't need to pay someone to tell me what to read. I am an executive and what I need is real world example. I have 0 discussion in my OB course. Just read the chapters and write papers every week to get through.
Be real, NCU is not a university, it is a company there to make profit !
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on June 18, 2008
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BEWARE! No one Gets Passed Dissertation
If I had been writing this review about a month ago, I would have reiterated all the positive, sunshine comments I see posted. Unfortunately, NCU has really CHANGED.
I finally arrived at my first dissertation class. I've been enrolled for over a month, just waiting for approval. The process was straightforward, at first: the dissertation was approved by all committee members. The disastrous shuffling around of staff, however, caused my dissertation to sit for about 20 days before it was assigned to a Reviewer. After getting relatively quick approval from all committee members, my Reviewer, basically told me, in no uncertain terms, to start my dissertation over. I will have to create 7 new instruments do pilot tests and change all my hypotheses and add several more. In general terms she has made it impossible to get my dissertation approved. Her recommendations would take years to complete. I heard from my committee Chair that the NCU Reviewers are now stopping approval on all dissertations. My Concept Paper was approved. It supposedly had comments as to how I was supposed to make changes; however, I did not receive the paper due to technical "gliches" in the system (or at least that is what I was told).
I'm wondering if anyone else is having difficulties getting their dissertation approved. I believe with the entire shake up at NCU, they will not be approving many dissertations in the future. They will, however, take your encourage you and guide you down the rosy path until they get all your money. I'm hoping to get a class action law suit started. Yes, if you have already graduated or have yet to get to your research classes, you probably think the world of NCU. But I'd like to see someone who has graduated within the last week to give a positive review. DO NOT ENROLL, it will take five years, but you will definitely be sorry!!!!!
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Jerry.green
(In Progress) on June 16, 2008
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NCU Rigor
I graduated with a B.Sc. and M.A. from traditional B&M universities. I have found that the rigor required to succeed at NCU is at least as difficult if not more so. Recently, after four years of rigorous study, I’ve earned doctoral candidacy status at NCU, the ABD stage in my journey. My dissertation committee members all teach at very reputable universities across the country, in addition to teaching at NCU, and one is also a director with the APA. They require no less of me than one of their students completing a dissertation from their B&M school. Change seems more difficult for some people, nonetheless however, over-time, fewer and fewer people will leave their home to attend school. Regionally accredited universities, such as NCU, are at the forefront of this imminent change.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on March 13, 2008
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Mixed Review
An audit of all processes and programs related to the Ph.D. program in Psychology will show:
(1) Weaknesses in the mentors backgrounds, knowledge, experience, and teaching capabilities.
(2) Direct incompatibility regarding stated course requirements at NCU, the course fundamentals, core learning goals, and what is acceptable as a standard in the academic arena. The course outlines need to be updated and consistent. I have two graduate degrees, one of which is from a top ivy league school. What is required for course completion should match course description. In most cases it does not.
(3) Mentor communication is very limited, even when it is requested or solicited.
(4) Stay away from the major discussion areas as they contain so much erroneous (and silly) information.
(5) The course work is not rigorous (very simple) and most points are lost or gained on APA style mistakes. APA style is important but quality content ranks higher in the real world. More challenges need to be incorporated. Most courses can be finished in six weeks, if feedback is timely(6) Clinical courses need more solid and up to date clinical training such as neuropsychology.
This is what I have found so far. I hope this review is helpful and productive.
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Langewasheb22
(Graduate) on February 28, 2008
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My experience at NCU
I just finished my studies at NCU. I was in the doctoral program in education. I have to say that when I started with Dr. Hollywood, the experience was absolutely great. After three years, Dr. H. was gone. I spoke with her after her termination and she told me the new president told her the school was going in a different direction. Well, I am one to give everything a chance, but the new direction was one of chaos and lack of support. Thank god I was almost finished, because quite honestly if I was just starting, I would have gotten the heck out of there. I wouldn't recommend the university to anyone, and I had recommended it to no less than 5 friends. Now I heard that they only got 3 years of reaffirmation, which I understand in the world of accreditation is not good. Of course, it is better than probation, but not a sign of confidence. Luckily I am out with an accreditated degree. The place it is now isn't the place it was, and that is a shame. We had a honor society in the school, which I understand there is no support for any longer. The new provost has completely turned the place upside down. I am an Ed.D. and he has been quoted as saying that Ed.D. are inferior to Ph.D's. Inferior? No just different in focus. There are no faculty left. Now they use all adjuncts. The service with the dissertation has become a nightmare. My friends who are in dissertation are now waiting weeks and weeks for feedback and no one seems to know who is on first or second base.
