About Western Governors University
Students pay $8,300 per year regardless of residency status, with an average net price of $10,442 after aid. Graduates earn a median of $60,615 ten years after starting college, making the typical monthly loan payment of $118 quite manageable. The median debt load of $11,116 stays well below national averages. This creates strong value for students who can complete degrees efficiently through the accelerated format.
The 42:1 student-faculty ratio reflects the online model where mentors guide rather than lecture. Employment rates hit 96.7% for graduates, though the 50.9% six-year graduation rate shows the self-directed approach isn't for everyone. Students need strong self-discipline and time management skills to succeed without traditional classroom structure pushing them forward.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 42:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 72.8%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 50.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 50.9%
- Retention Rate
- 61.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $60,615
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $98,156 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Master | $90,998 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $86,988 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $75,430 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $74,056 |
| General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations. | Bachelor | $71,015 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $70,169 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $68,778 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Bachelor | $63,855 |
| Medical Illustration and Informatics. | Bachelor | $62,409 |
Campus Life
Only 8% of students actually live in Utah, reflecting the school's national reach for working adults and career changers. The 42:1 student-faculty ratio translates to mentorship rather than traditional classroom instruction, with faculty coaches guiding you through self-paced coursework. Your weekend social scene happens in online study groups and program communities rather than dorms or campus quads. The 96.7% employment rate suggests most students juggle work while studying, making flexible scheduling crucial. Night Owl mascot fits perfectly since many students log in after traditional work hours to advance through their programs.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Calendar System
- Other
- Founded
- 1997
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 22°–39°F
- July Avg
- 63°–92°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 22.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- 55.8"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.3%
- Women
- 56.7%
- White
- 55.3%
- Black
- 13.3%
- Hispanic
- 15.3%
- Asian
- 4.1%
- In-State Students
- 8.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 34.9%
Location
- Address
- Salt Lake City, Utah 84107
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $60,615
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $83,319
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $48,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 54.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $118/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $11,116
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements at Western Governors University?
Western Governors University operates an open admission policy for most programs, focusing on student readiness rather than test scores or GPAs. The university maintains a 61.51% retention rate as students adapt to its unique competency-based learning model. Prospective students must demonstrate they can succeed in a self-directed online environment.
How much does Western Governors University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $10,442 annually regardless of residency status, with tuition set at $8,300 for all students. Only 34.88% of students receive financial aid, resulting in a low median debt of $11,116 upon graduation. The flat-rate tuition model allows motivated students to accelerate their studies and potentially reduce overall costs.
What makes Western Governors University's academic approach different?
Western Governors University pioneered competency-based education where students advance by demonstrating mastery rather than completing credit hours or attending classes. The university maintains a 42:1 student-faculty ratio since faculty serve as mentors and evaluators rather than traditional instructors. Students can accelerate through material they already know and spend more time on challenging concepts.
What are the job prospects for Western Governors University graduates?
Graduates achieve a 96.7% employment rate with median earnings of $60,615 ten years after graduation. The university's career-focused programs and competency-based model appeal to employers seeking skilled workers. Monthly loan payments average just $118, making the financial investment manageable for most graduates.
Where do Western Governors University students come from?
Only 8% of the 135,822 enrolled students live in Utah, reflecting the university's national online reach. The student body is 56.68% women and diverse, with 13.33% Black students and 15.30% Hispanic students. Students typically include working adults and career changers seeking flexible degree options.
How quickly do students graduate from Western Governors University?
The university reports a 50.64% four-year graduation rate, impressive for an institution serving primarily working adults. Students can potentially graduate faster than traditional timelines since they advance upon demonstrating competency rather than completing semester-long courses. The flexibility appeals to motivated learners who want to accelerate their career advancement.
