Western Governors University Questions and Answers / Threads related to WGU

erpadmin

Shecky wrote: »

Hey guys!

Been planning on jumping the bandwagon here and working towards my BS in IT Security. I've graduated from ITT-Tech's Computer Network Systems class a few years ago with my Associates. Wondering how many units I'll be able to transfer out to WGU?

Do my certs help as well? I'll list 'em right here:

MCITP EA: Microsoft Certified I.T. Professional: Enterprise Administrator
MCITP SA: Microsoft Certified I.T. Professional: System Administrator
MCSE S: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer: Security
MCSA S: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator: Security
MCTS: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
CompTIA Security+ (2008 Objectives)

Your EA is gold, man! You will want to do the NDM degree, no question as that knocks out 30 CUs right there. If you do the NA, then you will have to do Cisco while attending WGU OR do it before you go. (CCENT)

If you want to knock out Certs, do A+, Network+, CIW 1D0-510, CIW 1D0-635 (you will see more about that cert after the next couple of weeks) Project+. Then you'll only have to do whatever 24 CUs+ you need (including Capstone and Tech Writing). You'll be done in one term flat...two tops!

Shecky

kriscamaro68 wrote: »

If you want as many credits tranferred over then I would do the network design & management degree as it would take care of the most credits with your certs. Plus with the degree its still just a bs in i.t. not in security so it looks the same to anyone hiring. I would go for a masters in information assurance after the bs in i.t. but thats me. As for the a+ I think you will still have to take it from what was told to me a few days ago when I asked a question like that about my certs. You basically take the practice test for it to see if you can pass it without studying then if you do they will let you take it without studying. Atleast thats what I was told.

I'm actually thinking about doing BOTH the Network Design & Management program as well as the I.T. Security program. I really want to do Security, and it wouldn't hurt at all to have the best of both worlds with a double major. I think I'll end up starting the ND&M program first, then continue on the I.T. Security path.

Pishof wrote: »

Nice list of certs. I just started in mar after being out of ITT for a few years and I had many classes transfer including A+, Network+, CCENT and 70-680. With your certs there will be very few classes for you to take including capstone and tech writing most likely you will only need humanities and the several project and leadership type courses.

Thanks Pishof! I'm assuming you went through the CNS program as well? If you did, would it be possible if you could provide me with a list of what classes you were able to transfer from your CNS program?

NickDog wrote: »

Shecky, I did the same program from ITT and am in the same program you are contemplating at WGU, As far as the degree you can expect all of your gen-ed and most of the non technical classes to transfer in. out of 34 classes I only have to take 19 and only 6 of those are non technical. Good luck!

Great NickDog! If you don't mind me asking, would it be possible if you could give me a list of all the classes you were able to transfer to WGU? I'd REALLY REALLY appreciate it! I just want to have a specific idea about what I can transfer into WGU. Thanks so much!

Since we're pretty much both in the same boat, let me know if you need a study partner or anything!

erpadmin wrote: »

Your EA is gold, man! You will want to do the NDM degree, no question as that knocks out 30 CUs right there. If you do the NA, then you will have to do Cisco while attending WGU OR do it before you go. (CCENT)

If you want to knock out Certs, do A+, Network+, CIW 1D0-510, CIW 1D0-635 (you will see more about that cert after the next couple of weeks) Project+. Then you'll only have to do whatever 24 CUs+ you need (including Capstone and Tech Writing). You'll be done in one term flat...two tops!

Thanks erpadmin! I notice you're on your way there as well! Best of luck to you pal! Wow, 30 CU's huh? I've been studying off and on for my CCNA these past couple of weeks. (For I.T. Security) That would also help since I do plan on taking on both ND&M and I.T. Security (see my first reply :P). Another cert to knock out of the ball park. I do plan on knocking out the A+, Network+, Project+, CIW, and CCNA before I apply for WGU. I want to save as much time as possible. After all, time is money, and this definitely applies to WGU.

nhpr

Shecky wrote: »

I do plan on knocking out the A+, Network+, Project+, CIW, and CCNA before I apply for WGU. I want to save as much time as possible. After all, time is money, and this definitely applies to WGU.