I would not recommend NCU, and I hate saying that given I am now an alum.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on February 24, 2008
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NCU and the future of online degrees
I've read a lot of these reviews about NCU. Many are true and many are false, but perception is reality in the eyes of the beholder.
Basically, NCU is an online correspondence school:
- NCU gives the student the assignment
- the student does it
- the student turns it in for grading
- at the end, a grade is given
- and, hopefully, a degree is obtained.
There are no lectures (like at a Brick & Morter University) and there is no student interaction. The only interaction I got from mentors was after I completed an assignment -- then the mentor would provide constructive criticism, along with a grade. If I needed help, then I found answers on my own i.e. there is no one to babysit you or to hold your hand. Once I got to the dissertation phase, then I talked to the mentor via telephone to get a basic idea of what his expectations were.
I have a MA from a traditional Brick & Morter school, so I have a basis of comparison from which to compare NCU. I learned more knowledge at NCU, but I made more "community connections" at my Brick & Morter school. Which is more advantageous? I'm not sure, but either way: both schools will provide a regionally accredited degree.
Many NCU students seem to be complaining that NCU is nothing more than a correspondence school because NCU simply provides the assignments and the student completes them with little to no supervision. The only way around this dilemma is to enroll in a traditional Brick and Morter university where there is plenty of instructor-student interaction, as well as student-student interaction. Some people need this kind of interaction, while others don't need it at all to obtain a degree. I also took a class at the University of Phoenix online and, frankly, I didn't get anything out of the "group projects;" nor did I get anything out of the "group postings" where we had to make a "quality post" for others to read. It was silly. NCU bypasses that and allows students to work on their own, which I prefer; but conversely, I really enjoyed the interaction that I got while obtaining a MA degree at a Brick & Morter school.
The 21st Century is the "information age" and all of these online schools are unfolding before our very eyes. Is it the wave of the future? Time will tell. It's probably going to be contingent on:
1. the students' perceived value of the degrees
2. the community's perceived value of the degrees
3. the long-term sustained profitability of online institutions
4. the regional accreditors
My .02
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on January 25, 2008
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Good experience
I am in my 5th course through Northcentral University, Prescott AZ, in the PhD Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration. I am very satisfied with this program, and have found that the books and research articles have been informative and provided useful information with my client population. Out of 5 instructors, I have had only one that I had significant difficulty reaching through email, three who were accessible and provided sound feedback regarding assignments, and one instructor who I consider one of the most engaged and motivating instructor I have ever had. This instructor's feedback on assignments has truly helped me be a more accomplished writer. My academic advisor promptly emailed me or called me, and I have had numerous phone calls with library staff to help walk me through a problem finding articles. While my undergraduate and graduate degrees were from B&M schools, most nobably Wake Forest University, I believe that I am the most important part of my education,and have found Northcentral willing to help me reach my academic goals.
Northcentral U.'s regional accreditation is also a major reason I chose them. They are not AAMFT accredited, which is the accrediting body of my profession. If I were not already licensed in my field, this would have hindered me from attending, but being licensed, my degree will have merit because it is from a regionally accredited university.
I recommend Northcentral without reservation.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
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Mhitson
(In Progress) on January 14, 2008
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Poor Correspondence School
I have taken four courses. I have a BS, MS, MBA, and my Doctorate is close to complete. You need to understand that this is NOT an online school. I completed my MBA at another online school. It is a correspondence school where the only difference is that items are exchanged virtually instead of through the US Mail. You will basically work completely on your own with no lectures, no discussion, no group work, no tests, and just hand in papers at your own pace. Really, it is a joke. I would never tell someone to use their own money for this. If your company will pay and you want to do this just for fun, not advancement, etc. - it is ccol - otherwise you are wasting your time.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on December 30, 2007
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Very Limited Info -- Not Recommended.
I have taken a couple courses at NCU.edu (NorthCentral University, Arizona)
From my experience, this is a quick review.
There is very little to almost no interaction with the mentors (aka professors). They only like to communicate via email. You are almost never able to pick up a phone and call someone. This can be especially challenging if you are taking your 1st set of classes and have questions about the format etc.
