University Of The People: Courses, Fees, Admission And Accreditation

University of the People is an online university that allows students to pursue higher education without paying traditional tuition fees. Its programmes are designed for people who want to earn a qualification while managing work, family responsibilities or other commitments.

However, tuition-free education does not mean that studying at the university costs nothing. Students may have to pay application and course assessment fees, and these costs can add up over the duration of a degree.

For Nigerian students considering an international online university, several questions are worth answering before applying. Is University of the People accredited? What courses are available? How much does it cost to earn a degree? Can graduates use their qualifications to seek employment or further education in Nigeria?

This article explains how the university works, its available programmes, published fees, admission requirements and important considerations for prospective students.

What Is University Of The People?

University of the People, commonly called UoPeople, is a private, nonprofit online university based in the United States. It was established in 2009 by Shai Reshef to make higher education more accessible to students around the world.

Unlike a traditional university, UoPeople delivers its programmes entirely online. Students use its online learning platform to access course materials, participate in learning activities, complete assignments and communicate with other learners.

The university’s tuition-free model is intended to reduce the financial barriers associated with higher education. Instead of charging conventional tuition, it charges certain application and assessment fees.

Students do not need to travel to the United States to attend classes. This arrangement may appeal to Nigerians who want an international qualification without relocating abroad.

However, studying online requires a reliable internet connection, a suitable device and the ability to manage assignments independently.

Is University Of The People Accredited?

Yes. According to its official accreditation information, University of the People is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Accreditation is a process through which an independent accrediting organisation evaluates an educational institution against established standards. It can help students assess an institution’s academic standing and quality assurance arrangements.

UoPeople previously held accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The university states that its relationship with DEAC ended on 31 December 2025. From January 2026, WSCUC is its institutional accreditor.

This distinction matters because older websites and articles may still describe the university as accredited by both organisations. Prospective students should check the current information rather than relying on outdated claims.

Accreditation is important, but it does not automatically guarantee that every employer, professional regulator or university in every country will accept a qualification.

Before enrolling, students should establish whether the programme meets the requirements of their intended career or further studies.

For official information, visit the University of the People’s accreditation page at https://www.uopeople.edu/student-experience/quality/accreditation/.

Courses Offered At University Of The People

University of the People offers programmes at different academic levels. The options available to a student depend on the programme, admission requirements and current university catalogue.

1. Associate Degree Programmes

Associate degrees are undergraduate qualifications that can provide an introduction to a subject or a foundation for further study.

UoPeople lists the following associate degree programmes:

• Associate of Science in Business Administration
• Associate of Science in Computer Science
• Associate of Science in Health Science

These programmes may suit students who want to develop foundational knowledge before pursuing further education or exploring relevant career opportunities.

2. Bachelor’s Degree Programmes

A bachelor’s degree provides more advanced study in a chosen field.

The university lists the following bachelor’s programmes:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Health Science
• Bachelor of Arts in General Studies

Business Administration may interest students who want to study management, business operations and related subjects.

Computer Science may be suitable for learners interested in computing, software development and other technology-related fields.

Health Science focuses on health-related knowledge and concepts. Students should understand that a Health Science degree is not automatically a professional licence to practise medicine, nursing or another regulated healthcare profession.

General Studies provides a broader approach to undergraduate education.

3. Master’s Degree Programmes

For students who already hold a suitable undergraduate qualification, UoPeople lists these graduate programmes:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Admission to graduate programmes may involve additional academic and documentation requirements.

Before choosing a programme, check the university’s official catalogue to confirm its current availability, admission criteria, course structure and fees.

Also Read: Private Universities In Abuja: Full List, School Fees, Courses, Cut-Off Marks And Admission Requirements

University Of The People Fees: How Much Does It Cost?

One of the most common questions about University of the People is whether students can study for free.

The university does not charge traditional tuition for its programmes, but it does charge application and course assessment fees.

According to its published fee information, the application fee is $60, while undergraduate course assessment fees are $180 per course. Graduate assessment fees differ by programme.

The following figures are published estimates for students who complete their programmes at UoPeople without transfer credits.

These are estimated total costs, not annual tuition fees. The amounts are denominated in US dollars.

The total can change if the university updates its fees, a student repeats courses or additional charges apply. Transfer credits may also affect the total amount payable.

Students should therefore confirm the current figures in the official university catalogue before making financial plans.

How Much Does Each Course Cost?

For undergraduate programmes, the published assessment fee is $180 per course.

For example, if a student takes one undergraduate course and owes the standard assessment fee, the assessment charge would be $180. The separate application fee is generally $60 for a new application.

The assessment fee is not the same as tuition. It is a charge associated with the course assessment process.

Students should also consider possible bank charges, currency conversion costs and internet expenses when estimating the amount they will need.

Is University Of The People Free For International Students?

University of the People offers its tuition-free model to eligible students internationally. Nigerian applicants can explore the available programmes and apply if they meet the relevant requirements.

However, tuition-free does not mean completely free.

Students may need to pay the application fee and course assessment fees. Other personal expenses, such as internet access, are also their responsibility.

The university offers financial assistance for eligible students who need help with fees. However, applicants should not assume that every student automatically receives a scholarship or fee waiver.

For the latest fee information, consult the official page at https://www.uopeople.edu/tuition-free/processing-fees/.

University Of The People Admission Requirements

Admission requirements depend on whether an applicant wants to enrol in an undergraduate or graduate programme.

For undergraduate study, the university’s catalogue provides for applicants aged 16 or older. Applicants must also meet the academic and documentation requirements for their intended programme.

