The Administrative Support at Walden University is a joke!
By Anonymous - Anonymous on October 2, 2008
I completed my undergraduate degree at Walden University in Business Administration. The administrative support I received was absolutely terrible. This problem wasn't limited to one department either. I had trouble with the Financial Aid department, the Bursars office, the Academic Advisors, the "Graduation Team", etc. Every issue I encountered required me to e-mail and call at least ten times (and this is not an exaggeration and I have the e-mail chains to prove it for anyone doubting me on this). Nobody would ever handle any of my problems, and I was constantly pushed off on other people. I have never received this poor of customer service from any other organization (and I've had to deal with a lot of notoriously poor organizations like the VA, DoD Records Offices, State Unemployment Office, and Credit Card companies). I have been done with the Walden program for two months now, and of course I still can't get anyone to respond to me and tell me if they are even working on processing/issuing my degree. Also, I still haven't received my Financial Aid award (Pell Grant and Stafford Loan) from 4 months ago. In fact, I was actually told today that I will not receive it, because the school didn't process it on time and there is nothing I can do about it. Apparently the Financial Aid has to be processed during the term it is to be awarded for (although I submitted it two weeks prior to the term's end date, apparently it takes three months to process like everything else at Walden). The program price is a little costly, but the convenience of doing your degree quickly (took 3 six-week courses at a time to complete 19 classes in a little over a year of course time) and at your own time added to the value. I would say that they are by no means a Diploma Mill as I do feel I learned a decent amount and I am a lot better at writing long (usually a 5-10 page paper per class). However, I think they should revise their mission statement to say something along the lines of "To push as many people through the school as quickly as possible, while having as little administrative support as possible to keep costs low, with the goal of generating as much profit for the shareholders" or the motto to "At Walden you are just another number, so don't ask us for anything accept the address to send the check to". But this is just one person's experience...
Walden UniversityMEd in Science Education
By Dawn - Minneapolis, MN on August 11, 2008
My experience overall was not pleasant. I signed up with this program because of the course sequence and length of courses, which would allow me turn earn my degree in 18 months. It turns out that they have a 5 week "break" in between each session, so the degree stretched out to over 2 years. Also, I did not enjoy the online forums. We had to rate each others work and respond to the postings. I thought this would be the teacher's job. I did get my master's degree for not a lot of work. I would change the format to include higher percentages of the final grade being devoted to our individual work, not how many times we gave suggestions to others.
Walden UniversityRebutt to July 28, 2008 review
By M.L. - New Jersey on August 5, 2008
Walden is a great university. The teachers are caring and supportive and always are there to help you to attain your degree. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the US Dept. of Education. They consisitently tell students to check with their individual states, FLorida included, to make sure YOU the student are aware of all the preparations needed to sit for your states licensing exam. This is the students responsibility not Waldens'. Each state has their own laws for licensing. I know this because I am a psychology Ph.D. student at Walden and I am updated on the licensing laws in my state and what I need to do. Walden has been a great experience for me a working Mom, Wife and Student.
Walden UniversityPhD. in Public Policy and Administration
By Michael - South Carolina on August 5, 2008
Online schools are becoming more accepted in the professional world and should only increase given the rising cost of gasoline, the questioned security of traditional ground classrooms, and the fact that more people in our society are becoming technology savvy and comfortable with the use of computers. I realized with my professional and family obligations, an online school was the only way I would be able to handle those obligations and further my education. I reviewed several schools and found Walden University to suit my needs best. One of the Walden Enrollment Advisors took time to explain the beginning process. I had finished my Masters degree at a traditional “brick and mortar” school 14 years prior so I was concerned about starting school again. Part of the enrollment process requires the applicant to write a proposal of study and this most likely assisted my enrollment advisor in assisting me to choose a course of study. It also gave me confidence that I could work, have a family life, and finish my educational goals successfully. Because my professional career had been involved with the public sector and I was interested in increasing my opportunities in that sector, I chose Walden’s Public Policy and Administration doctoral program. The school offers several specialization areas but because I really did not wish to concentrate in one specialization, I picked the General Studies section. Later, I learned that there was an option to substitute three classes for one of their KAMs (Knowledge Area Modules) and I finished three courses in homeland security and emergency management planning. If I understand correctly, KAMs are specific to Walden University and actually it was the second reason I chose Walden. KAMs can assist the student in learning what is needed in a dissertation. Walden apparently found that many doctoral students end up “All but Dissertation” and the KAMs serve can serve as a springboard to the dissertation. KAMs are best described as a literature review with an application in mind. At this point, I have finished all but two courses and I have started working on my first KAM. In my estimation, I have about 2 years to go to finish my degree. I highly recommend Walden University for anyone with a busy life and a drive for achieving further educational goals.