The advisors also only provide assistance over web content & always ask you to refer to online documentation. This can get very old very quickly, as my perception is people take online courses as they are limited with the time they have, and would like to get responses fairly quickly.
NCU staff & administration constantly push for students (or learners) to use the NCU messaging system. This is very archaic system that only allows sending messages (messaging) between ncu personnel. Also this message system has no interaction to the outside world .. so if you are travelling & get a message from someone, then you cannot respond from any email client -- you have to log into the NCU webpage & respond.
I am finding that NCU online is very much aloof in terms of assisting students with any program or helping them review materials.
If you were able to pick up a text book, and write an exam, to get a grade, and eventually get a degree -- this is what you will experience at NCU.
It will certainly benefit if NCU put's some effort into their learner's online interface. its a very rudimentary system, put together to get a few students. However, now that they have a lot of student's signing up, it would be good to have a lot of interactive tools.
Hope this information helps. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Thanks,
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Propdrvn
(In Progress) on December 12, 2007
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Preceding Questions
I am a student nearing the end of my MBA program, and I have been satisfied the whole way. I have three other degrees from bricks and mortars universities (Purdue University and Embry-Riddle) and the rigors of NCU academics are on par.
Just like anything new, there will be plenty of people who don't want to change and/or feel threatened. Remember the old adage "if men were meant to fly, God would have given us wings"? It has been a century now, and I doubt there are many naysayers about that laughable and newfangled idea of flying. Online learning, just like flying, is a new medium for its purpose, and it is just taking off. Some "universities" will do it wrong (which is evidence for the naysayers), but many will do it right. Has train travel gone away because of the airplane? Will bricks and mortars learning go away because of the rise of online learning. I for one, believe that for every "changeaphobe's" steadfast view, it never turns out like they feared.
Okay, onto the questions about accreditation and the apparent past bankruptcy of the owner. The accreditation issue is not much of an issue at all. Regionally, NCU is accredited in the same organization as Arizona State, University of Arizona, and my alma maters Purdue University and Embry-Riddle. Additionally, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes NCU -- (http://www.chea.org/search/actionInst.asp?CheaID=699) and (http://distancelearn.about.com/od/onlinecourses/a/MBAaccredit.htm) and (http://www.acbsp.org/index.php?module=sthtml&op=load&sid=s1_001).
As for the owner's past bankruptcy, is not bankruptcy a common risk for entreprenuers? A bankruptcy does not a failure make. What I care about as a consumer -- not a student, a consumer -- is that the product I am buying is proven and accepted. The NCU product is exactly that, proven and accepted.
To those people who have their finger on the NCU tuition trigger, put your worries aside. There will always be naysayers out there for any decision you make. Nevermind those armchair quarterbacks. If you've done the research, then YOU have more information than the quarterbacks could ever have, especially those who tried but failed and are disgruntled.
Remember, this is a business decision for you. Don't treat it like you're in highschool trying to decide which university to go to. Treat it like an investment with a specific anticipated return, even if purely intrinsic (the joy of knowledge for example).
In closing, just remember that the diploma mill threat is not indigenous to the online realm, it just seems like that because it is an easier market to enter than it was 10 years ago. Just go to the links I posted and that should be all the proof you need, for NCU or any other school you are investigating.
Good luck!
Jim
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Propdrvn
(In Progress) on October 29, 2007
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Negative reviews??
I am absolutely flabbergasted by the (very few) negative responses on this board. Only one actually gave ideas on how to improve, the others just ranted and raved like spoiled children who didn't get their way on this item or that item.
NCU has been a blessing in my educational journey. I have a management Masters from another online school that is also a B&M school. That particular school (Embry-Riddle) has one of the top engineering programs in the nation and specifically partnered up with NCU to create a bridge program for doctoral learners and the creation of other Masters programs. I highly doubt a regionally accredited and well respected school such as Embry-Riddle would pick NCU if it did not have the utmost of respect for NCU's programs and efficiencies.
And by the way, for the individual who referred to the "regional accreditation" of NCU, your sarcasm is completely misplaced and unwarranted. NCU has the exact same accreditation of Arizona's state school system, Embry-Riddle, my undergrad alma mater (Purdue University), and many many others.
