Grand Canyon University's Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private, for-profit Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. As of September 2023, GCU had over 100,000 students enrolled online and in person, making it one of the largest Christian universities by enrolment. The university offers degrees in over 200 areas of study and is divided administratively into 9 colleges.

Grand Canyon University's total student population

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private for-profit Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. The university offers degrees in over 200 areas of study and is divided administratively into 9 colleges.

GCU's total student population has fluctuated over the years, with significant growth occurring after an infusion of capital in the early 21st century. As of 2023, GCU's total student population was expected to exceed 118,000, including both online and on-campus students. This number comprised approximately 25,800 on-campus students and over 92,000 online students. The university has a large undergraduate enrollment, with 66,769 students as of Fall 2022.

GCU's on-campus student population has also grown steadily. As of 2017, there were over 19,000 students attending the main campus in Phoenix, with plans for further expansion. By 2023, the projected on-campus enrollment had increased to approximately 25,800 students, with around 17,500 of them living on campus in residence halls.

GCU's total student population has made it one of the largest Christian universities by enrollment. The university's growth can be attributed to various factors, including its resistance to making cuts during the pandemic, continuous improvements to its campus and academic programs, and its ability to cater to students' preferences for remote learning, especially during the pandemic.

On-campus vs online learning

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private for-profit Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. As of September 2023, GCU had over 100,000 students enrolled online and in person, making it one of the largest Christian universities by enrolment.

GCU offers a variety of online degrees to help individuals advance in their careers. These programs offer students flexibility while earning a quality education, benefiting from full-time faculty and instructors who are committed to their growth and success. Online students can access resources and support to successfully navigate their academic journey, such as the College Transfer Centre, which assists students transferring to GCU. Online programs are also backed by the legacy of the traditional campus, so online students can take part in campus life and access campus events while earning their degrees.

For on-campus students, GCU offers a range of resources to create a positive campus experience. The GCU Learning Lounge provides tutoring services for challenging courses, and the Office of Career Services supports students transitioning from college to their careers. The Office of Residence Life ensures students feel safe and comfortable living on campus, and the Department of Spiritual Life fosters a Christian community. Additionally, the Health and Wellness Clinic offers healthcare services to students.

GCU's campus life offers a vibrant and engaging experience with new residence halls, dining options, libraries, and classroom buildings. The university encourages student involvement through clubs, intramural sports, worship nights, and exciting campus events. The school spirit is described as unmatched, contributing to a positive and supportive environment. The campus also provides comfortable dorms and dining options, enhancing the overall student experience.

In summary, GCU offers both online and on-campus learning options, each with its own advantages. Online learning provides flexibility and accessibility, while on-campus learning allows for a more traditional college experience with access to resources and a vibrant community. GCU's focus on student success and community engagement is evident in both modes of learning.

Undergraduate enrollment

GCU's undergraduate enrollment consists of both on-campus and online students. In 2017, the university had over 19,000 students attending its main campus in Phoenix, while more than 70,000 students were enrolled in online programs. This distribution has shifted over time, with the university reporting approximately 25,800 on-campus students and over 92,000 online students for a total enrollment of more than 118,000 in 2023. This growth in enrollment has been attributed to various factors, including the university's resistance to making cuts during the pandemic, its ability to offer remote learning during that time, and its 15-year freeze on tuition costs for the on-campus ground campus.

GCU's undergraduate programs cater to a diverse range of fields, offering 72 bachelor's degrees through its six colleges. Popular majors include Nursing, Business, and Human Services. The university also provides flexibility for students, with many resources tailored to their unique needs, such as tutoring services, career support, and spiritual community building for on-campus students, as well as online platforms that deliver the GCU campus experience to virtual settings.

GCU's selective admissions have an acceptance rate of around 76% to 81%, with requirements including a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 or 3.0, depending on other factors. The university's undergraduate entrance requirements are designed to ensure a qualified student body while maintaining accessibility for a range of applicants.

Student accommodation

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a range of student accommodation options to cater to its large student population. As of September 2023, GCU had over 100,000 students enrolled online and in person, with plans to continue expanding its student population and campus.

On-Campus Accommodation

GCU provides on-campus housing options, including suite-style residence halls and apartments. The residence halls offer double or triple occupancy, with each room furnished and equipped with a laundry facility on each floor, breakout rooms for studying, and spacious living areas. The apartments provide a more independent living space, with fully equipped kitchens and outdoor recreation areas. Students living on campus benefit from convenient access to amenities such as heated pools, on-campus restaurants, and the GCU Arena.

Off-Campus Accommodation

For students who prefer to live off-campus, there are options available near the university's campuses. GCU has a main campus in Phoenix, Arizona, and smaller campuses in Tempe and Tucson. Students can choose accommodation in Tempe, a short drive from the Phoenix and Tempe campuses, or in Central Tucson, close to the Tucson campus.

Student Disability Services

GCU also offers accommodation services for students with disabilities. The Student Disability Services Office provides equal access to all GCU programs, systems, and facilities for students with physical, mental, learning, or temporary disabilities. Students can request reasonable accommodations or modifications, such as accessible versions of texts in the form of eBooks. Additionally, service or assistive animals are allowed in university housing for students with approved accommodation requests.

Satellite Campuses

In addition to its main and branch campuses, GCU has satellite campuses and ABSN (Accelerated Nursing) locations in several states, including Northwest Phoenix, Sun City, Tucson, Sandy (Utah), Henderson (Nevada), Chandler (Arizona), and Meridian (Idaho). These satellite locations provide flexibility and convenience for students who wish to attend classes closer to home or in different parts of the country.

Student resources

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a variety of student resources tailored to the unique needs of its students. The university understands the importance of a positive college experience and provides resources to support students' academic, personal, and spiritual growth.

Campus Students

For students attending classes on campus, GCU offers:

• The GCU Learning Lounge: Provides tutoring services for students who need extra support in their challenging courses.
• Office of Career Services: Offers resources, knowledge, and guidance to help students transition from college to meaningful careers.
• Office of Residence Life: Ensures that students living on campus feel safe and comfortable in their residential environment.
• Department of Spiritual Life: Fosters a Christian community on campus, integrating faith and learning, which is an important aspect of the GCU experience.
• Health and Wellness Clinic: Provides healthcare services to students, recognising the importance of maintaining good health while pursuing an education.

Online Students

For online students, GCU offers:

• College Transfer Centre: Assists students who are transferring to GCU, making the process as smooth as possible.
• Full Access to Campus Events: Online students can participate in campus life and take advantage of the resources and community offered by the traditional campus.

All Students

GCU provides resources for all students, including:

• Satellite Campuses: GCU offers a satellite location in Northwest Phoenix for full-time and evening students who want to attend classes closer to home.
• Curriculum and Specialisations: The university collaborates with industry leaders to create programs in high-demand fields and unique specialisations. For example, the Center for Worship Arts offers theology degrees for students interested in worship.
• Student Clubs and Organisations: GCU offers over 200 student clubs and organisations, providing opportunities for students to get involved, connect with peers, and explore their interests.
• Athletics and Recreation: With 21 athletic programs, GCU encourages students to participate in varsity sports and engage in campus activities, fostering school spirit and a positive campus environment.

Frequently asked questions