Western Governors University (WGU) is an online, competency-based university headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. Founded in 1997, WGU offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, IT, education, and healthcare, among other fields. WGU’s unique model allows students to learn at their own pace, without the constraints of traditional semesters or class schedules.
One of the main benefits of WGU is its affordability. Tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree. This makes WGU a great option for working adults and others who need a flexible and cost-effective way to earn a college degree. In addition, WGU offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to help make higher education more affordable.
WGU has been recognized for its innovative approach to higher education. In 2018, WGU was named one of the “Most Innovative Companies in Education” by Fast Company magazine. WGU has also been recognized for its commitment to student success. In 2019, WGU was ranked #1 in the nation for student engagement by U.S. News & World Report.
Western Governors University
Table of Contents
Western Governors University (WGU) is an online, competency-based university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields. WGU’s unique model allows students to learn at their own pace, without the constraints of traditional semesters or class schedules. Here are nine key aspects of WGU:
- Online: WGU is an online university, which means that students can learn from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
- Competency-based: WGU’s programs are competency-based, which means that students advance through the program by demonstrating their mastery of the material, rather than by completing a set number of courses or seat time.
- Flexible: WGU’s flexible learning model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.
- Affordable: WGU’s tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree.
- Scholarships and financial aid: WGU offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to help make higher education more affordable.
- Innovative: WGU has been recognized for its innovative approach to higher education.
- Student engagement: WGU has been ranked #1 in the nation for student engagement.
- Accredited: WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- Non-profit: WGU is a non-profit university, which means that all of its revenue is reinvested back into the university.
These nine key aspects make WGU a unique and attractive option for students who are looking for a flexible, affordable, and high-quality online education.
Online
Western Governors University (WGU) is an online university, which means that students can learn from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. This is a major benefit for students who have busy schedules, live in remote areas, or have other commitments that make it difficult to attend traditional brick-and-mortar universities. WGU’s online platform allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. Students can access course materials, complete assignments, and take exams online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The flexibility of WGU’s online platform makes it a great option for working adults, parents, and other students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree. WGU also offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, to help students succeed in their studies.
WGU’s online platform has been recognized for its innovation and effectiveness. In 2018, WGU was named one of the “Most Innovative Companies in Education” by Fast Company magazine. WGU has also been recognized for its commitment to student success. In 2019, WGU was ranked #1 in the nation for student engagement by U.S. News & World Report.
Competency-based
Western Governors University (WGU) is a competency-based university, which means that students advance through the program by demonstrating their mastery of the material, rather than by completing a set number of courses or seat time. This is a major benefit for students who have already acquired knowledge and skills through work experience or other means. WGU’s competency-based approach allows students to accelerate their studies and earn their degree faster.
- Flexibility: WGU’s competency-based approach is flexible, allowing students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. Students can complete coursework and assessments whenever and wherever they have time.
- Affordability: WGU’s competency-based approach is affordable, as students only pay for the courses that they need. This can save students thousands of dollars in tuition costs.
- Quality: WGU’s competency-based approach is rigorous and ensures that students meet high standards of achievement. WGU’s programs are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- Student success: WGU’s competency-based approach is designed to help students succeed. WGU provides students with a variety of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.
WGU’s competency-based approach is a unique and innovative way to earn a college degree. WGU’s approach is flexible, affordable, and designed to help students succeed.
Flexible
Western Governors University (WGU) is a competency-based, online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields. One of the key benefits of WGU is its flexible learning model, which allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This is a major advantage for students who have busy schedules, live in remote areas, or have other commitments that make it difficult to attend traditional brick-and-mortar universities.
- Flexibility for working adults: WGU’s flexible learning model is ideal for working adults who need to balance their education with their careers and other responsibilities. Students can log in and complete coursework whenever and wherever they have time, and they can accelerate their studies or take breaks as needed.
- Flexibility for stay-at-home parents: WGU’s flexible learning model is also a great option for stay-at-home parents who need to care for their children while pursuing their education. Students can complete coursework while their children are napping or sleeping, and they can take breaks when needed to attend to their children’s needs.
- Flexibility for students with disabilities: WGU’s flexible learning model can also be beneficial for students with disabilities who may need to accommodate their disabilities in their education. Students can learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, and they can access support services from WGU’s Disability Services department.
- Flexibility for military members and veterans: WGU’s flexible learning model is also a great option for military members and veterans who need to balance their education with their military service. Students can complete coursework while deployed or on leave, and they can take breaks as needed to meet their military obligations.
WGU’s flexible learning model is a major benefit for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree. WGU’s model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, and it provides students with the support they need to succeed in their studies.
