When you’re picking a university, it’s not just about picking a name. You need to think about what’s important to you—like flexibility, costs, and the kind of degree programs offered. Let’s dive into a comparison between Maryville University and Walden University to help you figure out which school fits your goals and lifestyle better.
Why Compare Maryville University and Walden University?
If you’re looking for an online degree, you’ve probably seen Maryville University and Walden University pop up in your search. Both schools have strong online programs, making them popular choices for working adults and people with busy schedules. But how do they stack up against each other?
Let’s break down the key differences, so you can decide which one is the better fit for you.
University Overview
Maryville University Overview
Maryville University is a private school based in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1872, it has over 150 years of history, but it’s really focused on the future, especially when it comes to online education. Maryville offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on business, healthcare, and education.
Key Points:
- Offers more than 50 online programs.
- Focus on career-ready education.
- Known for its supportive faculty and student services.
Walden University Overview
Walden University is another private, online-focused institution. It’s based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and was established in 1970. Walden’s mission is all about providing access to higher education for people who want to make a difference in their communities and professions. They specialize in graduate programs like master’s, doctorates, and certificates in fields like psychology, nursing, and social work.
Key Points:
- Primarily an online university with graduate-level focus.
- Strong emphasis on social change.
- Known for flexible programs that fit adult learners.
Programs and Degrees Offered
What Maryville University Offers
Maryville has a range of programs, from bachelor’s degrees to doctoral programs. Popular majors include cybersecurity, nursing, and business administration. They also offer a lot of flexibility with online classes, which are designed to work around your schedule.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN)
- Master’s in Cybersecurity
- Master of Health Administration (MHA)
What Walden University Offers
Walden specializes in graduate degrees. They have doctorate programs in fields like education, public health, and psychology. If you’re looking to advance your career with a master’s or doctorate, Walden might be the better fit.
Popular Programs:
- PhD in Psychology
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Tuition Costs and Financial Aid
Maryville’s Tuition and Aid Options
Maryville is generally considered to be more affordable than some other private universities. For example, undergraduate tuition starts at around $500 per credit hour, and graduate programs can vary depending on the field.
They offer several financial aid options, including:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Federal student loans
Maryville also provides a tuition assistance program for active-duty military and veterans.
Walden’s Tuition and Aid Options
Walden is slightly more expensive, but it offers plenty of financial aid opportunities. Tuition for graduate programs can range from $600 to $1,000 per credit hour, depending on the program.
Walden’s financial aid options include:
- Federal financial aid
- Scholarships for high-achieving students
- Employer partnerships that can help with tuition costs
Both schools offer tuition payment plans that let you pay as you go, which is great if you need to spread out the cost.
Online Learning and Flexibility
Maryville’s Online Education
Maryville offers a fully online education that’s designed to fit into your life. You won’t have to log in at specific times—everything is asynchronous, meaning you can complete the work on your own schedule. They offer 24/7 tech support and virtual student services, like tutoring and career counseling.
Walden’s Online Learning Experience
Walden also offers an entirely online learning experience. However, Walden tends to offer more structured online classes, where you might have to meet certain deadlines or log in for live discussions. That said, they’re known for their flexibility and ability to work with students who have demanding jobs or family responsibilities.
Both universities focus on flexibility, but Maryville leans a bit more toward letting you fully control your schedule, while Walden offers more guidance along the way.
Accreditation and Reputation
Maryville’s Accreditation and Standing
Maryville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It’s also well-ranked in U.S. News & World Report, often appearing in lists for the best online bachelor’s and graduate programs.
Accreditations to Note:
- Nursing programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Business programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Walden’s Accreditation and Standing
Walden is also accredited by the HLC and has additional accreditation for its specialized programs, particularly in education and nursing. While Walden isn’t as frequently ranked in the traditional college rankings, it has a strong reputation for graduate programs, especially in public health and psychology.
Accreditations to Note:
- Nursing programs accredited by the CCNE
- Education programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Student Support Services
Support at Maryville University
Maryville is known for offering a lot of support to its students. Whether it’s help from your advisor or career services, they’ve got you covered. The online platform is user-friendly, and there’s always someone available to help with technical or academic issues.
Support at Walden University
Walden also puts a lot of focus on student support, especially for their graduate students. They have a strong community of learners, which can be a huge help if you’re working on a doctorate or master’s thesis. There’s also 24/7 tech support and a writing center to help you with papers and research.
Conclusion: Which University is Best for You?
Both Maryville University and Walden University have a lot to offer, but they cater to slightly different audiences. If you’re looking for a flexible online program with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, and you want to study in a career-focused environment, Maryville might be the right pick. But if you’re seeking a graduate degree, especially in a field like social work or education, and you want a university that’s deeply focused on social impact, Walden could be your best choice.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal goals, your current career, and what you’re looking to achieve.
FAQs
1. Are both universities accredited?
Yes, both Maryville University and Walden University are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
2. Which university is more affordable?
Maryville tends to be slightly more affordable than Walden, especially for undergraduate programs.
3. Do both universities offer online programs?
Yes, both Maryville and Walden offer fully online programs that are designed for working adults.
4. Which school is better for a graduate degree?
Walden University has a stronger focus on graduate programs, especially in fields like psychology, social work, and public health.
5. Can I transfer credits between these universities?
You can usually transfer credits, but it depends on the program and specific course requirements. It’s always a good idea to check with the admissions office at each school.