Western Governors University Review | Is WGU Worth it for information technology? | Pros & Cons

[@Calahad81]

This is great to hear. I 'm currently finishing my Software Development degree there, and plan on going right into the Masters Degree in Cybersecurity as well.

[@nicoleenesse]

That is awesome! I have learned a lot in the program that has helped me define the direction I want to go in.

[@jasminstuart152]

Hey was the software program difficult? I know nothing about tech but want to learn and get that degree, just want to know if it would be a strong possibility I'll be able to get through it

[@HappyMicTv]

@calahad I’d like to pick your brain about the program and your reasoning you chose your path. I’ve kinda came up with wanting to do that exact same path and would like to talk to someone like minded.

[@lifebyjustin]

I just finished my WGU master's today and I did it in 5.5 months! Glad to know you're able to finish it in a similar time frame. Whenever I talk with WGU staff, they are always so amazed that people finish it at that rapid pace. I think it's less common to do the accelerated route, but it is definitely doable. Good luck wrapping things up!

[@nicoleenesse]

Thank you!! I am a firm believer in just getting it done, and not dragging it out!

[@kgallegos]

Were you working at the same time as your Masters? Just curious! Looking into one of their programs.

[@lifebyjustin]

@@kgallegos I was yup. I was working 3 part-time jobs (teaching two courses, doing a student services role and a freelance project). I did WGU on weekends for most of my time doing the program. Though, the last month I worked every night after work until midnight to get the capstone done fast.

[@johnsonajayi7846]

Really, in what field and how many credits did you completed?

[@lifebyjustin]

@@johnsonajayi7846 MSc in Curriculum and Instruction as part of the Teacher's College.And it was 30 credits I believe. I made a lot of videos on my experience which on my channel

[@mtarmygrd]

Wish I would have went into this field a long time ago. After a 6 year career in military intelligence and 5 years as a correctional officer with $30,000 still in student debt, this just makes so much sense to me at the moment. I hope this will be what I am looking for in a career but you have made my decision so much easier, thanks.

[@nicoleenesse]

It is a great career to be in with a lot of growth, and challenge!

[@Wonderwice84]

Registered Nurse here thinking of a career change. Just wanted to say it's the same for Nursing as far as degrees are concerned. HR doesn't care if you got your degree online, at a traditional institution, or how pricey/renowned the school is.

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks. I was curious about that

[@esme.elliott]

Hey, Just enrolled in the BA cybersecurity program at WGU. Can't wait to officially start classes next month. From art school to health care. Now Cybersecurity!!! Maybe I'm just addicted to that cert life. Wish me luck 🤞! Thanks for the amazing content!

[@johnnyrotten5905]

Going to WGU was a great choice for me. I was active duty and started looking into the school near the end of my career, I was communications, so I already had some technical experience. I was able to utilize my GI Bill, completed the CSIA program in 16 months and got a sweet contractor gig as a result. I recommend WGU to anyone that will listen.

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks Johnny

[@jrddetailing9530]

doing the same thing, where did you land your job?

[@margiepotter9741]

This was very helpful. I was on the fence and you persuaded me to apply. Thank you

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stevenhageman8255]

people knock online classes, but i've had plenty in person classes that were horror stories... my ethical hacking instructor had to change his curriculum that year- which is totally fair; but he hadn't worked on any of it; and had never finished the curriculum the whole year... we more or less just read the text book, we never knew what we were doing assignment wise; he didn't respond to emails etc. The sad part is, that's not the only terrible experience i've had

[@nicoleenesse]

I agree! It might take a while for people to warm up to it, but once it does it will revolutionize the education system

[@johnsonajayi7846]

If the instructor is not doing his job well, report him to management. If the person is just collecting salaries and don't perform, they should know.

[@blackswan7568]

The ease of transferring community college credits sounds really appealing to me. I do hate that I'll lose the face-to-face interaction that I have at my current college, but given that I was homeschooled for 10 years, I think that I can manage😉

[@nicoleenesse]

aha, you could! Also, check out study.com you can gain college credits there

[@jacobhutchinson332]

@@nicoleenesse If WGU doesn't offer GPA, how does pass or fail make that a GPA? I feel like I want to take this school either in English or IT to get into the Masters Program in Library science at a State University in my home state but I just need to be sure if that's possible to do with a bachelors degree from WGU

[@techwithchris007]

I signed up a week ago and have a potential start date of April 1st. I am excited and eager to finish my degree. I moved up the ranks from chef, to executive chef, and then food and beverage director. I was furloughed due to the pandemic but I decided to go back to school for my associates in computer science. I am currently a network specialist. I hope that cloud computing at WGU is fun and rewarding. Thanks for the video.

[@dianatimoah5493]

How is it going for you.. I am starting in July

[@techwithchris007]

@@dianatimoah5493 they started me with comptia a+ core 2. i have already failed. attempting to do more practice questions and retake soon

[@eastwindblackpaw6722]

I’m planning to enroll in their MBA program; however, I am researching their IT degrees. I have been contemplating a career change. I was not too sure about WGU as a credible institution in the workforce, however, your video has helped me conclude otherwise about WGU in the workforce. Thank you!

[@NelsonMunoz0714]

Like button Smashed! Great info. I can stop procrastinating and finally get my Bachelor's Degree! 64-yr old student.

