Northcentral University

I am s student at Northcentral; My experience has been poor. Northcentral mentors provided little value. NCU recently closed the student interaction links, I believe due to the negative communication regarding student experiences. Watch out for a very long dissertation phase. Mine is projected to take 4 years.

Review: I started the Business Administration Program focusing in human resource in the fall of 2012. I took one break in the summer of 2013. Then I took no breaks between classes in order to take off a couple weeks around Christmas and stay on schedule. I finished my class in the beginning of March and took a break to have my daughter. This was a medical break, which I discussed in advance with your staff.

I had to take the rest of March off because my daughter was due on March 13th and we did not know if she would come early. I did not want to stop in the middle of a class. I had complications that required me to stay in the hospital longer then expected.

When talking to [redacted], I was informed that I had three classes left after I came back. I have since completed one of the three. I’m now being told that was an added class and I still have three remaining. I was anxious to get started. I wanted to get as much schooling done while I was on maternity leave. As you know it is quite difficult going to grad school, working full time and having a newborn baby.

Per my original contract and my discussion with [redacted] I should be able to continue with the original contracted number of classes. Students should be responsible for the original contract when a medical leave is required during the contract period. Especially when your staff tells them that is what will remain in effect.

I should only be responsible to finish the original number of courses from when I started at NorthCentral University which are also the courses required according to [redacted]. However, the course you added, MGT5026-8, I just completed. Please allow this added class to count toward the original contract and take the place of one of my final 3 classes. In that way I will graduate with the same number of classes as in my original contract, and I will graduate around the same time as scheduled.Desired Settlement: My desired outcome is to honor my original contract credit hours for my Business Administration focusing in Human Resources. I should only have to take and pay for the original number of credit hours. This was discussed with my advisor, [redacted], before and after my medical leave.

Business

Response:

Ms. Britnee Glass

Dispute Resolution Consultant

Arizona Revdex.com

RE: [redacted] ID #[redacted]

Dear Ms. Glass

Part of Northcentral University's

overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and

become valuable contributors to their communities and within their

professions. We appreciate the opportunity

to work with you through this matter.

Unfortunately, FERPA privacy rights preclude Northcentral from

discussing the details of the student’s record to an unauthorized third party

in response to the complaint.

Being associated with

programmatic requirements, we have been in contact with [redacted], on several

occasions providing clarification, guidance and have offered every option

available to assist her in reaching her academic goals. This includes a

special exception made by the Dean. I hope you find this to clarify

the students concerns, please let me know if you need any additional assistance

in the future.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Services

Office of the President

Review: I was a student at Northcentral University until recently when a difference of opinion on the final exam had me removed from my program. I have appealed this, however, the University has made no attempts to make the findings of this appeal known to me. Two months later, over 20 phone calls to Northcentral University and over 15 e-mails I still do not have any answers.

However, the real problems began a week after being removed from the university. A letter arrived in the mail citing a owed the university $2,586.00 for back classes. I about hit the floor because I had private loans and student loans to cover any costs that came about. Apparently the university sent all the money back without covering the remaining costs leaving me with a bill that I could not possibly cover. When I called Northcentral University the person who answered the phone stated that was policy and they would be willing to set up a payment plan to pay back the money.

With no answers from the university about my appeal and no way to pay back the money owed I am at a loss on how to proceed. Not only do I no longer want my name associated with such a crooked university, I just want free from all obligations so that I may move on with my academic endeavors.Desired Settlement: I would like Northcentral University wipe the $2,586.00 owed off my accounts so that I may move on with my academic endeavors. I believe that if Northcentral University thought I owed them any money they should have payed themselves before returning the unused portions of my personal educational loans back to the lender instead of issuing it to me, the bower.

Additionally, I would like Northcentral University to give me the decency of an answer to my appeal question. I think the three months I have been waiting has been long enough for an answer to be formulated. Finally, I would like for Northcentral University to issue an apology letter and release my transcripts.$2,586.00

I currently attend Northcentral University Online and I must say that it has been an extremely awful experience. The faculty is constantly changing... it's ridiculous. I have not been able to complete one course without faculty switching mid term of the course. Some of the staff are rude and do not return messages. I had medical issues to arise during the middle of the course, I emailed the professor and she waited almost 2 weeks before responding. I received a failing grade in the course and the medical issues weren't even acknowledged. I am transferring from this awful school.

Review: I received an email from Northcentral University, please see below:

"Hello [redacted],

I am sorry to bother you but after an internal audit we realized there is still a balance due for $100.00 on your account. It appears that there was a miscalculation when we setup your payment plan. Each of the 10 payments was $10 short of what it should have been and this caused the remaining balance. I do apologize for the inconvenience and have also attached a copy of your transaction history so that you can see the breakdown. Please get back in contact with us so that we can work out arrangements to get the rest taken care of. Thank you for your understanding!"

