Liberty University Online Reviews
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Good School
School recommended by
Criminal Justice Major
on
March 16, 2010
Review not yet rated
My experience with Liberty was a very positive one. The religious views of the University could be a factor for some. The only problem throughout my undergraduate work was in the beginning. After receiving an "official evaluation" of what was needed for degree completion and working on it for a year, I was informed that I needed two more classes after submitting my graduation application. When I questioned this I was apologized to but was told I had to take the classes. Other than that the coursework was challenging. Do not attempt an online school if you are not self motivated. Also, if you do not have real world experience it may not be a wise choice. Most of my classes drew from my work experience.
Learn More about Liberty University OnlineBreath of Fresh Air
School recommended by
Ana T.
on
February 03, 2010
14/15 people found this review helpful
I attended a LARGE, let me say it again, L A R G E public college in Georgia for my undergrad degree in English. Though I'm now in a freelance writing career, i wanted to open up my opportunities in the future by getting a Masters in Teaching English. I have read many of these reviews honestly concerned with the potentially overwhelming admissions/financial aid/ect departments at Liberty. I am glad that you don't have my experiences in undergrad to compare Liberty to. My school posed as one of the most challenging obstacles for my husband and I to ever overcome, and we didn't even start the semesters with potential problems!! I couldn't imagine ACTUALLY having a problem, b/c my undergrad school couldn't handle it.
I tried to return to this "local" school for grad school, but was not informed that this school of thousands and thousands only accepted ten students into the education grad program. Ten. After I paid WELL OVER $200, they confess that because there were hundreds of applicants, I wasn't selected as one of the ten. Tears of loss.
For several months I kept a spreadsheet of possible online or regular ed schools. I had so so many schools on this list, and I didn't like any of them. First of all, I couldn't even find out about many online programs without signing up for more information, and unfortunately doing this w/ Kaplan cause me 5 missed calls from them every day for about two weeks. Other programs were too vague, too expensive, non-licensed for teacher certification. WHAT?! I scored them on a scale from 1-5. Nothing ranked higher than a 1 in HORRIDness. Then, one day, I decided that I just couldn't do grad school. I was too frustrated. Plus, I wasn't even inspired to go back into school, because of my undergrad experiences. I felt directionless. That same day, somehow, I got an email "about" Liberty from an online subscription I'm a part of. I deleted it, and then went back for some pointless reason. It turned out to be the best thing I've ever done. From the MOMENT, I went to their website, each second of this school became better and better and better. I applied that very same day.
I don't even know where to start. The advisers have been really amazing. I've been getting emails (sure, they're blast emails, but they have important information I need), and EACH one recommends calling an adviser. Why not? I called them once right before 9pm. Most admissions offices are out the door at 4:59p. When I had everything together and submitted, I spent over 45 minutes w/ one poor adviser. He was so patient, pleasant, and professional in helping me make sure they had received all of the paperwork, signed me up for classes, walked me through EVERYTHING. I had called before and spoke with someone different, but it didn't matter b/c I had different questions.
I have taken online classes before, and what I love is how Liberty uses uniform programs that my GA public college used for online classes and record-keeping. Even w/ some uncertainty you can play online, and when a question arises, chat an adviser! Do you know what a blessing that is!?
I will start classes in a few days, and I can't express more how happy I am that I have found this school. I'm overjoyed with the concept of returning for grad school primarily b/c it's NOT what I've done before. It's a new school, w/ definite values, and promises rigor and challenge.
A true learning experience
School recommended by
Jon
on
January 05, 2010
16/17 people found this review helpful
I transferred to LUO mainly because I was tired of too much political correctness at my previous school, plus having to take courses that were in no way applicable to my major. I knew Liberty was a Christian school but was not prepared for the Evangelical part. Having to take some courses with a definate evangelical "bent" caused me to look at my own beliefs and ideas. The result was worth "the price of admission". The classes themselves are demanding and the instructors responsive. The admission process was simple and smooth. Emails are normally answered within 48 hours. Bottom line, keep an open mind and you will be rewarded with a great learning experience. You don't have to be "born again" to enjoy a great (and highly respected) education.
50/50
School recommended by
Kewanna Broadwater
on
December 27, 2009
11/15 people found this review helpful
I attend Liberty for a year. The work was intensive and I learned a lot. But if you can not stick to a schedule you will fall behind and have a hard time catching up. Liberty is very conservative and it was not a good fit for me.