[@nicoleenesse]

You got this!

[@rahwagebre1223]

You can do this

[@ShaneHummus]

Hi Nicole! Great video and I smashed the like button. Which degrees specifically would you say are worth it from WGU?

[@nicoleenesse]

Hey Shane! I am a huge fan of your channel. I am more IT focused, so only have knowledge in the field. WGU is highly reputable among IT professions because of the model they use. It fits tech really well. Any of the WGU IT bachelors and masters degrees are worth it. Cybersecurity, Data Science & Cloud are the biggest trends, so if you want tons of job opportunities with high pay, those will be the biggest bang for your buck. However, computer science would not box you into a certain field, and may give you more flexibility to try out various things in the tech field and in 10 years will still be pretty applicable to any new tech fields that emerge.

[@ShaneHummus]

@@nicoleenesse Awesome feedback, thank you! I'm actually looking for people to interview right now on the channel. Would you be interested?

[@nicoleenesse]

@@ShaneHummus I would love to do an interview. Let me know when and where!

[@ShaneHummus]

@@nicoleenesse Hey Nicole, shoot me an email in my "About You" section and we can discuss. I'm basically doing 4-5 interviews with people in different careers to try and give my audience the best advice to break into that career. Let me know if that's something that interests you.

[@nicoleenesse]

@@ShaneHummus It is! I could provide a lot of value in that arena, and that is why I originally started my youtube channel. Helping people change their career to tech :)

[@dubled2765]

Great job!! You really should change your title to add in the front you actually get to the point and stay on the point of why we clicked your video! I have seen many, and they took too long, or drifted way of topic - you deserve to be the top of the SERP. GREAT JOB!!

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks Daniel

[@maximdoesacro6772]

I loved your video! Thank you for making this, I am so excited to enroll in WGU!

[@ArmaOps]

This was exactly what I needed to make my decision, thank you for making this video!!!

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jbs2763]

Thank you for your videos m’am, I’m planning on enrolling in wgu possibly this fall if I can get my GI bill sorted out, I tried “traditional “ college straight out of HS and failed miserably, in the last several months I’ve started an IT journey and gotten a handful of certs with self study and am currently knocking out as many general education classes as possible with 3rd party websites. Thank you for the motivation!

[@SZF123456]

My experience has been great with WGU but also different from Nicole's. I'm assuming Nicole was able to transfer in credits and could manage to get this done within a month, which is great. Personally I hadn't been in school for 10 years and all of my certificates had expired, so I need to complete 121 credit units in total including a bunch of generals (like I'm in high school all over again lol). Working full time and doing this school full time I do hit some bumps like learning subjects I don't remember from 10 years ago, so this will take me longer than six months. Regardless I'd still recommend WGU as this whole process would take me at least 6 years vs the 2.5 I plan on finishing in.

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks for a second perspectve

[@Mini-rt8bm]

How has it been so far?

[@lisvetspencer2332]

Thank you so much! This is the exact degree I am contemplating on starting in. The masters in cybersecurity. I so wish I would have gone to wgu for my bachelors instead of being in debt $25k for a BS in IT

[@nicoleenesse]

Yeap, me too

[@Rov8181]

How can you complete the courses so fast?! I consider myself a good student and still could not finish them so quickly Kudos to you!

[@nicoleenesse]

I had a lot of experience, so that may be why. I also enjoy writing papers lol

[@ricothefrenchie7235]

They change the rules all the time! Takes forever to get your papers graded. Or they say they can’t open it. And you can’t start a new class while you are waiting.

[@mariadelarosa3755]

I see a lot of comments about how people who have WGU degrees end up at places like Amazon, Facebook, Google, etc etc. This is partly true. What people aren't telling you is that the majority of those WGU grads work for the non-tech arms of those companies. For example, when I worked at Amazon, no one I knew personally in AWS had a degree from WGU unless they were tech support (e.g. lower-paying jobs). Majority of WGU grads I knew worked at Amazon (read, not Amazon Web Services, even though Amazon and Amazon Web Services are part of the "Amazon family", it's like saying "yeah I'm an Amazon employee because I work at Twitch". Twitch would be a different arm of Amazon, just like AWS is to Amazon. Of everyone I know at AWS on the Solutions Architect (mid/senior level team) and Partner Services Management (PSM) team, I just checked my LinkedIn and no one I know in those respective spaces has a degree from WGU. The same applies to Google. The people I know at Google with WGU degrees work at Google, not Google Cloud. The ones at Google Cloud with WGU degrees are working the tier 1 support roles and many of them just quit after awhile and go elsewhere or they stay there for years without advancing. So, is it true that "people who get WGU degrees end up at FAANGs"? Yes, but that's spinning the truth. It's like talking to a janitor at Whole Foods and them proclaiming that they're an Amazon employee. Sure, they are, but it's not the same as being an actual Amazon Web Services employee which is where a tech professional ideally would want to be when looking at FAANG-level roles.

[@nicoleenesse]

Eh, a degree anywhere doesn't determine your success. How you are as a person determines your success. WGU is also fairly new school, and in IT a degree really isn't that important. it is about skills.

