As the largest private university in the country, University of Phoenix is a tremendous success story. Much of this success comes from designing its programs to fit into the typical working adult's schedule. Classes are offered during the day, at night, or on weekends, or online, making it possible for most people to find the time to fit education into their schedule. With 50 campuses and 91 learning centers in 29 states, the University of Phoenix provides a close location to a large percentage of the population of the United States.
University of Phoenix also requires its students to be at least 21 years old. The average student is in their 30s, and has many years of practical experience. Many are executives or business owners. This helps insure that the class is filled with highly motivated people who are ready to learn. In addition, classes are all designed to emphasize the application of course material to real world problems. This helps students get immediate and tangible benefits from the education they receive.
Undergraduate classes run for 5 weeks, and graduate classes run for 6 weeks, allowing students to take classes without having to commit to being available for 16 weeks in a row as with traditional universities. Students who take classes continuously can complete a degree program in as little as two years.
Many different types of programs are offered, all designed and tailored to meet the needs of high demand careers. As of their 2003 Annual Report, University of Phoenix has:
- More than 200,000 students
- More than 17,000 faculty
- More than 95,000 students attending University of Phoenix Online
- More than 45,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate business schools
- 5000 students in Criminal Justice administration programs
- More than 6300 students in bachelors and masters degree in nursing programs
- More than 12,000 students pursuing education degree programs.
- A student population growing at more than 60% per year
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