Why WGU – Competency-Based Approach

Competence, not credit hours

Education Based in Real-World Competencies

Success in your career is based on what you know and what you can do. In that same spirit, WGU’s ultimate focus is on ensuring you possess the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

Each degree program is developed by a council of experts in the field who define "competencies" students need to possess to graduate. These competencies form the curriculum. This combination of expertise in both industry knowledge and academics guarantees your degree will be relevant in your chosen field.

We Call it Competency-Based Education

You earn your degree through demonstration of skills and knowledge in required subject areas through a series of carefully designed assessments. You’ll take tests, write papers, and complete assignments. But rather than focus on seat time or credit hours, we make sure you graduate as a highly competent professional.

Our unique approach offers you many advantages:

• Our "prove it" mentality means never having to spend time (or money) "re-learning" material you already know. Already have experience? Great! You can use it to complete assessments as soon as you’re ready. If you’re already competent in a subject area, you can prove it faster and complete your degree faster.
• You can accelerate your program (and save money). Whether it’s through prior experience or just plain hard work (or both), you are able to complete your degree program as soon as you can successfully complete all of the necessary assessments. Since tuition is charged at a flat rate every six months—you pay for time, not per credit hour—if you’re able to finish faster, you can save both time and money.
• Your degree will be recognized by employers and academia. Our competency-based approach is widely recognized by employers because it’s an approach used by most corporations as the basis for promotions and advancement.

You’ll be Ready for Real-World Challenges

When you graduate, your diploma will mean you’ve mastered the essential skills and knowledge the workplace demands.

Is WGU a Good Fit for You?

Competency-based education at WGU offers some powerful advantages. It’s why WGU has been endorsed by governors, praised by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, and been the subject of specials by NBC Nightly News, NPR, the New York Times, BusinessWeek, and many other media.

But WGU is not a good fit for everyone. It’s for self-disciplined individuals with a strong commitment to earn a degree—not just take courses. During each six-month term you’ll be scheduled for a full load of courses—typically about four courses—although some students accelerate even more because tuition is a flat-rate.

You’ll need to put in substantial time and effort to realize your education and career goals. Along the way you’ll be supported by a personal mentor, an innovative learning environment, and dedicated faculty and staff.