Choosing between online universities shouldn't feel like guesswork. When you're comparing Nexford University and Western Governors University (WGU), you're looking at two competency-based, affordable online universities—but with fundamentally different approaches to cost, flexibility, and student support.
WGU was founded in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors and has become one of the largest online universities in America, with more than 400,000 graduates who have earned their degrees through its competency-based model. It's an established institution with extensive resources and a proven track record.
Nexford University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Founded in 2019, we designed our university from the ground up for working professionals who need flexibility and affordability without sacrificing quality.
This guide breaks down the key differences between Nexford and WGU across the factors that actually matter: cost, flexibility, support systems, career development, and outcomes. Both universities offer competency-based education, but the way we deliver it—and what it costs you—differs dramatically.
Let's get into it.
Quick Overview
Nexford University
Founded: 2019
Focus: Business and technology programs for working professionals
Accreditation: DEAC (National)
Model: Pay-per-course (undergrad) / Monthly subscription (grad)
Start Dates: 1st of every month
Programs: BBA, MBA, MS degrees
Total Enrollment: Learners from 100+ countries
Key Differentiator: Country-adjusted pricing and true self-paced learning with monthly starts designed specifically for working adults worldwide.
Western Governors University (WGU)
Founded: 1997
Focus: Comprehensive competency-based university across multiple fields
Accreditation: NWCCU (Regional)
Model: Flat-rate per six-month term
Start Dates: 1st of every month
Programs: 90+ undergraduate and graduate programs
Total Enrollment: Over 400,000 graduates
Key Differentiator: Pioneering competency-based education model at scale with extensive program breadth and established institutional reputation.
The Core Philosophy: Two Approaches to Competency-Based Education
Both Nexford and WGU use competency-based education (CBE), but we apply it differently.
WGU's Approach:
WGU measures learning through competency mastery rather than time spent in class. Students progress through courses as soon as they prove they've mastered the material, rather than advancing only when the semester or term ends.
However, WGU operates on six-month terms with start and end dates set for each course. Students work with their Program Mentor to create a term plan that includes start and end dates for each course in the term. While you can accelerate within a term, students pay once every six months regardless of course load.
Nexford's Approach:
We took competency-based education further. Instead of six-month terms with planned start dates, Nexford offers true self-paced learning with no term deadlines. You can:
- Start any course when you're ready
- Take as long as you need (or accelerate when possible)
- Pause without penalty when life demands it
- Resume exactly where you left off
Neither approach is inherently wrong. The question is: do you prefer structure with six-month terms and planned course dates, or complete flexibility to learn at your own pace without any term constraints?
Cost Comparison: The Numbers That Matter
Let's address the number that matters most: what you'll actually pay for your degree.
Undergraduate Programs (BBA/Bachelor's)
Nexford:
- Cost: $4,800-$10,000 total (depending on your country)
- Model: Pay-per-course ($120-$250 per course based on location)
- Total Program: 40 courses
- Transparency: Know your exact total cost from day one
WGU:
- Cost per term: $4,030 per six-month term for undergraduate business programs (effective September 1, 2025) — this includes $3,830 tuition plus $200 e-books and resources fee
- Average Completion: Students earn their bachelor's degree in two and a half years on average
- Total Cost: Approximately $20,750 for average completion time (2.5 years average)
- Model: Flat-rate per term—complete as many courses as possible
- Variables: Students transfer an average of 34 credits to bachelor's programs, which can reduce time and cost
The Difference:
For domestic U.S. students, WGU's total cost of approximately $20,750 is competitive, though still higher than Nexford's range of $4,800-$10,000. However, WGU offers the advantage of completing more courses per term if you can accelerate.
The Global Factor:
If you're outside the United States, Nexford's country-adjusted pricing makes a dramatic difference. WGU charges U.S. rates to all students globally, while Nexford adjusts pricing based on local economic factors in 100+ countries.
Graduate Programs (MBA)
Nexford:
- Cost: $3,300-$8,100 total (depending on completion speed and country)
- Model: Monthly subscription
- Average Completion: 12-18 months (can finish in 9 months if accelerated)
- Transparency: Faster completion = lower total cost
WGU:
- Cost per term: $5,005 per six-month term for MBA programs (effective September 1, 2025) — this includes $4,805 tuition plus $200 e-books and resources fee
- Completion: Students can finish in one year (two terms) or take longer
- Total Cost: Approximately $10,010 for one-year completion (two terms); approximately $15,015 for 18-month completion (three terms)
- Model: Flat-rate per term—complete as many courses as you can
The Difference:
WGU's MBA total cost of $10,010-$15,015 is higher than Nexford's range of $3,300-$8,100. However, if you're a U.S. student who qualifies for federal financial aid or employer tuition reimbursement, WGU's established financial aid infrastructure may reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Why the Cost Structures Differ
WGU:
WGU's flat-rate tuition model means students pay once every six months and complete as many courses as they can in that time. The more you accelerate, the fewer terms you pay, reducing your total cost.
