PHOENIX – Former doctoral students of Grand Canyon University (GCU) have filed a class-action lawsuit against the university’s for-profit entity, Grand Canyon Education Inc. (GCE), alleging deceptive marketing practices related to the costs of doctoral degrees. The lawsuit claims that marketing materials and recruitment tactics employed by GCE misled students about the actual expenses involved in obtaining their degrees.

Allegations of Misrepresentation

According to the plaintiffs’ attorneys, GCE allegedly misrepresented the costs associated with doctoral degrees through deceptive marketing practices. These practices allegedly obscured additional fees and costs, including what the plaintiffs refer to as continuation courses, which significantly inflated the total expenses beyond what was initially disclosed to students.

GCU’s Response and Legal Proceedings

In response to the lawsuit, GCU’s Chief Marketing Officer asserted that the allegations are baseless and part of a broader effort to undermine the university. The university has faced previous legal challenges and regulatory scrutiny regarding its financial practices. Last year, the Department of Education imposed a substantial fine of $37 million on GCU, which the university is currently appealing.

Financial Impact and Regulatory Scrutiny

The Department of Education’s fine on GCU stemmed from an investigation that highlighted discrepancies between the costs disclosed to students and the actual expenses incurred. This regulatory action reflects ongoing concerns about transparency and consumer protection in higher education marketing practices.

State Audit Findings

Earlier this year, a state audit conducted on GCU found no evidence of wrongdoing, contradicting some of the claims made by the plaintiffs in the lawsuit. University officials, including President Brian Mueller, have consistently defended GCU’s practices and policies amidst legal challenges and regulatory fines.

Conclusion: Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education

The class-action lawsuit filed by former GCU doctoral students underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in higher education marketing. As legal proceedings continue, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for how educational institutions market their programs to prospective students.

For updates on this developing story and more news, download The Local News App to your phone today.

Source