Walden UniversityOverview of Online Programs/My Experience at Walden
By Anonymous - Online on July 28, 2008
Let me begin by offering this warning--BE VERY CAREFUL!! Yes, there are some online colleges that are legitimate; and there are others that are nothing more than degree mills. It is very important to recognize that all of these colleges are private institutions and are usually for-profit. That makes a huge difference when it comes time to validate your degree to either your employer or to another college. There are several factors that you must consider. First, what exactly do you want to accomplish with your degree. If the answer is personal satisfaction or perhaps a raise or promotion at work, then online may be the way to go. However, if you are looking to advance yourself with a master's or doctorate degree, like I am doing, then online may not be a viable route.
For example, there are at least three online law schools--none of which are accredited by the American Bar Association. Without ABA accreditation, you cannot practice in Florida, which is where I live. So, online is not a viable option for me. Second are the cost considerations. Online schools are typically outrageously expensive. And there is no benefit to paying that additional fee. If you are interested in obtaining your degree online, start with your state university.
Most universities are facing a funding crisis that prohibits them from building additional classrooms. As a result, many have turned to online versions of their classes. They carry full college credit (make sure that they are regionally accredited) and the cost involved are quite reasonable--in some cases as low as $240 per credit hour. And they all offer financial aid that is almost 100% guaranteed (no felony drug convictions and must be registered for Selective Service if a male).
I got mine through a reputable distance learning university. It was NTU and now is called Walden University. I found it because my former employer was promoting it (and they were a fortune 300 company!) Anyway, whatever you do, make sure your distance learning university (whether it be online or otherwise) is accredited. If so, then go for it! I would say that employers look at my Master's Degree as a true degree and don't have a problem with it. However, I've never heard of anyone getting a BS or BA online and it being considered acceptable. I'm sure times change though. But in your case, for a Master's degree, it is more acceptable.
Walden UniversityMaster of Science in Education - Integrating Technology in the Classroom
By Suzanne - Minneapolis, MN on July 28, 2008
I really enjoyed my online degree program. It was very nice to be able to do the work on my own time, watch video lectures when I wanted to, and have the freedom to keep the rest of my life fairly normal. I'm still excited about all the gas money I saved! The format of my classes was very nice, because you knew approximately how much work you would have each week. The professors were all very helpful, and all the materials were current and relevant. There were a few things that could have been improved about the actual website used for the classes, although most things were easy enough to find. Overall, the online degree experience suited my needs perfectly, and I wouldn't trade the experience (or my resulting pay increase!) for any other.
Walden UniversityM.S. Degree Program in Clinical Research
By Amanda - Florida on July 15, 2008
Walden University offers a M.S. Degree Program in Clinical Research Administration online which worked with my schedule. I found the program to provide an interesting curriculum considering it was an online program. Coursework included clinical research, data management and epidemiology to name a few. The ethical and legal issues covered in one class provided an interesting overview of those issues. However, I would have enjoyed spending a little more time in practicum, since that provided the real world practice that brought everything together for me. Making the most of the practicum is important to make the most of the experience. Online learning can be challenging and rewarding. The fact that I had so much flexibility in my participation I felt I was creating my own learning experience. However, it did require a certain level of discipline that I was not used to and it can take some adjustment. Finding a way to balance is important when trying to adjust to an online learning environment.