Affordable
Western Governors University (WGU) is a competency-based, online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields. One of the key benefits of WGU is its affordable tuition model. WGU’s tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree. This is a major benefit for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree.
The traditional college tuition model charges students per credit hour. This can be a major financial burden for students who need to take extra time to complete their degree. WGU’s flat-rate tuition model eliminates this financial burden. Students can take as much time as they need to complete their degree, without having to worry about paying additional tuition costs.
WGU’s affordable tuition model has made it possible for many students to earn a college degree who otherwise would not have been able to afford it. For example, a recent study by WGU found that 68% of WGU graduates said that they would not have been able to earn a college degree if it had not been for WGU’s affordable tuition model.
WGU’s affordable tuition model is a major benefit for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree. WGU’s model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, and it provides students with the support they need to succeed in their studies.
Scholarships and financial aid
Western Governors University (WGU) is a competency-based, online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields. WGU’s mission is to make higher education accessible and affordable for everyone. To this end, WGU offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to help students pay for their education.
- WGU scholarships: WGU offers a variety of scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, or other criteria. These scholarships can range from $500 to $5,000 per year.
- Federal financial aid: WGU students are eligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, and PLUS Loans. Federal financial aid is awarded based on financial need.
- State financial aid: Some states offer financial aid programs to students who attend WGU. These programs can vary from state to state.
- Employer tuition assistance: Some employers offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. These programs can help employees pay for the cost of their education.
WGU’s scholarships and financial aid programs make it possible for many students to earn a college degree who otherwise would not be able to afford it. For example, a recent study by WGU found that 68% of WGU graduates said that they would not have been able to earn a college degree if it had not been for WGU’s affordable tuition model and generous scholarships and financial aid programs.
Innovative
Western Governors University (WGU) has been recognized for its innovative approach to higher education. WGU’s innovative model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, and it provides students with the support they need to succeed in their studies. Here are four key facets of WGU’s innovative approach to higher education:
- Competency-based education: WGU is a competency-based university, which means that students advance through the program by demonstrating their mastery of the material, rather than by completing a set number of courses or seat time. This allows students to learn at their own pace and focus on the areas where they need the most improvement.
- Online learning: WGU is an online university, which means that students can learn from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. This is a major benefit for students who have busy schedules, live in remote areas, or have other commitments that make it difficult to attend traditional brick-and-mortar universities.
- Flexible learning model: WGU’s flexible learning model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. Students can log in and complete coursework whenever and wherever they have time, and they can accelerate their studies or take breaks as needed.
- Affordable tuition: WGU’s tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree. This makes WGU a great option for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree.
These four key facets of WGU’s innovative approach to higher education make it a great option for students who are looking for a flexible, affordable, and high-quality online education.
Student engagement
Student engagement is a key component of Western Governors University’s (WGU) success. WGU has been ranked #1 in the nation for student engagement by U.S. News & World Report for several years in a row.
There are several reasons why WGU has been so successful in engaging its students. First, WGU’s competency-based learning model allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This flexibility allows students to fit their education into their busy lives and to focus on the areas where they need the most improvement.
Second, WGU provides students with a variety of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. These services help students to stay on track and to succeed in their studies.
Third, WGU has a strong sense of community. Students are able to connect with each other and with their instructors through online forums, discussion boards, and social media. This sense of community helps students to feel supported and motivated.
The high level of student engagement at WGU has a number of benefits. First, engaged students are more likely to succeed in their studies. Second, engaged students are more likely to be satisfied with their educational experience. Third, engaged students are more likely to graduate and to find success in their careers.
The connection between student engagement and WGU’s success is clear. WGU’s innovative approach to higher education has created a learning environment that is engaging and supportive. As a result, WGU students are more likely to succeed in their studies and to achieve their career goals.
Accredited
Western Governors University (WGU) is an accredited university, which means that its academic programs and degrees meet the high standards set by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Accreditation is important for several reasons.
- First, accreditation ensures that WGU’s programs and degrees are recognized by employers and other educational institutions. This means that WGU graduates can be confident that their degrees will be respected and valued in the job market.
- Second, accreditation helps to ensure that WGU’s programs and degrees are of high quality. The NWCCU accreditation process includes a rigorous review of WGU’s curriculum, faculty, and student services. This review helps to ensure that WGU’s programs and degrees meet the highest standards of academic excellence.
- Third, accreditation helps to protect students’ rights. Accredited universities must adhere to certain standards and procedures, which helps to protect students from fraud and abuse.
WGU’s accreditation by the NWCCU is a testament to the quality of its academic programs and degrees. Accreditation is an important factor for students to consider when choosing a university, and WGU’s accreditation is a strong indicator that it is a high-quality university.