You may want to consider waiting to take them, since the cert exams are part of your tuition. If you're going to do the program, you might as well get the certs on their dime. If you start studying beforehand, you can just knock them out in a few weeks anyhow.

jmasterj206

Shecky wrote: »

I'm actually thinking about doing BOTH the Network Design & Management program as well as the I.T. Security program. I really want to do Security, and it wouldn't hurt at all to have the best of both worlds with a double major. I think I'll end up starting the ND&M program first, then continue on the I.T. Security path.

Shecky, I am not too sure they will let you do the double major. No matter what you take as the emphasis your diploma just shows information technology. You may be better off doing the BS in NDM and the Masters in ISA.

You guys have got it easy now with WGU accepting AAS degrees. When I started August 1, 2010 with an AAS I got a whole 15 credits for my Associates.

erpadmin

jmasterj206 wrote: »

Shecky, I am not too sure they will let you do the double major. No matter what you take as the emphasis your diploma just shows information technology. You may be better off doing the BS in NDM and the Masters in ISA.

You guys have got it easy now with WGU accepting AAS degrees. When I started August 1, 2010 with an AAS I got a whole 15 credits for my Associates.

I am very sure they will not allow a double major. I even quoted from the student handbook way back when...



Shecks, since you have an EA already, you're better off just doing the NDM, regardless if you are going for a CCNA. Otherwise, the EA won't help you out in that regard. As others have said, no matter what emphasis you go for, you will still get a IT degree (emphasis isn't included). That's why you should just do the NDM and call it a day. Each MCTS that you have that comprises the EA is 6 CUs each, which totals 30 CUs right off the bat.If you choose any other emphasis, you will not have such an advantage....even if you went the NA route.

Jagged

Shecky wrote: »

Do my certs help as well? I'll list 'em right here:

MCITP EA: Microsoft Certified I.T. Professional: Enterprise Administrator
MCITP SA: Microsoft Certified I.T. Professional: System Administrator
MCSE S: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer: Security
MCSA S: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator: Security
MCTS: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
CompTIA Security+ (2008 Objectives)

I have about 5 years of experience as a Systems Administrator.

Also, do I have to take the A+ exam? I mean, does my experience wave off any of the certs that I would be earning if I went to WGU?

You should be covered for the A+ & Network+ tests. Look at this PDF: acceptable_IT_certs.pdf. It is a year old and has the old course names, but it should still be valid. They just got to my MCSA on my transcripts and waived the A+ courses.

My unofficial take on your certs will leave only IT Fundamentals I, JavaScript, and Project+ for certifications to take. Two CIW and one CompTIA tests. Shouldn't be a problem to zip through the first two. And since Project+ is $246 a test and you get two attempts included in your tuition, you should just take it under WGU unless you think it's going to take you a couple of months to prepare.

NickDog

Ok, got another question and I hate being naggy. I am going to start the CIW Site Design class (WSV1) and it states that I need to request the self study kit. Does this mean I have to purchase it or its provided through the school? I know that others have said that WGU pretty much provides most of the material, just wanted somebody to reinforce that.
Thanks!

drew726

Does anyone have the IWT1 books they can sell me?

Janaro, R. P., & Altshuler, T. C. (2009). The art of being human (9th ed.). New York: Pearson Education. ISBN-13, 9780205605422.

Sporre, D. J. (2009). Perceiving the arts: An introduction to the humanities (9th ed.). New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall. ISBN-13: 978-0136045694.

Pishof

drew726 wrote: »

Does anyone have the IWT1 books they can sell me?

Janaro, R. P., & Altshuler, T. C. (2009). The art of being human (9th ed.). New York: Pearson Education. ISBN-13, 9780205605422.

Sporre, D. J. (2009). Perceiving the arts: An introduction to the humanities (9th ed.). New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall. ISBN-13: 978-0136045694.

My girlfriend just ordered The art of being human (9th ed.) for another college course and realized she didn't need it. I think she spent around $60 for it secondhand. If you can't find it elsewhere I can see if she wants to resell it for her cost.

Shecky

nhpr wrote: »

You may want to consider waiting to take them, since the cert exams are part of your tuition. If you're going to do the program, you might as well get the certs on their dime. If you start studying beforehand, you can just knock them out in a few weeks anyhow.