I do not think that I should have to pay for their mistake. Is this legal? I told them I needed time to think about it. I paid all my payments on time, and a year later am receiving this email. How is it my mistake that they made the payment plan in error?Desired Settlement: My desired outcome is that I do not have to pay $100 back to them for their mistake in making an agreed upon payment plan without fail. I do realize that this person is just doing their job, but this is utterly ridiculous.

Business

Response:

Dear Ms. Glass, Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. In accordance with the student's specific requests for resolution, the University has responded affirmatively and has completed all administrative steps in this process.Please let me know if I can provide any addition information or be of any other service.SincerelyOffice of Legal AffairsOffice of the President

Review: I recently attended NorthCentral online University. But I transferred to another University. Before I did I checked with Financial Aid and my counselor to make sure there was not any balance on my account. Several months go by. Collectors from Northcentral called me and told me of an outstanding balance that I had to pay. I argued that it was not my mistake, and that I took precaution for this not to happen. But I gave in. We agreed to pay each month a $40 draft from a bank account. Now, after a year, collectors call and want to change the agreement to $93. If I don't go along with this new arrangement, the collector threatens to place a bad mark on my credit. I am 65 and cannot afford $93. I offered $50 but was turned down. I do not believe this process if fair nor in good faith.I request a settlement of the offered $50 per month.Desired Settlement: Please accept the $50 as a monthly settlement.

Business

Response:

November 10, 2014 Arizona Revdex.com [redacted] Dispute Resolution Consultant RE: [redacted] Dear [redacted], Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. In accordance with the student’s specific requests for resolution, the University has responded affirmatively and is in the process of completing all administrative steps in this process. We ask that [redacted] contact [redacted] to finalize these arrangements. Please let me know if I can provide any addition information or be of any other service. Sincerely Office of Legal Affairs Office of the President

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted]. To my knowledge, Northcentral has not offered a resolution but, a contact person to hopefully to make an amiable resolution. I will move forward within the allotted time. I am relieved that NC will work with me.

Regards,

I was interested in the PsyD program.One evening, I left my phone number so someone from the school could contact me with information. By 7:30am the next morning I began to receive phone calls from Northcentral University. Calling me at such an early hour is unprofessional, and I was not going to answer so early. The phone calls persisted throughout the day. Each message with a different "adviser" calling me. These phone calls numbered between 5-8 per day for almost a week. I began to get text messages, along with the phone calls. I did not have a convenient time for me to answer the phone calls to discuss such an important subject. One morning I received a call from an area code local to my town. I answered not knowing if it was a family member in need. It was Northcentral University. I was livid. What kind of shoddy business practices are those? A reputable school would never power call and try and trick someone into answering. Stay away!

Review: Northcentral University are involved with false advertising. They have ads all over social media saying there will be 8 scholarships given, two in each of the disciplines. The only thing one has to do is to submit an essay uisng one of their core values. This essay has to be double spaced and 500 to 700 words.

Of course I would like to get a PhD, so I submit my essay and I proceed to fill out the application.

What happens then is the applicant cannot complete the application, because it states that a representative has to contact you.

Then, immediately the representative contacts you and finds out if you like their website and wants to know how YOU can pay for your education. I told them that I was going to apply for the scholarship and hopefully, since this was a full paying scholarship, this would take care of my monetary issues.

This is when they let you know that the scholarships are not going to be awarded until September and that you had to pay for at least one class, before you are eligible for the scholarship.

Who does that? I have worked in the educational system for a long time. I have never heard of such a practice.Desired Settlement: There is no where on their website that says that you have to pay, before you are eligible.

Please make them either change the wording on their advertising or stop this nonsensical practice.

Business

Response:

RE: [redacted], ID# [redacted]Dear Dispute Resolution Consultant,Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. This scholarship opportunity is in support of this and is intended to provide access to graduate education for those that may otherwise not have it, and to encourage students to think critically about how they plan to embody NCU’s Values as respected members of their community and professions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you through this matter.Within the website [redacted]://[redacted].[redacted].[redacted], contains the terms and conditions associated with the NCU Values Scholarship Program. These include explicit steps stating that the prospective candidate must start their graduate degree by August 31, 2015. In order to start you need to demonstrate commitment and financial ability to attend the institution. Also on this site is a listing of additional terms and conditions [redacted]:/[redacted].[redacted] , which provides additional information surrounding this program. Within this document it states “An applicant must apply to a master’s or doctoral degree program between March 1st, 2015 and July 20th, 2015. Applicants must submit a complete application together with all supporting documentation by the deadline”.Please let me know if I can provide any addition information or be of any other service.Sincerely,Office of Legal ServicesOffice of the President

Review: Northwestern University called me 78 times from January 21, 2014 until February 3, 2014.Desired Settlement: I don't want anymore calls

Business

Response:

February 5, 2014

Ms. [redacted]

Dispute Resolution Consultant

Arizona Revdex.com

RE: [redacted] ID# [redacted]

Dear Ms. [redacted],

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. In accordance with Ms. [redacted]’s specific requests for resolution, the University has responded affirmatively and has completed all administrative steps in this process.

