• Year Established: 1976
• Location: Phoenix, Arizona
• Number of Campuses: 204 urban campuses and learning centers
• Classification: For-profit educational institution, specializing in adult education
• Total Number of Enrollees: 117, 309*

*Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, 2005 Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System IPEDS, Spring 2006

A Brief Look into the History of the University of Phoenix

When you first visit the website of the University of Phoenix, the first thing that you will notice is their motto which presents a very forward-looking attitude: "Thinking ahead."

The phrase is a perfect reflection of the way the university works – this institution embodies and embraces advances in technology. Giving credence to this is the fact that one of their primary sources of revenue is the online courses they offer those who avail themselves of their higher education offerings.

University of Phoenix Quick Look at Origin and Founder.

John G. Sperling founded the Institute of Professional Development in 1973, while teaching at San Jose State. Understanding the opportunities available in the growing field of higher education, in 1976 Mr. Sperling began what later became the University of Phoenix. Mr. Sperling’s new creation became fully-accredited in 1978 by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Considering the fact that the University of Phoenix is a very young in comparison to most U.S. institution of higher learning, it is impressive to say the lease, that they are now number one in enrollment and campuses nationwide.

In as early as 1989, the University of Phoenix became the first university to offer online programs as a new means to obtaining a degree. Shortly after this creative step, there was an almost immediate expansion of this extremely creative and forward-looking institution in Phoenix, Arizona and the need for a second campus was soon-realized and located in San Jose.

Today, the University of Phoenix is the largest private university in North America. They have 2004 campuses and smaller learning centers and maintain a robust and comprehensive online education programs to students who are remotely located in virtually all areas of the globe. The University of Phoenix also takes pride in the fact that it is the largest private university in the world.

How the Educational System Works

The campuses of the university cater to all three modes of teaching:

• Students who attend brick-and-mortar classrooms.
• Students who attend virtual campuses, and interact with their teachers and other students online.
• Students who use the FlexNet mode where the first two options are combined.

As you can see, the variety of teaching modes offered in the University of Phoenix offers much more flexibility of the standard classroom environments, offering convenience and a varied, high-quality education to full-time students, working students and beginning or returning adult students.

Program Listings

Whether you are a student aiming to complete a bachelor's degree or a college graduate who is seeking an advanced degree, the University of Phoenix has a wide array of educational programs to suit your needs.

The availability of each program depends on the location and the learning format you would like to use, but here are the general categories:

I. Degree and Certificate Offerings

• Associate's Degree Programs
• Bachelor's Degree Programs
• Master's Degree Programs
• Doctoral Degree Programs
• Certificate Programs
• Individual Courses

II. Programs and Areas of Interest

• Arts and Sciences
• Business and Management
• Criminal Justice and Security
• Education
• Human Services
• Nursing and Health Care
• Psychology
• Technology

Visit the official website of the University of Phoenix to learn more about the specific courses that you can enroll in.

Advantages of Enrolling at the University of Phoenix. Whether you live within the state of Arizona or not, getting your education from the University of Phoenix is opportunity you should seriously consider.

Take a look at some of the advantages of this university:

• You will earn your degree quickly utilizing accelerated, concentrated, and highly-effective course material, delivering superior results whether it is an associate's, bachelors, masters or doctoral degree you desire.
• You can take your pick from the three modes of learning: you can attend a physical classroom, learn through a virtual classroom, or use a combination of both.
• The instructors at the University of Phoenix all hold advanced degrees, and they have extensive experience in their field of expertise.
• By choosing the NetFlex or the online classroom option, you will have the freedom to study at your own pace, in your own time and study your lessons right in the comfort of your own home or from almost anywhere that there is an Internet connection.
• Since the University of Phoenix is the first university in the country to offer online educational courses, they know how to make online teaching work to your advantage.

Is There Any Downside to Enrolling at the University of Phoenix?

When you check-out the online reviews detailing the University of Phoenix program, the cost seems to be a point some would-be students find difficult to handle. However, if it is convenience and absolute superior quality of study you want, then there is a certain price that needs to be paid. There is no need to worry, though, because those premium dollars you obtain through loan, grant or out-of-pocket will be money well-spent when you are holding your diploma from the largest private university in the world. A University of Phoenix degree says you care about the institution you choose in your quest to arrive at the professional you aspire to become.

A Final Word about the Quality of Education Offered by the University of Phoenix

All in all, if you are looking forward to attaining the level of education that you want to reach from an educational institution which 'thinks ahead' – the University of Phoenix online campus should be on top of your list.