Capella vs Ashford University

Capella University and Ashford University, both accredited online universities, offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. However, there are some key differences between the two institutions. Capella has a higher acceptance rate (95%) compared to Ashford (85%), and its student body is more diverse, with a larger proportion of international students. Ashford, on the other hand, has a higher graduation rate (60%) compared to Capella (50%). Both universities offer popular majors such as business, nursing, and education, but Capella also offers unique programs in areas like information technology and psychology. To help you make an informed decision about which university is the right fit for you, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison table that delves into these differences in more detail.

	Ashford University	Capella University
Overview
Location	San Diego, California	Minneapolis, Minnesota
Campus setting	City: Large	City: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (For Profit)	Private (For Profit)
Calendar system	Non Traditional	Quarter
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	31.0%	60.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	Open Admission	Open Admission
Application fees		Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50
SAT range	N/A	N/A
ACT range	N/A	N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	Not required
High school GPA	N/A	N/A
Recommendation letters	N/A	N/A
High school transcript	N/A	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	N/A	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$30,665	$21,572
Average net price	$23,585	$17,840
Tuition	$13,280	$14,148
Room & board
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	93.0% Average amount $4,803	100.0% Average amount $3,202
Students receiving federal student loan	62.0% Average amount $6,400	100.0% Average amount $7,943
Students taking out private loans	0.0% Average amount $0	0.0% Average amount $0

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	33,084 Men 36.6% Women 63.4%	12,383 Men 19.2% Women 80.8%
Graduate students	7,278 Men 30.6% Women 69.4%	26,333 Men 17.0% Women 83.0%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Moderate
Out-of-state students	N/A	N/A
International students	0.2%	0.6%
Campus local/setting	City: Large	City: Large
Dormitory capacity	N/A	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	N/A	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	N/A	N/A

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Education Health Professions Psychology Law Enforcement and Firefighting	Health Professions Psychology Business Education Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio	21:1	32:1
Institutional accreditation	Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission	Higher Learning Commission

Outcome
Graduation rate	9.5%	50.0%
Dropout rate	72.0%	50.0%
Transferred out	17.6%	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Business/Managerial Economics (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $55,719 Year 2: $61,516 Year 3: $60,293 Military Applied Sciences (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $56,415 Year 3: $58,856 Public Administration (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $43,833 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $58,095 International Business (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $49,012 Year 2: $63,005 Year 3: $57,228 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $54,455 Year 2: $51,179 Year 3: $49,905 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,247 Year 2: $48,911 Year 3: $49,817 Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $56,178 Year 2: $50,149 Year 3: $49,671 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $49,321 Year 2: $45,618 Year 3: $49,490 Educational/Instructional Media Design (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $59,651 Year 2: $63,005 Year 3: $47,089 Public Administration (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $45,533 Year 2: $43,872 Year 3: $45,202	Management Information Systems and Services (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $127,993 Year 3: $128,733 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $106,301 Year 2: $111,435 Year 3: $119,533 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $114,251 Year 2: $102,409 Year 3: $109,147 Homeland Security (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $101,964 Year 3: $107,926 Health and Medical Administrative Services (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $85,861 Year 2: $101,072 Year 3: $106,574 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $104,654 Year 2: $99,886 Year 3: $100,616 Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,456 Year 2: $94,408 Year 3: $96,294 Business/Commerce, General (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $90,971 Year 2: $89,170 Year 3: $95,852 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $85,010 Year 2: $93,816 Year 3: $92,845 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $90,425 Year 2: $88,678 Year 3: $92,470

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Capella University and Ashford University (now University of Arizona Global Campus)?

Capella University and Ashford University (now University of Arizona Global Campus) differ primarily in their academic focus and structure. Capella is known for its competency-based education and strong emphasis on graduate programs, particularly in fields like business, counseling, and technology. Ashford, on the other hand, historically offered a broader range of undergraduate programs and had a more traditional online learning environment. While both are primarily online, Capella's learning model often involves more self-directed learning and assessment based on demonstrated skills, while Ashford's (UAGC) model is more structured with scheduled courses and assignments. Also, Capella is regionally accredited, while Ashford (UAGC) is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Which university, Capella or Ashford (UAGC), is better for graduate studies?

Capella University is generally considered a stronger choice for graduate studies, especially in fields like business, counseling, and information technology. They have a well-established reputation for their graduate programs and offer various specializations within those fields. While Ashford (UAGC) also offers graduate programs, Capella's focus and reputation in graduate education are more prominent.
How does the accreditation differ between Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC)?

Capella University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a widely recognized and respected accrediting body. Ashford University (now University of Arizona Global Campus) is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Both are reputable accreditations, but regional accreditation (like HLC) is often viewed as more prestigious and can be important for transferring credits or pursuing further education at other institutions.
What are the learning formats like at Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC)?

Capella University utilizes a competency-based education model in many of its programs, allowing students to progress at their own pace by demonstrating mastery of specific skills and knowledge. This often involves self-directed learning and performance-based assessments. Ashford University (UAGC) typically follows a more traditional online learning format with scheduled courses, assignments, and instructor-led discussions. While both are online, Capella offers more flexibility in pacing for some programs.
Which university, Capella or Ashford (UAGC), is more affordable?

The cost of attendance can vary significantly depending on the specific program, financial aid eligibility, and other factors. It's essential to compare the tuition rates, fees, and available financial aid options for the specific program you're interested in at both Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC). Contacting the financial aid offices at both institutions is recommended to get personalized cost estimates.
What types of programs do Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC) specialize in?

Capella University specializes in graduate programs, particularly in business, counseling, information technology, and healthcare. They are known for their competency-based approach and focus on professional development. Ashford University (UAGC) historically offered a broader range of undergraduate programs in areas like business, education, and social sciences. While they also offer graduate programs, their undergraduate offerings were more extensive.
How do the career services compare between Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC)?

Both Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC) offer career services to their students, including resume and cover letter assistance, job search resources, and career counseling. However, the specific resources and support available may vary. It's advisable to research the specific career services offered by each university and determine which aligns best with your career goals.
What is the reputation of Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC) in the job market?

The reputation of a university can influence how employers perceive graduates. Capella University has a solid reputation, particularly in fields where they specialize, such as business and counseling. Ashford University (UAGC), while accredited, has faced some scrutiny regarding its marketing practices in the past. It's important to research employer perceptions of both institutions within your specific field of interest.
Do Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC) offer military benefits and support?

Yes, both Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC) are generally supportive of military students and offer various benefits, including tuition assistance, credit for military experience, and dedicated support services. However, the specific benefits and resources available may differ, so it's recommended to contact the military support offices at both institutions for detailed information.
How do I decide which university, Capella or Ashford (UAGC), is right for me?

Choosing the right university depends on your individual needs and goals. Consider factors such as your desired program of study, learning style, budget, career aspirations, and accreditation preferences. Research the specific programs offered by both Capella University and Ashford University (UAGC), compare their tuition rates and financial aid options, and evaluate their career services and reputation in your field. Speaking with admissions counselors at both institutions can also provide valuable insights.

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