Please let me know if we can provide any addition information or be of any other service.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Affairs

Office of the President

Review: This school is not true to its word and just want to make money off of students and drop them because according to them they haven't met qualifications. In the course of 4 yes I have had 4 different academic advisors and 3 different dissertation mentors. [redacted] approved my paper and told me to make some corrections and she would send it to dissertation board. Well 3 days later, after making the proper changes, I received an email that Dr. [redacted] will no longer be my dissertation mentor. I receive a new professor and he wanted me to start my concept paper from the beginning. Devastation one professor states its fine for approval and all of a sudden its no longer good enough so I can't have it sent to the board. I complained to my academic advisor which is advisor number 4 and she told me to talk to my new professor. I did and we could never see eye to eye and paper never met his standards and the dissertation courses I took from him I failed. I personally feel that my assignments were not approved because I informed my advisor the professor and I were not getting a long and on purpose he was not approving my assignments so I could move on to have my paper sent to the board for review and approval.Desired Settlement: Admission back into the PHD program. Move forward to have my paper sent to the dissertation chair/board for review and approval, so that I can graduate a receive my doctoral degree by December 2014.

Business

Response:

Dear Ms. [redacted]

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you through this matter. Unfortunately, [redacted] privacy rights preclude us from discussing the details of the student’s record to an unauthorized third party in response to the complaint.

Northcentral University is unique in providing constructive feedback prior to the dissertation proposal stage. This is to ensure that the candidate has a feasible and realistic plan that can culminate in a well- conceived, substantive, quality dissertation. Concept paper reviews serve to assess that the topic is appropriate and that the planned research is sound and practical within the scope of a doctoral program. The Concept Paper is initially approved by the Dissertation Chair and Dissertation Committee, and submitted for review to the Graduate School (GS). If, in the review, it is indicated that the research idea is feasible, the Graduate School will offer suggestions for improvements and the candidate will proceed to work on the Dissertation Proposal. If the Graduate School indicates that the research idea is not likely to succeed, then the candidate should, in consultation with his or her Dissertation Chair and Dissertation Committee, consider embarking on an entirely new project and write a new Concept Paper. It is not out of the ordinary for initial CP submissions to need some improvement. In essence if the Concept Paper is lacking in any manner, the student will not be able to find success in completing their dissertation journey.

Additionally, in Northcentral University’s published policy: Unsatisfactory Grades for Doctoral Students, “Dissertation (DIS) Sequence - Any student who receives a third “U” will be dismissed from the University. This applies to any combination of three “U” grades in the DIS sequence, whether the three grades are received in the same course or different courses.”

Being associated with academic performance, we have been in contact with Ms. [redacted] on several occasions providing clarification, guidance and have evaluated the student’s record, academic performance, communications, faculty feedback, academic progression, and policies in response to her concerns.

At this time, the University considers this matter to be resolved. Sincerely,

Office of Legal Services Office of the President

Review: I contacted NCU about an online masters program, and told them I was not in a hurry to begin. I have a very hectic work schedule with projects which I am in charge of and take up a great deal of my time during them. I needed to know that there was a flexible schedule to turn in assignments, as I would have difficulty following a hard schedule at times. I was assured that they were very flexible and that assignment turn in would be no problem.

I was very excited to start classes, as this is my subject of choice, and I have been looking to get a degree in this field for many years. Several people assisted me in beginning school, and they were of great help to my beginning the program. As I began classes, I found that the system took some getting used to, but that was ok, as there were systems in place to help me adapt, and they were changing things as well, mostly for the better.

My first complaint came when they had a new teacher, with poor teaching skills, trying to guide students through online classes, grading strictly on APA style, which is more of a guideline than a hard design, and having strict guidelines on turning in papers. No papers could be turned in early, but had to be turned in by an end of week deadline. Strict attention was paid to any error, and grades were docked, sometimes severely for simple mistakes. I noticed that emails and contacts from her were filled with mistakes in grammar and spelling. It makes it frustrating when you notice such obvious issues and are being graded by this person.

