Grand Canyon University

GCU offers 386 degree programs across 10 colleges, with a heavy focus on workforce-ready skills. Its most popular majors include Nursing (3,578 students), Business (1,638), and Human Services (1,216), alongside education and psychology. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, particularly in healthcare and business fields. Online programs—boasting a 65% graduation rate—are a major draw, though traditional campus students graduate at a lower rate (58%).

GCU’s Phoenix campus buzzes with evangelical energy—think painted sidewalks, dorm Bible studies, and a ‘Lopes Up!’ spirit—though Reddit threads reveal a mix of devout and indifferent students. The university invests heavily in amenities, including new residence halls and a thriving NCAA Division I athletics program (the Antelopes). Over 100 clubs range from ministry groups to esports, and events like ‘GCU Spirit Week’ fuel camaraderie. One student summed it up: ‘Even if you’re not religious, there’s always something to do.’

GCU’s 45% graduation rate trails the national average (59%), but alumni see solid returns: median earnings of $74,343 within a decade, outperforming peers with similar demographics. Early-career salaries average $62,543, spiking to $78,861 after five years—a testament to its career-aligned programs. Notably, online students graduate at higher rates (65%) than their on-campus counterparts (58%).

GCU’s net price averages $22,239 after aid, with scholarships slashing tuition by $7,500 annually for eligible students. The average aid package totals $7,744, though 85% of undergraduates borrow federal loans. While cheaper than many private universities, costs still outpace the national midpoint ($20,077), and the sticker price rises yearly.

GCU carves a niche with its blend of evangelical zeal and pragmatic education, offering Arizona’s largest nursing program and a booming online division. Its sprawling, amenity-packed campus feels more like a megachurch than a traditional college, complete with rock-concert-worthy chapel services. While graduation rates raise eyebrows, strong earnings and a tight-knit (if sometimes insular) community make it a compelling choice for students seeking faith-infused career prep.