WGU Graduation Rate Insights

Western Governors University (WGU) has established itself as a pioneer in online education, delivering flexible, competency-based programs tailored to non-traditional learners. The recently released 2024-25 graduation rate report offers valuable insights into WGU’s performance and commitment to student success.

By examining these graduation rates, we can better understand how WGU supports its diverse student body and fulfills its mission to provide accessible, affordable education.

Understanding Graduation Rates in Higher Education

Graduation rates serve as a vital metric for evaluating the success of educational institutions. These rates track the percentage of students who complete their degree programs within 150% of the expected timeframe. For a standard four-year bachelor’s degree, this equates to a six-year completion window. Graduation rates are essential not only for institutional accountability but also for prospective students evaluating their educational options.

In the context of WGU’s unique competency-based model, these rates reflect both the university’s academic rigor and its dedication to flexibility and personalized learning paths.

WGU Graduation Rate: Official Figures for 2024-25

As of the 2024-25 academic year, WGU’s official graduation rate stands at 51%. This metric accounts for students completing their degrees within 150% of the program’s expected duration. On average, students complete a bachelor’s degree at WGU in 5.10 years, compared to the standard six-year window used for reporting.

How WGU Compares

• WGU’s graduation rate surpasses the performance of many similar online institutions.
• National averages for online programs often hover below 50%, highlighting WGU’s relative success in this area.

WGU’s Unique Student Demographics

Unlike traditional universities, WGU primarily serves non-traditional learners. This demographic includes individuals balancing education with work, family, or other commitments. Notably:

• Only 1% of WGU students are classified as first-time, full-time students.
• The remaining 99% comprise learners with prior college experience or part-time enrollment.

Implications of Demographics

WGU’s diverse student body underscores the importance of viewing graduation rates within context. Metrics like the College Scorecard, which focus on first-time, full-time students, may not fully capture the success of WGU’s population.

Key Factors Driving WGU’s Graduation Success

WGU’s graduation rates are driven by several innovative practices:

Competency-Based Learning Model

This model allows students to progress at their own pace, completing courses as soon as they demonstrate mastery. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working adults and those with prior knowledge.

Comprehensive Support Systems

• Personalized mentorship ensures students stay on track.
• Accessible resources, including 24/7 online libraries and tech support, remove common barriers to success.

Financial Affordability

With flat-rate tuition and financial aid options, WGU minimizes the financial burden for students, enabling them to focus on their studies.

Graduation Rates: A Deep Dive into Data

By Student Type

• First-Time Students: 50.89%
• Non-First-Time Students: 52.21%

By Race/Ethnicity

• First-Time Students:
  • Asian: 61.19% (highest)
  • American Indian/Alaskan Native: 30.00% (lowest)
• Non-First-Time Students:
  • Nonresident Alien: 58.35% (highest)
  • Black, non-Hispanic: 33.58% (lowest)

By Gender

• First-Time Students:
  • Female: 60.55%
  • Male: 43.06%
• Non-First-Time Students:
  • Female: 55.60%
  • Male: 42.25%

By Financial Aid Status

• First-Time Students:
  • Subsidized Stafford Loan (no Pell): 62.69%
  • Pell Grant Recipients: 48.73%
• Non-First-Time Students:
  • Neither Pell Grant nor Stafford Loan: 56.54%
  • Pell Grant Recipients: 44.86%

WGU’s Retention and Continuing Education Rates

Retention Rate

• 62% of first-time, full-time students continued their studies at WGU in the following year (2023-24 IPEDS Fall Enrollment Survey).

Continuing Education

• 17% of WGU’s graduates pursue further education, primarily at the graduate level.
• 99.69% of these students enroll in master’s programs, with others pursuing doctorates or professional degrees.

Career Success of WGU Graduates

Employment Outcomes

• 87% of graduates are employed in their field of study (2023 Harris Poll).
• 98% of employers report that WGU graduates meet or exceed expectations.

Financial Outcomes

• WGU’s student loan default rate is just 0.7%, significantly below the national average of 2.3%.

Conclusion

WGU’s 2024-25 graduation rate report underscores the university’s commitment to serving a diverse, non-traditional student body. By prioritizing flexibility, affordability, and support, WGU continues to empower learners to achieve their goals. Prospective students are encouraged to explore WGU’s innovative programs and join the ranks of successful graduates transforming their lives through education.