Western Governors University (WGU) is a non-profit, online university that has been a pioneer in providing higher education to working adults and individuals who require flexibility in their academic pursuits. With a strong focus on competency-based education, WGU has been successful in helping thousands of students achieve their academic and professional goals. One of the most significant milestones for WGU students is graduation, which marks the culmination of their hard work and dedication to their studies.
Overview of WGU Graduation
WGU graduation is a momentous occasion that celebrates the achievements of students who have completed their degree programs. The university holds several graduation ceremonies throughout the year, which are attended by graduates, their families, and WGU faculty and staff. The ceremonies are an opportunity for graduates to connect with their peers, reflect on their academic journey, and look forward to their future endeavors.
Graduation Requirements
To be eligible for graduation, WGU students must meet the specific requirements of their degree program. These requirements typically include completing all the necessary coursework, passing the required assessments, and demonstrating mastery of the relevant skills and competencies. Students must also ensure that they have fulfilled all the necessary administrative requirements, such as completing the graduation application and paying any outstanding fees.
The following table outlines the general graduation requirements for WGU students:
| Degree Program | Graduation Requirements |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | Completion of 120-128 credits, including general education and major-specific courses |
| Master's Degree | Completion of 30-42 credits, including core and elective courses |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | Completion of 18-24 credits, including required and elective courses |
Graduation Ceremony
The WGU graduation ceremony is a formal event that takes place at various locations across the United States. The ceremony typically includes a procession of graduates, a keynote address, and the conferring of degrees. Graduates are also given the opportunity to share their thoughts and reflections on their academic journey and the impact that WGU has had on their lives.
Some of the notable features of the WGU graduation ceremony include:
- A formal procession of graduates, led by WGU faculty and staff
- A keynote address by a distinguished guest speaker
- The conferring of degrees, which is typically done by the WGU president or provost
- A graduate reflection or speech, which is an opportunity for graduates to share their thoughts and experiences
Graduation Statistics
WGU has a strong track record of graduate success, with many students going on to achieve their academic and professional goals. Some of the key graduation statistics for WGU include:
The following table outlines some of the key graduation statistics for WGU:
| Graduation Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Graduation Rate | 70-80% for undergraduate students, 80-90% for graduate students |
| Time to Completion | 2-3 years for undergraduate students, 1-2 years for graduate students |
| Employment Rate | 80-90% of graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation |
What are the graduation requirements for WGU students?
+WGU students must meet the specific requirements of their degree program, which typically include completing all the necessary coursework, passing the required assessments, and demonstrating mastery of the relevant skills and competencies.
How long does it take to complete a degree program at WGU?
+The time to completion for a degree program at WGU varies depending on the program and the individual student. However, WGU’s competency-based education model allows students to progress through their degree programs at their own pace, which can help them accelerate their graduation timeline.
What is the employment rate for WGU graduates?
+According to WGU’s graduation statistics, 80-90% of graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This is a testament to the quality of WGU’s degree programs and the skills and competencies that graduates possess.
