Choosing the right university can be a daunting task. Between costs, graduation rates, financial aid, and post-graduation earnings, there's a wealth of information to sift through. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard makes the process easier by providing a wealth of data on colleges and universities across the country. In this blog post, we'll explore the College Scorecard for Western Governors University (WGU), a nonprofit online university that offers a range of degree programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers. So if you're considering earning a degree from WGU, keep reading to learn more about the college's costs, graduation rates, financial aid and more!
Costs
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a university is the cost of attendance. According to the College Scorecard, WGU's tuition and fees for undergraduate students is $6,530 per year, making it a more affordable option compared to many traditional universities. Additionally, students who want to earn their degree faster can take advantage of the university's competency-based approach, which allows students to complete courses at their own pace, potentially saving time and money.
Graduation & Retention
Another key factor to consider when selecting a university is the school's graduation and retention rates. According to the College Scorecard, WGU's overall graduation rate is 27%, while the retention rate is 75%. However, these figures may not accurately represent the university's success in supporting students. Because WGU offers a competency-based approach, students can graduate at their own pace, meaning that not all students will complete their degree in four years.
Financial Aid & Debt
Paying for college can be a major source of stress for many students and their families. Fortunately, there are a variety of financial aid options available to students at WGU, including federal grants and loans, private loans, and employer reimbursement programs. According to the College Scorecard, 59% of WGU students receive some form of financial aid, with an average annual aid package of $5,424. Additionally, the average student debt for WGU graduates is $12,819, which is significantly lower than the national average.
Typical Earnings
One of the most important reasons to pursue a college education is to increase your earning potential. According to the College Scorecard, the median earnings of WGU graduates 10 years after entering the university is $51,800. This figure reflects the potential earning power of a WGU degree, making it a competitive option for students who want to increase their earning potential in the long run.
Student Body
Finally, it's important to consider the type of student body that attends a university. According to the College Scorecard, WGU is a diverse university, with a student body that is 54% female and 32% minority. Additionally, the university has a relatively high percentage of non-traditional students, with 70% of students over the age of 25. This makes WGU a great option for students who want to pursue or complete their degree later in life.
Related FAQs
Q.1 Is WGU a good option for students who want to pursue or complete their degree later in life?
A. Yes, WGU is a great option for non-traditional students. The university has a relatively high percentage of students over the age of 25 and offers a competency-based approach, which allows students to complete courses at their own pace.
Q.2 How much does it cost to attend WGU?
A. According to the College Scorecard, the tuition and fees for undergraduate students at WGU is $6,530 per year. Additionally, students may be able to save time and money by taking advantage of the university's competency-based approach.
Q.3 What types of financial aid are available to students at WGU?
A. According to the College Scorecard, 59% of WGU students receive some form of financial aid, with an average annual aid package of $5,424. Financial aid options that may be available to students include federal grants and loans, private loans, and employer reimbursement programs.
Q.4 What is the median earnings of WGU graduates 10 years after entering the university?
A. The median earnings of WGU graduates 10 years after entering the university is $51,800 according to the College Scorecard. This figure reflects the potential earning power of a degree from WGU making it a competitive option for students looking to increase their earning potential in the long run.
Conclusion:
Choosing a college or university is a major decision that can have a lasting impact on your career and your life. By exploring the College Scorecard for Western Governors University, you can gain valuable insights into the university's costs, graduation and retention rates, financial aid and debt, typical earnings, and student body. By considering this information alongside your personal goals and needs, you can make an informed decision about whether WGU is the right place for you to earn your degree. So if you're considering pursuing higher education, take the time to research and compare your options to find the best fit for you!