Herzing University and DeVry University are both well-known private, for-profit institutions offering a range of career-focused degree programs, but they differ in several important ways. Understanding their respective pros and cons—including academics, costs, flexibility, reputation, and student outcomes—can help prospective students make an informed decision about where to pursue their education.
Background: Herzing and DeVry at a Glance
Herzing University, founded in 1965 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, operates campuses in multiple states and offers online programs. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which is generally considered the gold standard for U.S. colleges. Herzing is known for its nursing, healthcare, business, and technology programs, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and career readiness.
DeVry University, established in 1931, is also a for-profit institution with both campus and online offerings. Its primary focus areas include business, technology, healthcare administration, and engineering technology. DeVry is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission as well. Over the years, DeVry has become a prominent name in adult and nontraditional education, though it has faced periods of controversy around student outcomes and marketing practices.
Pros of Herzing University
- Regional Accreditation: Herzing’s regional accreditation makes transferring credits and pursuing further education (such as graduate school) generally easier.
- Healthcare Focus: Especially strong in nursing and allied health fields, with many programs designed to meet current workforce needs.
- Flexible Scheduling: Offers a mix of online, on-campus, and hybrid classes, which can benefit working adults or those with family responsibilities.
- Personalized Support: Known for small class sizes and individualized attention, including career services and tutoring.
- Accelerated Programs: Some degree tracks allow students to graduate faster than at traditional universities.
Cons of Herzing University
- For-Profit Status: As a for-profit school, Herzing may have higher tuition than public institutions, and some employers may view for-profit degrees less favorably.
- Limited Program Selection: While strong in healthcare and select fields, Herzing offers fewer majors than larger universities.
- Variable Campus Quality: Some campus facilities may be smaller or less well-equipped than at large state universities.
- Mixed Reputation: Regional accreditation helps, but for-profit schools sometimes face skepticism in the job market.
Pros of DeVry University
- Wide Range of Programs: Offers degrees in business, technology, healthcare administration, and engineering technology.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Programs are designed with industry input for practical, job-ready skills.
- Flexible Learning Options: Extensive online and hybrid learning, plus multiple start dates throughout the year.
- National Brand Recognition: DeVry is widely recognized, especially for adult learners and technical fields.
- Support Services: Includes career counseling, tutoring, and job search assistance.
Cons of DeVry University
- For-Profit Status: Similar to Herzing, DeVry’s for-profit model can mean higher costs and occasional employer bias.
- Mixed Outcomes: Graduation and job placement rates have varied, and some students have reported difficulty finding jobs in their field.
- Past Controversies: DeVry has faced legal scrutiny and settlements over job placement claims and marketing, which may affect public perception.
- Credit Transfer Issues: Some students have experienced difficulty transferring credits to other institutions, despite regional accreditation.
Comparing Academics and Programs
Both universities offer associate, bachelor’s, and some master’s degree programs, but their academic strengths differ:
- Herzing: Best known for nursing (RN and BSN), medical assisting, healthcare management, and some IT programs. Herzing’s programs often satisfy state licensure requirements, especially in nursing.
- DeVry: Well known for business administration, computer information systems, engineering technology, and healthcare administration. DeVry’s Keller Graduate School of Management offers MBA and specialized master’s degrees.
Both schools offer credit for prior learning, certifications, and work experience, which can shorten time to degree for adult learners.
Cost Considerations and Financial Aid
Tuition at both Herzing and DeVry is higher than at most public universities or community colleges, reflecting their for-profit status and the convenience offered to working adults. As of 2024, typical tuition rates range from $14,000 to $17,000 per year, though actual costs vary by program and campus location.
Both schools participate in federal financial aid programs (Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, etc.) and offer institutional scholarships, military discounts, and employer partnerships. Prospective students should:
- Compare net price calculators on each school’s website for a realistic estimate.
- Look closely at loan debt and repayment options.
- Consider community colleges or public universities if cost is a primary concern.
Reputation and Outcomes: What Do Employers Think?
While both Herzing and DeVry are regionally accredited, which is essential for most employers and graduate schools, their for-profit status can influence perceptions. Some employers may prefer degrees from nonprofit or public universities, especially for highly competitive fields. However, in technical or healthcare roles where skills and certification matter most, graduates from either school can be competitive—especially if they performed well and completed relevant internships or certifications.
