Walden vs Liberty University

Walden University and Liberty University, both well-established institutions of higher learning, offer distinct educational experiences. Walden, a pioneer in online education, boasts a diverse student body and flexible learning options, while Liberty, rooted in Christian values, emphasizes a faith-based curriculum. With varying acceptance rates, popular majors, student demographics, and graduation outcomes, these universities cater to different academic aspirations. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to discover which university aligns best with your educational goals and personal preferences.
Liberty University logo

Liberty University

Walden University logo

Walden University

Overview

Location Lynchburg, Virginia Minneapolis, Minnesota
Campus setting City: Small City: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (For Profit)
Calendar system Semester Quarter
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 79.0% 25.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation Evangelical

Admission

Acceptance rate 99.3% Open Admission
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants 28,448
Total number of admissions given out 28,244
Admitted students who chose to enroll 5,461
Yield rate 19.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A Not required
High school GPA Required N/A
Recommendation letters Not required N/A
High school transcript Not required N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required N/A

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $42,620 $24,240
Average net price $27,891 $18,772
Tuition $21,663 $11,700
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $6,150

Meal plan: $4,560
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

89.0%
Average amount $12,431
100.0%
Average amount $5,468
Students receiving federal student loan 52.0%
Average amount $5,619
Students taking out private loans 9.0%
Average amount $17,351

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 47,696
Men 43.0% Women 57.0%
7,119
Men 16.1% Women 83.9%
Graduate students 47,013
Men 38.7% Women 61.3%
39,336
Men 18.6% Women 81.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Moderate
Out-of-state students 76.0% N/A
International students 0.7% 1.6%
Campus local/setting City: Small City: Large
Dormitory capacity 8,222 N/A
First year students are required to live on campus? No N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Virginia North Carolina Pennsylvania Texas Florida North Carolina Maryland Texas Georgia Ohio

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Psychology
  • Theology
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Public Administration and Social Service
  • Business
  • Psychology
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 62.1% N/A
Dropout rate 30.2% N/A
Transferred out 5.6% N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $84,316
  • Year 2: $62,012
  • Year 3: $91,964
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $80,385
  • Year 2: $80,964
  • Year 3: $87,831
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,657
  • Year 2: $68,219
  • Year 3: $77,205
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,410
  • Year 2: $72,022
  • Year 3: $73,900
Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,556
  • Year 2: $51,106
  • Year 3: $65,313
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,731
  • Year 2: $62,936
  • Year 3: $64,580
Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $44,576
  • Year 2: $57,705
  • Year 3: $62,807
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,423
  • Year 2: $57,714
  • Year 3: $62,225
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $40,885
  • Year 2: $56,415
  • Year 3: $62,169
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,240
  • Year 2: $59,895
  • Year 3: $61,052
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $114,492
  • Year 2: $108,649
  • Year 3: $123,708
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,694
  • Year 2: $94,227
  • Year 3: $98,267
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $76,573
  • Year 2: $88,588
  • Year 3: $91,407
Public Administration (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $77,767
  • Year 2: $90,412
  • Year 3: $83,405
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $76,141
  • Year 2: $77,487
  • Year 3: $81,477
Education, General (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,994
  • Year 2: $80,219
  • Year 3: $80,275
Public Health (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $75,638
  • Year 2: $72,546
  • Year 3: $71,950
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,766
  • Year 2: $62,012
  • Year 3: $69,892
Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,969
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: $69,365
Medical Illustration and Informatics (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,492
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $68,414

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Walden University and Liberty University?

    Walden University and Liberty University, while both offering online programs, cater to different student populations and have distinct focuses. Walden University emphasizes social change and professional development, often attracting working professionals seeking advanced degrees. Liberty University, on the other hand, is a Christian university with a strong emphasis on integrating faith into its curriculum and attracting a broader range of students, including undergraduates and those seeking a more traditional college experience, albeit online.

  • Which university is more affordable, Walden University or Liberty University?

    Generally, Liberty University tends to be more affordable than Walden University, especially at the undergraduate level. Tuition costs can vary depending on the specific program and degree level, so it's crucial to check the most up-to-date tuition rates for your program of interest on each university's website. Also, explore available scholarships and financial aid options at both institutions.

  • What types of programs do Walden University and Liberty University specialize in?

    Walden University is known for its graduate programs in fields like education, counseling, social work, healthcare, and business. They often focus on applied learning and research aimed at making a positive social impact. Liberty University offers a wider range of programs, from undergraduate to doctoral levels, including strong programs in business, ministry, law, and aviation. They are known for integrating a Christian worldview into all their academic disciplines.

  • How does the learning environment differ between Walden University and Liberty University?

    Walden University's learning environment is typically geared towards adult learners with professional experience. Courses often involve discussions, collaborative projects, and applied research. Liberty University's online environment offers a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities, with a focus on structured coursework and faculty interaction. The integration of faith-based principles is a key component of the Liberty University learning experience.

  • Are Walden University and Liberty University regionally accredited?

    Yes, both Walden University and Liberty University are regionally accredited. Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Regional accreditation is a crucial factor to consider as it ensures the quality and credibility of the institution and its programs.

  • What are the admission requirements for Walden University and Liberty University?

    Admission requirements vary depending on the program level. Generally, Walden University requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree for graduate programs and may require relevant work experience. Liberty University's requirements vary depending on the program, but typically include transcripts, standardized test scores (for some programs), and an application essay. Specific program requirements should be reviewed on each university's admissions page.

  • Which university has a stronger focus on research?

    Walden University places a significant emphasis on research, particularly applied research aimed at addressing social issues. Many of their programs culminate in a dissertation or capstone project that requires students to conduct original research. Liberty University also supports research, but its primary focus is on providing a comprehensive education within a Christian framework. While research opportunities exist, they may not be as central to the curriculum as at Walden University.

  • How do Walden University and Liberty University support online students?

    Both universities offer a range of support services for online students, including academic advising, technical support, library resources, and career services. Walden University provides personalized support through faculty mentors and online communities. Liberty University offers a comprehensive online student portal with access to various resources and support services, including tutoring and writing assistance.

  • What is the religious affiliation of Walden University and Liberty University?

    Walden University is not religiously affiliated. Liberty University is a Christian university founded on evangelical principles. Its curriculum and campus life are infused with Christian values and beliefs.

  • Which university is better for someone seeking a career change?

    Both universities can be suitable for a career change, depending on your field of interest. Walden University's focus on professional development and applied learning may be particularly beneficial for those seeking to advance in their current field or transition to a related area. Liberty University's broad range of programs and career services can also support a career change, especially if you are seeking a career that aligns with Christian values.

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