Next and more at issue was the grading policy for late work. I was told that NCU was flexible toward students and schedules, however, grades were dropped ten percent for each day they were late. This is a huge penalty for those of us with serious responsibilities and families. On two different locations on the new portal website, two different policies were listed with regard to assignment schedules. Only one talked of a hard schedule, while the other talked of the flexible schedule I had signed on knowing about. I called and ask my advisor for help. She did contact the teacher for both the grading issues and the issues with penalties. This did make life a little easier.

Next and most at issue was the next penalty. During this few first months, I took 2 classes. It was a process to find the right way to schedule my time to pursue my degree while staying current on each assignment. I completed all of the assignments, even if they were late, because I felt that each was important to my growth and learning of this important subject. This caused several assignments to be late, docking my grade severely. This lead to being told that a professional courtesy discount which I had been given was now called a scholarship, and that because I received a B-, (due to the grade docking), that I would lose that money toward my tuition. I asked for help from my advisor, but when she heard that the "scholarship" money was a breaking point for me, I heard a noticeable change in her tone toward me and my problem. She told me that she would discuss my problem with those in charge and get back to me. She wrote an email and carbon copied me a one line question. Was the current policy to void monies for scholarships if grades were not at least a B. We had, by now, already found out the policy, and I was trying to get past that, to have them wait another class or 2 so that I could adapt to the schedule and issues I was having. This was made me feel all alone in the process, and that business went on without regard for the student and promises to him or her.

Before I took a leave of absence to try to deal with these feelings and pressures, I was contacted by the school and informed that if I didn't get an A in the next term, I would have my schooling terminated. Then, during my leave, I was contacted and threatened with charges if I did not return to classes after my leave. All of these things put undue stress on me, and made it less than desirable to return to classes. I would be taking another class with this less skilled teacher if I continued. I would face paying tuition and then being removed for not keeping a B average if I did not pass with an A.

Finally, they sent me a bill to pay for dropping a class after all they had done to me, and put me through. They wanted me to pay some more money for dropping a class on time...with the policy of no charge when dropped right away. Also, while I was on leave, they barred me from my student portal, with all the information about my classes, future classes, and school policies, leaving me without a way to even find out my options.

They have marred my experience, and cost me a tidy sum of money in the process, and added insult to injury by trying to collect more money. I have contacted an attorney about recouping tuitions and collecting damages regarding breach of contract dealing with promises of flexible times for assignment deadlines. I have not come to a conclusion on whether to pursue or not I was pressured to start right away, and I yielded to that pressure as assurances were clear that they were flexible enough enough for my needs.

Also, I received an email telling me that they were charging me for dropping the latest class. On the invoice it appears that they have charged me and extra 2170.00 to my student loan, without permission and without a class to bill it against. I don't know what it is about, as I only have the email and have not contacted the loan center yet. It only says Unsub Funds Returned to COD, but is listed on the total bill, and was listed as paid by student loan.Desired Settlement: I tried to work through the designed methods the University provided, however it would appear that advisors do not really have any authority to do much of anything, and that I was mislead in believing that she could or would help me to the best of her ability. I think that if I could have avoided threats of money and being dropped for poor grades, I would have still been in school today, and happy about it. I would have adjusted to the new policies and been on my way to my degree. As it stands, I feel taken advantage of, and put under undue pressure. I feel like a number, and not the unique and hard working person that I am. Some of my excitement has gone away. I am seeking restitution of tuitions and charges. I have already paid for books I cannot use, and have used and cannot use professionally. I have already spent time I can not get back. I have already had dreams stripped from my grasp, and had to turn to other avenues for securing my future. I don't know what else to ask for but my money.

Business

Response:

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you through this matter. Unfortunately, [redacted] privacy rights preclude Northcentral from discussing the details of the student’s record to an unauthorized third party in response to the complaint.

Being associated with academic performance, we have been in contact with Mr. [redacted], on several occasions providing clarification, guidance and have evaluated the student’s record, academic performance, communications, faculty feedback, academic progression, and policies in response to his concerns. As a good will gesture, we have waived a drop fee and have a department that will be happy to assist in the re-entry process if he chooses to return. At this time, all issues have been reviewed, researched, and adjudicated properly in accordance with policies. I hope you find this to clarify the students concerns, please let me know if you need any additional assistance in the future.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Services

