Walden University

Walden University is a private, for-profit online university headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1970, the institution was created to expand access to graduate education for working professionals. Walden offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and specialist degrees across fields such as education, business, psychology, public health, nursing, and social and behavioral sciences. The university operates primarily online and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Walden is known for serving adult learners, including midcareer professionals seeking flexible degree pathways that allow them to continue working while pursuing advanced study. Its programs emphasize applied research and professional practice, particularly at the doctoral level.

Walden University was founded in 1970 by educators Bernard and Rita Turner, who sought to create flexible doctoral programs for working professionals. The first classes were held in 1971 in Naples, Florida, and the university awarded its first doctoral degrees in 1972. In 1979, Walden University was licensed to grant degrees in Minnesota and moved its headquarters to Minneapolis in 1982. Regional accreditation was granted in 1990 by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. During the 1990s and early 2000s, the institution expanded its academic offerings and developed online delivery models. Ownership changed in 2001 when Sylvan Learning Systems acquired a controlling interest, later becoming Laureate Education. In 2021, Adtalem Global Education acquired Walden University. Over time, Walden University evolved into a large online institution serving students across the United States and internationally.