Campus Life

Grand Canyon University's main campus is truly an oasis in the heart of Phoenix. With new classroom buildings, popular dining options, sparkling swimming pools, athletic facilities and so much more, the GCU campus may be the perfect place to call home. With dual enrollment transfer credits and summer courses, you also have the opportunity to graduate faster, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner — and with less debt.

Over 40%

Percentage of 2022 traditional campus graduates spent less than three years at GCU to complete their degrees.

To help you get the most out of your college experience at GCU, our departments and offices on campus offer services, events and resources that can enhance your academic pursuits and help you experience Lope Life. The Office of Student Affairs can enhance your college experience as part of the campus community, while Student Success offers programs that can enrich your academic experience.

Discover GCU is now better than ever! This two-night, all-expenses-paid trip to sunny Arizona can allow you to experience life as a Lope first-hand.1 During your campus visit, you have the opportunity to:

  • Learn details about your program of study
  • Observe and connect with the GCU community
  • Participate in hands-on academic activities
  • Eat at popular campus dining spots
  • See our sunny campus and resort-style living

While you’re planning your in-person visit to GCU, get a jump start right now by catching GCU’s episode of The College Tour. In just under an hour, you’ll get an in-depth peek into life at GCU from real students who were once considering GCU — just like you!

#4

GCU has the fourth best college dorms in America for 2024, according to Niche.com2

Button to play video: The College Tour - GCU - Full Episode
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GCU’s Campus Life FAQs

Find the answers you need about joining GCU as a student on our Phoenix campus. Learn more about our campus life and campus degrees as you prepare to become a Lope.

GCU does not require that freshmen live on campus. However, GCU provides a wide array of housing opportunities for those wishing to partake in the full experience of life at GCU. GCU was ranked by Niche.com as having the fourth best college dorms in America for 2024.2 For more information about freshman housing, please visit Residential Life and Housing Operations.

GCU is a dry campus. The possession and consumption of alcohol while on campus is strictly prohibited among faculty, staff and students. Additionally, individuals cannot be under the influence of alcohol while on GCU’s campus. For more information on GCU’s drug and alcohol policies, visit our Academic Policies page.

GCU does not provide opportunities for Greek life on campus. This is in an effort to provide a culture of unity and steer students toward academically and spiritually enriching opportunities.

The Learning Lounge is where GCU students can offer academic assistance to local K12 students. This can enhance the lives of students in our community while developing tutoring and relational skills within our GCU students. For more information visit the GCU Learning Lounge page.

GCU offers student-led tours on our main Phoenix campus. After previewing a residence hall, classrooms and more, you can meet with a university counselor to find out about your scholarship opportunities here at GCU. Schedule a tour today by visiting our Visit Campus page.

The Office of Student Engagement offers fun events and activities on campus, including clubs and organizations, intramurals and social events to help you get involved in your campus community.

GCU’s well-loved mascot is Thunder the Antelope. While it is unlikely that you'll spot any live antelopes in Phoenix, Thunder is reminiscent of GCU’s founding in Prescott, Arizona, and Thunder can easily be found at GCU’s campus. Lopes Up!

Students at Welcome Week

GCU loves to pour into those students who truly care about the college and the work that they're doing on campus. If you get involved on campus and really care, you are practically handed opportunities on a silver platter.

Carson Foley, Double Major: Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Studies and Marketing and Advertising, Colangelo College of Business, Class of 2021

Campus Life at GCU

Living life on campus at GCU can be an exciting time. GCU offers modern and secure campus housing as well as many academic, recreation and athletic clubs and events to fit a wide variety of interests. Find out more information about what it means to be a Lope at GCU.

Campus Housing

Living on campus can be the ultimate convenience. Get the most out of your college experience by living in one of our suite-style residence halls or apartments designated specifically for new and returning students.

Spiritual Life

The Department of Spiritual Life helps foster a Christian community on campus, bringing students together for weekly Chapel services, Bible studies, mission trips and more. Learn more about spiritual life on campus and our Christian worldview.

Campus Recreation

The Department of Campus Recreation offers plenty of recreational opportunities to help you stay active and have fun during your time on campus. Get involved in one of our many intramural sports teams or head to a class at our student fitness centers. Take a weekend and explore the great outdoors with the GCU Outdoor Recreation program. There are plenty of opportunities to help you stay in shape while also getting to know other Lopes!

Student Success

Looking for continued help in your academics? Seeking the next step in your career after college? Learn more about what is offered and how GCU can help you reach your goals.

Club sports are not regulated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and do not have varsity status at the intercollegiate athletic level. However, club sports are organized and administered by their respective national sport governing body. Learn more at GCUClubSports.com

Campus Admissions and Scholarships

Dual Enrollment

High school students have the opportunity to earn credits early at GCU! Dual enrollment courses are taught online, at your high school or during the summer, providing convenient ways to earn college credits before you start college.

GCU offers many degree options through seven different colleges, as well as the GCU Honors College. Look through our degree offerings today to find what is right for you.

View All On-Campus Degrees

1 Travel reimbursement is only available to accepted prospective traditional campus students, plus one legal guardian, from a student’s home city/state to Phoenix, AZ. School/district/organizations staff, faculty and/or personnel are also eligible. To participate, the program requires a signed MOU by both the student and parent/guardian or personnel, approval of travel dates by GCU and receipts submitted per GCU requirements. Travel reimbursement thresholds vary based on location and education sector. Only one form of travel will be reimbursed, air OR ground. GCU does not reimburse hotel expenses, baggage costs, early check-in or travel insurance fees. Travel reimbursement usually occurs within 45 days.

2 Niche.com. (n.d.). 2024 Best College Dorms in America. Retrieved April 17, 2024.