Good experience, nothing is perfect however!
School recommended by
Chris
on
December 09, 2009
26/27 people found this review helpful
I began attending Liberty after I could no longer afford the tuition at another institution. I did some checking around and a couple of friends recommended Liberty's business program. Of course, like any other school, Liberty has it's pros and cons. I've read a lot about lost transcripts, etc.... I guess I've been lucky in that department. The admissions process was fairly smooth for me. The online classes were without a doubt challenging, which I'm happy about. I didn't want a degree that was going to be a breeze and would not pay off in the future.
I attended Liberty for three years and finished my BS degree 10/16/09. It's been a great accomplishment. I'm now looking at a masters program. As we all know, Liberty is a Christian university. Maybe it's because I was attending online, but no one ever tried to FORCE their views down my throat. Views were shared and examined, but that didn't mean I had to follow those views. I am a Christian, but I cannot say I always agree with views of other Christians. It's all part of life. Whether in school or the workplace, people will always have different views. We need to get used to this fact and learn how to work together to achieve a common goal, regardless of how we feel about certain things. I never let it bother me.
The only thing I really struggled with while in this program was some of the professors. There were times where I needed assistance right away. Because I was not in a classroom setting, I had to email (or leave a voice mail) and wait for the professor to respond....which could hold you up (especially if you had a question about a project etc)...so don't wait until the last minute to start working on assignments!
All in all, it was a good program. As stated previously, I have now completed my degree. Despite the economy, I have been getting calls about jobs, etc. I would not change my undergrad experience.
Great School for the Intellectully Mature
School recommended by
Jens Randolff
on
September 10, 2009
59/66 people found this review helpful
I received my A.A., my B.S. in Religion from Liberty, and I am currently pursuing my M.A. in Theological Studies at LU. I am very pleased with the quality of the education, the faculty as well as the staff. Aside from some minor administrative issues my experience has been very positive. One has to keep in mind that LU is an evangelical, Christian conservative institution of higher learning. Therefore, any rules and restrictions in accordance with basic Christian values is to be expected. these rules and policies are clearly stated on the website.
Furthermore, a review of available degrees and degree completion plans is also available online and will state whether it is a residential, combination or strictly online program.
As with any good university, a certain level of maturity, initiative and research is expected from all potential students. Just like life, nothing and nobody is perfect and occasional mistakes are to be expected. I guess my service in the army has allowed me to set high standards and to expect the same from others.
To those who have complained about LU's standards and policies, and who have likened their policies to Nazi Germany, all I can say is, "Grow up". If you want to openly display your homosexuality go to a liberal college or university. There are plenty of them out there. Do not expect one of the few institutions left in this country that upholds the values this country was founded on, to cave in to the liberal's agenda in the name of political correctness.
Have a blessed day and remember, Jesus loves sinners but hates sin.
Some good-mostly bad
School not recommended by
sage
on
September 09, 2009
33/88 people found this review helpful
I like the eight week class format and the costs. The financial aid and advisor departments are nightmares. The school is getting greedy (guess they forgot that verse in the bible), will try to keep your monies, and they have many young arrogant work study students serving your needs in these offices. If you need your loan money to attend the resident required classes better take out another loan. They will not release your monies to travel!! However, they are willing to pray for you. The narrow minded part of the graduate psychology program is absolutely shocking! I thought I would be fine since I believe in God. The school spends just as much time trying to shape your mind to their will,, D.I.D. and schizophrenia are demonic possession when you do the "Christian perspective" of the homework. ROFLMAO. Anyway, if your gay or have any gay friends; this program is not for you. Homosexuality is a sin and most students in your classes will be uncomfortable working with gays, schizophrenics, post-abortion issues,gender identity disorders,,, the list just goes on and on. Who will these people be able to counsel? Liberty just kicked the democratic party off campus and the rules on campus are similar to Nazi's. I believe a young man just wrote a book on his semester there. If you are not worried about having your degree scrutinized ( I was just turned down an overseas position when they saw my college ) and this is the only program you can afford,, go for it. When you show up for residence classes,,, be very careful and watch your back you sinners!!!
