Western Governors University (WGU) vs DeVry-Illinois

Western Governors University (WGU) and DeVry University-Illinois are two distinct institutions of higher learning that cater to different student populations and offer unique educational experiences. WGU stands out with its flexible, competency-based learning model, allowing students to progress at their own pace, while DeVry University-Illinois offers a more traditional campus-based experience with a focus on career-oriented programs. With varying acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates, these universities present prospective students with diverse options to pursue their academic goals. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve into the specific details and discover which university aligns best with your individual needs and aspirations.

	DeVry University-Illinois	Western Governors University
Overview
Location	Naperville, Illinois	Salt Lake City, Utah
Campus setting	City: 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	62.0%	63.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	45.5%	Open Admission
Application fees	Undergraduate: $30 Graduate: $30	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	5,661
Total number of admissions given out	2,577
Admitted students who chose to enroll	1,971
Yield rate	76.5%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A
High school GPA	Required	N/A
Recommendation letters	Not required	N/A
High school transcript	Not required	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Not required	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$38,444	$14,652
Average net price	$29,115	$10,336
Tuition	$16,448	$7,162
Room & board
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	98.0% Average amount $6,866	47.0% Average amount $4,316
Students receiving federal student loan	85.0% Average amount $7,897	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	19,866 Men 34.4% Women 65.6%	107,952 Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
Graduate students	3,128 Men 38.2% Women 61.8%	42,164 Men 29.2% Women 70.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Low
Out-of-state students	93.6%	92.9%
International students	0.4%	0.0%
Campus local/setting	City: Midsize	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	Texas Illinois Pennsylvania New York Ohio	Texas Washington Utah California Indiana

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Health Professions Computer and Information Science Engineering Technologies Law Enforcement and Firefighting	Health Professions Education Business Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio	39:1	42:1
Institutional accreditation	Higher Learning Commission	Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Outcome
Graduation rate	41.9%	63.6%
Dropout rate	37.4%	27.2%
Transferred out	20.1%	2.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Management Information Systems and Services (Graduate/Professional Certificates) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $69,338 Year 3: $78,577 Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $65,756 Year 2: $66,885 Year 3: $73,133 Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $68,726 Year 2: $66,592 Year 3: $72,885 Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,951 Year 2: $61,702 Year 3: $67,529 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $61,144 Year 2: $64,686 Year 3: $66,091 Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,308 Year 2: $58,673 Year 3: $66,013 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Graduate/Professional Certificates) Year 1: $67,937 Year 2: $59,350 Year 3: $63,661 Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,602 Year 2: $54,192 Year 3: $63,401 Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $59,102 Year 2: $58,714 Year 3: $62,826 Accounting and Related Services (Graduate/Professional Certificates) Year 1: $58,051 Year 2: $54,696 Year 3: $61,220	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 DeVry University-Illinois?

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. DeVry University-Illinois follows a more traditional semester-based system with scheduled classes and assignments. WGU is also primarily online, while DeVry offers both online and on-campus programs. Finally, WGU is a non-profit institution, whereas DeVry is a for-profit university.
How does the tuition structure differ between WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

WGU charges tuition per term (typically six months) regardless of the number of courses completed, allowing you to potentially accelerate your degree and save money. DeVry University-Illinois charges tuition per credit hour, meaning your tuition cost directly correlates with the number of credits you take each semester. This can make WGU more affordable for self-motivated learners who can complete courses quickly.
What types of programs are offered at WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

WGU focuses on career-oriented programs in high-demand fields like business, IT, education, and healthcare. DeVry University-Illinois offers a broader range of programs, including technology, business, healthcare, and media arts, with options for both undergraduate and graduate degrees. DeVry also has more specialized programs in areas like cybersecurity and project management.
How does the learning experience differ at WGU compared to DeVry University-Illinois?

At WGU, you'll work independently with a mentor and course instructors, focusing on demonstrating competency through assessments. The learning is self-paced and highly flexible. DeVry University-Illinois offers a more structured learning environment with scheduled classes, lectures, and group projects. You'll have more direct interaction with professors in a classroom setting (either online or in person).
What kind of student support services are available at WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

Both universities offer student support services, but they are delivered differently. WGU provides personalized support through mentors who guide you throughout your program. They also offer course instructors for subject-matter expertise and access to online resources. DeVry University-Illinois offers a wider range of traditional support services, including academic advising, career services, tutoring, and student life activities, both online and on campus.
Which university is better for working adults?

Both universities cater to working adults, but WGU's competency-based model and flexible scheduling may be particularly appealing if you need to balance work and studies. The ability to accelerate your progress at WGU can also be beneficial. DeVry University-Illinois' online and on-campus options, along with structured classes, can provide a more traditional learning experience that some working adults may prefer.
How do the career services compare between WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

DeVry University-Illinois places a strong emphasis on career services, offering resume workshops, mock interviews, career fairs, and employer connections. WGU also provides career resources, including resume and cover letter assistance, job search strategies, and networking opportunities, but the focus is more on self-directed career development.
What are the accreditation differences between WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

Both WGU and DeVry University-Illinois are regionally accredited, which is important for transferring credits and for employer recognition. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). DeVry University-Illinois is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Regional accreditation is generally considered the gold standard in accreditation.
What are the key similarities between WGU and DeVry University-Illinois?

Both institutions aim to provide career-focused education and offer online learning options. They both provide student support services and are regionally accredited. Both universities also strive to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
How do I decide which university is right for me: WGU or DeVry University-Illinois?

Consider your learning style, budget, and career goals. If you are self-motivated, disciplined, and prefer a flexible, competency-based approach, WGU might be a good fit. If you prefer a more structured learning environment with scheduled classes and direct interaction with professors, and value a wider range of program options, DeVry University-Illinois could be a better choice. Research specific programs, compare tuition costs, and consider your personal preferences to make an informed decision.

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