Founded in 1976, the University of Phoenix offers higher education for working students through flexible schedules, continuous enrollment opportunities, practitioner faculty members, and evening and online classes. It is one of the largest private universities in North America. The university provides more than 100 degree programs at the associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctorate levels at over 200 locations. It offers programs in the areas of business, technology and health care. The University of Phoenix s Axia College offers associate's degree programs in human services management, information technology, psychology and sports management to working students. Through the College of Arts and Sciences, the university also offers courses in humanities, communication arts, mathematics and social science. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. The university is a part of Apollo Group, which also operates the Institute for Professional Development, College for Financial Planning, Western International University and Meritus University.