[@mariadelarosa3755]

@@nicoleenesse where you get your degree determines what doors open for you and what doors don’t. Success is defined based on the individual’s goals. You may think being an IT support is the pinnacle of success. But, I think being an engineering manager is. So, it really is dependent on the individuals goals. WGU is not a new school. Go back and do your research. A degree from WGU will get you at most an IT support job. If that. But, a degree from a state school or Junior college online opens more doors than just IT support. WGU will not train students to develop the critical thinking and complex problem solving skills needed to flourish beyond just brain dumping for certs.

[@nicoleenesse]

@@mariadelarosa3755 Credentials and Degrees from any institution don't develop critical thinking skills. Real-life work experience, and APPLYING the laws of reasoning and logic will develop problem-solving abilities. Also, being a manager is more people-based, not technical-based, and a degree/certs/book smarts will not make you competent at either one. Most people will start at an entry-level job, and work their way up...or stay where they are based on initiative & Drive not looking good on paper.

[@JR1481M1]

@@nicoleenesse I think you are missing Maria's point. What she is saying is essentially the type of institution where a person obtains their education is going to expose them to a certain rigor where they will develop high level critical thinking skills and complex solving skills. Furthermore, where you go to school ultimately opens doors for you; she is right about that! and those doors stay open forever at certain schools. As I was saying, where do you think students' get this type of mental training where they can learn and APPLY the laws of reasoning and logic? This is done through high level Mathematics courses like Calculus, Linear Algebra, etc.. as well as more advanced science, philosophy and writing courses. The problem with WGU is the all of it's tech degree curriculums are missing the educational rigor needed for students to develop these skills strong enough to be truly capable in the workforce beyond entry level work. What WGU is a "workforce" ONLY degree. It is a degree a person gets to be employable in the lowest echelons of job opportunities out of desperation or whatever reason. People don't go to WGU to learn how to think about how to solve problems. Essentially, WGU degrees are certificates with regional accreditation; it is a bunch of workforce training and certifications just to "check a box."

[@jaidengonzalez1986]

I applied for IT support at Amazon and Google.

[@alexandraclarke431]

Cool beans ! Thanks for the video, I’m actually enrolled in WGU for Cloud Computing ... I’m actually excited... I’ve Attended WGU Academy because I had no college credits just my HS Diploma. Once I finish my Bachelors I will jump into my Masters for Cyber Security

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad I could help! enjoy the process!

[@Zerael071]

I didn’t know about the academy. I found the school recently and was trying to find a program I could do, to get the certification or credits to transfer over. Came across your comment and it solved my problem and saved me a lot of money lol. Thank you

[@KMFDM_Kid2000]

I'm finishing a bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity with Strayer University online by this December. I should be able to test out of a lot as I will have my Ethical Hacker equivalent by then. I'm planning to take the spring off to decompress after 2 years in this current school. I need a life break. After that, I'm going right for this master's degree.

[@nicoleenesse]

Yay! My advice is to get the CISSP at the end of the program. Don't procrastinate like me

[@natty8481]

Beautiful Nicole this is so cool ! Thanks 🙏 for sharing! 😘

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks for watching!

[@faithwalk.]

Hi, I'm going to WGU soon for cybersecuriy. I spoke with an alum and employer of WHU today and I'm convinced it is the best route for me. I am concerned a bit because I'm starting from ZERO. I would love to have the advantage you had with testing out of courses but i don't. Any recommendations or suggestions for a complete beginner?

[@hytheguy18y32]

I’m in the same boat. It’d be nice.

[@yohanagebrehiwet8664]

@@hytheguy18y32 Me too I love to get any recommendations or suggestions

[@BiggameTechJourney]

You got degree by now just found your channel now. This is be my future online college ba in cybersecurity. Working my A plus. Keep it up

[@nicoleenesse]

Thank you!!

[@djerhyjnbaptiste4030]

I have just started my bachelor's in Cloud Computing have transfered in CUs for my Google IT Support, Net+, Sec+ and Cloud+ certs. Hoping to finish in under 6 months. Thanks for the motivation

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes, you can do it Djerhy!!

[@meredithper3047]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful experience, for a person who loves IT this will be great! I perused BBA but I was wondering which university I take online, because between price, time and cost "it is a big deal for me." I'm not an IT person, sometimes I need an 'IT' help believe or not, and watching these experience make me doubt to decide to take it if possible in a short time as u said.

[@matthewmusselman9544]

After 16 years in my current career and closing in on retiring at 20, I started looking into WGU for my second bachelors in computer science, and cybersecurity has always intrigued me. I made a couple of inquires to some local corporate IT security groups and they were very praiseworthy of WGU's tech programs, but several seemed to shy away from advising anyone to get a degree specifically in cybersecurity. I was advised to get a B.S. in IT with an emphasis in cyber. I have no background on the individuals who said this (second hand information from a friend of mine), but should I consider that route or will a degree in cyber security really prepare me and provide me a solid base through WGU in Linux and Windows? I feel like I have a second opportunity at another career that's rapidly growing, but I won't want to take course work that won't provide a solid understanding of the basics and I end up getting thrown into the deep end when I start looking for an employer. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[@orgnl]

Great video/information. I am currently looking into WGU for Cyber Security.

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad it was helpful!

