The Business Model of Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is a nonprofit online university founded and supported by 19 U.S. governors. WGU does not only teach new skills but also grants credits for existing ones. As compared to the traditional university model there are no classes, lectures or a fixed academic calendar. To obtain the necessary competencies for a modul (if lacking), students are given learning materials and guidance from a mentor. Tuition is charged at a flat rate per six-months term regardless of the number of courses the student has taken. As of July 2015, the university had nearly 60,000 enrolled students and more than 50,000 graduates.