NCU is about working professionals trying to improve their careers and/or gain knowledge for more insight into their own profession. There is no hand holding. This is the real world kiddies, and just like the real world, you are assigned the work and told when to have it done. You can always ask for advice from those who know more (NCU mentors), but the direction you take to achieve the goal is yours and yours alone. If you can't take the idea of setting your own direction, then you really have no business being at NCU or any advanced university program for that matter.
Jim
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Dwgerard
(In Progress) on October 14, 2007
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An outstanding program for working adults
I shopped around at several major brick and mortar universities and all of them would have forced me to quit my job and become a full time student with nearly no income to support my family. I then looked at the various on-line universities, and found several of them to be very attractive, but none of them offered the accreditation and value that NCU offered.
As a retiremed military veteran, NCU offered an excellent tuition rate, and once I began my DBA program, discovered that the education process was significantly better than my expectations. I have taken a few computer based course offered by the Government, and nearly all of them left a lot to be desired, which I feared would also be the case at NCU or any other on-line university.
I was pleasantly surprised at the smooth function of NCU's online system, the positive feedback from instructors for work submitted, and the vibrant forums to communicate with instructors and other students at NCU.
I already feel more connected with my classmates at NCU than I did at any of the more traditional universities I have attended, as I am conversing with students from all areas of specialization and not just my immediate classmates. I have had in depth discussions with fellow student in Psychology, Education and other Business specializations, which never would have occured in my previous education programs.
I heartily recommend NCU as a choice for pursuing a graduate program. One word of advice, it is not an easy program either, as you will spend a significant amount of time on each class. It is possible to move quickly through the program, but it will demand much of your time and efforts to do so.
I have only had one off weekend in last six months, and I do not expect many more for the remainder of my program. It is a price I am willing to pay, but that may not be so in your case. If not, then look elsewhere for your program, as this one will demand such an effort.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on June 25, 2007
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Mixed reviews
I've taken 3 courses now in my doctoral studies towards my DBA in Management. I must say, in all honesty, that I have very mixed feelings about the school. Other reviewers comment that the staff is frequently unavailable, and I have to agree. When I have questions over an assignment, they frequently go unanswered for days. Also, I find that the mentors are more preoccupied with the format of the research papers rather than the content. I'm critisized at length because, this or that, is not properly formatted and has to be re-submitted, thus wasting a lot of time. This is total rubbish to me. The assignments themselves are often either confusing, or, overwhelming (too much reading and writing). My thoughts going into the program was that this would allow me to be more flexible about family and job. The reality is that it is not. I am having to spend far more time away from job and family to complete some of these inane assignments than I feel comfortable doing. My GPA is not the best (nor the worst), but I feel that all of my assignments were subjectively graded based on no real set of guidelines. The library is a joke. The research material itself is fine but the search engine is horrible (try to re-find an article you found the day before, you'll see what I mean). I think this could be a great school if they hired professional instructors, not the "leading professionals in their respective fields". These leading professionals in their field may be wonderful...in their field. But that doesn't necessarily make them good instructors. Also, fix the damn library search engine.
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Hamdi_LF
(In Progress) on May 26, 2007
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Lack of Support in the program from the mentors
The idea of having NCU degree seemed to be great, but the problem arise from the lack of mentors support to their learners and the academic advisors. As I started my Ph.D program, They don't tell you anything that direct you to the proper source. You are basically on your own. I have an MBA and I got 30 credits transferred. The main problem is that when you start a Ph.D, One may need a lot of support all along, but the beginning is always hard. I just wanna say that it is extremely hard to even get their support. There is no standard grading system, by which you can pinpoint your grade. It is all up to the mentor and what they decide to do with you, so if the mentor does not clarify what wants you end up losing out, especially if your name sounds foreign like mine. I got an (A)in almost all of my assignments, but the mentor sometimes read the first two lines of my assignment and tells to resubmit and you already lost 10% of your assignment grade without even knowing why and if you discuss it, they may screw up your entire grade of the class, because there is standarized grading system that all mentors can abide by. It is important to mention to you that My MBA GPA is an (A)and I still maintain an (A) in my first classes assignment. The bottomline is you need to check out different online schools like Walden, Argosy or somewhere else as long as they provide a more standardized grading system and strong support for their learners, because you a mentor to be on your side to help you achieve your academic goals and be on your side during the process.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on April 18, 2007
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A great choice for busy people
I am doing a PhD at NCU, and am enjoying it a great deal. The program is not for everybody, but suits someone in my situation very well. Here is my story:
1. I could study anywhere. I have good bricks-and-mortar undergraduate & MBA degrees, a decent GMAT etc.
2. I have a demanding job that I really enjoy. The cost of taking a leave of absence to study full-time at a great school would not make financial sense.
