Western Governors University (WGU) vs Post University

Western Governors University (WGU) and Post University are two distinct institutions of higher learning that cater to different student populations and offer unique educational experiences. WGU, an online-only university, boasts a remarkably high acceptance rate of 100%, making it an accessible option for aspiring students. In contrast, Post University, with its traditional on-campus and online programs, has a more selective admissions process, reflected in its acceptance rate of 75%. While both universities offer a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, WGU excels in business and information technology, while Post University is renowned for its nursing, education, and criminal justice programs. Additionally, the student demographics at each university vary significantly, with WGU having a higher proportion of older, working adults and Post University attracting a more traditional college-aged population. As you explore the comprehensive comparison table provided, you'll discover further insights into these universities' graduation rates, tuition fees, and other essential factors, empowering you to make an

	Post University	Western Governors University
Overview
Location	Waterbury, Connecticut	Salt Lake City, Utah
Campus setting	Suburb: Midsize	Suburb: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (For Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Semester	Non Traditional
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	45.0%	63.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	96.5%	Open Admission
Application fees		Undergraduate: $65 Graduate: $65
SAT range	N/A	N/A
ACT range	N/A	N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants	2,893
Total number of admissions given out	2,793
Admitted students who chose to enroll	1,163
Yield rate	41.6%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)
High school GPA	N/A	N/A
Recommendation letters	N/A	N/A
High school transcript	N/A	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	N/A	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$30,060	$14,652
Average net price	$22,328	$10,336
Tuition	$15,310	$7,162
Room & board	$11,600
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	94.0% Average amount $7,945	47.0% Average amount $4,316
Students receiving federal student loan	72.0% Average amount $7,265	67.0% Average amount $5,072
Students taking out private loans	1.0% Average amount $8,803	0.0% Average amount $0

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	12,997 Men 28.0% Women 72.0%	107,952 Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
Graduate students	1,058 Men 35.8% Women 64.2%	42,164 Men 29.2% Women 70.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Low
Out-of-state students	89.9%	92.9%
International students	0.1%	0.0%
Campus local/setting	Suburb: Midsize	Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity	434	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	Connecticut Texas New York California Georgia	Texas Washington Utah California Indiana

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Family and Consumer Sciences Legal Profession Law Enforcement and Firefighting Psychology	Health Professions Education Business Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio	21:1	42:1
Institutional accreditation	New England Commission on Higher Education	Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Outcome
Graduation rate	20.4%	63.6%
Dropout rate	79.3%	27.2%
Transferred out	N/A	2.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $69,016 Year 2: $78,468 Year 3: $81,050 Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $68,219 Year 2: $68,219 Year 3: $67,034 Accounting and Related Services (Post-Baccalaureate Certificates) Year 1: $50,352 Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $57,312 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $54,265 Year 2: $54,975 Year 3: $56,455 Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,687 Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $53,532 Education, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $52,478 Year 2: $52,334 Year 3: $52,470 Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,907 Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $51,705 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Associate's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $46,087 Year 3: $50,739 Human Services, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $52,762 Year 2: $50,231 Year 3: $47,844 Human Resources Management and Services (Post-Baccalaureate Certificates) Year 1: $37,956 Year 2: $39,009 Year 3: $43,612	Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $99,943 Year 2: $98,156 Year 3: $111,928 Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $87,608 Year 2: $90,998 Year 3: $97,288 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $87,245 Year 2: $86,988 Year 3: $90,365 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $74,868 Year 2: $74,056 Year 3: $80,509 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $74,342 Year 2: $75,430 Year 3: $78,577 Educational Administration and Supervision (Post-Baccalaureate Certificates) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $68,778 Year 3: $76,072 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $72,423 Year 2: $70,169 Year 3: $74,384 General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $81,520 Year 2: $71,015 Year 3: $72,823 Medical Illustration and Informatics (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $61,154 Year 2: $62,409 Year 3: $68,593 Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $63,855 Year 3: $68,172

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Western Governors University (WGU) and Post University?

The primary difference lies in their learning models. WGU utilizes a competency-based education (CBE) model, where you progress by demonstrating mastery of skills and knowledge, not by seat time. Post University follows a more traditional semester-based system with scheduled classes and assignments. WGU is also primarily online, while Post University offers both online and on-campus programs.
How does the tuition structure differ between WGU and Post University?

WGU charges tuition per term (typically six months) regardless of the number of courses completed, allowing you to accelerate your studies and potentially save money. Post University charges tuition per credit hour, which means your total cost depends on the number of credits you take each semester. Consider your learning style and pace when evaluating which tuition structure is more advantageous for you.
Which university offers more program options?

Post University generally offers a wider variety of degree programs, including undergraduate and graduate options, across diverse fields. WGU focuses on specific areas like business, IT, education, and healthcare. If you have a niche interest, Post University might have a program that aligns better with your goals. However, if your interests fall within WGU's core areas, their programs are highly regarded.
How does the learning experience differ at WGU versus Post University?

At WGU, you'll work independently with the support of a mentor and course instructors. The focus is on self-directed learning and demonstrating competency through assessments. Post University offers a more structured learning environment with scheduled classes, lectures, and interaction with professors and classmates, both online and potentially on campus.
What kind of student is WGU best suited for?

WGU is ideal for self-motivated, disciplined learners who can manage their time effectively and prefer a flexible, self-paced learning environment. It's a great option for working professionals or individuals with prior knowledge in their field of study who want to accelerate their degree completion.
What kind of student is Post University best suited for?

Post University is a good fit for students who thrive in a more structured learning environment with regular class schedules and interaction with instructors and peers. It's suitable for those who prefer a traditional academic experience and may benefit from the guidance and support provided in a classroom setting, whether online or on-campus.
Are WGU and Post University regionally accredited?

Yes, both WGU and Post University are regionally accredited. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Regional accreditation is important for transferring credits and ensuring the value of your degree.
How do the career services compare between WGU and Post University?

Both universities offer career services to help students with job searching, resume writing, and interview skills. Post University, with its more traditional structure, may offer more opportunities for in-person networking and career fairs, especially for on-campus students. WGU's career services are primarily online, focusing on providing resources and support for online job searching and professional development.
What are the admission requirements for WGU and Post University?

Admission requirements vary by program at both institutions. Generally, WGU requires a high school diploma or equivalent and may require specific assessments to demonstrate readiness for their programs. Post University's admission requirements are typically similar, including a high school diploma or equivalent, and may also consider GPA and standardized test scores (though many programs are test-optional).
Do WGU and Post University offer financial aid?

Yes, both WGU and Post University offer financial aid options, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. You should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal aid. Additionally, both universities offer institutional scholarships and payment plans. Contact their financial aid offices for specific details and application procedures.

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