Successfully Crediting MOOCs Towards a University Degree: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've completed over 25 Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) from different universities, you might be wondering how to count those courses toward a degree. This guide will introduce you to a university that not only recognizes MOOCs but also offers a flexible and cost-effective solution for earning a degree.

A University That Recognizes MOOCs: Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is a top choice for students looking to credit their MOOCs towards a university degree. As an institution with over 100 fully online programs, WGU boasts a remarkable track record in innovative educational practices. Here, you can align as many of your MOOCs as possible with the courses offered, allowing you to test out of them and save both time and money.

Aligning Your MOOCs

The process of aligning your MOOCs at WGU is straightforward. You can work with academic advisors to identify which courses from your MOOCs correspond to the courses offered by WGU. Once you have completed the necessary assessments and pre-requisite tests, you can earn credit for those courses. This not only saves you time but also reduces the overall cost of your degree, potentially resulting in faster graduation.

For instance, if you've completed a statistics MOOC from Coursera, you might be eligible to test out of a similar course at WGU. This means you won't have to repeat the same material, allowing you to focus on the new courses and subjects you haven't covered yet.

A Fast-Track to Graduation

At WGU, the ability to align and test out of courses can significantly accelerate your path to graduation. If you are able to demonstrate a solid understanding of the subjects through assessments, you can potentially complete your degree in just one year. This accelerated timeline is particularly beneficial for those who are looking to enter the workforce sooner rather than later.

Here's how it works: WGU operates on a competency-based model, where the focus is on your mastery of the material rather than the time spent in a traditional classroom. Once you demonstrate that you've mastered the required competencies, you can progress to the next course. This means you don't have to sit through courses you've already mastered, allowing you to graduate more quickly.

Cost-Effective Learning

WGU stands out in its cost-structure as well. Unlike many universities that charge per course, WGU charges based on the length of time you spend in the program. This means that if you can graduate faster by earning credit for your MOOCs, you'll save a significant amount of money. For example, if you can complete your degree in one year instead of two, you would only pay for the time you are actively enrolled, substantially reducing your tuition costs.

Opportunities for Future Educators

WGU not only offers a wide range of programs but also has a strong focus on future educators. They provide one of the highest-rated degree-state licensure programs in the country. This is particularly valuable for students who are interested in pursuing a career in education. WGU ensures that their programs are aligned with the latest educational standards and practices, preparing students to be effective teachers.

Moreover, WGU offers financial support to those aspiring to become teachers. Students can apply for the 2000 WGU Loves Teachers Scholarship, one of the largest scholarships specifically designed to help future teachers. This scholarship provides substantial financial assistance, making it easier for aspiring educators to invest in their education.

Conclusion

WGU is a beacon for students who are passionate about education and eager to complete their degrees in a meaningful and efficient way. By leveraging your completed MOOCs, you can save time, reduce costs, and even become a teacher faster. With a solid reputation and a commitment to student success, WGU is the perfect choice for anyone looking to achieve their academic and career goals.

Contact WGU

If you're interested in pursuing a degree at WGU, it’s recommended to reach out to their admissions team to learn more about how your MOOC credits can be applied and to get started on your path to faster graduation and a well-regarded degree.

Resources

Visit the WGU website for more information on their programs, tuition costs, and application process.

Use their tuition calculator to estimate your costs and savings based on your individual circumstances.

Explore the WGU scholarship options, including the 2000 WGU Loves Teachers Scholarship.