Are re-takes included as part of the tuition as well? At least, that's what I've heard. I plan on getting the certs beforehand, so they transfer smoothly without any hustle and bustle.

jmasterj206 wrote: »

Shecky, I am not too sure they will let you do the double major. No matter what you take as the emphasis your diploma just shows information technology. You may be better off doing the BS in NDM and the Masters in ISA.

You guys have got it easy now with WGU accepting AAS degrees. When I started August 1, 2010 with an AAS I got a whole 15 credits for my Associates.

Alright. So, my diploma wouldn't say, "Shecky has graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Network Design & Management". It won't say the specialization at all? What's the point then? I might as well do the NDM program and get my bachelor's in a cinch! I think I will go for the MS in ISA as well, once I finish up my BS this year.

Oh wow. When did they start accepting transfer credits from A.A.S degrees? Just recently?

erpadmin wrote: »

I am very sure they will not allow a double major. I even quoted from the student handbook way back when...



Shecks, since you have an EA already, you're better off just doing the NDM, regardless if you are going for a CCNA. Otherwise, the EA won't help you out in that regard. As others have said, no matter what emphasis you go for, you will still get a IT degree (emphasis isn't included). That's why you should just do the NDM and call it a day. Each MCTS that you have that comprises the EA is 6 CUs each, which totals 30 CUs right off the bat.If you choose any other emphasis, you will not have such an advantage....even if you went the NA route.

Awwww nuts!

I heavily took your advice into consideration erp, and I've decided to go for the NDM program instead since I can transfer most of my certs and A.A.S degree. I should be done in no time! Even though I do want to go into the I.T. Security program, I'll just aim for the MS in ISA after my BS in NDM, since it does have a pretty amazing security focus. I hope at least the Masters ACTUALLY says I've earned a MS IN Information Security & Assurance, instead of just a MS in IT. Haha.

Out of curiosity, why isn't the emphasis included? What's the point of the specializations if it won't be written on your diploma? I guess earning the certs is proof that you've got the knowledge of "Network Design & Management".

Thanks so much for the advice erp. You've been a great resource and help. If I've got any questions, mind if I shoot you a PM?

Jagged wrote: »

You should be covered for the A+ & Network+ tests. Look at this PDF: acceptable_IT_certs.pdf. It is a year old and has the old course names, but it should still be valid. They just got to my MCSA on my transcripts and waived the A+ courses.

My unofficial take on your certs will leave only IT Fundamentals I, JavaScript, and Project+ for certifications to take. Two CIW and one CompTIA tests. Shouldn't be a problem to zip through the first two. And since Project+ is $246 a test and you get two attempts included in your tuition, you should just take it under WGU unless you think it's going to take you a couple of months to prepare.

Thanks for the link to the PDF Jagged! I was hoping my current certs would opt me out of taking the A+ and Network+ exams. This PDF gets it right on point!

I'm going to take all the extra certs (CIW v5, CIW Java, Project+) beforehand so I don't have to worry about time restraints and all. The CIW's should be pretty easy to zip through as you mentioned. Project+ on the other hand, might take me a bit longer to go through. I get 2 attempts included in my tuition? If I pass the first time, would I have to pay for the 2nd attempt even if I don't use it?

erpadmin

Shecky wrote: »

Oh wow. When did they start accepting transfer credits from A.A.S degrees? Just recently?

I heavily took your advice into consideration erp, and I've decided to go for the NDM program instead since I can transfer most of my certs and A.A.S degree. I should be done in no time! Even though I do want to go into the I.T. Security program, I'll just aim for the MS in ISA after my BS in NDM, since it does have a pretty amazing security focus. I hope at least the Masters ACTUALLY says I've earned a MS IN Information Security & Assurance, instead of just a MS in IT. Haha.

Out of curiosity, why isn't the emphasis included? What's the point of the specializations if it won't be written on your diploma? I guess earning the certs is proof that you've got the knowledge of "Network Design & Management".

Thanks so much for the advice erp. You've been a great resource and help. If I've got any questions, mind if I shoot you a PM?

Of course you can shoot me a PM...I don't have a problem with that. As I said before, I try to help in the say way I would want the help. The knowledge I have gained on WGU has been through both my own experiences, and the good folks of TE who have done the WGU educational process both in the past and currently. I still performed due diligence when it came to researching WGU. In the end, a regionally accredited degree, low cost, and WGU alumni going to "real schools" for their Masters is what sold me.

