About Capella University
Capella is a pioneering online university dedicated to exceptional learning outcomes that drive professional growth. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, we’ve been transforming higher education to support working adults for nearly three decades. Each of our competency-based programs is designed to build authentic skills and knowledge that make a positive impact on individuals, organizations and the world.
Capella University mission and leadership
The Capella mission
The mission of Capella University is to extend access to high-quality bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, doctoral and certificate programs for adults who seek to maximize their personal and professional potential. This mission is fulfilled through innovative programs that are responsive to the needs of adult learners and involve active, engaging, challenging and relevant learning experiences offered in a variety of delivery modes.
Leading with integrity
The executive leaders, deans and board of trustees at Capella University represent a wealth of experience in higher education and are united in their commitment to professionally relevant programs that fit the way people live today. Meet our leadership team.
What we offer
A leader in online education since 1993, we’re experienced in learning that works for busy people. Our programs are professionally aligned to help students meet current and future challenges in a chosen field. And Capella is proud to hold institutional and specialized accreditations that affirm the quality of faculty, curriculum, student services and fiscal stability.
Competency-based education with career focus
Career-crafted curriculum
With our faculty, we develop relevant courses by consulting industry experts to understand their expectations for high-performing workers.
Gain practical knowledge and skills
Students are assessed by how well they apply knowledge of key competencies.
Apply what you learn today
Because courses reflect the current and future needs in an industry, students can quickly apply what they learn to their career.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Capella University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Founded in 1895, the Higher Learning Commission accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States. It is committed to advancing the common good through quality assurance of higher education and to serving students and member institutions.
Facts about Capella University
Every story is a source of inspiration – we’re proud to help students from all walks of life discover a path to earning their degree. Read more facts about Capella University.
51,770 Current students
161,024 Alumni (degree and certificate recipients)
178,892 Degrees and certificates awarded
1 Average age of students
1 Part-time students
1 Capella faculty members with doctorates
Source: Capella University Fact Sheet, as of December 31, 2024
Capella University awards and recognitions
For over 20 years, we’ve made it our goal to provide working professionals with a flexible way to earn a degree. In addition to our accreditations, Capella University has received numerous awards and recognitions.