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Grand Canyon University Useful Information & Admission in 2023

Introduction

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a renowned institution offering a diverse array of academic programs for prospective students in 2023. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, GCU provides a dynamic and innovative learning environment, fostering academic excellence and personal growth. The university’s commitment to student success is reflected in its comprehensive admission process, ensuring a seamless transition for those aspiring to join in 2023.

With a focus on holistic education, GCU aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in their chosen fields. Explore the opportunities that Grand Canyon University presents for a transformative educational journey in 2023.

History

Established on August 1, 1949, in Prescott, Arizona, Grand Canyon University (GCU) originated as Grand Canyon College, a nonprofit institution founded by the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention. The university’s inception aimed to provide a faith-based educational opportunity for local Baptists, eliminating the need to travel east for Baptist colleges. Relocating to Phoenix on October 8, 1951, GCU evolved over the years. In 1984, on its 40th anniversary, the institution transitioned to university status, becoming Grand Canyon University. Concurrently, governance shifted from the Southern Baptist Convention to the Grand Canyon University. Board of Trustees, marking a pivotal moment in its history.

Today, Grand Canyon University stands as a private for-profit Christian university with over 100,000 students, offering diverse degree programs through its nine colleges.

Campuses:

Main Campus (Phoenix):
- Renovated in 2006 with a $150 million investment.
- Features a brick promenade, aquatics center, and café.
- Subsequent 2009 expansion included a 500-bed dorm, a 55,000-square-foot fitness and recreation center, a 125-classroom facility, a food court, and a bowling alley.
- Home to Grand Canyon University Arena, expanded to 7,000 seats in 2014.
- Campus amenities include fast food restaurants, coffee shops, a student union, cafeteria, video game room, and a six-lane bowling alley.
- Campus police department established in August 2016.
10 in 2 Initiative (Athletic Facilities):
- Launched in August 2016, aiming to build 10 on-campus athletic facilities in two years.
- Included new facilities for soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, and beach volleyball, as well as sports medicine and equipment room expansions.
- Added practice facilities for basketball and golf, along with a student-athlete academic center.
Recognition:
- In August 2017, GCU’s Phoenix campus was ranked among the “10 Best College Campuses Across America” by Town & Country.
Accelerated Nursing (ABSN) Learning Sites:
- 2020: Opened first two ABSN locations in Sun City and Tucson, Arizona.
- May 9, 2022: Opened the first ABSN location outside Arizona in Sandy, Utah.
- September 7, 2023: Announced the opening of the 5th ABSN location in Chandler, Arizona.
- September 18, 2023: Grand opening ceremony for the 6th ABSN location in Phoenix’s West Valley.
- Fourth ABSN location situated in Henderson, Nevada.

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Academics:

Programs Offered:
- Grand Canyon University provides a diverse range of academic opportunities, offering over 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs.
- These programs are distributed across nine colleges:
  - Colangelo College of Business
  - College of Doctoral Studies
  - College of Education
  - College of Arts and Media
  - College of Humanities and Social Sciences
  - College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
  - College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
  - College of Theology
  - Honors College
- In August 2016, the university introduced a seminary.
Nursing Programs:
- In April 2017, Grand Canyon University faced scrutiny from Arizona nursing board officials due to nursing programs falling below an 80% graduation rate for two consecutive years.
- GCU responded with a plan to enhance graduation rates, leading to commendation from the nursing board for substantial improvements.
- In 2018, the nursing program faced censure from the Arizona State Board of Nursing regarding test passage rates.
- Notably, GCU’s nursing students achieved a 95.65% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX in the second quarter of 2018, surpassing the state average.
Entrance Requirements:
- GCU’s undergraduate entrance criteria include a 3.0 high school GPA or a GPA of 2.5 with an SAT score of 1,000 or ACT score of 19.
- As of 2021, the university reported a 76.9% acceptance rate, with 23% of admitted students enrolling.
- Matriculating students’ scores are not disclosed, and high school class rank, college preparatory classes, and letters of recommendation are neither required nor recommended.

