Western Governors University (WGU) vs University of Phoenix-Texas

Western Governors University (WGU) and University of Phoenix-Texas (UOPX-TX) are two distinct institutions offering unique educational experiences. WGU, an online-only university, boasts a 100% acceptance rate, making it accessible to a wide range of learners. UOPX-TX, on the other hand, has a more selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 88%. Both universities offer a variety of popular majors, including business, nursing, and information technology. However, WGU's student body is predominantly female (63%), while UOPX-TX's student body is more evenly split between genders (52% female, 48% male). Additionally, WGU has a higher graduation rate (66%) compared to UOPX-TX (58%). To help you make an informed decision about your educational journey, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison table that delves into these differences and more. Explore
University of Phoenix-Texas logo

University of Phoenix-Texas

Western Governors University logo

Western Governors University

Overview

Location Houston, Texas Salt Lake City, Utah
Campus setting City: Large Suburb: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (For Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Non Traditional Non Traditional
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 63.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate N/A 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
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT) Not required
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 $14,652
Average net price $10,336
Tuition $7,162
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

100.0%
Average amount $6,541
47.0%
Average amount $4,316
Students receiving federal student loan 100.0%
Average amount $5,169
67.0%
Average amount $5,072
Students taking out private loans 0.0%
Average amount $0
0.0%
Average amount $0

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 126
Men 43.7% Women 56.3%
107,952
Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
Graduate students 8
Men 75.0% Women 25.0%
42,164
Men 29.2% Women 70.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students N/A 92.9%
International students N/A 0.0%
Campus local/setting City: Large Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity N/A N/A
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from N/A Texas Washington Utah California Indiana

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
  • Health Professions
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio 8:1 42:1
Institutional accreditation Higher Learning Commission Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Outcome

Graduation rate 18.2% 63.6%
Dropout rate 78.8% 27.2%
Transferred out N/A 2.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Computer Programming (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $47,265
  • Year 2: $63,005
  • Year 3: $72,728
Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,781
  • Year 2: $65,544
  • Year 3: $68,025
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,875
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: $67,814
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $52,726
  • Year 2: $58,221
  • Year 3: $62,239
Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,471
  • Year 2: $60,173
  • Year 3: $59,527
Computer Systems Analysis (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,874
  • Year 2: $57,544
  • Year 3: $58,877
Computer Programming (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,361
  • Year 2: $54,967
  • Year 3: $58,541
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,810
  • Year 2: $56,498
  • Year 3: $57,570
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,214
  • Year 2: $51,488
  • Year 3: $54,196
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,894
  • Year 2: $49,532
  • Year 3: $53,801
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 in the learning models of Western Governors University (WGU) and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU utilizes a competency-based education (CBE) model, allowing you to progress at your own pace by demonstrating mastery of subjects. University of Phoenix-Texas follows a more traditional, cohort-based learning model with set schedules and deadlines for courses.

  • How do tuition costs compare between WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU charges tuition per term (typically six months) regardless of the number of courses completed, making it potentially more affordable if you can accelerate your learning. University of Phoenix-Texas charges tuition per credit hour, which can vary depending on the program and number of credits taken.

  • What types of programs are offered at WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU primarily focuses on career-focused programs in business, IT, education, and healthcare. University of Phoenix-Texas offers a broader range of programs across various fields, including business, technology, healthcare, and criminal justice, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

  • How does the accreditation of WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas differ?

    WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a highly respected accrediting body. University of Phoenix-Texas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), another recognized regional accreditor. Both accreditations are widely accepted, but regional accreditation is generally considered the gold standard.

  • What kind of student support services are available at WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU provides personalized support through dedicated mentors and course instructors who offer guidance and assistance throughout your program. University of Phoenix-Texas offers a range of support services, including academic advising, career services, and technical support, often tailored to the needs of working adults.

  • How do WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas cater to working adults?

    Both institutions are designed to accommodate working adults. WGU's competency-based model allows for flexible scheduling and self-paced learning. University of Phoenix-Texas offers online courses and flexible scheduling options to fit the busy lives of working professionals.

  • What is the faculty structure like at WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU utilizes a faculty model where course instructors provide content expertise and assessment, while mentors offer personalized support and guidance. University of Phoenix-Texas employs instructors with real-world experience in their respective fields, often working professionals who bring practical insights to the classroom.

  • How do the online learning platforms compare between WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas?

    WGU uses a custom-built online platform designed for competency-based learning, providing access to learning resources, assessments, and mentor communication. University of Phoenix-Texas utilizes a more traditional learning management system (LMS) with features like discussion boards, assignment submissions, and multimedia content.

  • What are the key benefits of attending WGU?

    WGU's key benefits include its competency-based model, affordability, flexibility, and focus on career-relevant programs. It's a great option if you're self-motivated and want to accelerate your degree completion.

  • What are the key benefits of attending University of Phoenix-Texas?

    University of Phoenix-Texas offers a wide range of programs, flexible scheduling, and a supportive learning environment designed for working adults. It's a good choice if you prefer a structured learning environment with set deadlines and regular interaction with instructors and classmates.

  • Do WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas offer financial aid?

    Yes, both WGU and University of Phoenix-Texas offer various financial aid options, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. It's recommended to explore the financial aid resources available at each institution to determine eligibility and options.

  • How do I decide which school is right for me: WGU or University of Phoenix-Texas?

    Consider your learning style, budget, program of interest, and desired level of structure. If you thrive in a self-paced environment and want to save money, WGU might be a better fit. If you prefer a more traditional classroom experience with set schedules and deadlines, University of Phoenix-Texas could be a better choice. Research both schools thoroughly and speak with admissions advisors to make an informed decision.

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