At $10,442/yr net price, Western Governors University graduates earn $60,615/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $26,615/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,442 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $41,768 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $60,615/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$26,615/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,116 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,358/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,848/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,666/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,731/yr |
| $110,001+ | $14,297/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $98,156 | $11,526 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Master | $90,998 | $12,696 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $86,988 | $13,665 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $75,430 | $9,470 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $74,056 | $16,625 |
| General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations. | Bachelor | $71,015 | $20,671 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $70,169 | $13,165 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $68,778 | |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Bachelor | $63,855 | |
| Medical Illustration and Informatics. | Bachelor | $62,409 | $20,346 |
The Risk Factor
50.9% of students at Western Governors University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Western Governors University delivers strong financial returns for technology and healthcare majors while presenting significant risks for students who struggle with self-directed learning. The competency-based online model keeps costs low, but graduation rates lag at just 51%.
IT management graduates earn nearly $100,000 annually with minimal debt, making these programs strong financial bets. Nursing majors also see strong returns at $87,000 median earnings, though debt loads vary widely by program level. Computer science graduates face higher debt at $16,625 but still achieve solid $74,000 starting salaries.
The major financial risk centers on completion. Your success depends entirely on self-motivation and time management skills. The 61% retention rate signals many students drop out in their first year, leaving them with debt but no degree. This model works best if you already have industry experience or strong discipline.
WGU makes financial sense for working adults in tech or healthcare who need flexible scheduling and can accelerate through familiar material. The flat-rate tuition structure rewards fast completion, potentially cutting degree costs in half. Military veterans benefit from generous transfer credit policies.
Avoid WGU if you need structured classroom environments, prefer traditional college experiences, or lack clear career direction. The university offers limited merit aid beyond federal programs, so your savings come primarily from the low base price and completion speed rather than scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Western Governors University worth the cost?
Western Governors University offers decent value with a low net price of $10,442 annually and median debt of just $11,116. However, the 51% graduation rate and $60,615 average earnings after 10 years suggest mixed results that vary significantly by program.
What are the highest paying majors at Western Governors University?
Computer and IT programs at Western Governors University show strong ROI, with IT administration graduates earning $98,156 and information systems graduates making $90,998. Nursing programs also perform well, with some graduates earning $86,988.
How much debt do Western Governors University graduates have?
Western Governors University graduates carry relatively low debt loads with a median of $11,116. The school's competency-based model and affordable tuition help keep borrowing manageable compared to traditional universities.
Does Western Governors University have good job outcomes?
Western Governors University job outcomes depend heavily on your major. Technology and nursing graduates see strong earnings, but the overall 51% graduation rate indicates many students struggle to complete their programs.