[@egonzalezjr555]

Hi Nicole! Stumbled on this and I gotta say love the pros you mentioned. At the moment I have been looking into transitioning from Software (did my B.S. in Computer Engineering) to Cybersecurity. I was thinking of going for the MS in Cybersecurity at WGU and getting any other certs I need on the side. Can I get your thoughts on this please?

[@nicoleenesse]

yeah!, it's a great program if you want to switch jobs and can be done fairly quickly. Goes over everything you need, and would be a good base if you are looking into going into cybersecurity

[@egonzalezjr555]

@@nicoleenesse thanks for the response I look forward to trying to “speedrun” the MS program then.

[@JR1481M1]

Has anyone else who is interested in attending WGU, noticed how these Student Testimonials are flooding KZbin? Please keep in mind that these are merely positive reviews with very few negative ones.

[@nicoleenesse]

I am not sponsored by WGU!

[@JR1481M1]

You’re not “sponsored” 😂 but I’m sure it was aggressively encouraged with some sort of non-monetary incentives. The media guy for WGU blew it up too. He does all the commercials

[@JR1481M1]

You’re not “sponsored” 😂 but I’m sure it was aggressively encouraged with some sort of non-monetary incentives. The media guy for WGU blew it up too. He does all the commercials

[@elliebellie648]

Too anyone else interested in attending WGU, know that you need to do your research like you would any other college. Reddit has a large WGU community you can converse with. Also know that people like the one above will always have something negative to say when it comes to higher learning opportunities. I have no idea where this negativity stems from....perhaps he/she doesn't have the drive? Is it jealousy that they mask as being ReAliStIc? Conspiracist? Also dude it a damn commercial, of course they're going to hype it up. Was that the first college commercial you've seen? Do you live under a rock? I have so many questions. Anyhow, I personally am going through the Cyber Security Degree at WGU and its fantastic! Highly recommend!

[@JR1481M1]

@@elliebellie648 I wouldn’t advise anyone to get their information from the WGU Reddit page. It is filled with downvotes or removals for impartial reviews that make the brand look bad. I recommend going to Reddit pages like r/cscareerquestions where there are a mix of different people in the industry that can give you advice that is impartial. The WGU Reddit is run by WGU employees

[@kellya2018]

Thank you so much for this I really needed this ☺️❤️ Is there any other updates or more advices that you have for us from where you are right now!?

[@nicoleenesse]

No, it did help me get a raise at work that paid for the degree!

[@blackwater7183]

Thanks Nicole! I am almost completely enrolled I just need to wait for my enrollment councilor next for my "Intake Interview". I have been researching about this school online for a couple of days now, and so far for the I.T sector, it has mostly been positive. I always have doubts for it being an online school that it just might not be good enough for some employers since it has that stigma other online schools have. I was looking for alternatives just in case but you have helped me decide to just go for it.

[@nicoleenesse]

Awesome!!!!

[@Weatherman1214]

You tipped the scales for me. Thanks so much for the content. Did you wind up getting a job you enjoyed? The resources of WGU look far better than I imagined, so again thanks for the content!

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes and yes! Thanks for watching

[@blackstorm214]

I have the same mentor that you had for my Cybersecurity and Information Assurance masters. He's great

[@nicoleenesse]

he is awesome!

[@jaidengonzalez1986]

Don't bother at WGU. Trust me, you get no help. I don't wanna hear about that hand holding sh*t. I aced all of my stuff with the quickness in 6 months. My issue with WGU is the lack of career support. No Career Fairs, No Recruitments, No Connections, No Pipeline programs. Nothing. It could of helped me a bunch while I was looking for work myself. It would of been a great +1 to my job search. WGU is not looked at positively through HR eyes. I will say that I got a few snarky questions about it.

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@NoDidddy]

They do not provide the certs for free, its included in your tuition. If the school was free, or less than the cost of the certifications then that statement would have been valid.

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks. A better word to use was "included"

[@ts31966]

Great video, very helpful!!! I think exactly like you. The cons are pros for me also. How many classes did you have completed before you started the cybersecurity program?

[@nicoleenesse]

I have a bachelors degree and so Masters skipped all foundational ones

[@anthonydesouza9377]

Hey, great video I was in doubt whether WGU was legit or not but seems pretty good to me, I was considering entering for Computer Science, thanks for the video!!

[@nicoleenesse]

Good luck! It's an awesome program

[@AB-nl7vt]

Knowledge of theory is important, but how does WGU prepare you for hand on experience? Knowing how to do something in theory vs actually knowing how to do it is important. Does WGU have VM labs where you can apply the theory?

[@nicoleenesse]

They have both. It’s a combination and the do have VM labs

[@ltnlabs]

The issue is the quality of education in my opinion. Does WGU help you develop skills that give you an advantage in the field? It seems that most go just to get the degree done, leave with all these credentials but didn’t grow much skills wise. Im torn and am weighing doing my masters at WGU. Great video!

[@nicoleenesse]

In the technical field, it does. It is way better than traditional colleges. Learning tech is not about taking tests or scoring good grades. It is about playing around with the technology and actually doing it. No amount of schooling will get you good at networking or cybersecurity. Only doing and creating projects will get you there.

