Lana Oconnell
Walden University is an accredited online university offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. Walden has a generally positive reputation among employers, graduates, and academics. However, student reviews are mixed, with some praising the university's flexibility and resources, while others criticize its high cost, poor administration, and lack of support during the dissertation process. Walden's retention rate is 33%, significantly lower than the national and state averages. While some students have reported positive experiences with the faculty and staff, others have encountered challenges with financial aid, inconsistent information, and difficulties finding clinical sites.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online learning | Varied experiences, some positive, some negative |
| Faculty | Varied experiences, some positive, some negative |
| Administration | Poor experience |
| Financial aid | Poor experience |
| Support | Varied experiences, some positive, some negative |
| Resources | Varied experiences, some positive, some negative |
| Accreditation | Accredited by CACREP |
| Alumni satisfaction | High |
| Alumni recommendation | Likely to recommend |
| Graduate employability | Positive |
| Military-friendly | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
- Walden University's online PhD program is highly regarded by some students
- The university's administration and financial aid department have been criticised for their lack of organisation and professionalism
- Some students have expressed disappointment with the dissertation process, citing unexpected additional costs
- Walden's practicum sites and requirements have been a source of frustration for several students
- The university is praised for its resources and support for online students, including family-friendly residencies
Walden University's online PhD program is highly regarded by some students
Walden University's online PhD program is well-regarded by some students, with many praising the university's flexibility and support. The university is accredited by CACREP, which meets state licensure requirements and allows for national accreditation, guaranteeing reciprocity of licensing state-to-state. This is particularly beneficial for military veterans, with Walden University being named to G.I. Jobs' 2016 list of Military Friendly Schools.
Some students have praised the university's acceptance of their previous master's credits, which has saved both time and money. The flexibility of the online program is also highlighted by students, who appreciate the ability to work at their own pace. One student mentions that they were able to finish all their PhD coursework in three years while also working on their dissertation.
The university's resources are also commended, with students noting that Walden provides all types of resources to support students, including family-friendly residencies and webinars and podcasts covering a full spectrum of issues commonly faced by online students. The instructors and advisors are described as fantastic and always helpful, and the library is considered excellent.
While some students have encountered challenges with administration, particularly financial aid, others have found the faculty and staff at Walden to be just as good or better than those at other universities. The high standards and expectations of the university are also acknowledged by students, who recognize the commitment needed to complete the program successfully.
Overall, Walden University's online PhD program is highly regarded by some students who appreciate the flexibility, resources, and support provided by the university, as well as its accreditation and the high quality of instruction.
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The university's administration and financial aid department have been criticised for their lack of organisation and professionalism
Walden University has received mixed reviews from its students. While some praise the university for its flexibility, academic standards, and resources, others have criticised its administration and financial aid department for their lack of organisation and professionalism.
One student reported issues with the financial aid office, bursar's office, and other support departments, stating that they do not communicate effectively with each other. They also described the financial aid representatives as rude and inconsistent in their responses, especially when a student's financial aid runs out. Another student shared a similar experience, mentioning that they received varying answers from different representatives and that finding clinical sites was challenging due to a lack of support from the university.
Some students have expressed concerns about unexpected costs and hidden fees, feeling that they are not getting their money's worth. One student mentioned that they had to pay $550 per credit hour and encountered issues with finding preceptors and practicum sites, contrary to what they were initially told. Others have also shared stories of unexpected bills and issues with financial aid, grants, and scholarships, which have negatively impacted their credit scores and led to collections agencies getting involved.
In addition to financial concerns, some students have criticised the university for a lack of support during challenging family situations, with one student sharing that they were kicked out of the university due to personal issues. Another student mentioned that they were blamed for their lack of progress by their chair, even though they were dealing with family illnesses.
Overall, while some students have praised Walden University for its academic standards and resources, others have had negative experiences with the administration and financial aid department, citing a lack of organisation, professionalism, and empathy in their interactions. These experiences have left some students feeling disappointed and frustrated, impacting their academic journeys and financial situations.
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Some students have expressed disappointment with the dissertation process, citing unexpected additional costs
Walden University is a reputable online university that offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. It is accredited by the CACREP, which meets state licensure requirements and allows for national accreditation. The university has a positive reputation among employers, graduates, and the academic community, with high alumni satisfaction rates.
However, some students have expressed disappointment with the dissertation process, citing unexpected additional costs and a lack of support. One student shared their experience, stating that their committee chair would request minor tweaks at the end of each semester, only to demand more significant changes after the student had paid for the next semester. This cycle continued for over six semesters, resulting in the student accruing $75,000 in expenses. When the student expressed their frustration, they felt dismissed by the school, which they believed prioritized financial gain over student success.
