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Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, Arizona · Private (for-profit)

Ranked #392 US News

FindU Grade

CValue
N/ACampus
C+Academics
BAdmissions
B-Student Life
C+Overall

About

Grand Canyon University is located in Phoenix, Arizona. It is a private (for-profit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 68,619 students.

gcu.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$17,450
Out-of-state tuition$17,450
Room & board$11,162
Avg aid package$9,308
Students receiving aid43%
Pell grant recipients43%

Grand Canyon University is committed to affordability, freezing tuition costs on its Phoenix campus for 17 consecutive years and offering nominal increases in online tuition. In 2023, students received approximately $330 million in institutional scholarships. This commitment opens doors to students across all socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a diverse community.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1058–1175
4001600
ACT · middle 50%19–24
136

Application info

Acceptance rate60%
Average GPA3.59
Student–faculty ratio21:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes

Grand Canyon University has an acceptance rate of 78%, indicating it is a less selective university. A good academic record will improve chances of admission. The university looks for students who align with its mission and values, offering a holistic review of applications.

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Academics

Graduation rate44%
Retention rate68%
Student–faculty ratio21:1
Full-time faculty9%

Grand Canyon University offers a unique educational experience blending academic rigor with Christian values. The university fosters a supportive community where students can grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally. GCU is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields, emphasizing ethical leadership and community service.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$42,186
Avg starting salary$36,000
Job placement rate96%
Earn more than HS grad71%
Economic mobility86%
Loan default (3 yr)5%
Loan repayment (3 yr)35%

GCU equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields, continuously updating programs to meet the evolving demands of the job market. The university's curriculum, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities contribute to preparing graduates for successful careers. GCU emphasizes ethical leadership, community service, and social responsibility, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Student life

Demographics

Large School
68,619Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 70%Male 30%
48% WhiteRacial diversity
White 48%Hispanic 24%Black 16%Asian 3%Other 9%
Campus housingYes

Grand Canyon University is known for its vibrant Christ-centered campus culture and community atmosphere. Students can participate in over 105 Welcome Week events and enjoy campus traditions. With nearly 17,000 students living in university-owned housing, GCU offers a large on-campus housing community.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Unfortunately, my perspective doesn’t reflect the positive picture I had before.I have taught over 1,200 soldiers in various areas, including Heavy Equipment Operator Courses, Combat Engineer Courses, and Primary Leader Courses. To name a few. When someone is struggling, the Cadre and students (soldiers) always helped those who struggle. We would take the time to mentor, guide, and teach so they understand and grasp the task at hand. GCU’s graduation rate for Online courses have a 45% completion rate… Need I say any more?

Current Student

I am now working to find a temporary job, which I was not planning on since ST is a full time job, in order to pay this inter St while I wait. The counseling team not only with holds valuable information, for fear students ma leave, they are slow to communicate. They often respond to my questions with links to the information I had questions about.

Current Student

The seven to eight week courses are really great. I do also love that in contrast to WGU you can turn in an assignment and have it graded as is. I love how short they are but I think the amount of assignments and the requirement of posting discussions on various days does not promise a great work life balance that the college promises.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers an exceptional educational experience that combines a supportive community with rigorous academic standards. The online and in person campus is vibrant and welcoming, fostering a sense of belonging among students. The variety of programs allows for diverse academic pursuits, ensuring that everyone can find their niche.

Cost and value

Current Student

If you're getting financial aid and getting stipends you don't get it until at least 3 weeks after it post and it comes in a check not direct deposit. Also one person does your financial aid academic advisor and everything it's all by one person. They don't tell you this at the beginning.

Alumni

I graduated as one of the top students not just my bachelor degree but also my masters. I was told gcu hires to alumni first and we'll here I am 4 years out with thier ba and MA and they still refuse to hire me. I will be telling people to to either apply for school or jobs with them. Never mind I'm alumni and I should be first that they would want to hire.

About Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University has established the GCU Police Department to ensure campus safety. The university takes security measures to provide a safe environment for students. GCU is committed to maintaining a secure campus community.

The Honors College at Grand Canyon University cultivates a learner-centric environment promoting character, integrity, intellectual growth, and practical application through interdisciplinary collaboration. Honors graduates emerge as adept communicators, evidence-based decision-makers, and deliberate global contributors. The Honors College offers enriching opportunities to bright and passionate students interested in applied experiential learning related to local and global community engagement, service, and transformative leadership.

Grand Canyon University welcomes international students and offers a supportive environment. The university provides resources and services to assist international students in their academic and personal pursuits. GCU's diverse community fosters cultural awareness and global competence.

Avg faculty salary$89,748

Grand Canyon University FAQ

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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