About University of the People
A distance education institution based in Pasadena, California, the University of the People works with prominent academics and experienced industry leaders to create programs designed to prepare students for success in a range of fields.
UOPeople’s unique approach to higher education includes a tuition-free policy. The only fees students pay are an application fee and an assessment fee per course, making the degrees among the best values in academia.
Students can choose from online certificates and associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in areas such as business administration, information technology, education, and health science. Nine-week courses consist of weekly units with assignments that can be completed according to each student’s schedule.
Online students have access to course forums where they can interact with other students and ask questions related to the material. Additional supports include a virtual writing center and the Online Peer Assessment Office.
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Accreditation & Licensing
University of the People is accredited by:
Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Master's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableGraduate Enrollment:
8,982Fully Online Graduate Students:
100%Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
70%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$614University of the People is often chosen for low cost and a flexible pace. Many students keep working while they study, which can protect income and shorten financial strain.
The 100% online format helps students fit classes into a busy week. That flexibility can support a steady plan to finish on time.
Students who build a clear weekly routine tend to manage pace better. Strong time habits help control total cost and reduce delays to finish.
At University of the People, students do best when they reach out early and follow up clearly. Support from advisors and staff is helpful for staying on track. During technical issues, replies may take longer, so it helps to plan your week ahead.
The school’s structure works well for many students who balance work and classes. Grading includes peer assessment, so scores can differ from classmate to classmate. Careful use of the rubric and instructor guidance can lead to steadier results.
University of the People runs 100% online classes. The format fits adults with jobs. You can keep your schedule and study remotely. Class interaction often happens in discussion forums.
Group work is part of the structure. Some projects are coordinated through Google across countries. That means time-zone planning matters. The pace is self-managed and steady. This is a fully digital community, including no in-person class meetings.
Classes at University of the People are active and challenging. Students complete portfolios, case studies, and close reading work. Courses rely on discussion and group work, not long passive lectures. The lessons stay practical and connect to real job skills.
Peer learning is a core part of each class. Students often work with classmates across countries and time zones. That teamwork helps build clear communication and strong planning habits. Peer grading is part of the model, so scores and comments can sometimes differ across classmates.
University of the People is built for access. It is low cost and fully online. It works well for adults who keep working while in school. For focused, self-directed learners, it can be a strong value.
Coursework is structured and challenging, not easy credit. Classes often include discussion posts and group projects. Students also work with classmates across time zones, so global teamwork is part of daily learning.
Peer grading can vary by class. Support can also move slowly at times, including tech and advising replies. Clear planning helps with costs, since application and assessment fees are part of the total price. This school is a strong fit for students who can stay organized and keep a steady pace.
University of the People is built for access. It is low cost and fully online. It works well for adults who keep working while in school. For focused, self-directed learners, it can be a strong value.
Coursework is structured and challenging, not easy credit. Classes often include discussion posts and group projects. Students also work with classmates across time zones, so global teamwork is part of daily learning.
Peer grading can vary by class. Support can also move slowly at times, including tech and advising replies. Clear planning helps with costs, since application and assessment fees are part of the total price. This school is a strong fit for students who can stay organized and keep a steady pace.
Online Programs offered by University of the People
All Programs
Business
Computer Science & IT
Frequently Asked Questions About University of the People
Is University of the People accredited?
Yes. University of the People is institutionally accredited by Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
How many online programs does University of the People offer?
University of the People offers 8 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does University of the People offer?
University of the People offers programs from associate and bachelor's through master's levels.
How should students contact admissions at University of the People?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is University of the People expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, University of the People falls into GetEducated’s $ tuition tier, which points to a lower tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at University of the People?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask University of the People first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
Is University of the People military friendly?
University of the People does not show Yellow Ribbon support. If military benefits matter for your plan, check current military options before you apply.
How can students request information from University of the People through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for University of the People applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official High School Transcript/GED Score, Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does University of the People accept life experience credit?
University of the People does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are University of the People programs fully online or mixed?
University of the People programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
What kinds of online programs does University of the People offer?
University of the People has online program options in areas such as Business, Computer Science & IT, Healthcare, and Education; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Are any admission tests required for University of the People programs?
One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at University of the People?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any University of the People programs have state authorization limitations?
Some programs show state or location restrictions, so students should confirm eligibility for their state before applying. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at University of the People?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For University of the People, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare University of the People programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a University of the People program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Geographic and Educational Overview
University of the People is located in California
California at a Glance:
Top Majors in California:
Top Incentives in California:
- Cal Grant Program: Up to $12,570 annually
- Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition and fees
- Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Full tuition coverage
Top Career Pathways in California:
- Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
- Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($150,000)
- Senior Level: Technical Director ($200,000+)
- Required Education: BS Computer Science
- Certifications: AWS, Security+, CISSP
- Entry Level: Clinical Manager ($75,000)
- Mid Level: Hospital Administrator ($120,000)
- Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($180,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
- Entry Level: Environmental Specialist ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Environmental Manager ($110,000)
- Senior Level: Sustainability Director ($160,000+)
- Required Education: BS Environmental Science
- Certifications: CHMM, PE