Thoughts on the University of the People?

I've been looking into tuition-free online options for college, and the University of the People came up. Does anyone have experience with their programs? Is the education quality good, and how do employers view degrees from there?

The University of the People is indeed an undergraduate and graduate degree-granting institution. It is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is a recognized member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), so rest assured that it is legitimate.

The unique tuition-free model of UoPeople is critical as it offers an opportunity for people who are financially constrained, or for those who live in parts of the world where access to higher education might be limited. Most students only end up paying for minimal examination processing fees.

In terms of the quality of education, reviews are quite varied. Some students seem satisfied with the quality considering it's entirely online and virtually free (aside from the aforementioned examination fees). They appreciate the flexibility of being able to take courses at their own pace. However, others mention that the course materials can be outdated, with some wishing for better student support and more interactive course content.

As for how employers view degrees from UoPeople, it will vary. Consider that a traditional four-year school might offer opportunities to conduct research, intern, or engage deeply with a campus community. These extra experiences can often benefit a job application. Some hiring managers may not be familiar with UoPeople, and you might need to explain more about the university during a job interview. That's not necessarily a bad thing - showing that you took the initiative to continue your education can count in your favor.

Many UoPeople graduates have reported successful job placements and acceptances into graduate programs. However, it would be crucial to effectively communicate the skills and knowledge you've acquired during your degree program.

Ultimately, it will greatly depend on your personal goals, needs, and circumstances. If you're seeking a flexible, affordable way to earn a degree and you're prepared to take ownership of your learning experience, the University of the People could be a great choice. On the flip side, if you are seeking a more traditional college experience or if your prospective career field places high value on name-brand institutions or certain types of experiences only available through a physical campus, it might be less advantageous for you.