The AAS change is very recent. I was pretty shocked, to say the least that WGU caved in this manner.

I don't know why the emphasis isn't listed. For me though, it pretty much meant I got to kill two birds with one stone (an "MCSE" [or, rather its recent equivalent]) and a degree. Plus, I like that it has "Management" in the title. :-p

Plus, I'd rather go through the EA than Java! LOL.

jmasterj206

Shecky wrote: »

Out of curiosity, why isn't the emphasis included? What's the point of the specializations if it won't be written on your diploma? I guess earning the certs is proof that you've got the knowledge of "Network Design & Management".

I wouldn't say that is any different from traditional schools. You have to take so many elective classes that are your choice, yet you still all get the same degree title.

drew726

Should I request a new mentor? My mentor went on vacation for 2 weeks and then finally came back. Then I asked her to add classes to my AAV and its been a week and she still haven't done it nor replied my email. She also always have phone problems and miss schedule calls for some people. Sometimes she's late for my scheduled call as well. I also asked her to help me fix my name because its set up wrong and she said she'd look into it but it still haven't been fixed and its been a month.

veritas_libertas

drew726 wrote: »

Should I request a new mentor? My mentor went on vacation for 2 weeks and then finally came back. Then I asked her to add classes to my AAV and its been a week and she still haven't done it nor replied my email. She also always have phone problems and miss schedule calls for some people. Sometimes she's late for my scheduled call as well. I also asked her to help me fix my name because its set up wrong and she said she'd look into it but it still haven't been fixed and its been a month.

Yes, that is ridiculous...

Hypntick

drew726 wrote: »

Should I request a new mentor? My mentor went on vacation for 2 weeks and then finally came back. Then I asked her to add classes to my AAV and its been a week and she still haven't done it nor replied my email. She also always have phone problems and miss schedule calls for some people. Sometimes she's late for my scheduled call as well. I also asked her to help me fix my name because its set up wrong and she said she'd look into it but it still haven't been fixed and its been a month.

Student services! Get that ball rolling, they're pretty dang helpful.

kriscamaro68

Can you request a mentor? If so who should I request?

erpadmin

kriscamaro68 wrote: »

Can you request a mentor? If so who should I request?

Even if it were possible that might prove to be more of a headache.

My mentor (who is good) went away for about a couple of months due to a family emergency. I only told him that I didn't care who my mentor was, only that he/she "needed to play ball." He got the message and I had a mentor who initially I had problems with scheduling (he wanted morning appointments instead of afternoons.) I told him mornings are usually my busiest times (impromptu meetings, production issues, etc). We tried it for a few weeks until I finally said I had enough of morning meetings. Either he switched to more or less the same time I had with original mentor or get me a mentor that would. I told him I had nothing against him personally, but I could not do morning meetings. When we had it my original time, there were no issues between myself or him.

The one thing you guys need to remember is that you are paying for WGU. If any of you guys are unhappy, for any reason, then you try to resolve your issue with your mentor first. If he/she is not providing you what you need, then you need to contact Student Services, YESTERDAY. Having a crappy mentor can be a serious detriment to someone who wants to graduate by a set date. (Especially when crunch time rolls around.)

Remember, you are paying for WGU, one way or the other. You don't have to settle for crappy service. That's where Student Services excels...whatever you need, they WILL hook you up or point you in the right direction, and things just move with those folks...

Pishof

I've had an excellent experience with my mentor. From the start he's done exactly what I need within hours of me asking for it.

If I want an exam voucher he will give it to me no questions asked. He said that his boss always says don't get in the way of students who're self-starters.

drew726

She called me an hour late yesterday for our weekly call and said she forgot my email address...

veritas_libertas

drew726 wrote: »

She called me an hour late yesterday for our weekly call and said she forgot my email address...

Time to fire her. I would never tolerate that. Your paying these people to help you through this journey call uni.

JoshD779

Pishof wrote: »

I've had an excellent experience with my mentor. From the start he's done exactly what I need within hours of me asking for it.

If I want an exam voucher he will give it to me no questions asked. He said that his boss always says don't get in the way of students who're self-starters.