Excellent experience
School recommended by
Burnsgilgal
on
July 23, 2009
65/69 people found this review helpful
I completed a master in special education from LU and am currently in their doctoral program in education leadership. The on campus intensives are a requirement of their NCATE accreditation. This school is highly accredited and your course work will be recognized nationally. My experience with the online and on campus courses is very good. Their focus is on extensive reading, research, and dialogue with professionals in your field. (Two pieces of advice: follow the grading rubrics exactly for each assignment and never plagiarize, as they will catch you.)
You are required to produce high quality APA papers and communicate knowledgeably with classmates at least three times each week. The professors read your discussion boards as well and you are expected to post substantially to the discussion - not just a few terse comments. Liberty provides access to online library databases where you may research your topics. Be prepared to work consistently for your degree. In the end, you will find yourself very well prepared to handle new positions in your field or to publish scholarly materials. Personally, I became so used to the high quality standards at Liberty that I am disappointed when I encounter professionals with lower expectations.
On another note, the school is growing so rapidly that their infrastructure, i.e. academic advisors and financial aid staff, are going through training as well - meaning you may have to guide them in order to get answers that you need. If you are aware that their staff is probably younger than you are, you will explain your requests more fully and be more patient.
Regarding the accreditation issue, you will find many online universities with regional accreditation, but only a handful with national professional accreditation like National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). In addition, Liberty University has an unapologetic Christian philosophy of education, but they do not ram their views down your throat. You will be welcomed no matter what your personal philosophy.
I love Liberty Online!
School recommended by
Gail Fugle
on
July 07, 2009
67/71 people found this review helpful
I am very excited to study through Liberty University Online. This is my second year studying Psychology and I am specializing in Christian Counseling. I appreciate the convenience of studying in the comfort of my home which offers me flexibility around my job and my family, although I must be very self-disciplined. The classes are only 8 week terms. Most of the course work for the classes was average, some required more work & others less. There is a great deal of support from the instructor, online ministry, and the academic advisors. I experience a great deal of student interaction which I was pleasantly surpised, as I did not expect interaction on an online study program. It is great to meet and learn from other students who are located all over the world. Overall, Liberty University Online has been a very positive experience for me and is helping me grow in my relationship with Christ as I prepare to become a Christian Counselor.
May God Bless you in your future endevors.
Liberty Univ. The Process of Admissions
School not recommended by
Kim J
on
June 25, 2009
35/46 people found this review helpful
I have no idea if the School has changed so much from what I have read here, or why my experience so far has been so frustrating. I think partly I have attended private, brick and mortar schools except for one Online Program at Excelsior.
I cannot talk to the same person. They have over 30,000 Online students. If your needs are straight-forward I can see some of these reviews making sense. However, I have been firmly told several times, it is NOT possible to speak to the same person. We have over....So this occurred through all the stages up to getting the E-MAIL TELLING ME I AM ACCEPTED TO LIBERTY UNIVERSITY! I was shocked because I never thought they would tell a student this way but a counselor told me someone will call you and help you with the next step. I got the acceptance e-mail and off I went following the 5 links in the e-mail to try and figure out what is next.
I had a lot of graduate work completed and I am now trying to see if they will accept any of the courses in the MA in Human Services program. It is so frustrating and most people tell me you cannot speak to the person who decided to not accept any courses. So what led me here is I am trying to locate some of the Administration staff's e-mail addy to send them a plea for accurate and current information.
I do not know what else to say. It is definitely an experience so if you are a person who gets overwhelmed easy, this will test you so start early. God Bless and give it a try.
Look No Further,This is the ideal school:
School recommended by
Sandra C.Purter
on
May 24, 2009
47/56 people found this review helpful
I attended Liberty University 10/22/07 to 8/20/08 in the M.A.Ed.,Teaching and Learning Teacher Education Program.I must tell you,this was the most fantastic program that I had the good fortune to attend. Your admission Advisor will leave no stone unturned, when it comes to answering your questions about their programs.Personal and/or academic issues will be dealt with,you will be referred to a university psychologist, Counselor,or whatever it takes to assist their students. When I am prepared to complete my program of study,there could be no other university for me to except, Liberty University.
Of course,they will not hold your hand,and they should not,after all,we are adults,however;they will assist,direct and offer constructive suggestions. Its such a wonderful university.As an African-American,that's not an easy thing to say about a university,because I have had three,terrible experiences. Liberty University is truly unique.They really care about their students.
