Accredited, online nonprofit Western Governors University’s School of Education prepares more K-12 educators than any other university in the nation. In North Carolina, more than 1,900 educators have earned degrees from WGU, and more than 900 individuals are currently enrolled in the School of Education. From now until April 15, 2025, current and aspiring teachers can apply for the new Shaping the Future Scholarship valued up to $8,000.

Recipients of the Shaping the Future scholarship will receive $2,000 per six-month term for up to four terms. Tuition is around $4,000 per term for most degree programs at WGU, and each student is assigned a program mentor who will work with them until graduation.

The average time to complete a bachelor’s degree at WGU is 2.5 years, depending on the transfer of any existing college credits and WGU’s competency-based model, which allows students to progress through courses at their preferred pace once they demonstrate mastery of the course materials.

WGU’s School of Education is the largest nonprofit, competency-based degree conferrer of educators in the county. It is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) for its initial and advanced licensure programs. Initial licensure programs offered through WGU have been awarded full accreditation by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

“The Shaping the Future Scholarship can help North Carolinians pursue their passion for teaching and earn a respected, accredited degree for less,” said Ben Coulter, Ed.D., chancellor of WGU in North Carolina and Southeast regional director. “Whether you are currently a teacher, a teacher assistant or are considering joining the teaching profession, this scholarship can help pave the way or advance your career in K-12 education.”  

To learn more about the Shaping the Future Scholarship and to apply by April 15, visit wgu.edu/shapingthefuture. To learn more about WGU and its accredited, online degree programs, visit wgu.edu.