The listings featured on this site are from companies from which this site receives compensation. This influences where, how and in what order such listings appear on this site. Advertising Disclosure

Wake Forest University logo View Programs Top

Wake Forest University Review

Wake Forest University’s School of Professional Studies offers fully online graduate degrees and certificate programs designed for working professionals. Based in North Carolina and backed by more than 185 years of history, the school delivers flexible coursework in fields aligned with workforce needs. Students can complete their education entirely online, with access to one-on-one academic support and a range of career-focused resources.

Pros and cons

    Pros

  • 100% online programs available
  • No GRE, GMAT, GPA, or recommendation requirements
  • Dedicated Student Success Manager support
  • Courses taught by industry professionals
  • Access to in-person networking at Charlotte facility

    Cons

  • No undergraduate programs offered
  • Program selection is limited to specific professional fields
  • May not suit students looking for a more traditional academic environment

Key highlights

  • Professional graduate programs: Offers master’s degrees and certificates in business, technology, health, education, and government-related fields
  • Flexible learning: All courses are delivered online and designed to accommodate full-time work schedules
  • Streamlined admissions: No test scores, minimum GPA, or recommendation letters required
  • Faculty experience: Courses are taught by professionals with both academic credentials and field expertise
  • Support services: Students are assigned a Student Success Manager and can take part in virtual and in-person networking opportunities

About Wake Forest University

Founded in 1834, Wake Forest University is a private institution with a long-established academic reputation. The School of Professional Studies was developed to serve adult learners seeking graduate-level credentials in high-demand sectors. The school integrates Wake Forest’s history with modern online education designed for career growth.

Online degrees and programs offered

Wake Forest School of Professional Studies offers online master’s degrees and certificate programs in areas that reflect current industry needs. Available fields include:

  • Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Innovation
  • Communications
  • Cybersecurity Leadership
  • Digital Marketing
  • Educational Leadership
  • Enterprise Risk Management
  • Financial Technology (Fintech)
  • Health Administration
  • Health Informatics
  • Information Technology Management
  • Project Management
  • Public Administration
  • Public Policy and Data Analytics

Programs are structured to help students build leadership, technical, and applied skills relevant to today’s workforce.

Learning experience at Wake Forest University

Courses are fully online and designed for working professionals. Students can complete assignments on their own schedule while accessing support from a dedicated advisor. The school also provides opportunities to connect with industry leaders through its Charlotte-based facility, which hosts events and advisory boards. Students become part of a large alumni network that spans a range of industries and locations.

The application process is simplified to reduce barriers for applicants. No standardized tests, GPA thresholds, or recommendation letters are required. This allows professionals with varying backgrounds to pursue graduate-level education without traditional admissions hurdles.

Accreditation and recognition

Wake Forest University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), a recognized accreditor. The university has been ranked nationally for more than 25 years and is also recognized for its value relative to cost.

The bottom line

Wake Forest’s School of Professional Studies may appeal to working professionals seeking a flexible and focused path to a graduate degree or certificate. Its online structure, simplified admissions, and practical program options make it a potential fit for students aiming to develop specialized skills without pausing their careers. Prospective students may want to review the available programs closely to determine alignment with their professional goals.

How We Rank?

Learn more about how compareschools.com rankings are determined.

Editorial Reviews

SNHU
SNHU Learn More
Purdue Global
Purdue Global Learn More
Lynn University
Lynn University Learn More

Recommended Reads

Best online college for your career

Read More

Benefits of an online degree

Read More

Online vs. traditional college degree

Read More

Why Compare with Us?

Be Informed

We've spent 200+ hours researching and reviewing online college educations to give you our best choices.

Choose Confidently

Review our list and choose the online college that works best for your intended lifestyle and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes, as long as the school is properly accredited, employers should recognize online degrees just like traditional degrees. Many well-known universities now offer 100% online programs, making distance learning more accepted than ever.
Look for accreditation from recognized agencies, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Accrediting Commission for Schools (ACS). Accreditation ensures the program meets high academic standards and is widely accepted by employers and other institutions. Every school featured on our site is fully accredited.
Yes, many universities now offer fully remote degrees where students never have to visit a physical campus. Some programs, particularly those requiring labs or hands-on experience, may have hybrid options with limited in-person requirements.
It depends on the school and program, but online colleges often have lower tuition and reduce expenses like commuting, housing, and campus fees. Some programs even offer in-state tuition rates for online students, regardless of location.
Online classes are typically delivered through a learning management system (LMS) where students access lectures, submit assignments, and participate in discussions. Some courses are self-paced, while others follow a structured schedule with deadlines.
Most accredited online colleges accept transfer credits from other institutions. However, the number of transferable credits depends on the school’s policies and the compatibility of courses.
It depends on the program and your pace. A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years, but many online programs offer accelerated options that allow students to graduate faster by taking more credits per term.
Yes, accredited online colleges qualify for federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Students should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine their eligibility.