MBA
School recommended by
Laura
on
May 11, 2009
51/58 people found this review helpful
I earned my degree from a physical campus and wasn't too sure about doing Online School. My friend went to Liberty and really liked it, so I tried it too.
It was really flexible for me to work full-time and go to school full-time, which is the best part about Liberty. I didn't have to sign on at a particular time or like 4 times a week or anything. As long I finished my assignments on time, I was able to enjoy my weekends with my family.
The cost is VERY affordable too - its less than $400 a credit hour while other schools are over $600. It's nice to see a Christian school provide affordable programs at the Masters level, too.
I graduate in December and I'm really excited about it - I wouldn't have been able to get my Masters without Liberty.
You have to take charge, LU won't hold your hand.
School recommended by
Eric
on
April 05, 2009
87/101 people found this review helpful
I attended Liberty on campus during the 90's, but recently finished my undergrad degree online. The staff was very helpful when it came to transferring my old course work to a new degree program in Multidisciplinary Studies. When you call in, keep in mind that many of the people answering the phones are just students working part time, so they may not always have all the answers you need right away. Also, YOU have to call THEM and take charge of YOUR education, financing, etc... they aren't going to do it for you (much like the real world!). The same goes for classes. You have to be proactive and pursue your education... the professors are not going to make you do anything. You have to keep yourself motivated, or you won't be successful in the online education environment. Also, Liberty is an unapologetic conservative Christian university on every level, so keep that in mind before you decide to attend.
Master of Education and Education Specialist
School recommended by
LS Bryant
on
April 04, 2009
38/41 people found this review helpful
I must say that Liberty University Online is a wonderful school and has great programs. Before I enrolled in the Master's program, I talked to an admissions counselor. I was informed upfront about taking intensives on-campus. There was nothing that was a surprise for me. I was well informed by the admissions staff. Also, looking at the degree plans will let students know what classes are required to be taken on campus. Our family is please with our Liberty experience. I just finished a Masters in education and have started on the Education Specialist degree. My husband is half way through his Masters and is pleased as well.
Graduate Review
School recommended by
S. Hawkns
on
March 27, 2009
66/74 people found this review helpful
My name is S. Hawkins. I am an African American whom attended Liberty University and obtained a Master of Arts in Human Service. Their caring staff goes far and beyond to assist students in need. They demonstrated compassion.
Liberty is a Christian school. They teach from secular resources and incorporate Christian world views. The classes are set up to challenge the mind and prepare participants for the future.
The classes consist of weekly discussion boards on blackboard (where you participate with other classmates concerning your views on topics learned), instructors notes presented by power point or online audio with power point, you can also call are email professors as needed. In reality, they are not always available by phone. However, they will get to you in a timely fashion.
Liberty’s customer service and/or advisors are also knowledgeable. Whenever a technical problem (black board freezes) arises their staff will compromise with students. Technical issues have been few and were repaired in less then an hour. All computer systems have their days.
Lastly, all classes prepared me for my current job in family, marital, premarital, and even mental health counseling. I enjoyed the program so much; I am enrolling in Liberty’s doctoral program in counseling. I will back Liberty University up 100%.
BS - Business Management
School recommended by
David L Jobe
on
March 20, 2009
30/34 people found this review helpful
I attended Liberty in the early 80's but did not graduate. I graduated from Liberty University after taking 13 courses. I was totally pleased with the professionalism and availability of the professors. Be prepared for lots of writing!! And DON'T get behind on your work! I plan on pursuing my MBA as soon as I convince my company to pay for it!
Undergrad degree
School recommended by
Joy
on
March 19, 2009
44/46 people found this review helpful
I have been attending LU online for most of my Undergrad Degree (which I am about to complete). I LOVE this school! I have had no problems getting in touch with my instructors for questions. The classes are challenging and require a lot of time, but very enjoyable. My experience overall was very positive. I plan on getting my Masters here as well and if I pursue my Doctorate will also go to LU. They offer so many things!
Like someone else mentioned, this is a Christian school. If you do not like religion or Christian perspectives on the topics, this may not be the right school for you. Do your research before you enroll! Also, many of the Masters programs which are offered online require some intensive courses that you must take on campus...it pays to check out ALL the information on your own. Don't rely on someone to do it for you. Give LU a try. I think you will love it!