Notable Alumni:

Anthony Birchak:
- Accomplished wrestler and MMA fighter.
Henry Cejudo:
- MMA fighter renowned for his success in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Bill Engvall:
- Stand-up comedian known for his humor and entertainment.
Efrain Escudero:
- Wrestler and MMA fighter, winner of The Ultimate Fighter 8.
Bayard Forrest:
- Professional basketball player with notable achievements.
Grandy Glaze:
- Canadian League Basketball player for St Johns Edge.
Steven Green:
- Christian music singer with a notable career.
Niki Jackson:
- Major League Soccer player recognized for athletic prowess.
Killian Larson:
- Professional basketball player with noteworthy accomplishments.
Horacio Llamas:
- Successful professional basketball player.
Randy McCament:
- Former professional baseball player with a commendable career.
Josh McDermitt:
- American film and television actor, recognized comedian.
Moriah Peters:
- Singer-songwriter known for her musical contributions.
James L. Pharr:
- Accomplished fire marshal and professor specializing in fire safety and engineering technology.
Cody Ransom:
- Former professional baseball player with notable achievements.
Tim Salmon:
- Retired professional baseball player with a distinguished career.
Randy Soderman:
- Successful professional soccer player.
Rachel Mitchell:
- Notable sex crimes prosecutor and Maricopa County attorney known for conducting interviews with Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford.
David Stapleton:
- Former professional baseball player with a notable career.
Kevin Warren:
- Current president and CEO of the Chicago Bears; former COO of the Minnesota Vikings and commissioner of the Big Ten Conference.
Christine Weidinger:
- Accomplished American operatic soprano.
James White:
- Renowned reformed theologian, apologist, and director of Alpha and Omega Ministries.

Academic Offerings:

Grand Canyon University offers a diverse range of academic programs through its nine colleges:

Colangelo College of Business
College of Doctoral Studies
College of Education
College of Arts and Media
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
College of Theology
Honors College

These colleges collectively provide over 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. The university’s commitment to holistic education is reflected in its comprehensive curriculum, which spans disciplines such as business, education, arts and media, humanities, healthcare, science, engineering, technology, and theology.

In August 2016, GCU expanded its academic offerings by announcing the opening of a seminary, further enhancing its commitment to theological education.

Grand Canyon University Admissions:

Acceptance Rate:
- Grand Canyon University boasts a commendable acceptance rate of 83%.
- The university follows a rolling application deadline, providing flexibility for prospective students.
Academic Considerations:
- Admissions officials at GCU emphasize the significance of a student’s GPA in the evaluation process.
- High school class rank is not a factor considered, but letters of recommendation hold weight.
Admissions Requirements:
- Admission interviews are neither required nor recommended.
- Standardized tests, such as SAT or ACT, are not mandatory.
- The university does not specify a deadline for receiving SAT/ACT scores.
Application Process:
- GCU operates on a rolling admissions deadline, allowing applicants to submit their applications throughout the year.
- The university does not charge an application fee.
- Early Decision is an option with a deadline of November 1.
Entering Class Stats:
- The selectivity of the university is not explicitly provided.
- The acceptance rate for the entering class stands at 83%.
Transfer Students:
- GCU accepts transfer applications for the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer terms.
- Minimum credits required for application: 24.
- The minimum required college GPA for transfer students is 2.2.
International Students:
- Application deadlines for international students are not specified in the provided information.

Grand Canyon University Tuition & Financial Aid:

Tuition and Expenses (2022-23):
- Tuition and fees: $17,800.
- Room and Board: $7,800.
- Net price for federal loan recipients (2020-2021): $21,176.
- Net price by family income (2020-2021):
  - $0-$30,000: $17,858
  - $30,001-$48,000: $18,664
  - $48,001-$75,000: $21,573
  - $75,001-$110,000: $23,456
  - $110,001+: $23,460
Financial Aid Statistics:
- Financial aid includes need-based aid determined by FAFSA and merit-based aid for specific achievements.
- Median federal loan debt for Grand Canyon University graduates: $22,114.
- Median monthly federal loan payment (over 10 years at 5.05% interest): $234.
Total Federal Loan Debt by Family Income:
- $0-$30,000: $10,764
- $30,001-$75,000: $13,842
- $75,001+: $15,000
Typical Monthly Loan Payment:
- $234.
Average Total Indebtedness (2022 Graduating Class):
- Not specified.

Scholarships:

- Scholarships are non-repayable funding awarded based on need or merit.
- Need-based scholarships/grants at GCU consider a student’s financial status.
- Merit-based scholarships are awarded for academic or athletic achievements.
- Other scholarship opportunities may be available based on community service, unique hobbies, personal background, or parental affiliations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Grand Canyon University stands as a dynamic and diverse educational institution offering over 200 academic programs through its nine colleges. With a rolling admissions process and an 83% acceptance rate, Grand Canyon University provides accessible opportunities for a wide range of students. The tuition and financial aid structure cater to various income levels, promoting inclusivity. Notably, the institution’s commitment to student success is evident through ongoing campus expansions and academic initiatives. Grand Canyon University notable alumni and achievements contribute to its standing as a reputable institution, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a transformative and enriching higher education experience.