It’s important to research job placement rates for your intended program at your chosen campus or online program. Graduation and employment rates can vary significantly, even within the same university system.
Flexibility and Student Experience
Both universities cater to nontraditional students, such as working adults, parents, or career changers. Flexible scheduling, online courses, and multiple start dates are standard. Herzing tends to offer more personalized support and smaller class sizes, while DeVry has a broader national reach and more established online infrastructure.
Herzing’s health-focused programs may require in-person labs or clinical placements, so prospective students should confirm location and availability. DeVry’s business and technology programs are often fully online, but some engineering tech courses may have in-person requirements.
How to Choose Between Herzing and DeVry
The right choice depends on your career goals, program of interest, financial situation, and personal learning preferences. Consider these steps:
- Identify Your Career Goal: Are you pursuing nursing, healthcare, business, or technology? Herzing excels in nursing and allied health, while DeVry is stronger in business and technology.
- Research Accreditation and Licensure: For fields like nursing, ensure the program meets state licensure requirements.
- Compare Costs and Financial Aid: Use net price calculators and talk to admissions counselors about aid packages.
- Visit Campuses or Attend Online Info Sessions: Get a feel for support services, faculty, and student life.
- Read Graduate Reviews and Outcomes: Look for independent reviews and outcome data for your specific program and campus.
Common Challenges and Student Complaints
Students at both institutions have cited common issues:
- Cost and Debt: High tuition can lead to significant student debt if not carefully managed.
- Credit Transfer: Despite regional accreditation, transferring credits to other universities can be challenging, especially to public or nonprofit schools.
- Job Placement: Some graduates have reported difficulty finding jobs in their field, especially outside of healthcare or technology.
- Administrative Issues: Delays with financial aid, registration, or transcript processing can be frustrating.
- For-Profit Stigma: Some employers and graduate schools may scrutinize degrees from for-profit institutions more closely.
Alternatives to Herzing and DeVry
For students seeking similar flexibility or career-focused education, consider:
- Community Colleges: Often offer two-year degrees and transfer pathways at lower cost, with increasing online options.
- Public Universities: Many state schools now offer online programs and have strong reputations.
- Nonprofit Online Colleges: Schools like Western Governors University or Southern New Hampshire University provide online degrees with nonprofit status.
- Technical Institutes: For hands-on fields, accredited technical colleges may offer better value and job placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Herzing University or DeVry University better for nursing?
Herzing University is generally considered stronger in nursing, offering accredited programs that meet state licensure requirements and strong clinical partnerships. DeVry does not offer pre-licensure nursing programs and focuses more on healthcare administration. - Are degrees from Herzing and DeVry respected by employers?
Both are regionally accredited, which is important for employer and graduate school recognition. However, some employers may view for-profit degrees less favorably, so research employer attitudes in your field. - Can I transfer credits from Herzing or DeVry to another university?
Credit transfer is possible due to regional accreditation, but acceptance depends on the receiving institution’s policies. Always confirm in advance, especially for specialized or technical courses. - Which is more affordable: Herzing or DeVry?
Both are relatively expensive compared to public options, with tuition in a similar range. Actual costs depend on program, location, and available financial aid. Compare net prices carefully. - Do Herzing and DeVry offer online degrees?
Yes, both universities offer fully online and hybrid degree programs in many fields, catering to working adults and those needing schedule flexibility. - What are the graduation and job placement rates?
Rates vary by campus and program. Both universities publish outcome data, but independent reviews and government sources (such as College Scorecard) are helpful for up-to-date information.
Summary: Which School Should You Choose?
Herzing University and DeVry University both offer accredited, career-focused degrees with flexible options for working adults. Herzing is best for nursing and allied health, while DeVry excels in business and technology. Both have higher-than-average costs and face some skepticism due to their for-profit status. To decide, match your career goal to each school’s strengths, compare costs, research outcomes, and consider alternatives like public universities or nonprofit online colleges if reputation and affordability are top priorities.
See the main Herzing University pros and cons.