[@JR1481M1]

@@nicoleenesse WGU is no way better than traditional colleges. Traditional Colleges do provide students prospects and connections. WGU is for people who brain dump for a certification. They aren't learning anything but pass certifications.

[@JR1481M1]

WGU will not help you develop skills. They are the McDonalds of colleges. You are there to get the certifications and a piece of paper to check a box. That's it.

[@cdu379]

@@JR1481M1 Why are you so bitter and commenting on every post she has? I saw earlier that you attended WGU. What’s the problem? You couldn’t pass your tests? You thought it was going to be “easy” and wanted a quick degree? It’s literally regionally accredited. It has the highest form of accreditation. It’s not like it’s a scam! It’s so annoying to look at every comment and see you commenting on it. Buzz off.

[@JR1481M1]

@@cdu379 actually the opposite, dude. It was so easy and had no real career value for me. If you look at the curriculum it is a high school re-education program with certifications. The same education you get at a GED school with trade school component. If you need a certification based degree to get an entry level IT trade job, you obviously don’t have any smarts. Many of these trade jobs are accessible without the degree. You don’t like it? Then cope and move on. I am so tired of these marketing scams from WGU.

[@sportgamer3255]

The certs is what sold me when I was looking into it, the BS of Cyber Security gets you 14 CERTS, plus the 2 in the master program, thats a bachelors, a masters, and 16 industry standard certs,

[@hankmoody5514]

I can graduate with 14 certs and a BA. seems like a big win.

[@nicoleenesse]

It is!

[@Jomiline]

Do they watch you through a webcam when ur taking your final exams? I like to be comfy when i take my exams.

[@nicoleenesse]

They do. It is super uncomfortable

[@ChrisFowlerRacing]

I had a friend who went to WGU and he said 90% of his IT degree was writing papers, essays, etc. Is the cybersecurity degree the same as well? This is what turned me off of WGU, I want to do the technical side, not write 10 page essays every week.

[@nicoleenesse]

Yeah, there is a lot of writing. It's probably either a cert or a paper

[@olympic-ass-eater]

What do u do now and what is your friend do?

[@kristenwade1608]

Hi Nicole, I was wondering if you could give insight on what the courses actually entail? For example, are the courses similar to a traditional 16 week college course as far as the amount of homework/assignments? How many assignments, exams and tests can you expect to be doing per course? Thanks

[@jgorri2264]

Thanks so much for this review!

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Ryan-mn6on]

"Sometimes you kind of forget you have school work to do..." Yeah employers love people who forget they have work to do or cant meet deadlines. I always wondered what happened to the people who setup ITT Tech after it crashed and burned.

[@nicoleenesse]

ITT TECh and WGU aren't the same. A lot of people have issues with procrastination of school work

[@beefpanda4313]

Smashed like button. Screen broke... You can replace?

[@nicoleenesse]

ahahhahahahhaha

[@rajibbatajoo]

I have 2 years bachelor's degree which we used to have those days. Now I want to transfer my credit from my university from my country.

[@nicoleenesse]

awesome

[@J_man712]

She got paid for this from WGU, so take into consideration as well.

[@MrMarkmill]

So I want to transition into tech. Currently, I have a bachelors degree in management and a secret clearance for my military police full-time job. Would you recommend I gaining the certifications with this school through a bachelor's program? Or just getting the master's in tech and test for certs with COMPTIA on my own? Also, can you go deeper into the certs you obtain with the course? Like how do they work? how do you study for them and how do they come in the mail? or are the certs just obtained on your transcripts?

[@nicoleenesse]

Get a Masters's degree and test for certs on your own. Security+ would be the most useful for DoD IT jobs as it meets 8570 and you will get CEH in the Master's Program. The certs will be sent to your mailbox or you can download them.

[@kyle6754]

I guess my issue is, I finish my degree in information technology and have zero hands on experience doing anything besides just memorizing theory from books. Like I get an entry level job and don't even have the absolute basic hands on experience because I did it online. Does this seem to be a real issue?

[@brookewatt7337]

I’m a student at WGU and I am really struggling to pass two of my assessments.

[@nicoleenesse]

Oh no. I would start studying the questions and figuring out why each of the answers is correct and incorrect. Document this, and go over each one of them multiple times. Skip the reading, and focus on figuring out the questions.

[@markadam1234567]

I’ll help.

[@zabenaleid2547]

I have an associates degree after going back to school. I worked as a cook for several years after graduating high-school. I was interested in becoming a teacher. but they don't make that much money. I know that tech is more rewarding and was curious about IT. Can someone who has no special skills in IT learn them from WGU? I wanna try.

[@ugwukingsley3806]

It’s not open for those outside united state. I’m in africa, do you have an idea which platform I can enroll for cyber security???

[@chrisderda]

WGU is worth it in the idea that you can get a "Degree" from a college that doesn't have much of an alumni organization to help you get a job. If you don't think you can do something but you're able to do it at a specific college you have to wonder why you couldn't finish state school or community college but you're able to do it at WGU

[@christopherbriggs5074]

Not everyone wants to be saddled with $200k in non-dischargeable student loan debt while working as a Walmart cashier. The simple fact is the Internet made most traditional universities and the degrees they offer obsolete outside of a few specific fields such as medicine. Hell, even the Ivy League schools are little more than social-networking and money laundering institutions for society's elite.

