Is WGU a Good School? WGU Rankings and Program Info in 2025

The U.S. is home to a lot of public and private universities, some of which offer degree programs online. Western Governors University, also known as WGU, is one of these institutions. WGU is an educational institution that has provided a college degree to over 390,000 students, as of September 2025, and assisted them in pursuing their academic and professional goals.¹

This article will provide comprehensive information on WGU rankings, WGU reviews, and what Western Governors University is known for as of September 2025. You will also receive insight into WGU’s academic programs and admission requirements to help you decide if this educational institution is suitable for you.

WGU Profile

• Campus Location: Headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. Classes and degree programs offered online.
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Western Governors University, established in 1997, is a reputable nonprofit university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 42-to-one, as of 2024, WGU ensures that students earn a college degree and succeed in their future career options.²

Where Is WGU?

Although Western Governors University is a fully online campus, its main headquarters is located in Salt Lake City, Utah.

What Is WGU Known For?

Western Governors University is known for being formed by the governors of 19 U.S. states. WGU is also known for distance learning, offering a robust list of online programs. This private, nonprofit university uses a competency-based curriculum, which is ideal for working professionals.

Is WGU Ivy League?

No, Western Governors University is not an Ivy League school. Universities in the Ivy League are prestigious and selective universities with a reputation for top-notch education. These institutions have strict admission requirements as well as strong academic standards.

How Big Is WGU?

Western Governors University is big in terms of population, with students earning degrees from all 50 states.¹ The student-to-faculty ratio at WGU is 42-to-one.²

Is a Degree From WGU Good?

Western Governors University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Regional accreditation means WGU has met the required academic standards, so students can trust they are earning a good degree. Like most regionally accredited institutions, WGU is proven to provide quality education and degrees to students.

How Much Does WGU Cost?

As of September 2025, Western Governors University costs $8,300 per year for undergraduate students and $8,856 annually for graduate students.³ The total cost of attendance may vary depending on the college you’re applying to—whether it is the School of Health, the School of Business, or another college.

WGU Financial Aid

The U.S. Department of Education has permitted Western Governors University to provide students with financial aid in all degree programs. Financial aid makes it possible for students to afford tuition, technology, textbooks, and other educational expenses. According to WGU’s website, “WGU average annual bachelor’s tuition rates are 53% lower than the national average, compared to national rates,” creating more affordable education options.³

WGU Scholarships

The following scholarships are available as of September 2025:

• Rise Above Grant Scholarship. The Rise Above Grant Scholarship helps students who have faced significant challenges in their educational journey.⁴ This scholarship is valued at up to $4,000, distributed in $1,000 increments across four six-month terms. It is designed to ease tuition costs for students showing resilience and determination.
• Learn Where You Live Scholarship: WGU created the Learn Where You Live Scholarship to support students in rural areas who may have limited access to higher education.⁵ This award provides up to $3,000, granted in $750 increments for four terms. The scholarship allows students to complete accredited, flexible degree programs without leaving their communities.
• Active Duty Scholarship. The Active Duty Scholarship is designed specifically for service members currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.⁶ Valued at $4,000, this scholarship helps offset tuition by providing $1,000 per six-month term for up to four terms. WGU’s flexible, online model makes it possible for active-duty students to pursue a degree while balancing service responsibilities.

WGU Rankings

School rankings are an important factor in determining whether a school meets certain academic standards. Western Governors University is a good school for distance education. However, WGU does not have any rankings under U.S. News & World Report ranking, Center for World University, or any other university rankings.

Top Programs at WGU

Western Governors University is known for offering career-based graduate and undergraduate degrees in business, technology, teaching, health, and nursing. Below are bachelor’s, master’s, and other distance education programs available at WGU.

Bachelor’s Degrees at WGU

Western Governors University offers bachelor’s degree programs in various fields. To apply for a bachelor’s degree at WGU, you should have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some of these competency-based programs also have specific requirements. We provide an overview of the bachelor’s degree programs available at WGU in this section.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology gives you a solid foundation in computer information systems and technology.⁷ Coursework includes scripting, programming, cyber security, data management, and more. You can also acquire various technology certifications through this degree, including CompTIA and CIW, at no additional cost.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

WGU strives to make its B.S. in Computer Science program a highly useful computer degree.⁸ This ABET-accredited degree program is designed to enhance your skills in developing, designing, and optimizing systems.⁹ The current curriculum provides education on fundamental IT skills as well as computer theory, data structures, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and more.

Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education

If you love teaching and you enjoy working with children, this online program is for you. WGU’s Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education offers students the theoretical and practical knowledge to connect with elementary school students. Educational foundations, children’s literature, natural science lab, and a survey of world history are all part of the curriculum.

Master’s Degrees at WGU

Students who already have their bachelor’s degrees can proceed to enroll in a master’s degree program at Western Governors University. Online master’s degree programs are available in the business, teaching, and IT fields. The following are some of the master’s degree programs you will find at WGU.

Master of Science in Accounting

The Master of Science in Accounting program at WGU equips students with the skills to function in the global economy.¹⁰ The curriculum features four specializations for students to choose from: Financial Reporting, Taxation, Management Accounting, and Auditing. This master’s program is designed to prepare you for professional exams, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam and the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam. You can complete the program in as little as 19 months.

Master of Science in Educational Leadership

To successfully lead an educational institution, you need the skills, knowledge, and practical experience that the online Master of Science in Educational Leadership at WGU offers.¹¹ This 21-month online educational license program will equip you to influence students, educators, communities, and the future of education.

Master of Science in Data Analytics

WGU’s online Master of Science in Data Analytics offers a specialization in data science.¹² You’ll learn about modern analytic tools and machine learning with a “three-lever approach”: Programming skills, math skills, and business influence skills. The program of study provides you with skills in algorithms, machine learning, and natural language processing to obtain a career in data science.

Other Programs Offered at WGU

Western Governors University also offers other programs, including certificates. These programs help you decide on your future career options:

Nursing Leadership Certificate

WGU offers a Nursing Leadership Certificate.¹³ This three-month certificate helps nursing professionals advance or shift their career paths. With this degree, you can boost your value in the medical field and improve patient care.

Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction

This online master’s degree at WGU is in alignment with the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards and the National Education Association’s Teacher Leadership Competencies. This course gives you the fundamental skills and practical experience you need to become a leader in education.¹⁴ It’s a good choice for those with teaching experience who wish to improve their skills in curriculum development to grow their careers.

How to Apply to WGU

1. Create your WGU student account. Before you can apply, you’ll need to create your student account with Western Governors University.¹⁵ This account gives you access to the WGU Student Portal, which you will use to complete your application, review financial aid documents (if applicable), and pay tuition.
2. Apply for admissions. After you’ve created an account, you’ll be able to complete your application form online. You should go to the school’s official application website, input the necessary details, and submit to begin your application process.
3. Submit your official transcripts. WGU requires you to submit official transcripts from your previous secondary or post-secondary institutions. Transcripts are accepted online. You must submit your transcript by the first day of the month prior to the day you intend to start.
4. Apply for financial aid. If you plan to apply for financial aid, you must start the process on time. To find out details about WGU’s financial aid process, visit the website to see a step-by-step guide.
5. Chat with your Enrollment Counselor. Your enrollment counselor assists you with your application process by answering questions and guiding you, so you won’t miss deadlines. As part of the criteria for admission, you must successfully complete an intake interview with a WGU Enrollment Counselor.

Is WGU a Good School? FAQ

Sources:

1 https://www.wgu.edu/about/annual-report.html

2 https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/western-governors-university/

3 https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition.html

4 https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/scholarships/general/resiliency-grant.html

5 https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/scholarships/general/rural.html

6 https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/scholarships/military-veterans/active-duty.html

7 https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/information-technology-bachelors-program.html

8 https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/computer-science.html

9 https://www.abet.org/

10 https://www.wgu.edu/online-business-degrees/accounting-masters-program.html

11 https://www.wgu.edu/online-teaching-degrees/educational-leadership-masters-program.html

12 https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/data-analytics-masters-program/data-science.html

13 https://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-health-degrees/certificates/nursing-leadership.html

14 https://www.wgu.edu/online-teaching-degrees/curriculum-instruction-education-masters-program.html

15 https://apply.wgu.edu/register

16 https://www.wgu.edu/blog/how-long-to-online-degree1902.html17 https://www.wgu.edu/admissions/transfers.html