Another student shared a similar experience, stating that they had to employ a consultant for help with statistical analysis during their dissertation process. They also mentioned delays and a lack of resources when they first started the program. While they acknowledged that Walden now offers more resources, they felt that the process was challenging and frustrating.
Some students have also expressed concerns about the administration, specifically the financial aid office. They describe a lack of consistency and professionalism in their interactions, with varying responses depending on whom they spoke to. There are also mentions of hidden costs and unexpected expenses throughout their programs.
These experiences highlight the challenges some students have faced at Walden University, particularly regarding unexpected costs and a perceived lack of support during the dissertation process. While the university has a positive reputation overall, these student testimonies underscore the importance of transparent communication and adequate resources to ensure a positive and successful educational journey.
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Walden's practicum sites and requirements have been a source of frustration for several students
Walden University has received mixed reviews from its students. While some praise the university for meeting their expectations and providing helpful instructors, others express disappointment with the administration, financial aid, and practicum requirements.
The practicum requirements at Walden University have been a particular source of frustration for several students. The university offers three degree programs and certificate programs that require a practicum: BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate. Each program has multiple specializations and tracks, and students must complete specific practicum courses to fulfil their degree requirements.
The practicum application process at Walden University is lengthy and time-consuming. Students must submit a separate application for each preceptor nominee, practicum site, course, and term. They are required to provide detailed information, including RN license information, practicum site details, preceptor credentials, and commitment forms. Missing the application deadline can result in delays to the next term and graduation.
Some students have expressed frustration with the lack of support from the university in finding practicum sites. They claim that the university provides a generic list of "approved sites," but many of these sites are unfamiliar with Walden University, and some may not accept students from the university. The process of securing a practicum site and preceptor can be challenging, and students have reported feeling like they are navigating it alone.
Additionally, students must adhere to strict requirements during their practicum hours. They are required to use Meditrek, an online tool, to log their daily activities and track their hours. Any concerns about the accuracy or truthfulness of these logs can result in a Code of Conduct inquiry, and students may face disciplinary action if found to have falsified their logs. Students must also ensure they meet the required number of practicum hours and see patients in the correct age ranges and specialty areas to complete their course successfully.
Overall, while Walden University's practicum requirements aim to provide a comprehensive learning experience, some students have found the process challenging and have expressed a desire for more support and guidance from the university in navigating these requirements.
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The university is praised for its resources and support for online students, including family-friendly residencies
Walden University is a reputable online university, respected by employers, graduates, and the academic community. The university is praised for its resources and support for online students, including family-friendly residencies.
Walden University offers a wide range of resources and support to help students succeed in their online degree programs. They provide helpful resources for students in every degree program, ensuring that students have everything they need to earn their degrees and achieve their life and career goals. For example, Walden offers family-friendly residencies for students pursuing online doctoral degrees, making it easier for them to attend occasional in-person residency requirements.
The university also offers a variety of online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. They are accredited by CACREP, which meets state licensure requirements and enables national accreditation, facilitating state-to-state reciprocity of licensing. This accreditation is essential for students seeking to become licensed counselors or therapists, as it makes them eligible to take the NCE and become NCCs.
In addition to academic resources, Walden University is also committed to providing support for its online students. They have been recognized as a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs, offering various resources and credits for military students. The university also provides webinars and podcasts covering a full spectrum of issues commonly faced by online students, ensuring that students have the support they need to succeed in their online education.
While some students have shared negative experiences related to administrative and financial aid issues, as well as challenges with certain degree requirements, many others have praised Walden University for its resources, support, and commitment to helping students succeed in their online degree programs.
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Frequently asked questions
Walden University is accredited by CACREP, which meets state licensure requirements and guarantees reciprocity of your licensing state to state. However, some students have reported that their workplaces do not hire Walden graduates and do not allow students from the school to be precepted.
Walden University is an online school, and some students have reported that they miss lectures and in-person collaboration with other students. The university has a retention rate of 33%, which is lower than the national and Minnesota state averages. Students have also reported issues with the school's administration, such as professors not giving constructive feedback and taking weeks to return assignments.
Walden University is a for-profit university, which some students have criticised as being a "diploma mill". There are hundreds of public universities that offer excellent MSW training, and employers tend to hire from those programs. However, some students have reported having successful careers after graduating from Walden, particularly those who were already established in their careers and were looking for advancement.
One user reported that Walden University cost their husband about $35,000 per year for his PhD studies.
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