Why GCU
What Makes GCU Different?
Choosing what to study and where to spend your college years isn't easy. You want to find the right degree program, the right club to join, the right dorm to live in — all in an environment that you can call your own. As a private, nonprofit university, GCU is committed to providing an educational experience focused on student growth, academic quality and long-term achievement. College is an experience that can prepare you for the rest of life. If you've made it here, now ask, what makes GCU stand apart from the rest?
We know you have questions, and we want to help you find the answers.
Explore Grand Canyon University
Percentage of 2023 traditional campus graduates who spent less than three years at GCU to complete their degrees.
Why Should You Consider GCU?
According to 2023-24 IPEDS data, Grand Canyon University leads Arizona institutions in the number of education, social work, counseling and nursing degrees awarded.1
">No matter your higher learning goals, you will have the opportunity to receive an affordable, quality education from a university grounded in Christian truth. Discover more by reading our university mission , take a tour of our beautiful campus and learn about the Lope student experience .
According to 2023-24 IPEDS data, Grand Canyon University leads Arizona institutions in the number of education, social work, counseling and nursing degrees awarded. (See disclaimer 1 )
Choose Your Ideal Learning Format
Online Learning
Hybrid Learning
Evening Classes
GCU’s Record of Achievement
GCU ranked #20 best college campus in America for 2026, according to Niche.com (See disclaimer 2 )
$1.9 billion invested in campus expansion and improvement (2009 to 2024).
GCU is ranked as the #1 college campus in Arizona for 2026, according to Niche.com (See disclaimer 2 )
GCU students received a total of over $358 million in institutional scholarships in 2024.
Hear From Our Students
"I was a little nervous about transitioning to college, but since I’ve been at GCU, I've surrounded myself with amazing people who have made it feel like home. It's unlike anywhere else I've ever been. Everyone is so kind, caring and loving."">" I was a little nervous about transitioning to college, but since I’ve been at GCU, I've surrounded myself with amazing people who have made it feel like home. It's unlike anywhere else I've ever been. Everyone is so kind, caring and loving. "
"I was a little nervous about transitioning to college, but since I’ve been at GCU, I've surrounded myself with amazing people who have made it feel like home. It's unlike anywhere else I've ever been. Everyone is so kind, caring and loving."">" I was a little nervous about transitioning to college, but since I’ve been at GCU, I've surrounded myself with amazing people who have made it feel like home. It's unlike anywhere else I've ever been. Everyone is so kind, caring and loving. "