Office of the President

Review: I enrolled in Northcentral University to obtain a PhD. in Curriculum and Instruction in 2009. I have been a teacher more than 10 years and have an M Ed and Specialist Degree from a respected university. I was assured during the admissions process that Northcentral was a respectable and accredited school and despite the high tuition decided to proceed. In the 4 years I have been at Northcentral the school has changed the chair at least 4 times. I was able to advance to the final phase of the program incident free and then was given a new chair. In almost 6 months of working with the new chair it has become apparent that my completion of the program will be delayed or stopped after paying more than $20,000.00 I am feeling scammed. I have found numerous reviews since enrolling that have accused this school of being a scam and noticed they have a large number of Revdex.com complaints many of which have been resolved which I hope mine may be as well. I have requested another chair change after 6 months of not progressing and have been asked to go through a long process just to make the request formally.Desired Settlement: I regret at this point enrolling at Northcentral and if this school just strung me along to get as much money from me as possible with no intention of assisting me in graduating I would like a full refund from my entire time there. I would rather have the school fulfill the commitment of my completing this degree and change the chair like I have requested and have a chair placed with me that has a history of student success and graduation if such a chair exists at Northcentral. In my Specialist degree I was recognized as the Outstanding Student in my class and have no doubt I have the ability to complete this program if given an opportunity by Northcentral or extend me the refund so I can pursue this degree elsewhere.

Business

Response:

Dear Ms. [redacted],

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. Northcentral University is unique in providing constructive feedback prior to the dissertation proposal stage. This is to ensure that the candidate has a feasible and realistic plan that can culminate in a well-conceived, substantive, quality dissertation. Concept paper reviews serve to assess that the topic is appropriate and that the planned research is sound and practical within the scope of a doctoral program. The Concept Paper is initially approved by the Dissertation Chair and Dissertation Committee, and submitted for review to the Graduate School (GS). If, in the review, it is indicated that the research idea is feasible, the Graduate School will offer suggestions for improvements and the candidate will proceed to work on the Dissertation Proposal. If the Graduate School indicates that the research idea is not likely to succeed, then the candidate should, in consultation with his or her Dissertation Chair and Dissertation Committee, consider embarking on an entirely new project and write a new Concept Paper.

We have been in contact with Ms. [redacted] on several occasions providing clarification and guidance surrounding Northcentral University’s Policy announced by the Provost, to all doctoral candidates and faculty, that the University will migrate all students to the full time dissertation chair model. This academic related decision was implemented to support academic rigor, standards, and education. Ms. [redacted]’s faculty is a highly-qualified full time chair who will guide her dissertation through this key milestone as well as the entire educational journey. Please note that her chair has been providing substantial feedback and adhering to policies outlined in the Doctoral Candidacy Resource Guide. The University provides several additional resources for students to help them to successfully complete the dissertation portion of their program. Resources include but are not limited to their advisor, their Dissertation Committee, the NCU Catalog, and several documents and templates in the Dissertation Center on the student portal.

It is not unusual for candidates to experience challenges in their personal evolution from being a student, consumer of information, to becoming a scholar, a producer of information. I encourage Ms. [redacted] to work closely with her Dissertation Chair to gain the necessary insight and feedback for her scholarly work to progress toward graduation. This includes scheduling a time to have a phone or [redacted] conversation with her chair. Regular communication via teleconferences might help resolve some of the challenges stated in the initial complaint.

At this time, all issues have been reviewed, researched, and adjudicated properly in accordance with policies. I hope you find this to clarify the students concerns, please let me know if you need any additional assistance in the future.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Affairs

Review: I filed for a Leave Of Absence (LOA) at NCU using their LOA form as I was experience medical care that required surgery.

However, NCU is billing me $100 for failing to accept enrollment in a PhD course with a start date of: 7/24/14. I DID NOT ACCEPT ENROLLMENT IN THE CLASS BECAUSE I COULD NOT ENROLL IN THE CLASS BECAUSE I NEEDED SURGERY - THAT IS WHY I COMPLETED THE LOA FORM. However, NCU charges a $100 fee if you DO NOT ACCEPT ENROLLMENT IN A CLASS. I did contact [redacted] and did contest the FRAUDULENT charges

by NCU and, I did provide proof and documentation to [redacted] evidencing that I did complete the LOA form prior to the 7/24/14 start time for the class.

Never the less, the account dept at NCU is rude and do not act in a professional manner, and are ignoring the fact that I completed a LOA.Desired Settlement: Clear my balance of $100 owed and stop sending me emails, letters and phone calls of a harassing nature.

Business

Response:

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. In accordance with the student’s specific requests for resolution, the University has responded affirmatively and has completed all administrative steps in this process. Please let me know if I can provide any addition information or be of any other service.

I am currently in my 8th class with NCU. My experience has been a positive one. I have engaged with my mentors at some level for every course: sometimes with a phone call, sometimes e-mail, and sometimes just through comments back and forth as I am completing assignments. I've done very well navigating through course requirements and maintain a 4.0 at this point. However, if I were not a teacher, or at minimum a linguistic and intrapersonal learner (multiple intelligence terms), I could see where is program would be painful. I am definitely challenged by the course content and put forth a great deal of effort in every assignment. Perhaps one could breeze right through the courses with much less effort, but this is MY education, and I intend to come out of this program proficient in my content area. I need for my education to align with my career path. That being the case, I accept that it is my responsibility, as an online learner, to take ownership of my learning, to make the most of every course, and to engage in articles, dissertations, etc. that are relevant to my field. Yes, I find some of the required reading to be outdated. Because of this, I generally find a book or two that is on the recommended list or that has been referenced in articles pertaining to the class to grab and use as I write my papers. You get out what you put into this university.

