University of Phoenix [UOPX] review: Course schedule and PLA credits

Subject: Formal Complaint Against the University of Phoenix – Mismanagement of Courses and Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Department

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to file a formal complaint against the University of Phoenix regarding significant issues related to its course structure, academic support, and the handling of the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process. My experience as a student has been marked by misinformation, administrative negligence, and what I believe is a systematic failure to uphold professional and ethical standards in higher education.

1. Misrepresentation of Course Value and Structure
The University of Phoenix markets its programs as being tailored for working adults and as offering flexibility and real-world applicability. However, I found the actual course content to be outdated, poorly structured, and lacking academic rigor. Several courses appeared to be recycled from earlier curriculums without updates, with limited faculty engagement or meaningful feedback. This has significantly undermined the educational value and return on the substantial tuition investment.

2. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Department – Inefficiency and Lack of Transparency
The PLA process, which is promoted as a way to accelerate degree completion based on prior experience, is fundamentally flawed. Despite submitting extensive documentation of my professional background and experience in line with their stated PLA guidelines, I encountered unexplained denials, long response times, and conflicting communication from the department. Requests for clarification or appeal were either ignored or met with generic, unhelpful responses.

Furthermore, PLA advisors often contradicted each other, and the lack of a clear, consistent rubric left me without a fair opportunity to receive credit for legitimate prior learning. This caused significant delays in my academic progress and resulted in unnecessary additional coursework and tuition fees.

3. Poor Student Support and Administrative Responsiveness
Attempts to resolve these issues through academic advising and the student services team have proven ineffective. Emails often go unanswered for weeks, and when responses are provided, they are frequently vague and dismissive. This lack of accountability and concern for student welfare reflects a broader systemic problem within the university’s administration.

4. Financial and Emotional Impact
The mishandling of the PLA evaluation and misleading course representation have not only resulted in a financial burden but also caused considerable emotional stress and academic disruption. As a paying student, I expected a minimum standard of professionalism and educational integrity, both of which have been severely lacking.

Conclusion and Request for Resolution
Given the above, I request that the Complaints Board investigate the University of Phoenix for its deceptive academic practices, particularly those involving the PLA department and course management. I also urge prospective students to exercise caution before enrolling, as the university’s promotional claims are not consistent with the actual student experience.

I am seeking formal acknowledgment of this complaint and a response from the university that includes:

A full review of my PLA submissions and a fair reassessment based on transparent criteria

Reimbursement or credit for courses taken due to PLA denial if reassessment finds them eligible

A review and overhaul of academic advisory services and PLA operations to prevent similar cases

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Tasheen Holmes
IRN [protected]
[protected]
[protected]@gmail.com