Walden UniversityLoving Every Minute-EdD Educational Administrator(Teaching and Learning)
By Denise Marie Johnson-Jackson - Fort Worth on July 15, 2008
I love every minute of being a student at Walden. I love that Walden has a program that is really gear towards true leadership practices (hands on). Also, the professors are just like me-"A Down Home Educator"
Walden UniversityWorth it over time
By Jared - Cambridge, MA on July 14, 2008
Walden University's Ph.D. prgrams will work in your favor over time. The Walden Ph.D. will not immediately attract employers. But, as you acquire additional professional experiences, certifications, and/or licenses in your fieled, your Ph.D will become an awesome enhancement. The Walden Ph.D. has a significantly positive effect on the resume of professionals who have achieved alot or plan to achieve alot. Acquire the degree from Walden, if you plan to become or are already an interesting person with an interesting background to begin with.
Walden UniversityMasters in Social Work
By ps - Encinitas ca on May 30, 2008
Beware of getting a MSW through any on-line university. In order to get employed in the field your masters degree will mean nothing if it's not from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. You will not be able to sit for licensing exams, and most jobs in the field require you get a degree from a CSWE accredited program. I'd hate to see someone spend the money and time for a degree that meant nothing.
Walden UniversityMasters in Nonprofit Administration
By Jolene - Olympia, Washington on April 22, 2008
My online learning experience was great. The faculty and student dialog in the online classroom was very interactive and fulfilling. It was neat to be able to have dialog with people that are in different areas of the country working in the same field as you are. The coursework was interesting and books we were assigned to read were current and pertinent to the topic. The assignments and discussion topics all related to the readings for the week and were outlined in advance. The best part is that it was all online and I could complete everything from the comfort of my own home when it was a good time for me to complete homework. My Walden experience prepared me for my new career in nonprofit management.
Walden UniversityPublic Health (MPH)
By Cheryl - Monrovia on April 10, 2008
Walden University's MPH program is a great program for anyone who is serious about public health. The courses are set up to deliver the knowledge and background necessary for today's professional. The staff is very knowledgeable and really make the student feel as if he or she is a vital part of the class/program. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience as a student at Walden.
Walden UniversityWalden University online B.S. in Psychology
By Laly - San Francisco, California on March 31, 2008
Walden University has the best of everything out there. Before ending up here I took classes through Devry Online and the University of Phoenix online and I was not satisfied with what I got.
The coursework that we got at Walden was very challenging and it was very informative. I feel that I never got assignments from which I didn't take something with me for future reference. I got to keep a lot of the materials that we used and it was just awesome to have all the information that I'll need to pursue my career as a psychologist. The online tools we used were forums, videos, audio files, and a lot of Microsoft Word and PowerPoints also.
My classmates and professors were great. We all met each other at least twice for discussion in the chat room for our class and we got to know each other very well. The discussions helped a lot of us develop our thoughts and our minds. The overall experience was one I won't trade for nothing. Walden is great!
Walden UniversityAssociates
By Teresa - Nevada on March 27, 2008
My online learning experience was good. The professor interacted well with the class. It was in the education field, we used several internet sites as well as textbooks in the course. It as a favorable experience.
Walden UniversitySchool of Management B.S. in Business Administration
By Liz - Columbus, OH on March 26, 2008
My online learning experience was great. I needed a manageable course load and a good pace to balance with my family life and work schedule. The classes were moderately difficult but I still got pretty good grades b/c I studied and was interested in the subjects.
I took advantage of all of the tools that were offered - from the chance to chat with other students and the teacher to the materials that were provided to supplement the assignments, and the interactions with everyone were good and valuable for me and my education. As I said, the overall experience was very positive and I am so happy that I made the decision to go back and get my degree in this way. It was definitely worth the cost and effort.
Walden UniversityAA Psychology
By anonymous - Ola Modesto, California on March 26, 2008
I completed all of my psychology classes online, and I thoroughly enjoyed almost all of them. The coursework was informative, and I learned a great deal, but I only had to write fairly short papers and online posts. Courses were presented through Etudes;some professors provided links to outside online sources to fill in any gaps the texts might leave. Most of the courses required classmate interaction, and I actually "knew" my classmates' minds better at times than I might have in a regular classroom. Most of the professors were quick to answer emails; only one professor didn't respond to online posts, and unfortunately learning in that particular class became "learning by consensus" rather than guided learning.
Walden University