Western Governors University (WGU) is an accredited, online, non-profit university headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. WGU was founded in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors who wanted to create an affordable, accessible, and flexible way for working adults to earn a college degree.
WGU has since grown to become one of the largest online universities in the United States, with over 131,000 students enrolled as of 2021. WGU offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, IT, education, and healthcare and more.
What Makes WGU a Good Choice?
There are many reasons why WGU might be a good choice for you. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:
- WGU is accredited. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This means that WGU meets the same high standards as other traditional universities.
- WGU is affordable. WGU’s tuition is significantly lower than the tuition at most other universities. In addition, WGU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
- WGU is accessible. WGU’s online format makes it possible for students to learn from anywhere in the world. WGU also offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.
- WGU is flexible. WGU’s self-paced learning format allows students to learn at their own pace. Students can also choose to take classes full-time or part-time.
What Are the Benefits of Attending WGU?
There are many benefits to attending WGU. Here are some of the most important benefits:
- You can earn a college degree in less time. WGU’s accelerated learning format allows students to earn a college degree in as little as two years.
- You can save money. WGU’s tuition is significantly lower than the tuition at most other universities. In addition, WGU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
- You can learn from anywhere in the world. WGU’s online format makes it possible for students to learn from anywhere in the world.
- You can learn at your own pace. WGU’s self-paced learning format allows students to learn at their own pace. Students can also choose to take classes full-time or part-time.
- You can get support from experienced faculty and staff. WGU’s faculty and staff are experienced in online education and are committed to helping students succeed.
What Are the Challenges of Attending WGU?
There are some challenges to attending WGU. Here are some of the most important challenges:
- You need to be self-motivated. WGU’s self-paced learning format requires students to be self-motivated and able to manage their time effectively.
- You need to be able to learn independently. WGU’s online format requires students to be able to learn independently and without the support of a traditional classroom setting.
- You may need to take additional courses. WGU’s accelerated learning format may require students to take additional courses in order to meet the requirements for their degree.
Is WGU Right for You?
If you are a motivated and self-disciplined learner who is looking for an affordable and accessible way to earn a college degree, then WGU may be a good choice for you.
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you decide if WGU is right for you:
- Are you self-motivated and able to manage your time effectively?
- Are you able to learn independently and without the support of a traditional classroom setting?
- Are you willing to take additional courses if necessary?
- Are you comfortable with the idea of learning online?
If you answered yes to these questions, then WGU may be a good choice for you.
What Are the Alternatives to WGU?
If you are not sure if WGU is right for you, there are a number of other online universities that you may want to consider. Here are some of the most popular alternatives to WGU:
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Capella University
- Ashford University
- Walden University
- Liberty University
These universities offer a variety of online degree programs and services. You should research each university carefully to find the one that is right for you.
Conclusion
WGU is a good choice for many students who are looking for an affordable, accessible, and flexible way to earn a college degree. However, it is important to remember that WGU is not the right choice for everyone. If you are not self-motivated, independent, or comfortable with learning online, then you may want to consider other options.
If you are considering attending WGU, be sure to do your research and talk to other students who have attended the university. This will help you make an informed decision about whether or not WGU is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is WGU accredited?
Yes, WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
2. How much does it cost to attend WGU?
WGU’s tuition is significantly lower than the tuition at most other universities. In addition, WGU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
3. Can I learn from anywhere in the world?
Yes, WGU’s online format makes it possible for learners to learn from anywhere in the world.
4. Can I learn at my own pace?
Yes, WGU’s self-paced learning format allows learners to learn at their own pace. Students can also choose to take classes full-time or part-time.
5. What is the difference between WGU and other online universities?
WGU is unique in that it is a non-profit university that is focused on providing affordable, accessible, and flexible education to working adults.
6. What are the benefits of attending WGU?
There are many benefits to attending WGU, including the ability to earn a college degree in less time, save money, learn from anywhere in the world, learn at your own pace, and get support from experienced faculty and staff.
7. What are the challenges of attending WGU?
There are some challenges to attending WGU, including the need to be self-motivated, able to learn independently, and willing to take additional courses if necessary.
8. Is WGU right for me?
WGU is a good choice for many students who are looking for an affordable, accessible, and flexible way to earn a college degree. However, it is important to remember that WGU is not the right choice for everyone. If you are not self-motivated, independent, or comfortable with learning online, then you may want to consider other options.