[@officialkxdc7984]

thanks for the video, volume is really low but good info.

[@inspisiavideos8542]

Hello! I chose Cybersecurity as well and just started this December. Because I was doing a web development bootcamp (just finished it) I haven't done my first test yet. I will do it later today. I just found this channel. Please I have a question: is it enough to study the pre-test questions or I should study the content in general and if sites like quizlet could help? I'm asking because all the questions of the pre-test were in quizlet. Please help

[@nicoleenesse]

Study the pre-assessment questions will be fine but make sure you know why EACH of the answers is correct or incorrect. They will show up again on the assessment. If you do this, you could easily pass a class every week.

[@inspisiavideos8542]

@@nicoleenesse Thank you so much! This is a new experience for me and I really want to get my Bachelor's. I'll have the test at 8pm and have been freaking out. If you have more tips please let me know!

[@nicoleenesse]

@@inspisiavideos8542 Will do! I will make a video on this as I'm sure a lot of people would like to know. Thank you! 🙏

[@jesse.b613]

Super helpful, thanks!

[@nicoleenesse]

You are welcome!

[@risa-ru]

Did you complete this 6 month course while working full time or were you a full-time student?

[@justinoleary911]

in IT a degree really is a checkbox for HR

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes, I would say most fields

[@OldWizard-tt5lt]

Hi Nicole! Do you think it’s possible a complete newbie to the IT community can become sufficient and skilled with classes at WGU ? Or do you suggest self study first ?

[@nicoleenesse]

Self study would be beneficial, but you can easily get overwhelmed. WGU does a good job at structuring and supporting you

[@jcnash02]

You can totally get in through WGU and do not need self study first.

[@SmallButMightyx]

So when you complete the A+ test with WGU you automatically get the A+ cert or do you have to go and take the actual comptia test.

[@ebenezerboateng1895]

You have to take the actual test

[@ianhutchinson4675]

Hey just a FYI you didnt blur his face at the beginnign oof the WGU walkthrough so idk if you can change that but just wanted to let you know

[@nicoleenesse]

yeah, he contacted me about it lol and said it was ok

[@marysol1856]

Thank you for the valuable information! What would you say to someone interested in the field but has no experience in IT/CS?

[@nicoleenesse]

WGU is a great program to learn the basics, but also make sure it is for you by taking a a ton of courses

[@Whosonii]

you might have just sold me on going to WGU instead of Community College for an associates. can you take out student loans for WGU if you don't have money?

[@opusmag1]

Tbh Governor in a school name doesn't sound right from the beginning.

[@nicoleenesse]

lol

[@karenrutzen3095]

This is only true for a few majors. BSN, MSN has very few test, but multiple research papers. Some like community health requires a lot of hours and interviews in a community during a pandemic. Classes don't have grades so other programs like NP don't accept BSN. Not reputable in nursing. Very little support. Sometimes very hard to get an appointment with instructors. They don't accept a lot of credits, had a previous degree from a State University and because of title not course content did not transfer. Difficult to talk to anyone when have a problem. Contacted various people for a term break due to surgery, and took more than 6 weeks to resolve following all advice given. WGU known in UT, ID, MT ECT but not other parts of country. I would not do this program again

[@nicoleenesse]

Thanks for the feedback. It is good to have different perspectives!

[@adnannazir4319]

Hey, this video was really helpful, could you say which course you took? And if that course has certs to complete, did you complete all those in 5 months?

[@nicoleenesse]

Hey Adnan, that is a great question. I got my certified ethical hacker and it took me about one month to complete. However, if you study before staring your program it will ensure success.

[@mohammadafzal33]

Hello, I really liked your video. I been doing so research on going back to school and get Bachelors in IT. I almost made my mind that will sign up with Western Governors University. I do have a question regarding financial aid. Do you get disbursement? Please if you can comment on that, that would be appreciated. Thanks

[@samihdaifallah516]

Wow I got a scholarship for For Cybersecurity or cloud engineer boot camp 🏕 I am planning to take one of them then I am planning to get my bachelor in Cybersecurity What do you think 🤔 I start with the boot camp for Cybersecurity or the cloud one ☝️

[@nicoleenesse]

That is awesome! it is a fascinating world.

[@JR1481M1]

Congrats. Look into University of Arizona's Cyber Operations ONLINE degree. It is one of the highest regarding Cybersecurity and Information Assurance program in the Nation. It's has the NSA Designation for all its tracks. (NSA Designation hold heavy weight in the cybersecurity workforce.) Students are heavily recruited by Federal Agencies such as DHS/DoD/NSA as well as TOP Tech Companies and Financial Firms. WGU students are not recruited, WGU students do not have support in anyway. So, many end up in low level positions. Look at WGU retention and graduation data and compare it to any other school. It will show you an objective picture of what the school is about. online.arizona.edu/programs/undergraduate/online-bachelor-applied-science-cyber-operations-applied-science-bas www.cyberapolis.com/ Here is a great article on why those NSA designations are important. There is a difference between brain dumping for a certification module and being properly educated to become a highly skilled Cybersecurity professional. www.federaltimes.com/it-networks/2019/12/23/inside-the-nsas-plan-to-lure-cyber-talent/

[@samihdaifallah516]

