I attended on-the-ground classes at a local community college prior to attending classes at the University of Phoenix online. I did not notice any significant difference in the difficulty or quality of the classes. University of Phoenix provided an excellent way for a working adult who had to travel for work a great way to complete his education and receive an undergraduate degree. My only caveats are: 1. One can definitely find a less expensive alternative to earning a regionally accredited online degree - be sure to shop so that you have funds remaining for your graduate education. 2. The "team" approach to 1/3 of one's grade at the University of Phoenix can be frustrating because the University seems to accept anyone regardless of whether (s)he can write, spell, or is interested in doing quality work.