What Is It Known For?
Charter College is a private, career-focused school founded in 1985 in Anchorage, Alaska, by Dr. Milton Byrd. Since then, it has expanded from a single campus into a network of locations across several states and a strong online presence.
The college is known for its hands-on approach to learning, offering practical training that prepares students for in-demand careers. In 2023, Charter College enrolled about 2,277 full-time undergraduates, representing a diverse student body across gender and ethnicity.
Degrees & Certifications
Charter College offers a range of diplomas, certificates, associate, and bachelor’s programs designed to quickly get students into the workforce. Areas of study include:
- Business
- Health Care
- Information Technology
- Trades
- Veterinary
Program lengths vary depending on the credential. Many certificate and diploma programs can be completed in under a year, while associate degrees typically take around 18 months. Bachelor’s programs may take longer, especially if students are not transferring credits.
Class Schedules
Charter College offers flexible scheduling to meet the needs of different students. Programs are available fully online, on campus, or in a blended format that combines both. Many campuses provide morning and evening options, and new classes often start every few weeks, making it easier for students to begin when they are ready.
Several programs also include externships or clinical experiences, such as the Medical Assistant program, which requires students to complete supervised training in real workplace settings.
Is It Legit?
Yes, Charter College is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a nationally recognized agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education. Its programs are also designed to meet state licensing and national certification standards.
Acceptance Rate
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Charter College has an open admission policy, meaning all students who apply are accepted.
How Much Does It Cost?
Tuition at Charter College varies by program, location, and credential level. On average, undergraduate tuition is around $18,000 yearly before financial aid, while the average net cost after grants and scholarships is closer to $24,000. Because costs differ depending on whether a student is pursuing a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree, the best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact the school directly for more information.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Business Administration
Computer and Information Technology
- Computer Systems Technician
- Networking
- Cyber Security
Construction and Architecture
- Welding
Healthcare Administration and Services
- Healthcare Management
Healthcare and Nursing
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Nursing
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomy
- Sonography
HVAC and Building Services
- HVAC
Veterinary Services
- Veterinary Assistant
- Veterinary Technician
Campus Locations
Anchorage 2221 East Northern Lights Blvd #120 Anchorage, AK 99508
Oxnard 2000 Outlet Center Dr #150 Oxnard, CA 93036
Canyon Country 19034 Soledad Canyon Rd Canyon Country, CA 91351
Billings 1595 Grand Avenue #230 Billings, MT 59102
Farmington 3030 E 20th St Farmington, NM 87402
East Sandy 9485 South 700 East Sandy, UT 84070
East Wenatchee 595 Grant Rd #5 East Wenatchee, WA 98802
Lacey 4520 Lacey Blvd SE #40 Lacey, WA 98503
Pasco 5278 Outlet Dr Pasco, WA 99301
Vancouver 17200 SE Mill Plain Blvd #100 Vancouver, WA 98683
Yakima 2706 West Nob Hill Blvd #106 Yakima, WA 98902
Financial Aid Services
The institution offers many options to cover education costs. Charter College employs aid specialists to consult with enrollees. Staff will assist with the FAFSA, third party funding, work-study, and native grants. Experts also help navigate loans and repayment.
Student Services
Students can take advantage of many services to assist in learning, graduation, and career success. Campuses have computer and laptop rental as well as Wi-Fi. Additionally, Charter College extends success coaching to attendees. This program helps with challenges in coursework and test prep.
Career Services
The school provides career planning and support to all students. Charter College hosts hiring fairs, resume workshops, and interview practice sessions. Plus, job search assistance connects graduates with employment opportunities in their field.
Veteran and Military Services
The flexible programs and structured environment at Charter College can be a good fit for veterans and active duty enrollees. Once enrolled, military students attend a meeting with a financial aid worker. These associates help fill out the paperwork needed to receive relevant benefits including the VA and GI Bills.
Reviews
Based on reviews from local Google reviews, Charter College has a mixed and complex reputation. While many students praise its accelerated programs and supportive staff, the college faces significant criticism regarding its high cost, administrative practices, and the career value of its degrees.
Overall Score: 3.2/5 Stars
Common Praises
Flexible and Accelerated Programs: Many students praise the college for its fast-paced and flexible programs, which allow them to earn a degree or certificate while balancing work and family life. Online and hybrid learning modalities are noted as particularly convenient for adult learners.
Supportive Staff and Instructors: A large number of positive reviews highlight the dedication of staff and faculty. Advisors, career services teams, and instructors are described as helpful, professional, and genuinely committed to student success.
Effective Nursing Program: Despite some criticism, the nursing program receives several positive reviews from graduates who felt well-prepared for their NCLEX-RN exam and for work as a registered nurse. Public data also shows a strong job placement rate for graduates of the nursing program.
Common Criticisms
Questionable Career Outcomes: A very recent review from a welding program graduate alleges that employers are hesitant to hire Charter College graduates because the curriculum is “outdated and incomplete.” This reflects a broader concern about the value of the education in the job market, despite the college’s high self-reported job placement rates.
Financial and Administrative Concerns: A significant number of reviews from past students allege manipulative financial practices, with some claiming they were left with unexpected debt. There are also complaints about a lack of transparency and responsiveness from the financial aid department.
Quality of Education: Some students claim that the education is “sub par” and that they had to teach themselves. This criticism contrasts sharply with those who praised their instructors.
Concerns from Veterans: Several reviews from former military members and veterans contain serious warnings, alleging that the college exploits GI Bill funding without providing adequate value in return.
Momentum
The momentum for Charter College is mixed. While there are a number of positive reviews, including a recent one praising a staff member, the most recent review raises a serious and specific concern about the welding program’s curriculum being outdated and a barrier to employment. Other negative reviews are also relatively recent, including a complaint about financial issues from a year ago. The college’s official responses to these complaints appear proactive and professional, but the recurring nature of the criticisms suggests that the underlying issues have not been fully resolved.