Prospective undergraduate students should be prepared to provide relevant educational records and any other documents requested during the application process.

Graduate applicants generally need to meet the entry requirements for their selected master’s programme, including the applicable previous qualification requirements.

Because requirements can differ by programme and applicant circumstances, it is important to check the official admissions information before applying.

Can Nigerians Apply To University Of The People?

Nigerian students can explore UoPeople’s online programmes and apply if they meet the university’s eligibility requirements.

The online learning model means that students do not need to relocate to the United States to participate in their studies.

Before applying, Nigerian students should check the following:

• Whether their previous qualification meets the entry requirements.
• Which documents are required for their application.
• Whether their chosen programme is currently accepting applications.
• The total estimated fees in US dollars.
• Whether the degree will be suitable for their career or further education plans in Nigeria.

It is also sensible to check the quality of your internet connection and whether you can regularly dedicate time to online learning.

How To Apply To University Of The People

The application process begins on the university’s official website.

Although the exact steps can change, prospective students can generally follow this process:

Step 1: Visit The Official Website

Go to https://www.uopeople.edu/ and locate the admissions or application section.

Step 2: Choose A Programme

Review the available courses and degrees. Select a programme that matches your educational background and long-term goals.

Step 3: Check The Admission Requirements

Read the requirements carefully before submitting your application. Make sure you understand the academic qualifications and supporting documents needed.

Step 4: Complete The Application

Provide accurate personal and educational information. Use your correct details and ensure that your documents are genuine.

Step 5: Follow the fee instructions

Review the application fee and available payment options. Check the current amount before making payment.

Step 6: Monitor Your Application

Follow the university’s instructions for checking your application status and responding to any requests for additional documents.

Admission is not guaranteed simply because an application has been submitted. Applicants must satisfy the university’s applicable requirements.

Is A University Of The People Degree Accepted In Nigeria?

This is an important question for Nigerian students considering an international online qualification.

University of the People is accredited by WSCUC in the United States. However, that fact alone does not establish that every Nigerian employer, university or professional regulator will accept every qualification it awards.

Acceptance depends on what you intend to do with the degree.

For employment, an employer may assess the qualification, the job requirements, your skills and your experience.

For further education, a receiving university may have its own rules about accepted qualifications and transfer credits.

For a regulated profession, the relevant Nigerian regulatory body may impose additional requirements that an academic qualification alone does not satisfy.

Before enrolling, contact the organisation that will ultimately evaluate your degree. Explain the exact programme you intend to study and ask whether it meets the applicable requirements.

Where necessary, obtain written confirmation instead of relying only on online comments or promotional statements.

This is especially important if your goal is to obtain a qualification for a regulated profession or a specific public-sector position.

Is University Of The People Worth It?

Whether UoPeople is a suitable choice depends on your educational goals, financial situation and the way you prefer to study.

Potential Advantages

No Traditional Tuition Fees

• The university’s tuition-free model may make higher education more accessible than some conventional university options.

Online Learning

• Students can study remotely without moving to another country to attend physical classes.

Flexible Study Arrangements

• The university’s online learning model can appeal to people balancing education with employment or family responsibilities.

International Learning Environment

• Students can participate in an online academic community with learners from different backgrounds.

Multiple Programme Options

• The university offers programmes in areas including business, computing, health science, education and information technology.

Things To Consider

Course Assessment Fees Still Apply

• Students must budget for applicable fees even though the university does not charge traditional tuition.

Online Study Requires Discipline

• Students need to organise their time, meet deadlines and complete their work without the structure of daily physical classes.

Internet Access Is Important

• Unreliable internet access may make it harder to participate consistently in online learning.

Recognition Must Be Checked

• Students should confirm that their intended employer, regulator or receiving university will accept the qualification for their specific purpose.

Professional Licensing Is Separate

• A degree in a subject related to a regulated profession does not automatically grant permission to practise that profession.
• For these reasons, compare UoPeople with other suitable institutions before making a final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Is University Of The People A Real University?

University of the People is a private, nonprofit online university based in the United States. Its current accreditation information identifies WSCUC as its institutional accreditor.

How Much Does University Of The People Cost Per Course?

The published undergraduate course assessment fee is $180 per course. The application fee is generally $60. Graduate programme assessment fees are different, so applicants should check the current fee schedule for their intended programme.

Is University Of The People Completely Free?

No. The university does not charge traditional tuition, but students may need to pay application and course assessment fees.

Can Nigerians Study At University Of The People?

Nigerians can explore the university’s online programmes and apply if they meet the applicable admission requirements. They should also check whether their chosen qualification will meet their future career or education needs in Nigeria.

Does University Of The People Offer Scholarships?

University of the People provides financial assistance opportunities for eligible students who need help covering applicable fees.

The availability of assistance, the amount awarded and the eligibility requirements can vary.

Students should visit the university’s official financial assistance or scholarship information page to learn about current opportunities.

Do not assume that a scholarship will cover every fee or that submitting a scholarship request guarantees an award.

When preparing your budget, consider the standard fees first and treat financial assistance as something to confirm through the university.

Is University Of The People Accredited?

Yes. The university states that it is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Its relationship with DEAC ended on 31 December 2025.

Can I Get A Job With A University Of The People Degree?

A graduate may apply for jobs relevant to their qualification, but employment depends on the employer’s requirements, the position and the applicant’s skills and experience.

Does University Of The People Offer Online Courses?

Yes. The university delivers its programmes online, including associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in several fields.

How Do I Apply To University Of The People?

Visit the official website, review the available programmes and admission requirements, and follow the university’s application instructions.