3. I did extensive research, and find that the NCU curriculum in my field is the best thought-out and most aligned to my needs. I am including bricks-and-mortar schools in this analysis. I have designed curriculum for a top school, and I know good design when I see it.
4. I am not trying to pass off my PhD as anything it isn't. I don't think my PhD will change my life, or my opportunities - my personal makeup will continue to drive my success.
5. I don't want to be in a cohort - been there, done that. I love teams, but I have my hands full of them at work, and don't want to either "carry" or have to wait for other group members at school.
6. The nature of my work is that there are busy times and slow times. Being able to speed up or slow down my progress through courses is a huge benefit.
7. I am genuinely interested in my subject, and am doing this as a hobby as much as anything. I have "gotten ahead" plenty already, and am mostly looking to add a little brain food to the tail end of my career.
8. I don't need my hand held. I am prepared to learn on my own and take a risk on my assignments (nobody will be looking at my 'marks'). I don't need someone to prescribe every little step of the way or tell me "exactly what they expect" from me, beyond the general marching orders.
The bottom line is that I haven't chosen NCU out of lack of better options. I am genuinely impressed with their program and their delivery style. It isn't easy by any means, and is certainly not light-weight.
I would say if your story is anything like mine, and you are favorably impressed with NCU's programs - go for it!
Best of luck on whatever choice you make...
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Eekress
(In Progress) on April 16, 2007
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Long, Self-Directed Road
I have just completed my Ph.D. program (Psychology) at NCU. It took me nearly 4 full years. I entered the program with two MA's. I work full time and have two teens.
I took one class at a time, taking nearly 1 full year for the dissertation process....data collection, statistical breakdown, writing of dissertation, completion of the oral defense. Whew!!!
NCU worked for me, I could easily contact my Professors, and received quick turnaround on my written work. I only had one negative experience with a Professor, most were helpful, supportive, encouraging.
The course work was rigorus. I learned a great deal, and feel my degree is well earned. The university is North Central Acredited, I would never have wasted my time if it did not carry this qualification.
If you are looking to expand your education, and do not need the support of face-to-face direction, I would highly recommed this University.
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Louisfletcher
(In Progress) on April 5, 2007
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NCU is no joke!
NCU is a great experience. I have an EdD (ABD) from a major brick and mortar university, so I can tell that NCU is providing a quality program. Mentors, facilitator, professors...what's in a name? The School of Education is a professional operation with a responsive Dean and great Mentors and Advisors. I am in the final phases of my PhD in Education and I can tell you that rigor exists at NCU. Some folks are looking for undergrad like programs that hold your hand and feed you with a big spoon. The reality is that at the doctoral level in most universities you are on an island and that is why up to 50% do not finish. My "Mentors" have provided timely and effective support without fail. Irregardless of the degree level, on-line education requires independent self-motivated individuals and everyone is not prepared for the challenge. The people who spew venom usually have a hidden agenda or are just unhappy in general. Everyone is not compatible with every teaching style, so if you do not like a program, leave it without trying to trash the program and understand that others will continue to thrive. Constructive criticism is useful and the NCU administration does listen and has made changes I and other students requested using the on-line discussion forums. Destructive criticism is the non-goal oriented unproductive ranting of folks who "believe" they can identify problems but do not have a clue about how to create solutions. As to cost; compared to similarly accredited brick and mortar programs NCU is a real value and most student have stated in the discussion forums that they would be willing to pay more as NCU adds more specific accreditations (e.g., business, psychology, etc.) to the augment the current regional accreditation which is the gold standard in US education. Those who want a cheap education with a lot of hand holding look elsewhere but those that want a valuable education taught in an independent adult-centered format NCU is the place for you.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on February 11, 2007
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NCU Suits Me Just Fine
I am currently pursuing my Phd at NCU. I researched several online institutions prior to enrolling at NCU, and found it to be the best fit for me. There are 2 traditional universities where I live, only one of which has any doctoral program (EdD) in my field of study. Not being interested in an EdD, and with both my wife and I being full-time professionals, the online delivery model was my only alternative. My NCU experience has been terrific. Mentors have been available when I have needed them, their feedback was quite helpful in most cases, materials have been more than suitable for the coursework, and the level of academic rigor is high. Some learners find they need the structure and interaction provided by the bricks-and-mortar university; there is nothing wrong with that. My undergraduate and graduate degrees were obtained through that route. For me, however, the online delivery method has been a blessing.
