Herzing University and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) are both private institutions known for their flexible degree programs, especially online, but they differ significantly in size, program offerings, reputation, and student experience. The right choice depends on your academic goals, career focus, budget, and preferred learning environment.
Institutional Backgrounds
Herzing University is a private, nonprofit university founded in 1965, originally focused on business and technology education. Over time, it expanded to offer healthcare, nursing, public safety, and business programs. Herzing operates multiple physical campuses across the Midwest and Southern United States, as well as a robust online division.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), founded in 1932, is a private, nonprofit university based in Manchester, New Hampshire. SNHU has grown dramatically in recent years, largely due to its massive online presence. While it maintains a traditional campus, the vast majority of its 150,000+ students are enrolled online, making it one of the largest online universities in the country.
Program Offerings
Both universities offer a wide range of degree programs, but there are important distinctions:
- Herzing University specializes in healthcare (nursing, medical assisting, health administration), technology, business, and public safety programs. It is especially known for practical, career-focused degrees, many of which are aligned with specific professional licensure or certification requirements.
- SNHU offers over 200 programs, including business, IT, education, liberal arts, social sciences, and STEM fields. SNHU is known for its flexible transfer policies, broad general education curriculum, and wide selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees. While it has some healthcare-related programs, these are not as comprehensive as Herzing’s offerings.
If you’re seeking a nursing or allied health degree, Herzing may be a better fit. For broader options in business, psychology, communication, and creative writing, SNHU’s catalog is larger.
Online Learning Experience
Both universities have invested heavily in online education, but the scale and format differ:
- Herzing University offers online, on-campus, and hybrid programs. Its online classes are typically asynchronous (students can log in at any time), but some programs require labs or clinical experiences at approved sites. Herzing’s online platform is designed for working adults, with accelerated terms and personalized academic support.
- SNHU is known for its user-friendly online platform, rolling admissions (with terms starting every eight weeks), and highly flexible scheduling. Most classes are fully asynchronous, making it possible to balance education with work or family. SNHU’s support services for online students include 24/7 tech help, online tutoring, and dedicated academic advisors.
Both schools cater to adult learners and transfer students, but SNHU’s online infrastructure is larger, serving tens of thousands of students at any given time.
Admissions and Transfer Policies
Admissions at both universities are considered accessible, but policies do vary:
- Herzing University has rolling admissions and generally requires a high school diploma or GED. Some programs (such as nursing) have additional requirements, such as entrance exams or prerequisite courses. Herzing is known for working closely with students to identify transfer credits and create a personalized degree plan.
- SNHU is also known for open admissions for most of its online undergraduate programs. Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. SNHU has generous transfer credit policies, accepting up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree, which can significantly shorten time to graduation for students with prior college experience.
If you have significant prior college coursework, SNHU’s transfer credit policy may help you finish your degree faster.
Accreditation and Reputation
Accreditation ensures that a university meets certain standards of quality and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions.
- Herzing University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Many of its healthcare and nursing programs hold specialized accreditations (such as CCNE for nursing).
- SNHU is also regionally accredited, by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its business programs are accredited by ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs).
Both schools are recognized by employers and eligible for federal financial aid. SNHU’s large online presence has given it high visibility, but both are considered legitimate, accredited universities.
Costs and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees can differ greatly depending on program, transfer credits, and student status.
- Herzing University tuition (as of 2024) for online undergraduate programs is typically around $415 per credit hour, though this can vary by program. Some healthcare and nursing programs may have higher rates. Herzing offers scholarships, grants, and participates in federal financial aid programs. Additional fees may apply for labs or clinicals.
- SNHU undergraduate online tuition is about $330 per credit hour for most programs. Graduate tuition is higher, but still competitive compared to many private universities. SNHU is known for its transparent pricing and limited fees. Like Herzing, SNHU participates in federal aid and offers institutional scholarships.
Both universities are often more affordable than traditional private colleges, but SNHU’s tuition is generally lower, especially for online programs. Always check the latest tuition rates and factor in transfer credits, which can reduce total costs.