If you are looking for a degree program that will be highly structured with an online forum where a professor will engage with you to help you make meaning of the material, this is probably not the university for you. I needed a program that would not require me to show up several days/ week, that allowed me to work at a steady pace, and honestly, preferred a program where I was NOT told what to think, but free to make my own assumptions. I find NCU fits this bill nicely.

I am terrified, yet looking forward to my upcoming dissertation process. I expect it to be demanding and invigorating. It will undoubtedly be the hardest thing I've ever encountered academically, AS IT SHOULD BE! If the program were easy and the dissertation process a cake walk, a majority of people would hold a doctoral degree, which would diminish it's value as a whole.

Regarding dealing with my academic advisor, she has been awesome! In dealing with financials, again- it's been fairly painless, even though a tad redundant. My mentors-- I've had awesome mentors and one or two that were just alright. As for the isolation, this is an independent study. It's all on you. If you can't learn like that, do not do ANY online course. If you are self-disciplined, highly motivated, and can self-teach, this university is as good, and I'm sure sometimes better, than others like it. Good luck in your pursuits!

Review: I have been enrolled in this institution for approximately 8 years and have yet to earn a doctorate degree. I have experienced numerous changes to committee members that require re-writes each time. I pass the expectations of the committee to be rejected by another NCU committee. This is a documented complaint that is pervasive across doctoral students. I endured numerous re-writes of a Concept Paper (Chapters 1-3 of a proposed dissertation) and I am now doing the same with the Dissertation Proposal. Both papers are identical with the exception of format. The problem seems to be that one committee does not know the expectations of. another committee. In fact, that very statement has been communicated to me. I have been told that this paper would be accepted because the committee chair and the committee member were the determining factors, but that is not the case. I was also told that I have been "caught up in the changes" made by the institution. Most importantly, I am being asked to justify my study and I have been told via a telephone conference with an [redacted] member that my proposed study is valid. I have been instructed to spend countless hours perfecting a Literature Review and now the emphasis is on justifying the study.Desired Settlement: I would like my Dissertation Proposal to be accepted. If it is not acceptable,, I would like my committee members to assist me before sending it on to the next committee. I should be grandfathered in to the program I started, and not be the result of a person caught between the rock and a hard place! I have a 30 thousand dollar loan and I pay out of pocket tuition monthly. There appears to be no end in sight. This is a money making operation and this institution does not provide the necessary support for a doctoral student that a traditional institution provides.

Business

Response:

Dear [redacted]

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you through this matter. Unfortunately, FERPA privacy rights preclude us from discussing the details of the student’s record to an unauthorized third party in response to the complaint.

In Northcentral University’s Candidacy Resource Guide it states “After you have successfully passed the Comprehensive Examination, there are several milestones in the doctoral candidacy stage. Each one represents a significant accomplishment on the way to obtaining a doctoral degree. It is the student’s successful progression through these scholarly works that facilitates graduation.

1. Concept Paper (CP)

2. Dissertation Proposal (DP)

3. Institutional Review Board (IRB) Application and Approval

4. Dissertation Manuscript (DM)

5. Oral Examination

The dissertation journey is unlike any other academic endeavor and can be a very humbling experience even for the most educated of people. It is a learning process that takes a student and turns him or her into a scholar. The journey is not for the faint of heart and it demands a mastery of many different skills sets in order to be successful. These skill sets include but are not limited to: communication (verbal and written), active listening, critical thinking, and conflict resolution. Students are expected to work closely with their course faculty, assigned Chair and committee members to navigate the dissertation process. Responsiveness to feedback is critical for learning and growth.

It is not unusual for candidates to experience challenges in their personal evolution from being a student, consumer of information, to becoming a scholar, a producer of information.

At this time, the University considers this matter to be resolved. Sincerely,

Office of Legal Services Office of the President

Review: I have been enrolled in a PhD program at NorthCentral University since 2006. I completed all the required courses and the Comprehensive exam in November 2010. I began writing my dissertation August 2011. Since then I have taken seven dissertation courses and am now enrolled in my eight course. I have also had my committee chair person changed three times. Most recently (September 2013) I expressed my concerns to the school about the dissertation process. The school offered me the option to take the Ombudsman path to degree completion. It is six months since starting on that path. However, I am having a difficult time getting the school to accept my proposal so that I can start my research. With only six months to go I would like the school to accept my proposal so I can start my research and complete my dissertation by September 2014 and be awarded by PhD.Desired Settlement: I paid for a PhD and after all the time and financial resources I have dedicated pursuing this degree I would like to get my degree.

