Western Governors University

Western Governors University Overview

Western Governors University was established in 1995 by 19 U.S. governors. Their mission was to address the need for higher education resources in the Western United States. Today, the non-profit, online school serves more than 40,000 students nationwide. WGU has accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available from WGU, with programs in education, business and nursing. The Teachers College offers almost 30 education programs. The information technology degree programs give students the opportunity to earn industry certifications, such as CompTIA A+ and Microsoft MTA, in addition to a degree.

Individuals enrolled at WGU have complete flexibility when it comes to scheduling. Students obtain their degree through a 'competence-based' curriculum. Unlike traditional degree programs, the focus is not on earning credit hours, but rather on what the individual learns. To graduate, students complete assessments that evaluate their knowledge and skills.

Western Governors University is the only university to have received simultaneous accreditation by four regional accrediting commissions. Currently, WGU's 'home' accrediting commission is the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the same organization that accredits such leading institutions as the University of Washington, University of Oregon, University of Utah, Brigham Young University, and other public and private colleges. The WGU Teachers College was the first exclusively online university to receive accreditation for its degree programs that lead to teacher licensure from the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

Enrollment requirements for Western Governors University vary depending on the program. Standard requirements include a high school diploma and being at least 16 years old. Currently, WGU does not require a minimum GPA or score on the SAT or ACT.

Student Testimonials

'WGU allows me the freedom to work when I can, and still fulfill my other responsibilities and obligations.'

-Danielle Kennedy, Master of Arts in English Language Learning

'WGU has provided me with a lot of amazing career opportunities. People are aware that a high-quality student comes out of WGU. They are motivated, hard-working, and driven individuals. I have had at least six job offers at local schools to come and work for them, just because of WGU.'

-Carrie Mair, Master of Arts in Science Education

Why WGU is Different:

It's Affordable

WGU charges tuition at a flat rate every six months, so you're simply paying for the time you need to learn what you need to learn and demonstrate your competence.

It's Competency-Based, Not Credit Hour Based

WGU's online degree programs are based on competencies as opposed to seat time or credit hours. Your progress is determined by assessments which measure your skills and knowledge in your field of study, which ultimately can save you both time and money.

You Choose When and Where You Study

Online learning 'WGU-style' is quite flexible.

You Get Mentoring and Support

You will work with a dedicated student mentor, and course mentors can provide additional support. You can also interact with an online learning community of students in your same program.