@@JR1481M1 amazing I am going to take my A+ network + security +CCNA and AWS Then attended university Because my goal is I want to work with NSA You are amazing 🤩

[@samihdaifallah516]

@@JR1481M1 but do you believe that I can finish it in 6 months I hold a bachelor degree in Chinese and I will have some certificates WGU told me that they Wave some Courses for me since I have that

[@samihdaifallah516]

@@JR1481M1 is there is anyway to get a scholarship because it looks expensive

[@ForzaInternazionale9]

Hey Nicole, How intensive are the degrees at WGU compared to B&M schools? So I have an associates and have been working as a software dev for over 2 years and I have started my first semester at WGU for comp sci just a week ago. I'm just worried that maybe its not as intensive as other schools, as for example I don't think I see that you have to hand in assignments (unless I'm wrong). At the end of the day I just want the paper as I already have experience, but I don't want to have a degree spoon fed to me. Can you please share your thoughts on this?

[@nicoleenesse]

I have been to both, and I would say they are equal in terms of intensity. It also depends on how much effort you put in to learn the material. Just like in a B&M you can get away with getting Cs and D's , and half knowing the material; cramming before the test and whatnot. Learning is honestly up to you, and they give you all of the resources, so I suggest digging deep and creating the intensity for yourself! It isn't spoon-fed at all!! If you have experience, it will be significantly easier. Also, in Technical fields actual APPLICABLE skills that you do in the lab matter way more than knowing the book knowledge/ theory of everything.

[@ForzaInternazionale9]

@@nicoleenesse Thanks so much for your reply! It definitely eased up my fears over the program. I do have the Associate's so it will be easier for me overall and I'm glad the program isn't as spoon fed as I thought. Thanks and best of luck!

[@nicoleenesse]

@@ForzaInternazionale9 Glad, I could be of help!

[@BadMannerKorea]

Listen, I support WGU, and I’m even enrolled there, but these classes aren’t comparable to a conventional university. Anybody who claims that isn’t being honest about it. Granted, you can control how much effort you put into it, but going to class 3x a week, having discussions, mandatory reading, weekly quizzes, and everything that comprises of a typical university doesn’t come close to studying Quizlet’s and watching videos for a few weeks and passing an exam, or writing a 15 page paper and completing a grad class lol.

[@b.parker6452]

Thanks..I was in the fence between WGU and another that was more to the credit hours based schools. I think this is the better fit for the time-frame of my plans. Oh and yes, I smashed the button. Lol

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad I could help!

[@Onlythezander]

I was considering going, but then I'm like what to taka

[@nicoleenesse]

what do you like?

[@heymollietchen]

Is wgu even respected tho? How easy is it finding a job after?

[@nicoleenesse]

It is respected! It is fully accredited. Honestly, it serves as an HR filter. It will depend on the major you choose how easy it will to find a job. If you choose a tech major or health major it will be way easier to find a job than a teaching major.

[@heymollietchen]

@@nicoleenesse do u know their difference between the mba i.t management and the masters in i.t management from the i.t side? I have a bachelors in human development wanting to get into something different &not sure which one is better/easier to find job/better pay

[@PerfectTag]

@@heymollietchen Just get certified in one of the IT fields of your interest. You will get a job faster you already got a bachelor's.

[@heymollietchen]

@@PerfectTag that would be better than getting a masters in i.t management? Or does the masters not help as much as getting certified? What certifications should I start with? I’m so new to this I don’t know where to start ..

[@PerfectTag]

@@heymollietchen I never said a master's isn't useful. From what I gathered, you wanted to get in the field and get a job in a fast timeline. The best way is to get certified under one of the many IT fields. Networking, cybersecurity, databases, and so on. I would say get the masters now if it's an option, then get certified or start applying to jobs in the field to get experience in the field.

[@songwenluo7893]

Hi! I have a question. After I finish my undergraduate degree at WGU, can I apply for a master's degree from another school? Such as UW /Umich?

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes, it is accredited. I would email the school to verify they accept pass/fail transcripts.

[@erickryanmartinezful]

Hello, thanks for the videos. Im looking for some insight on an IT degree, maybe you can make a video too. Another youtuber recommends getting an IT degree that has no 3rd party certifications and then getting the 3rd party cyber security certs after finishing the degree. This would be to save time and money. Would this approach lead to similar Cyber security jobs that a BS in cyber security would?

[@nicoleenesse]

That is a great question. It honestly depends on the school you go to. A lot of schools operate on the traditional model where you can only take so many credit hours a semester. This would slow you down a lot, and then you would have to study for certificates afterward. You are looking at 4 years+. What I did was study for the CEH before I started WGU, and then when I got to the course it didn't take me too long. Also, WGU includes the cert voucher in the program at no cost to you. It would be best to try to get a position in the I.T. helpdesk and go to online school while there to gain experience/ education at the same time.

[@derekd8859]

I am going to apologize a head of time in case this comes across wrong. Unless I misunderstood are people to believe you started and completed a typically 4 year degree in 6 months with no transferred core classes. If that is what it means what does it say about the curriculum if it can be so easily bypassed ? I want to be a pen tester so I want a degree that is thorough so I am well prepared which is why I am such a sceptic.

