SALT LAKE CITY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 — Western Governors University (WGU) today announced a new partnership with Union Plus, becoming the only provider of Competency-Based Education (CBE) within their current network of education providers. This partnership is designed to meet the unique educational needs of AFL-CIO union members and their families, representing 12.5 million individuals nationwide. In addition to its already affordable tuition that is half the national average, WGU has established a $250,000 scholarship fund dedicated to supporting union members ensuring that financial barriers do not preclude educational aspiration.

Union members and their families can now enroll in WGU’s career-focused degree programs in business, technology, healthcare, or education—programs developed in collaboration with industry experts and designed to align with the needs of today’s workforce.

"Union Plus is committed to improving the lives of working families, and education is a vital part of that mission,” said Mitch Stevens, President of Union Plus. “This partnership with WGU will provide union members with valuable opportunities to advance their skills and careers. We are excited about the positive impact this collaboration will have on our union members and their families." 

With more than 60 national and international unions in the federation, AFL-CIO member unions work in a wide array of industries and organizations, making this partnership a strategic step forward in WGU’s mission to deliver flexible, affordable, and high-quality education tailored to working adults.

"Union Plus recognizes that education is an opportunity to build the knowledge, skills, and abilities that help individuals to fulfill their greatest potential,” said Scott Pulsipher, President of WGU. “We commend the labor movement for empowering their members with access to education, and WGU is committed to providing personalized pathways to achieve the educational goals that will advance union member’s dreams and aspirations."

To learn more about this partnership and the educational opportunities available, visit WGU Union Plus Partnership.