In a Nutshell
pros
- Self-paced learning allows schedule flexibility
- Affordable tuition with a flat-rate structure and scholarships
- Wide range of accredited programs in high-demand fields
cons
- Limited in-person interactions
- No campus-based resources like physical libraries
Overview
WGU is an exclusively online university that has achieved several awards for its educational model, including recognition for affordability and competency-based education. The university’s programs cover four main fields: Business, IT, Healthcare, and Education. Programs are designed for professionals who need to balance their studies with work or family commitments. WGU has over 169,000 enrolled students across the U.S., with programs that are regionally accredited by organizations such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
What is Western Governors University?
WGU offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, and its primary audience is adult learners who seek flexibility in obtaining a degree. Its competency-based approach allows students to advance by demonstrating mastery of course material, rather than adhering to a traditional semester schedule. This model is particularly beneficial for individuals who already have experience in their field but lack a formal degree.
In addition to its flexibility, WGU keeps costs low by charging a flat tuition rate per six-month term, enabling students to complete as many courses as they can within that time period. There are no additional charges for textbooks, as all materials are included in the tuition. WGU also accepts federal student aid and offers an array of scholarships.
Is WGU Safe and Reliable?
WGU has earned a solid reputation for delivering a high-quality education at a reasonable cost. The university holds regional accreditation from the NWCCU, which ensures its degrees are respected and recognized by employers. Additionally, WGU’s competency-based education model has been praised by numerous education and workforce organizations. On platforms like Trustpilot, the university holds favorable ratings from current students and alumni, who highlight its affordability and flexible scheduling as key benefits. WGU grads hold positions with top companies, have a 98% employer satisfaction rate*, and see an average salary increase of $22,200 just two years after graduating.*
How WGU Works
WGU operates through an entirely online platform. After enrolling, students work with an assigned mentor who provides guidance throughout their academic journey. The university’s learning management system allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, and take exams. Because WGU is competency-based, students can accelerate their education by demonstrating mastery in each course through exams or projects.
How to Get Started with WGU / How to Sign Up
Getting started with WGU is straightforward. Prospective students can apply online through the university’s website, where they will be required to submit transcripts from previous educational institutions. Once admitted, students are connected with an enrollment counselor who assists them in selecting courses and creating an education plan. The university offers rolling admissions, so students can start their coursework on the first day of any month.
Terms and Fees
WGU’s tuition is structured as a flat rate per term that equates to approximately $8,300 annually for bachelor’s degrees (compared to the national average yearly bachelor’s degree tuition price of $17,709 according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2023)). This fee covers all learning materials and assessments, and students can complete as many courses as they are able within each term. The affordability of this model is one of WGU’s strongest selling points, as it can dramatically reduce the overall cost of earning a degree compared to traditional universities.
WGU Student Resources
WGU offers a range of key resources designed to support students throughout their educational journey, including:
- Enrollment Counselors: Help students create an education plan and select courses to start their journey strong.
- Mentors and Course Instructors: Every student is assigned a mentor who provides one-on-one support throughout their degree program and course instructors who reach out and are available regularly.
- Counseling and Career Services: WGU provides career counseling and job placement support for its graduates.
- Technical Support: Available 24/7 to assist with any technical issues.
- Online Library: The university maintains a robust online library with access to academic journals, research papers, and other educational materials.
- WGU Academy: Offers a starting pathway to hone key skills and bridge the college-readiness gap for students not ready to immediately succeed in a bachelor’s program.
Support is available through email, phone, and live chat. The average response time for chat is within 15 minutes, and email responses are typically delivered within 24 hours.
WGU Alternatives
WGU vs University of Phoenix
- Years Operating: WGU (27) vs University of Phoenix (35 for online classes)
- Variety of Degrees: WGU (60+) vs University of Phoenix (100+)
- Student Resources: WGU offers mentorship and career support, while the University of Phoenix provides similar resources but also includes in-person centers for those located near the Phoenix, AZ campus.
- Online Experience: Both universities offer fully online programs, but WGU’s competency-based learning allows faster degree completion for self-motivated students.
WGU vs Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Years Operating: WGU (27) vs SNHU (29 for online classes)
- Variety of Degrees: WGU (60+) vs SNHU (200+)
- Student Resources: For students not ready to enter directly into a bachelor’s program, WGU Academy helps hone key skills to bridge the college-readiness gap before starting a bachelor’s program, while SNHU offers writing assistance and online tutoring.
- Online Experience: Both institutions excel in providing flexible, fully online programs, but SNHU offers live class interactions for those located near the Manchester, NH campus.
WGU vs Purdue Global
- Years Operating: WGU (27) vs Purdue Global (6 for online classes)
- Variety of Degrees: WGU (60+) vs Purdue Global (175+)
- Student Resources: Both institutions offer career support, mentorship, and robust technical support services.
- Online Experience: Both institutions provide competency-based education, but Purdue Global has a broader range of degree programs.
Bottom Line
Western Governors University (WGU) is an excellent option for self-motivated adult learners seeking affordable, flexible, and accredited online bachelor’s and master’s degrees for high-demand professions. The competency-based model allows students to progress at their own pace, making it particularly suited for working professionals. However, those looking for more interaction with peers or live classes may find the structure limiting. Overall, WGU provides a solid value proposition for students seeking an accessible, affordable pathway to respected higher education that fits within their schedule.
FAQs
1. Is WGU University respected?
Yes, WGU is regionally accredited by the NWCCU, which ensures that its degrees are widely recognized by employers. WGU grads hold positions with top companies in high-demand fields and have a 98% employer satisfaction rate.*
2. How does WGU’s competency-based model work?
WGU’s model allows students to advance at their pace by proving mastery of course content through exams or projects, rather than completing courses on a fixed schedule.
3. How much does WGU cost?
WGU charges a flat tuition fee per term (including all books and materials) that equates to approximately $8,300 annually for bachelor’s degrees (compared to the national average yearly bachelor’s degree tuition price of $17,709 according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2023)), allowing students to save money and complete as many courses as they can during that period. In addition, WGU accepts federal student aid, military GI Bill® benefits, and offers an array of scholarship opportunities.
Disclaimer: Some of this content was created with the assistance of AI.