Business

Response:

Dear Ms. [redacted]

Part of Northcentral University's overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you through this matter. Unfortunately, FERPA privacy rights preclude Northcentral from discussing the details of the student’s record to an unauthorized third party in response to the complaint.

In Northcentral University’s Candidacy Resource Guide it states “After you have successfully passed the Comprehensive Examination, there are several milestones in the doctoral candidacy stage. Each one represents a significant accomplishment on the way to obtaining a doctoral degree. It is the student’s successful progression through these scholarly works that facilitates graduation.

1. Concept Paper (CP)

2. Dissertation Proposal (DP)

3. Institutional Review Board (IRB) Application and Approval

4. Dissertation Manuscript (DM)

5. Oral Examination

We have been in contact with Mr. [redacted] providing clarification and guidance surrounding degree requirements specifically scholarly milestones that need to be achieved in the Dissertation Process. We have offered him the opportunity to participate in our Pathway Program, which is a special program designed to assist students who are experiencing challenges in their specific dissertation journey.

Within this program the student is provided the opportunity to pair up with an appropriately qualified chair to assist with his specific research method who commits to working with the student four hours per week to guide them on the path to completing their doctoral degree. Our Ombudsman Office has also reached out to him after receipt of this complaint assisting in providing any alternatives and solutions we can provide to assist him in his journey.

It is not unusual for candidates to experience challenges in their personal evolution from being a student, consumer of information, to becoming a scholar, a producer of information. We encourage Mr. [redacted] to work closely with the Ombudsman Office and his Dissertation Chair to gain the necessary insight and feedback for his scholarly work to progress toward graduation.

At this time, the University considers this matter to be resolved.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Services

Office of the President

Review: In 2012 I enrolled in a class at Northcentral to pursue my Ph.D in Health Psychology. During this time I began going through a very taxing divorce which significantly impacted my financial situation, along with my mental and physical health. I began to have difficulty with completing coursework and staying on top of the current class curriculum and requested an extension and/or accommodations to assist me during the time. I went through the necessary process by submitting documentation and discussing the situation with the professor. However, I was denied any assistance and the school merely told me that I would need to repeat the course, immediately re-enrolling me. Of course, I was unable to retake the course due to the same issues that prompted me to request the help in the first place. Immediately after withdrawing from this program I suffered a complete break and required extensive medical assistance. Since this time, Northcentral has continued to harass me and demands that I pay for the class that was dropped. I believe that this was an abuse of the establishment and is echoed in many of the complaints that I have read about Northcentral. I am no longer interested in pursuing a degree with Northcentral, as the shoddy practices have discouraged me. But I would like to discontinue the harassment.Desired Settlement: Northcentral should apply the balance of my account toward the courses that were taken and balance my account.

Business

Response:

Part of Northcentral University‘s overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. This balance is a reflection from a return of funds to her lender, not from any re- enrollment into another class. Please note per policy and due to our shortened class lengths (typically 8 weeks) we do not offer mid-course leaves or breaks. Due to Ms. [redacted] withdrawal from Northcentral University, we were required to perform a return calculation for federal aid according to regulations set forth by the Department of Education. According to the return calculation, we are required to return the amount owed to Direct Lending on the students behalf. This return calculation determines how much of financial aid was “earned” based upon the number of days that the student actively participated in their courses at Northcentral and the number of courses they successfully completed within the payment period. Ms. [redacted] is responsible for paying Northcentral this amount. Our finance staff has made several attempts to contact the student trying to assist and provide service in every way possible.

If Ms. [redacted] has any further questions regarding her financial obligations she can contact the University directly to get specific information.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Affairs Office of the President

Review: I am a student at Northcentral University. I have elected to use financial to pay for my education. Northcentral University has sent my financial aid over to a financial institution that I did not want it to go to. I have voiced this concern several times by calling the financial aid department. Without regard to what I wanted done with my refund Northcentral has sent my refund over to a place called Higher One. I have had nothing but, issues from this place, infact it seems that I am not the only one complaining about this institution. There has been several complaints made through different entities and also lawsuits filed with settlements involved. I do not want to have any dealings with this institution at all. They are now holding my financial aid for no reason at all.Desired Settlement: I want Northcentral to find another way to have financial aid disbursed to students that choose not to have their funds sent to this institution. They are making it really difficult for their students to receive their funds. Federal Funds that are sent for a student should go where the student would like for it to go and should not be sent to a third party that can withhold the funds from the student. I would like to have my funds ($2,008.00) sent to me immediately.

