Western Governors University (WGU) vs Bellevue University

Western Governors University (WGU) and Bellevue University (BU) stand out as two distinct institutions of higher learning, each catering to unique student populations and academic aspirations. WGU, a pioneer in online education, boasts an open admissions policy, welcoming learners from all walks of life, while BU, a private university with a rich history, maintains a selective admissions process. While both universities offer a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, WGU excels in business and IT fields, whereas BU shines in health sciences and education. Explore the detailed comparison table to uncover further distinctions in acceptance rates, popular majors, student demographics, and graduation outcomes, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your academic goals and personal preferences.

	Bellevue University	Western Governors University
Overview
Location	Bellevue, Nebraska	Salt Lake City, Utah
Campus setting	Suburb: Large	Suburb: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Semester	Non Traditional
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	72.0%	63.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	Open Admission	Open Admission
Application fees	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $75	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)
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	$35,088	$14,652
Average net price	$15,229	$10,336
Tuition	$7,560	$7,162
Room & board	$10,635
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	60.0% Average amount $5,955	47.0% Average amount $4,316
Students receiving federal student loan	20.0% Average amount $5,525	67.0% Average amount $5,072
Students taking out private loans	1.0% Average amount $10,000	0.0% Average amount $0

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	8,903 Men 44.3% Women 55.7%	107,952 Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
Graduate students	2,999 Men 43.8% Women 56.2%	42,164 Men 29.2% Women 70.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Low	Low
Out-of-state students	90.0%	92.9%
International students	0.1%	0.0%
Campus local/setting	Suburb: Large	Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity	286	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	Texas Nebraska Florida Arkansas California	Texas Washington Utah California Indiana

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Computer and Information Science Social Sciences Psychology Health Professions	Health Professions Education Business Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio	19:1	42:1
Institutional accreditation	Higher Learning Commission	Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Outcome
Graduation rate	22.6%	63.6%
Dropout rate	N/A	27.2%
Transferred out	34.0%	2.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $68,259 Year 2: $78,971 Year 3: $95,916 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $83,595 Year 2: $80,152 Year 3: $83,164 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $83,177 Year 3: $81,575 Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $78,343 Year 3: $77,959 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $72,528 Year 2: $71,495 Year 3: $73,578 Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $59,241 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $71,969 Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $66,878 Year 2: $63,005 Year 3: $69,276 General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $70,231 Year 2: $56,415 Year 3: $62,468 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,272 Year 2: $60,689 Year 3: $59,377 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $56,155 Year 2: $51,273 Year 3: $59,135	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 Bellevue 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 accruing credit hours. Bellevue University uses a more traditional semester-based system with scheduled classes and assignments. WGU is also entirely online, while Bellevue University offers both online and on-campus programs.
How does the tuition structure differ between WGU and Bellevue University?

WGU charges a flat-rate tuition per term (usually six months), allowing you to complete as many courses as you can within that term for the same price. Bellevue University charges tuition per credit hour, so the total cost depends on the number of credits you take each semester. This means WGU can be more cost-effective if you can accelerate your learning.
Which university is better for students who need a structured learning environment?

Bellevue University is generally better suited for students who thrive in a structured learning environment with set class schedules, deadlines, and regular interaction with instructors and classmates. WGU requires more self-discipline and motivation, as you're responsible for managing your own learning pace.
Which university is better for working adults?

Both universities cater to working adults, but WGU's competency-based model and flexible scheduling can be particularly advantageous. You can study and complete coursework at your own pace, fitting it around your work and personal commitments. Bellevue University's online programs also offer flexibility, but you'll still need to adhere to class schedules and deadlines.
What types of programs do WGU and Bellevue University offer?

Both universities offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. WGU is particularly known for its programs in business, IT, education, and healthcare. Bellevue University offers programs in similar fields, as well as areas like human capital management and security management. It's best to check each university's website for a complete list of programs.
How do the faculty and student support systems compare?

At WGU, you'll have a dedicated Program Mentor who provides guidance and support throughout your program. You'll also have Course Instructors who offer subject-matter expertise. Bellevue University offers traditional faculty support through office hours and online communication, as well as academic advising and career services. Both universities provide resources to help students succeed.
Are WGU and Bellevue University regionally accredited?

Yes, both Western Governors University and Bellevue University are regionally accredited. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Regional accreditation is important for transferring credits and ensuring the quality of your education.
What are the admission requirements for WGU and Bellevue University?

Admission requirements vary depending on the program. Generally, WGU requires applicants to demonstrate readiness for college-level work through transcripts, assessments, or prior learning experience. Bellevue University typically requires a high school diploma or GED and may have specific requirements for certain programs. Check each university's website for detailed admission criteria.
How do I decide which university is right for me?

Consider your learning style, budget, and career goals. If you're self-motivated, disciplined, and want to accelerate your learning, WGU might be a good fit. If you prefer a structured learning environment with regular interaction with instructors and classmates, Bellevue University might be a better choice. Research specific programs, compare tuition costs, and talk to admissions counselors at both universities to make an informed decision.
Do WGU and Bellevue University offer financial aid?

Yes, both WGU and Bellevue University offer financial aid options, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. You'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility. Both universities also offer institutional scholarships and payment plans. Contact their financial aid offices for more information.

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