What Is It Known For?
Utah Valley University began in 1941 as Central Utah Vocational School, originally created for war production training. Since then, the institution has grown to serve Utah, Wasatch, and Summit counties with programs that match local business needs.
This growth shows in the numbers: Fall 2024 enrollment reached a record 46,809 students, marking a 4.83% increase from the previous year. With this upward trend, 2025 enrollment should climb even higher. Throughout its history, UVU has built its reputation on accessible education that prepares students for real careers.
Degrees & Certifications
The university provides associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and certificates across numerous fields including:
- History & Political Science
- Business Marketing
- Art & Design
- Mechanical & Civil Engineering
- Developmental Mathematics
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
UVU provides flexible scheduling through multiple options. The Full Time Accelerated Schedule runs Monday through Thursday evenings in-person or online. Working professionals can choose the Part Time Evening Schedule, meeting two evenings weekly. Students also access morning and afternoon classes.
The university also combines classroom instruction with online learning, creating hybrid programs that fit work and family schedules. Many programs include externships and clinical experiences for practical application.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. UVU is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Acceptance Rate
Utah Valley University maintains a 100% acceptance rate through its open admission policy. Any student who completed high school or earned equivalent credentials can enroll.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
The 2024-2025 tuition rates vary by residency and program level:
- Undergraduate Resident: $489.00 per credit hour
- Undergraduate Non-Resident: $1,357.00 per credit hour
- Online Non-Resident: $277.00 per credit hour
- Graduate Resident: $336.00 per credit hour
- Graduate Non-Resident: $1,011.00 per credit hour
However, it’s important to note that these costs just cover tuition. There are other fees and charges that come with each course. To get the full picture of how much you will pay for the total cost of attendance we recommend using the school’s net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Business Marketing
- Finance & Economics
- Master of Business Administration
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
- Law Enforcement Academy
Healthcare
- Dental Hygiene
- Nursing
- Respiratory Therapy
- Master of Science in Nursing
Professional Services
- Culinary Arts Institute
Skilled Trades
- Aviation Sciences
- Construction Technology
- Electrical
Technology
- Computer Science
- Information Systems & Technology
- Cyber Security
Campus Locations
Orem 800 West University Parkway, Orem, UT 84058
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, Utah Valley University has a mixed reputation, with some students praising the supportive environment and professors, while others express significant frustration with administrative policies and campus logistics.
Overall Score: 3.1/5 Stars
Common Praises
Supportive and Friendly Environment: Many reviewers, including some very recent ones, describe the campus as “amazing,” “friendly,” “uplifting,” and a “great community.” The faculty and professors are often called “well connected,” “engaging,” and “willing to work with you.” The availability of resources like the writing lab is also a major positive.
Positive Campus Experience: Some students appreciate the campus itself, noting that it is beautiful, clean, organized, and constantly being updated. The university is seen as a place where everyone can feel they belong, with one review highlighting its inclusive nature toward different cultures, backgrounds, and sexualities.
Quality of Education: Several students commend the quality of education and feel that their classes provide practical, applicable knowledge for their future careers. The aviation program is specifically mentioned as a highlight.
Common Criticisms
Administrative and Financial Issues: A number of reviews, including some very recent ones, criticize the university for “dishonest practices.” Students report being charged mandatory, unannounced fees for programs that are difficult to opt out of and having money taken from their accounts without their consent. Others complain about being denied refunds for online class materials even after dropping the course within the first week.
Poor Communication and Unprofessional Staff: Several reviewers mention rude or unhelpful staff, particularly at the testing center, which is repeatedly described as a “prison” and “dirty.” Students report being treated poorly and feeling like they have to “kiss their behinds to get a smile.”
Logistical Issues: A consistent complaint across many years of reviews is the parking, which is frequently described as a “HUGE joke” and a “total mess.” Some reviews also mention that the testing center is in a dirty, trailer-like building.
Lack of Social Life: Some students feel that the campus lacks a vibrant social scene, with one review stating that there are “no events, no clubs that actually do anything interesting, and the social scene is basically dead.”
Momentum
The reviews for Utah Valley University are highly polarized, with a mix of very positive and very negative feedback. While the positive comments about the school’s culture, supportive faculty, and inclusive environment are strong and recent, they are countered by serious, specific, and recent criticisms about financial and administrative policies. The ongoing complaints about parking and the testing center show that some long-standing logistical issues persist. This significant divide is reflected in the overall average rating.