[@nicoleenesse]

No, I did a Masters..it is only 9 classes

[@NeeCoLess]

so basically all pros, no cons, that's wonderful. I have no experience beyond some a+ knowledge so I may not be done in 6 months but who knows. probably will apply in the fall. My math is so rusty, and if they want anything past algebra 2 I will be screwed, if I don't study some math before I get rolling.

[@nicoleenesse]

It's a great school! The masters program was only 9 classes.

[@Native722]

6 months is fast, thinking 2 years. How about network security degree? How did you pay for degree?

[@nicoleenesse]

I used the GIBILL. 2 years would be the perfect amount of time. Choose a field you like, not sure of your preferences

[@joshuarichards8296]

How long from the start of the program do you begin getting certificates generally?

[@nicoleenesse]

Depends on the program & the fundamentals you have knocked out

[@quicksense]

Thanks for this video! Quick question, I'm currently transitioning out of the military and this may be a personal question, but have you received any good job offers in the IT field from getting this degree? I know that some jobs might look down on online degrees

[@nicoleenesse]

I have gotten a lot of job interviews and offers! However, I also have 7 years of IT experience and interview well. I use the degree as a positive and let them know that I am able to figure things out on my own, and don't need someone to tell me how to figure out things. WGU is very good at teaching you how to self learn. I have received no negative feedback on the degree, honestly there are so many schools they may not even know it is an online school.

[@sergiomarquez2325]

What school would you refer someone to get a degree in cybersecurity

[@trlab1010]

I’m in a SUNY University in NY for my BS. I might have to attend WGU for my masters

[@nicoleenesse]

Its a great program

[@nunyabizness8020]

Did any of the instructors actually teach in your classes? I just started my third course and so far there is no instruction. In my second course the professor just posted a pdf of a text book and some automated flash cards. That was it. Does it get any better?

[@nicoleenesse]

No, they give you resources to learn the material. It doesn’t change the are just there to help. I used Pluralsight/itprotv/ to cover material. The book they provide isn’t good.

[@edwardjaycocks5497]

From my understanding, the presenter says that at the end of the day, you don't need any education to do it, so why are you all bothering? WGU It may well be recognised in the United States but not generally anywhere else so just be careful with it.

[@morganwatkins5162]

"I had to blur out his face (student mentor) due to privacy concerns..." Totally showed his face at 8:55. Lmao. Anyways thank you for the video. It was very informative.

[@nicoleenesse]

ahhahahah thanks! My editing could use some improvement 😂

[@christinabehnke8739]

I hear a lot about how you pass this in 6 months? How? How much time do you spend on the courses in a day? How are assignments and workload? Is it active duty mil friendly, like TA or GI?

[@nicoleenesse]

I have a lot experience, and knew most of the material

[@coreymoseley7370]

Hey, I'm newly admitted to wgu. Were the Objective Assessment similar to the Pre Assessment?

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes, they were very similar. Make sure you know why all of the answer choices are correct or incorrect and you will do fine.

[@bhimgrg05]

Thank you.

[@roninwarrior216]

So were you able to get a degree in cybersecurity?

[@nicoleenesse]

Yes, I have a masters school

[@ianp6742]

Great info, thank you

[@nicoleenesse]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dcheat9967]

Question: Does WGU offer an incentive to create a video about the school? There's so many KZbin videos about WGU, just curious.

[@nicoleenesse]

No, none at all. I think people just like making videos lol

[@dcheat9967]

@@nicoleenesse Thanks for the reply. Keep up the good work. Awesome to see you were in the Signal Corps as well. Thinking about applying to WGU just not 100% sure. Your vids are helpful.

[@nicoleenesse]

@@dcheat9967 Thank you!

[@JR1481M1]

They have alot of videos because they do incentive their students. As a former student was approached at one point to make a video. I don't suggest WGU to anyone, if you want online degree that is working adults, look at ONLINE state schools. TRUST ME.. If its too good to be true, it usually is.

[@JR1481M1]

​@@nicoleenesse You are full of crap. You got approached by their marketing team. Theres a guy that makes all the promotional videos for WGU and he always looking for students to recruit.

[@xyzphd122]

thanks for the walkthru!

[@nicoleenesse]

No problem!

[@umtoorisky]

can WGU certificate be legalized for the purpose of travelling at the embassy or ministry of foreign affairs in one's home country?

[@tysan2808]

Will "online" be stated on your certificate?

[@nicoleenesse]

no

[@sukhpakhi6433]

Western Governors University (WGU) says that Competency-based education is our unique learning model that allows you to be in the driver's seat of your own education. Students don't take traditional classes at a certain time-coursework is entirely online and you can move through the assignments at whatever pace works for you. Use your previous knowledge and experience to help you accelerate or spend more time on areas that are new. Western Governors University (WGU) is a school that actually fits within your busy life, not the other way around. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpWlfaKdnaxgjNU

[@nicoleenesse]

Lol yes

[@paulwagerman3063]

Do they provide a computer for students? I work at Amazon and they will pay 100 percent of my school. I’m just not sure where to go. I’ve looked at SNHU and a couple of traditional schools. I’m looking to go for security information analyst. Not sure what falls under at that school. I guess I just want a school that doesn’t blow through the basics and makes sure you are learning and retaining material as you go. Any thoughts would be great