Psych Major
School recommended by
Cheri
on
March 05, 2009
46/53 people found this review helpful
This is my first year with Liberty and so far my experience has been great. In fact, I love it. The classes are challenging, the teachers are attentive and the administrative staff has always been helpful. I would highly recommend this school to anyone seeking a quality online education.
Great School!
School recommended by
Thomas Martin
on
March 02, 2009
58/63 people found this review helpful
I am currently a second year graduate student in counseling at Liberty University. I also have a MBA degree from Regent University, along with a BS degree from the University of Tennessee. Liberty is a great school!
The MA in Professional Counseling is a demanding program. If you want to learn counseling from a secular AND a Christian worldview, then Liberty is a great choice. You will learn about God's works (science) and how to filter this knowledge through God's Word.
I have to laugh at some of the previous posts: YES, Liberty is a Christian university. If you have to take classes to figure that out, then I would question your intellectual ability to even do the course work at Liberty. Again, Liberty is a great school and is growing tremendously. They now have over 30K online students.
Psychology
School not recommended by
Joseph
on
February 24, 2009
170/183 people found this review helpful
I found the whole experience with Liberty to be somewhat disappointing. Once they got me enrolled, it became difficult to get anyone to return my calls. I had to appeal a class in which I had taken. I was granted a chance to retake the class for free (almost, I was required to buy a new book).
After I finished the last four classes that I took at Liberty, I was informed that they had sent back my financial aid. They could not give me a good reason that the funds were returned being that I had a 3.5 gpa. I was then told that I would have to pay over $3300 in order to take more classes.
I asked if they would let me make payment arrangements and was told that it was not possible. They turned me into collections. This allowed me to pay an extra $900 in fee to the collection agent. I paid the amount that was required. There was a 1 cent balance left on my account. I called several times trying to pay this penny. I was told that I would not be allowed to pay. I would not be allowed to get my transcripts because of the hold placed on my account.
Now after several months trying to get this resolved they have removed the 1 cent and my account has a "0" balance. They still have a hold on my account, stopping me from getting my transcripts. I just called and was informed that it could take a few weeks more in order to remove the hold.
Management Information System
School not recommended by
Sheila
on
January 06, 2009
93/107 people found this review helpful
Because of the administrative/enrollment/financial aid staff at Liberty, my transcripts were lost, my student aid info was not reviewed and they caused me to go beyond the due date and wanted to charge me an additional $125 late fee. You can't call without sitting on hold forever. They lose everything and their computers are always down. I am extremely disappointed and never even had the opportunity to get started!
Human Services degree
School recommended by
Eden
on
December 30, 2008
40/48 people found this review helpful
Make sure that you are aware that Liberty is first and foremost a religious college. No matter the course topic, religion will be incorporated in some way. It is not a bad thing, but I often felt out of place because my views were often not in sync with evangelical christian views
Masters Degree
School recommended by
R. Carter
on
December 02, 2008
85/96 people found this review helpful
I attempted and completed a Master of Arts degree in Human Services with Liberty. I enjoyed every bit of it except that most of the classes focused on religion. I guess in my line of work, having a religious perspective is important.
I found 2 jobs 4 months after reciving my grad. degree as a Master's Level Mental Health Therapist. Of course, I wish I was able to get a license but in the state of Florida licensing does not come easy. I was told that I would have to go for a Master in Counseling. Oh well, it's all good being that my degree can literally get me most jobs in any social service area (prisons, schools, hospitals, etc.).
I am now trying to find me a reputable school to go for the PhD. in Human Services and I am doing my research like crazy. I would prefer a school that has not only "online" but "brick and mortar" like Liberty. I also received my B.S. online from State Uni. of New York.
Christain stiudies
School recommended by
Gary R. Damon
on
October 08, 2008
44/51 people found this review helpful
I believe this is one of the best schools that anybody would be happy to be a part of.My dad had cancer,and I had to drop out @ the end of the class,but they are good enough to work with me. GO liberty, I love everything about you.
Psychology Major
School recommended by
Sarenda Flanigan
on
August 20, 2008
45/46 people found this review helpful
I have had a very good experience at Liberty University. I think it is the school to pick if you have been out of school for more than an couple of years. I have always been able to get answers to any problems I have encountered which were not real problems. The financial aid dept, acadmeic advising and professors have been very helpful. I plan on graduating soon and continuing at liberty to get my Masters in marriage and family therapy.
