About WGU
Changing Lives for the Better by Creating Pathways to Opportunity
Founded in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors, Western Governors University is the nation’s leading nonprofit institution providing accessible high-quality education at a low cost.
From day one, WGU’s online, competency-based model has opened higher education pathways for students who previously lacked access due to location or other barriers. Through student-centered design and tech-enabled innovation, WGU continues to meet students where they are, delivering economic mobility at scale.
“WGU is about fundamental change in the way higher education is delivered. It's right, it's real, and it's efficient. It's what higher education will require to succeed in the future.”
—Michael O. Leavitt
Former U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services,
Former Governor of Utah
“Universities measure the wrong thing. They measure time. They measure prestige. I wanted to base a degree on performance—and that was a real revolution.”
—Roy Romer
Former Governor of Colorado
Accreditation and Affiliations
WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and is the only university to have received regional accreditation from four regional accrediting commissions at the same time.
Affordability
WGU’s low, flat-rate tuition model means students pay once every six months and complete as many courses as they can in that time. Because there’s no cap on how fast students can accelerate, many complete their courses in less time and for a much lower cost compared to other universities.
Competency-Based Education
Competency-based education (CBE) measures demonstrated skills rather than time spent in a classroom, with learning outcomes aligned to industry demands. WGU is the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate.
Equity
Since its inception, WGU has endeavored to advance equity by increasing access to higher education through affordable tuition, online learning options and competency-based education. We strive to expand access, without excluding anyone, by addressing barriers of affordability, location, and time. In addition, we advance equity by improving attainment through personalizing instruction, mentorship, and support so each student might have an equal probability of success.
Personalization, Flexibility, and Support
WGU students enjoy the flexibility to study online, on their time with the support they need to succeed. Every student works with a mentor to create a personalized program plan and has regular check-ins to help them persist, address life challenges, and stay motivated. Learn what it's like to be a WGU student.
Work-Based Learning
With its acquisition of Craft Education, WGU is exploring new ways for full-time working students to earn degrees through skills demonstrated on the job. Through Craft’s unique credentialing model, many teachers are already using work experience for degree credit to shorten their degree pathways.