Nexford:
We eliminate physical infrastructure costs and use a globally adjusted pricing model. For undergraduates, you pay per course. For graduates, you pay monthly—the faster you finish, the less you pay.
Flexibility: Structure vs. Complete Self-Pacing
Start Dates
Both Universities: WGU offers rolling start dates on the 1st of every month, matching Nexford's monthly start dates.
The Similarity: Neither university makes you wait for traditional semester schedules. Apply, enroll, and begin on the 1st of any month.
Learning Structure
Nexford:
- True self-paced learning: No term deadlines, no scheduled course end dates
- Start, pause, and resume courses as needed
- Complete your MBA in 9 months or take longer—entirely your choice
- Life doesn't operate on six-month schedules; neither should your education
WGU:
- Six-month term structure: Students and Program Mentors establish start and end dates for each course during term enrollment
- Flexible approach to courses—read the book, watch videos, join live sessions
- No cap on how fast students can accelerate within a term
- Must complete minimum competency units per term: 12 units for undergraduate, 8 for graduate students
The Difference:
WGU offers flexibility within structure. You work with your Program Mentor to plan courses each term, set start and end dates, and can accelerate through material you know. However, you operate within six-month term boundaries and minimum progress requirements.
Nexford offers complete self-pacing. No terms. No planned end dates. No minimum progress requirements. You control your timeline entirely.
Choose WGU if: You appreciate structure and benefit from having planned course dates and term goals set with a mentor.
Choose Nexford if: You want complete autonomy to learn entirely at your own pace without any term constraints or planned schedules.
Student Support: Mentorship vs. Coaching
Both universities understand online learners need support, but they approach it differently.
WGU: Program Mentor Model
Every WGU student is assigned a Program Mentor from enrollment through graduation. Your Program Mentor:
- Collaborates with you to create a personalized plan for communication and course completion during each six-month term
- Makes weekly check-in calls to ensure things are going smoothly
- Provides guidance on programs, policies, and procedures
- Is evaluated on student success metrics
- Combines academic expertise with industry experience
Additionally, WGU provides:
- Course Instructors: Subject-matter experts with field experience assigned to teach specific courses
- Evaluators: Expert faculty who review student work and determine if competency has been achieved
WGU's Philosophy: Dedicated, one-on-one mentorship with a single faculty member guiding you from enrollment through graduation, complemented by course-specific instructors and evaluators.
Nexford: Career Success Coach Model
Every Nexford student receives a Career Success Coach from Day One—not just academic support, but career-focused coaching integrated throughout your learning journey.
Your Career Success Coach:
- Helps you build your career while you learn, not after
- Provides resume refinement throughout your program
- Supports network building from the start
- Offers interview preparation integrated into your timeline
- Focuses on professional development as part of your journey
Nexford's Philosophy: Your degree should advance your career immediately, not after you graduate. Career development isn't a separate service—it's integrated into your entire learning experience.
The Difference
WGU provides comprehensive academic mentorship. Your Program Mentor guides your academic progress, helps you plan each term, keeps you accountable, and supports you through challenges. It's mentor-focused support centered on degree completion.
Nexford provides career-focused coaching. While we support your academic progress, our primary focus is ensuring your degree translates to career advancement—starting from course one, not course forty.
Choose WGU if: You value long-term academic mentorship with weekly check-ins and term planning support.
Choose Nexford if: You prioritize career advancement and want proactive coaching that builds your professional trajectory from enrollment.
Career Services: Comprehensive Resources vs. Integrated Coaching
WGU: Career & Professional Development Center
WGU's Career & Professional Development Team provides up-to-date resources and strategic guidance, including:
- Resume Development: Resources, resume labs, and a course on building an effective resume
- Big Interview: An online platform that helps improve resume and interview skills with practice interviews, expert tutorials, and personalized feedback
- Handshake: A career platform connecting WGU students and alumni with employers, offering access to job opportunities, internships, networking and education events
- Weekly Workshops: Sessions on resumes, LinkedIn, job search, and more
- Career Coaching: Individual assistance from Career Advisors for personalized support and guidance
- Lifetime Access: WGU graduates have lifetime access to Career & Professional Development services
WGU's Career & Professional Development Center serves students at different career stages, whether they are established professionals, new to their fields, or actively seeking employment.