Non-profit
Western Governors University (WGU) is the largest non-profit, fully online university in the United States. This means that WGU is not owned by shareholders, and all of its revenue is reinvested back into the university. This allows WGU to focus on its mission of providing affordable, high-quality education to working adults, without having to worry about making a profit.
Being a non-profit university has several advantages for WGU students. First, it means that WGU can offer affordable tuition rates. WGU’s tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree. This makes WGU a great option for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree.
Second, being a non-profit university means that WGU can focus on providing high-quality education. WGU’s programs and degrees are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and WGU has been recognized for its innovative approach to higher education.
Third, being a non-profit university means that WGU can reinvest its revenue back into the university. This allows WGU to invest in new programs and services, and to provide financial aid to students.
In conclusion, being a non-profit university is a key part of Western Governors University’s mission to provide affordable, high-quality education to working adults. WGU’s non-profit status allows it to offer affordable tuition rates, focus on providing high-quality education, and reinvest its revenue back into the university.
FAQs About Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) is a non-profit, online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about WGU:
Question 1: Is WGU accredited?
Answer: Yes, WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This means that WGU’s academic programs and degrees meet the high standards set by the NWCCU.
Question 2: Is WGU a legitimate university?
Answer: Yes, WGU is a legitimate university. WGU is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and is a member of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Question 3: Is WGU a good school?
Answer: Yes, WGU is a good school. WGU has been ranked among the top online universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Question 4: Is WGU affordable?
Answer: Yes, WGU is affordable. WGU’s tuition is charged at a flat rate, regardless of how long it takes students to complete their degree. This makes WGU a great option for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree.
Question 5: Is WGU a good fit for me?
Answer: WGU is a good fit for students who are self-motivated, disciplined, and have the ability to learn independently. WGU is also a good fit for students who need a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree.
Question 6: How do I apply to WGU?
Answer: You can apply to WGU online. The application process is simple and straightforward. You will need to provide your transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement.
WGU is a legitimate, affordable, and high-quality online university. WGU is a good fit for students who are self-motivated, disciplined, and have the ability to learn independently.
To learn more about WGU, visit the WGU website.
Tips for Success at Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) is a competency-based, online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of academic disciplines catering to employed professionals seeking to advance their careers and personal lives. Students who are self-motivated, disciplined, and have the ability to learn independently find success at WGU. Here are five tips to help you succeed at WGU:
Tip 1: Set Realistic GoalsWGU’s competency-based learning model allows students to progress through their programs at their own pace. It is important to set realistic goals for yourself so that you can avoid feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. For example, you might set a goal to complete two courses per term. Once you have set your goals, create a study schedule that will help you achieve them. Time management is imperative to a positive WGU experience. Tip 2: Take Advantage of Student ServicesWGU provides a variety of student services to help you succeed in your studies. These services include academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and career counseling. Take advantage of these services whenever you need help. The advisors are knowledgeable and helpful. Do not hesitate to reach out to them or any of the other student services offered by WGU. Tip 3: Join a Study GroupStudying with other students can be a great way to learn and stay motivated. WGU offers a variety of ways for students to connect with each other, including online discussion boards, group projects, and study groups. Joining a study group can help you stay on track, learn from other students, and make friends. Tip 4: Be DisciplinedWGU’s flexible learning model allows students to learn at their own pace. However, it is important to be disciplined and stay on top of your studies. Set aside specific times each week to study and complete assignments. Avoid procrastination, and hold yourself accountable to follow your study schedule.Tip 5: Don’t Give UpEarning a degree from WGU can be challenging, it is especially important to not give up. If you are struggling, reach out to your student mentor, an academic advisor, or a fellow student for help. There are many resources available to help you succeed at WGU. Take advantage of these resources and never give up on your dreams.
SummaryFollowing these tips can help you succeed at Western Governors University. WGU is a great option for students who are self-motivated, disciplined, and have the ability to learn independently. If you are looking for a flexible and affordable way to earn a college degree, WGU may be the right choice for you.
To learn more about WGU, visit the WGU website.
Conclusion
Western Governors University (WGU) is a pioneer and leader in online education. Its innovative competency-based learning model, affordability, and commitment to student success make it an excellent choice for working adults seeking to advance their education. WGU has set new precedents in higher education, and it will undoubtedly continue to play a vital role in expanding access to high-quality and affordable education.
Whether you are looking to advance your career or pursue your passion for higher learning, WGU is an excellent choice. With its flexible learning model, affordable tuition, and supportive learning environment, WGU makes it possible for you to achieve your educational goals.