Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global stands as a distinctive public online university, extending the esteemed Purdue University system's reach to a broad and diverse student population. Designed specifically for the modern learner, Purdue Global offers accessible, quality education for those balancing work, family, and other commitments, focusing on a student experience that prioritizes flexibility and support.

The institution's fascinating history traces back through a series of for-profit colleges, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Purdue University in a groundbreaking 2018 transaction. Formerly Kaplan University, Purdue acquired the institution for a symbolic one dollar, rebranding it as Purdue University Global. This strategic move allowed Purdue to expand its footprint significantly into the online learning space, catering to a demographic distinct from its traditional West Lafayette campus.

Purdue Global is particularly known for serving non-traditional students. Its student body reflects a commitment to inclusivity: 60 percent are over the age of 30, the mean student income at enrollment is $22,323, and for 55 percent, neither parent had attended college. This focus ensures that higher education is attainable for working adults, lower-income individuals, and first-generation college students, providing a valuable pathway to career advancement and personal growth.

After an initial period of investment and strategic development, Purdue Global has demonstrated a significant turnaround. By 2020, the university successfully reversed a prior enrollment decline, achieving a 5 percent growth. This momentum continued, leading to its first financially positive year in fiscal 2021, showcasing its resilience and the success of its tailored educational model.