Nexford: Integrated Career Coaching
Nexford's approach differs fundamentally. Rather than offering career services as a separate resource you access when needed, we integrate career coaching into your learning journey:
- Career Success Coach from Day One: Every student receives dedicated coaching from enrollment
- Proactive Outreach: Your coach reaches out to you—you're not responsible for remembering to access services
- Continuous Career Building: You build your career throughout your program, not just near graduation
- Integrated Timeline: Career development happens alongside your coursework, not as a separate activity
The Difference
WGU offers comprehensive career resources. The services are extensive, high-quality, and available for life. Students access them when they decide they need career support—whether that's during the program or years after graduation.
Nexford offers integrated career coaching. Career development isn't a separate resource—it's woven into your learning experience. Your Career Success Coach works with you from enrollment, ensuring you're building your career from course one.
Choose WGU if: You're self-motivated to access career resources when you need them, and you value extensive tools like Handshake, Big Interview, and lifetime access to services.
Choose Nexford if: You want someone proactively guiding your career development from the moment you enroll, ensuring you're building professional momentum throughout your learning journey.
Learning Experience: Competency Assessment vs. Project-Based Application
WGU: Competency-Based Assessments
WGU's competency-based approach measures skills and learning rather than time spent in a classroom. Students demonstrate mastery through:
- Traditional tests, projects, essays, or other practical demonstrations of required skills
- Assignments involving problem-solving (e.g., science or information technology)
- Computerized exams consisting of multiple-choice, matching, and other question types
- Expert evaluation faculty who assess competency based on descriptive rubrics
WGU convenes "program councils" composed of industry experts who advise on curriculum development, ensuring coursework aligns with employer needs.
WGU's Faculty:
- Over 4,300 faculty members living and working in all 50 states
- Over 900 Course Instructors
- Over 1,520 Program Mentors
- Over 1,200 Evaluators
Nexford: Project-Based Learning with Real Company Case Studies
Every Nexford course includes projects based on real challenges from companies like Tesla, Amazon, Apple, and Google. You create:
- Marketing campaigns
- Financial models
- Business strategies
- Data analyses
- Pitch decks
Portfolio Building: You graduate with tangible work samples to show employers—not just grades on a transcript.
Faculty: Professional instructors whose primary role is teaching and mentoring, bringing real-world business and technology experience.
The Difference
WGU focuses on competency validation. You prove you've mastered skills through assessments that demonstrate your knowledge. It's rigorous, employer-aligned, and ensures you genuinely know the material.
Nexford focuses on practical application. You solve real business problems using real company data. You graduate with a portfolio of work that demonstrates your capabilities to potential employers.
Choose WGU if: You value demonstrating mastery through comprehensive assessments and appreciate the rigor of competency validation.
Choose Nexford if: You want to learn by doing and graduate with tangible work samples you can show employers.
Program Options: Specialized Focus vs. Comprehensive Breadth
Nexford: Business and Technology
Programs:
BBA Specializations:
MBA Specializations:
Certificate Programs:
Philosophy: Do a few things exceptionally well. Focus on what working professionals need most: business and technology skills for today's economy, with future-ready specializations designed with input from industry leaders.
WGU: 90+ Programs Across Multiple Fields
WGU offers several MBA degrees, including a traditional MBA, an MBA in Healthcare Management, and an MBA in IT Management, plus accelerated master's degrees in Accounting, Finance, and Marketing.
Business Programs:
- B.S. Accounting
- B.S. Business Management
- B.S. Marketing
- B.S. Supply Chain and Operations Management
- B.S. Human Resource Management
- MBA (traditional, Healthcare Administration, IT Management)
- M.S. Accounting
- M.S. Management and Leadership
- And more
Beyond Business:
WGU offers programs across education, healthcare, information technology, and more—over 90 undergraduate and graduate programs total.
Philosophy: Comprehensive university serving diverse educational needs across multiple fields and industries.
The Difference
Choose Nexford if: You're pursuing business or technology degrees. You don't need 90+ program options—you need one excellent program focused on the skills employers demand today.
Choose WGU if: You're pursuing specialized fields beyond business and technology (such as education, healthcare, or specific technical disciplines), or you value having extensive program options within business.
Global Accessibility: Local Pricing vs. Standard U.S. Rates
Nexford: Country-Adjusted Pricing
Global Model: Pricing adjusted based on local economic factors in 100+ countries.
What This Means:
- A student in the Philippines pays different rates than a student in Switzerland
- Pricing reflects local purchasing power
- Quality education genuinely accessible worldwide
- Same degree, same quality, adjusted affordability
Philosophy: Education should be accessible regardless of where you live. Charging someone in Nigeria the same as someone in Norway doesn't reflect economic reality.
WGU: Standard U.S. Pricing
WGU charges flat-rate tuition per six-month term to all students regardless of location.