Student Support and Campus Life
The student experience at Herzing and SNHU varies, especially between online and on-campus students:
- Herzing University offers smaller class sizes, personalized academic advising, career services, and tutoring. On-campus students have access to labs, student organizations, and local events. Online students receive similar support virtually, but campus-based student life is more limited compared to traditional universities.
- SNHU has a large online student body, with extensive virtual support resources, including career counseling, mental health support, and online clubs. Its physical campus in New Hampshire has a more traditional college feel, with athletics, dorms, and in-person activities, but the majority of students are online and may not participate in campus life.
If campus-based activities are important to you, SNHU’s main campus offers more options. For working adults focused on career advancement, both schools provide strong academic and career support online.
How to Choose Between Herzing and SNHU
Choosing the right university depends on several factors:
- Intended Major: If you want a healthcare or nursing degree, Herzing’s specialized programs may be preferable. For broader liberal arts or business degrees, SNHU offers more variety.
- Learning Format: Both are strong in online education. If you need maximum flexibility and a large online community, SNHU may be more attractive. Herzing offers more hybrid/on-campus options in certain regions.
- Transfer Credits: SNHU’s generous transfer policies can speed up your degree if you have prior coursework.
- Budget: SNHU is generally more affordable for online programs, but compare your specific program costs and available aid.
- Accreditation Needs: For licensure or certification (especially in healthcare), check that your chosen program has the required specialized accreditation.
It’s wise to speak with admissions counselors at both universities, review your transfer credit options, and consider your long-term career goals before enrolling.
Common Challenges and Considerations
While both universities are reputable, students sometimes encounter issues common to adult-focused, online-heavy institutions:
- Transfer Credit Evaluation: Not all prior coursework may transfer, especially if it’s from unaccredited institutions or in unrelated fields.
- Program Rigor: Both universities are regionally accredited, but academic rigor can vary by program and instructor. Some students report that online courses require strong self-motivation and time management.
- Clinical/Internship Requirements: Healthcare programs may require in-person labs or clinicals, which can be challenging for distance learners. Confirm these requirements in advance.
- Career Outcomes: As with any university, job placement depends on your field, networking, and personal effort. Both schools offer career services, but proactive engagement is key.
Reading student reviews and speaking with alumni can provide insight into typical experiences and challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Herzing or SNHU better for nursing?
Herzing University is generally considered stronger for nursing and allied health programs, offering a variety of accredited degrees and practical clinical experiences. SNHU has limited healthcare offerings and does not offer traditional pre-licensure nursing degrees. - Are degrees from Herzing and SNHU respected by employers?
Both universities are regionally accredited, which is the standard for academic recognition in the U.S. Degrees from either are generally accepted by employers, but reputation can vary by industry and location. Healthcare and business employers are familiar with both names. - Can I transfer credits between Herzing and SNHU?
Both schools accept transfer credits, but the process is not automatic. Each university evaluates transcripts individually. SNHU is known for its generous transfer policy, potentially accepting more credits, but always confirm with admissions. - Which university is cheaper?
For online undergraduate programs, SNHU’s tuition is usually lower than Herzing’s. However, your total cost will depend on your program, transfer credits, and eligible financial aid. Always compare your specific situation. - Do I need to visit campus for online programs?
Most SNHU online programs are 100% online with no campus visits required. At Herzing, some healthcare programs may require on-site labs or clinical experiences. Check program details before enrolling. - Is financial aid available?
Both Herzing and SNHU participate in federal financial aid programs and offer institutional scholarships. File the FAFSA and speak with financial aid counselors to understand your options.
Alternatives to Herzing and SNHU
If neither university is the perfect fit, consider these alternatives:
- Purdue University Global: A public, nonprofit online university with a focus on adult learners and career advancement, especially in business, IT, and healthcare.
- Western Governors University (WGU): Known for competency-based education and flat-rate tuition, WGU is a good option for self-motivated learners in business, IT, teaching, and healthcare.
- University of Phoenix: A large online university offering a broad range of programs with a focus on working adults.
- Local community colleges and state universities: Many offer online degrees at a lower cost, with strong transfer pathways to four-year institutions.
Always research accreditation, program offerings, and student support before making a final decision.
See the main Southern New Hampshire University pros and cons.