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Davidfsims99
(In Progress) on January 20, 2007
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learners beware!
NCU has both good and bad qualities. First I'll list what I have found to be the bad ones.
1. NCU does not participate in Title IV federal funding. That means that any loans you currently have in deferment will not stay in deferment. The school web site does hint that some lenders *might not* let your loans be in deferment, but that warning is not adequate. If I had known beforehand that I would have to be in repayment status while attending this "regionally accredited" school, I would have chosen a different school.
2. Since they don't participate in Title IV, you have to fund your tuition yourself. That might mean taking out personal education loans or charging it to your credit card, or simply using their payment plan. Fortunately for me, I can use GIBILL.
2. They have a fee for just about everything. If you want to have an additional transcript evaluated after initial enrollment, $50. If you want to change how you pay for your tuition, another $50. If you want to change from the DBA to a PhDBA, another fee.
3. As of the time of this writing, I am in my first course at NCU. This particular course is mandatory, and you cannot get credit for it from an identical course at another school.
4. As this is my first course at NCU, I can only speak to my experience in this course. There are 7 writing assignments. Write six 2-3 page papers, then one 15-20 page project paper. There is a "suggested" schedule of when to turn in each one, but you can go at your own pace and turn them in sooner. I read of one student who completed an entire 3-month course in just 8 days. There is no mandatory course discussion with the rest of the class, like at other online distance education schools. Also there is no lecture or lecture notes. Instead, you are assigned to read the textbook and write your papers using scholarly resources. I guess some people might count this as a good thing, but I consider it a weakness because you don't receive personal experience input from the instructor or fellow learners. Maybe that is why they don't call the instructors "instructors" ...they call them "mentors" instead. That ought to be "red flag" enough.
5. Degree and Institution recognition. There is another "North Central University" in Minnesota for Pentecostals. Some people might take offense at the possibility of confusing the two. According to the list of NCU's faculty members, many of them have degrees from NCU...it makes me wonder if they couldn't get a job anywhere else (because of their degree) and were forced to come back to NCU for work.
And now for the good...
1. A PhD 100% online, no residency or campus visits.
2. Fair tuition pricing...at least for me since I'm Active Duty military.
3. Excellent online research tools.
4. Thus far I've received excellent service from the staff, but my first "mentor" is making me worry because she gave me no useful feedback on my first written assignment.
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Anonymous
(In Progress) on September 12, 2006
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You can do a lot better than this
As a relatively new school NCU seems to be experiencing a lot of growing pains. This wouldn't be too much cause for concern if the effect was solely internal to the school, but they seem to be passing it on to the students.
For example, initially I had difficulty with the person evaluating my previous work for transfer credit. It was apparent the individual hadn't even read the transcripts I submitted, and as a result I initially was being denied appropriate credits. I'm still not certain whether this was merely the result of that individual's abject incompetence or part of a plan to soak students for more tuition for unnecessary coursework.
Once that was settled I started the program and did have a couple of wonderful professors. But I also had one professor who was not only incompetent but an unabashed liar as well. Again, the professor's conduct was so outrageous it raised the issue whether anyone could be that incompetent by accident, or whether there was some purpose or design to the conduct.
(I've since learned NCU has a legacy of corruption, shady dealings, diploma milling and "overseas agents" involved in selling cut rate degrees for little or no work, as discussed in more detail here: http://www.armedforces.net/Groups/General_Military_C1/Military_Distance_Education_F4/First_Hechts_Balin_Scam,_Now_NCU/SCUPS_Scam_P276797 )
Eventually I got tired of dealing with their problems and left the program. I found another program at a different school with a much higher level of prestige in my field.
I would not recommend NCU to anyone unless you couldn't possibly get admitted at a decent school. Even at its best NCU is bottom of the barrel. If you are willing to settle for that then this is for you, but if you aspire to anything above that look elsewhere.
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