What This Means:
- Consistent pricing for domestic and international students
- U.S. rates apply to all students globally
- Federal financial aid available to eligible U.S. students
- Established financial aid infrastructure
Philosophy: Standard pricing with robust financial aid opportunities for eligible students.
The Difference
For U.S. Students: This distinction may not matter significantly, though Nexford's pricing remains lower even within the U.S. market. However, WGU offers established federal financial aid access that can reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible students.
For International Students: Nexford's country-adjusted pricing can make the difference between affordable and impossible. A BBA at Nexford might cost $4,800 in one country and $10,000 in another—both significantly less than WGU's total cost.
Choose WGU if: You're a U.S. student who qualifies for federal financial aid or employer tuition reimbursement that covers most costs.
Choose Nexford if: You're an international student, or you're a U.S. student who values the lowest possible tuition without needing to navigate financial aid applications.
Accreditation: National vs. Regional
Let's address this directly, because it's often the first question.
Nexford: DEAC (National Accreditation)
Nexford University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
The School of Business and Innovation at Nexford University has received specialized accreditation for its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
- Focus: Specifically designed for distance education
- Recognition: U.S. Department of Education and CHEA recognized
- Transferability: Credits may transfer, but not guaranteed at all institutions
WGU: NWCCU (Regional Accreditation)
WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and WGU is the only university to have received regional accreditation from four regional accrediting commissions at the same time.
Many of WGU's School of Business bachelor's and master's degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- Recognition: Regional accreditation (most common in U.S.)
- Transferability: Generally wider acceptance for credit transfer
- Traditional: Standard for most U.S. universities
What This Actually Means
For Employers: Both accreditations signal legitimate, quality education. Your degree holds value either way.
For Further Education: If you plan to pursue additional degrees at traditional universities, regional accreditation (WGU) may make transfer easier. Not impossible with national accreditation, but potentially smoother.
For Your Career: For most business and technology careers, the distinction matters less than your actual skills and experience. Employers care about what you can do, not which accreditor approved your university.
Our Take
We're honest about this: if your specific career path or future education plans require regional accreditation, WGU delivers that. We chose DEAC accreditation because it's specifically designed for distance education and aligns with our global model.
For the vast majority of working professionals pursuing business and technology careers, DEAC accreditation provides the legitimacy you need while allowing us to maintain our affordable, globally accessible model.
Choose WGU if: You specifically need regional accreditation for your career or education plans.
Choose Nexford if: You value affordability and flexibility, and DEAC national accreditation meets your needs.
The Bottom Line
WGU is an established, pioneering competency-based university that has educated over 360,000 graduates since 1997. It offers comprehensive program options across multiple fields, regional accreditation, structured six-month terms with academic mentorship, and federal financial aid eligibility. It's ideal for students who qualify for financial aid, need regional accreditation, want structured term planning with weekly mentor check-ins, or are pursuing programs in education, healthcare, or specialized fields beyond business and technology.
Nexford is designed specifically for working professionals in business and technology. It offers exceptional affordability ($4,800-$10,000 for a BBA vs. WGU's ~$20,750 (2.5 years average)), country-adjusted pricing for international students, complete self-paced learning with no term deadlines, and integrated career coaching from Day One. It's ideal for cost-conscious students, international learners, those who need maximum flexibility without term constraints, and professionals who want project-based learning with a portfolio of real work samples.
Neither is objectively "better"—they're different tools for different situations. Choose based on your financial aid eligibility, location, need for flexibility vs. structure, accreditation requirements, and career goals.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to pursue an affordable, flexible business or technology degree? Explore our BBA, MBA, or MS in Digital Transformation programs, or apply to Nexford today — no application fee, monthly start dates, and personalized support from Day One.
Disclaimer
This comparison was fact-checked as of November 2025 using official sources. Tuition rates and program details may change—always verify current information directly with each university before making enrollment decisions.
References
All information about WGU was verified from official WGU sources:
- WGU tuition rates (effective September 1, 2025): https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/tuition-business-degrees.html
- WGU average completion time and graduate numbers: https://www.wgu.edu/about/affordability.html
- WGU start dates and monthly enrollment: https://www.wgu.edu/admissions.html
- WGU founding and history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Governors_University and https://www.wgu.edu/about/story/history.html
- WGU term structure and course planning: https://cm.wgu.edu/t5/Registration-Student-Records/Term-Registration-and-Enrollment/ta-p/200
- WGU Cost of Attendance documents: https://www.wgu.edu/content/dam/wgu-65-assets/western-governors/documents/financial-aid/coa-independent.pdf
- WGU Alumni: https://www.wgu.edu/alumni.html
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