Business

Response:

Please see attached

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me. I will wait until for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.

Regards,

Review: I attended Northcentral University in August of 2013 and withdrew November 27th 2013. Before withdrawing I spoke with my academic advisor ([redacted]), informing her I will be withdrawing after taking class 5105, because I was applying for Social Work instead. I asked her if it would affect me financially and if it was okay to do so. She told me that it was okay, On December 13th, I received an email from the financial aid department, saying that I owe $1,590 because I withdrew before the quarter was over. I called the school and informed them about financial advisors assurance that I wouldn't have to owe anything. They told me she was specialized in that department to know. They then told me that I could re-enroll to complete 5106. It was then that I told them that I would only complete that course, because I'd already applied for another school. They assured me that it would be okay. After I re-enrolled I got another call from a different financial aid advisor telling me that I am unable to complete one course and quit. So I told them that I would not complete the degree, because I don't want to get a degree in that field anymore. They then told me that I'm required to pay the amount and they told me to set up a payment time. I told them that I didn't have a job and that my ex [redacted] will help me pay $50 month towards the fee. They agreed to it. However, [redacted] called the school and told them not to use his credit card anymore. They still tried taking money out of his account. They reached me via email a few times asking for payment, now they threatened to transfer it to collections, with an added fee of $40. I kept telling them that I didn't have a job to pay them. I personally think that it is unfair that I have to pay this, considering that I was told by one of the employees at the college that it was okay for me to withdraw at the time. I have emails that were sent to me if needed.Desired Settlement: All I am asking is that they waive the cost that they say I owe. [redacted] has already paid $50 towards the fee, in which I think we deserved to be paid back for it. But they can keep it, as long as I don't have to pay any remaining balance.

Business

Response:

Dear [redacted]

Part of Northcentral University‘s overall mission is a commitment to helping students achieve academically and become valuable contributors to their communities and within their professions. Due to [redacted] voluntary withdrawal from Northcentral University, we were required to perform a return calculation for federal aid according to regulations set forth by the Department of Education. According to this calculation, we are required to return the amount owed to Direct Lending on the students behalf. This return calculation determines how much of financial aid was “earned” based upon the number of days that the student actively participated in their courses at Northcentral and the number of courses they successfully completed within the payment period. [redacted] is responsible for paying Northcentral this amount, (which includes stipends paid directly to the student). Please note the University made a special hardship plan approval for the student to make minimal payments, in which she initially accepted but cancelled after one payment. Our finance staff has been in contact with the student on over forty occasions trying to assist and provide service in every way possible.

Besides offering the special exception we are not sure what else we can do to assist. Sincerely,

Office of Legal Affairs Office of the President

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID[redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

[Provide details of why you are not satisfied with this resolution.]Yes. I admit I talked to many people from Northcentral. I do not deny the communication, however, the communication between me and my academic advisor was mostly over the phone, which means, if our conversations is recorded it should be in their recordings. I have no reason to lie about this and if I would have known that I couldn't withdraw during the time approved, I wouldn't have withdrawn.

Regards,

Business

Response:

Dear [redacted]

Thank you for allowing us to make a final statement in regard to this issue. We understand that [redacted] feels she should not be responsible for her balance based on an alleged conversation with an Academic Advisor. Please note Academic Advisors do not provide financial advice to students. [redacted] confirmed this fact and stated “Yes. I admit I talked to many people from Northcentral.” In fact she had several conversations with our Finance Department during the time she was enrolled, (well over 10 different occasions), prior to her decision to withdraw, and following her decision to leave the University as well. [redacted] voluntarily withdrew from the program, and was provided timely financial advice from trained finance professionals, as we provided in our last correspondence. The University has been in continuous contact with [redacted] and provided her with detailed information surrounding her financial situation.

At this time, the University considers this matter to be resolved.

Sincerely,

Office of Legal Affairs Office of the President

Review: I was going through the financial aid process still they enrolled me in classes three days too late. I was promised no charge will be made until financial aid came through. I also cancelled my classes prior deadline and emailed them the cancelation about 20 times to different representatives. They are still holding me accountable for a class I didn't take, sign up for or was able to pay for without financial aid. I can't get them to remove the due amount and I have tried everything via email and phone. Ridiculous fiasco of an attempt to get money out of college students who can't afford it. Shame on these people and their business ethic. What do I need to do, spend more money on an attorney to clear my credit now! They put me in collections.Desired Settlement: They need to correct my credit put my balance at zero and send a letter of apology. This is unethical business practice to put my account in collections when I dropped their class before deadline. My attempts to have this matter resolved has been moot.