Grand Canyon University vs. ASU (Master's in Special Education)

Hi-

I did not attend GCU - but my previous employer partnered with the school, so I had the opportunity to work closely with the college and it's students. I think it's an awesome campus. I have heard great things about their educational programs. It is a very small school - only a few thousand actually on campus (majority of their students are online, I believe). But, if they're willing to take all of your credits, I would go there.

I'm originally from Brookfield, WI - welcome to Arizona!

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One of my children's best teachers ever was a graduate of Grand Canyon University, if that helps any.

My friend works in the Education Dept. at GCU,she works with the student teachers. She loves the programs for the students. she teaches a few classes also.

ASU.

"I've never heard of GCU."

ASU is much better known, and has a bigger/better reputation.

That's all that matters when getting this entry on your CV/resume.

I admit I am biased :) I love the Arizona State University... but I can tell you as a perpetual grad student myself, that for me it was really important to make sure that I could do what I wanted to do professionally upon graduation from whatever institution I chose. If both ASU and GCU degrees will get you what you want professionally then it really comes down to the experience that you want to have as a grad student & maybe financial stuff/time committment. If both schools are fully accredited and offer comparable programs for me the tie breaker was always the money! You could try talking to some students and faculty in both programs to help you make your final decision. I am sure they both offer fine programs. Good luck and Welcome!
GO DEVILS! :-)

Eva4Toys

I would definitely say you should consider GCU. I'm a graduate of ASU and was a high school teacher. I looked into GCU when I was considering getting my master's degree. It is a very well respected school and has some great programs. Because it's a private university some people (such as a previous poster) may not have heard of it. However, in education circles a degree from GCU is actually more respected than one from ASU.

If you currently have a teaching position and you plan to stay at the same school, you can ask them which degree they would prefer - If you have some schools in mind (in terms of where you would like to teach) you can certainly ask them as well. In some disctricts/schools if there is a shortage of teachers I'm sure they won't be too picky. I know former colleagues who graduated from ASU and also some from GCU and some from U of A, UConn, etc. They all are happily employed in the teaching field of their choice! Whatever you choose I am sure it will be fine for you as an individual.

GCU is actually one of the top schools in the US for education. Definately a great place to go.

Will a masters from either place over the other garner more money though if that's what you are going for? Doubtful. So you might want to consider that as well. My mom and several of her teacher friends got their Masters from NAU in their satellite program (here in Phoenix) because it cost less and I don't think they required a thesis. Saved her a lot of precious time she really didn't have.