DeVry University-California

DeVry offers online and on-campus bachelor’s degrees primarily in business administration, management, and IT, with Niche ranking it #2 for Best Information Technology Colleges in 2026. Programs emphasize career readiness, though Reddit threads and veteran forums caution about its controversial reputation, including past allegations of overpriced, low-value degrees. The university promotes a 'culture of care' with faculty experienced in industry, but its academic rigor is debated. Notably, DeVry lacks the liberal arts breadth of traditional colleges, focusing instead on vocational training in tech and business sectors.

With 2,083 undergraduates at its Ontario campus, DeVry caters to non-traditional students balancing work and school. The urban setting offers limited traditional campus amenities, though the university highlights 24/7 counseling and wellness resources. Online students dominate the demographic, and Niche reviews suggest campus life is sparse compared to residential colleges. Student activities are rarely highlighted beyond generic 'well-rounded experience' claims, with no notable athletics or Greek life.

DeVry’s outcomes are mixed: median earnings one year post-graduation are $36,427, but its 19% graduation rate (per federal data) raises concerns. Retention rates are not publicly emphasized, and a 2025 report to accreditors omitted placement rates for graduates. The 150% federal graduation rate (measuring completion within 6 years for bachelor’s degrees) is well below national averages, suggesting many students struggle to persist. Employment disclosures are vague, with no clear data on field-specific job placement.

The average net price after aid is $33,145/year, with $6,220 in average grant aid per student. DeVry promotes scholarships and federal aid options, but its for-profit model draws scrutiny for high costs relative to outcomes. Notably, only 2% of students receive institutional grants, relying heavily on federal aid. The net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator is flagged as a key tool, but comparisons to public California schools reveal a steeper financial burden for similar vocational programs.

DeVry’s singular trait is its hyper-accessible admissions and flexible career-focused programs, appealing to working adults and online learners. However, its low graduation rate, lack of traditional campus culture, and checkered reputation distinguish it in ways that may give pause. The IT program’s #2 Niche ranking is a bright spot, but prospective students should scrutinize ROI given the high net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. and uncertain outcomes.