Estimating Time to Complete a Degree at WGU with a 36-Hour Weekly Commitment

Wondering how long it will take you to finish a degree at Western Governors University (WGU)? If you plan to dedicate 36 hours a week to your studies—equivalent to 9 hours per class if you're taking four classes simultaneously—here's a breakdown of your timeline and tips to help you navigate the process more effectively.

Understanding the Assessment and Testing Process

Many students at WGU have the option to test out of certain courses based on their prior knowledge or relevant experience. However, this isn't always the case. For instance, if an individual previously worked in education and was familiar with the subject matter in many courses, they could breeze through some courses immediately. But, it's crucial to take the appropriate assessments to determine your specific needs.

If you decide to take the assessments and find that you are lacking in certain areas, you can focus on studying only those sections. Conversely, if you pass the assessment, you can save valuable time by skipping the course altogether. My experience was that I finished many of my courses quickly by testing out of them, but this was due to my extensive experience in the field.

Time Management and Discipline

Based on my experience, if you commit to studying 36 hours a week, you can make significant progress. I managed to complete my degree in about 1.5 years by dedicating 40 hours a week to my studies. Had circumstances allowed, I could have completed it in a year. However, the timing of student teaching requirements occasionally slowed me down. I had to apply for student teaching before a set date and ensure that I had taken certain prerequisites first, which required strategizing to fit everything into my schedule.

Flexibility and discipline are key. You must be willing to play 'hurry up and wait' when necessary, but ultimately, your dedication and time management will determine how quickly you complete your degree. This is particularly important for courses that require extensive assignments and essays, which you cannot test out of.

Breaking Down Total Credit Hours

To graduate from WGU, you typically need to accumulate 120 credit hours. This number will vary depending on the specific degree program you choose. A good rule of thumb is to divide the required credit hours by the number of credit hours you can take per semester. For example, if you can take 16 credit hours per semester, it would take you 7.5 semesters to complete your degree full-time.

However, as with my experience, your actual timeline will be influenced by various factors. Some semesters might require less effort, while others might demand more due to complex assignments or prerequisites. Be prepared for fluctuations in your progress and adjust your study schedule accordingly.

Work Experience and Speed of Completion

Having work experience in your degree field can significantly accelerate your progress. You will be more familiar with the course content and can often complete courses more quickly or even test out of them. For instance, during my BS program, I managed to finish 70 credit hours in my final semester by running through all the courses efficiently.

If you find yourself struggling in a course, it's essential to address the issue promptly. Some students might feel the pressure to delay courses they are uncomfortable with, but this can ultimately prolong the completion of your degree. Meeting your academic obligations on time and seeking help when needed can help you stay on track.

Conclusion

Estimating the time it takes to complete a degree at WGU with a 36-hour weekly commitment requires careful planning and discipline. By leveraging your past knowledge and experience, managing your time effectively, and understanding the assessment processes, you can maximize your progress and possibly complete your degree more quickly than expected. Remember, flexibility and strategic planning are key to a successful journey through WGU.