How We're Different :: Western Governors University

How We're Different :: Western Governors University

We’re More Affordable (but you don’t sacrifice quality)

One of the best values in online education, the online university provides a convenient and cost-effective way for self-directed, hardworking adults like you to earn your degree and get ahead. Here’s what ultimately sets WGU apart:
Tuition costs across the nation are going up significantly every year. But not at WGU. A major part of our mission as a nonprofit university is to keep tuition low. So low, in fact, that our tuition is typically half what other reputable online universities and traditional colleges charge.
You don’t just save on rates alone; you can also be rewarded for your hard work. We charge tuition at a flat rate every six months, so you’re simply paying for the time you need to prove your competence. If you can complete your program in less time, you only pay tuition for the time it takes. Essentially, the faster you progress, the more you save—a big incentive to work hard that you won’t find at other major schools.

We’re Competency-Based, Not Credit Hour Based

Our online degrees are based on real-world competencies as opposed to seat time or credit hours. Our focus is on ensuring you possess the skills and knowledge you need to be successful, not whether you’ve attended class or not. ("Show us what you know, not how long you’ve been there.")
You’ll be able to take advantage of what you already know. After all, your progress is determined by whether you can "prove" you know your stuff. If you can prove it sooner than later because of prior experience and education, perfect! You’ll be able to draw upon this experience to complete assessments faster, ultimately saving you both time and money.

We Let You Choose When and Where You Study

Online learning "WGU style" is quite flexible, even compared to other online universities. Your program is personalized to your schedule in several ways, providing you the flexibility you need to be successful in all areas of your life, not just in school.
In fact, many of our graduates have commented on how nice it was to work their education around their jobs and family, not the other way around.

You Get Unparalleled Mentoring and Support

You will never feel alone as an online student at WGU. We won’t leave you on your own to figure out what resources are available to you. You’ll have a dedicated partner in your education: a mentor committed to connecting you to what you need to succeed. Your mentor will work with you until you graduate. You’ll get to know your mentor as an advisor, a coach, and your personal cheerleader.
When you enroll, you become so much more than a student — you become part of a community of students, faculty, mentors, and staff all united under one common goal: your success.
Learn more about WGU’s faculty

Additional Information

WGU Graduation Videos
WGU hosts two commencement ceremonies every year for WGU graduates.
Watch WGU Graduation Videos
Student Success and Performance Data
Read about WGU student satisfaction, student success on national exams, and employer satisfaction in hiring WGU graduates.
Learn more about WGU student success
WGU's First 15 Years
WGU's unique history is described and celebrated on the institution's 15th anniversary.