About
University of Phoenix is a private, accredited university that offers online degree programs designed for adult learners and working professionals. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, the University provides associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in career-focused fields such as business, information technology, healthcare, nursing, education, and criminal justice.
University of Phoenix serves a large population of nontraditional students across the United States, with more than one million alumni and an average total degreed enrollment of about 88,100 in fiscal year 2025. The typical student is an adult learner—the average age is 38—and many balance school with work and family responsibilities. A majority of students are employed, and many are first-generation college students.
The University is known for its focus on flexible scheduling, online learning technology, and programs designed to help students build skills applicable in the workplace.
Programs and Degrees
University of Phoenix offers 77 degree programs and 32 certificate programs across multiple academic disciplines. Programs are available at the:
· Associate level
· Bachelor’s level
· Master’s level
· Doctoral level
· Undergraduate and graduate certificate level
Fields of study include:
· Business and Management
· Information Technology
· Healthcare and Nursing
· Education
· Criminal Justice
· Counseling and Human Services
· Psychology
Programs are designed to emphasize practical application, leadership development, and skills aligned to workforce needs across a wide range of occupations.
Online Learning Experience
University of Phoenix delivers most programs online through a structured digital learning platform. Students typically take one 5- to 6-week course at a time, with most courses offered in an asynchronous format.
The University has offered online education since 1989 and developed its model specifically for working adults who need flexibility without sacrificing structure.
Online students may have access to:
· Digital textbooks and course materials
· Online library and research tools
· Academic advising
· Tutoring and writing support
· Technical support
· Career services
The learning model also incorporates skills-based curriculum design, competency-based options in select programs, and digital badging that allows students to demonstrate specific competencies to employers.
Accreditation
University of Phoenix is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been continuously accredited since 1978. Accreditation was reaffirmed in 2023 for an additional 10-year period.
Some programs also hold specialized programmatic accreditation in areas such as business, healthcare, nursing, counseling, and social work.
Career Outcomes and Student Support
University of Phoenix emphasizes career-focused education and provides tools to help students prepare for employment or advancement. Courses are designed to connect academic concepts with real-world applications, and faculty members bring significant professional experience—averaging nearly 30 years in their fields.
Students and graduates have access to Career Services for Life® commitment, which includes:
· Resume and cover letter support
· Interview preparation
· Career counseling and coaching
· Job search resources
· Career Navigator tools
The University also integrates workforce-relevant skills into its curriculum and offers digital badges that allow students to showcase verified competencies to employers.