This is how my mentor is. She lets me write my own ticket and she gets things moving instantly. Another thing that impresses me is how quickly she answers e-mail. In three terms, I've never had to wait longer than 20 minutes for a response. Even if it's an "off week" (we talk every two weeks), I can consistently get in touch with her very easily.

westward

Just a comment. Why do people seem to care that their "specialization" isn't listed on their diploma.

Nobody will ever see your diploma. It'll be filed in a fire-proof box for decades. No employer will even ask for it. In fact, they won't even ask for evidence of your degree!

What it says on your resume is what matters. So put your specialization there.

In my experience, it doesn't even matter if you got a degree in CompSci or IT or Information Systems, or Information Security, or Information Systems Management.

What matters is:
1. You got a degree
2. Any kind of job placement your college offers.
3. Specific skills you got within the degree. java versus C++, 3 security certs versus 3 networking certs...

SIDENOTE: I know of people who lied on their resume about a bachelors they never had, jobs they never had, and references that aren't even real people. But they do interviews and get jobs, and are able to accomplish the skills asked of them. Kind of amazing.

Remember, a resume is nothing more than a chance to get an interview and display your personality. You get a job based on personality, NEVER on your qualifications. The same way you get a date, incidentally.

erpadmin

westward wrote: »

Nobody will ever see your diploma. It'll be filed in a fire-proof box for decades. No employer will even ask for it. In fact, they won't even ask for evidence of your degree!

SIDENOTE: I know of people who lied on their resume about a bachelors they never had, jobs they never had, and references that aren't even real people. But they do interviews and get jobs, and are able to accomplish the skills asked of them. Kind of amazing.

I am sure this is true for a good number of places, but in my case, that was not the case. Every job I ever had their HR resource call to verify salary/employment. Also, I was subject to backup college experience with transcripts ("some college" was enough for me). I didn't have to, but I was very forthcoming that I was nondegreed (you have to...otherwise you can be fired later--even if you are great at the job).

If you "lie" on a application, you are subject to be terminated for cause. A lot of employees also abuse illegal substances on the job, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea...

nhpr

I took the preassessments for multiple CompTIA certs and they say that I'm ready. I told my mentor and she replied along the lines of: tell me when you pass 'em. Does this mean that I don't need vouchers from her? Do I just hit the "schedule now" button in the AAP? Also, if I want to take them together to avoid driving back to the test center multiple times, do I need to put any remarks in the comment section when "scheduling" them on the WGU site?

erpadmin

nhpr wrote: »

I took the preassessments for multiple CompTIA certs and they say that I'm ready. I told my mentor and she replied along the lines of: tell me when you pass 'em. Does this mean that I don't need vouchers from her? Do I just hit the "schedule now" button in the AAP? Also, if I want to take them together to avoid driving back to the test center multiple times, do I need to put any remarks in the comment section when "scheduling" them on the WGU site?

You have to click on request for scheduling. You put dates or whatever, but they will give you the vouchers when your mentor approved them. However, you have to make the request when you click on that in your AAP. Once your mentor approves it, it goes to the Assessment group; they then send you an email to your WGU account with very specific instructions on how to schedule for a Prometric site. (You can do Vue too BUT you MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE you want a VUE voucher when you request scheduling.)

nhpr

Aaah. Now I see. I have to push the button and THEN the mentor gets to push her button. Then, I can schedule it myself at the test site. Got it!

sheckler

erpadmin wrote: »

(You can do Vue too BUT you MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE you want a VUE voucher when you request scheduling.)

Not anymore, now it asks you to select if you want Prometric of Vue.

thenjduke

I have had a great expierence with WGU. So three more classes and I should be done. I been so busy with class and work and life. A move I made which I honestly has to say the best thing ever happen to me.

518

Shecky wrote: »

Are re-takes included as part of the tuition as well? At least, that's what I've heard. I plan on getting the certs beforehand, so they transfer smoothly without any hustle and bustle.

According to the enrollment counselor I spoke with, first 2 attempts are included. You pay for 3rd and 4th, but I'm not sure what happens if you still fail the 4th attempt. The enrollment counselor never mentioned about 5th retake.

westward wrote: »

No employer will even ask for it. In fact, they won't even ask for evidence of your degree!

When I came in for interview, the HR on my current employer asked for a copy of my diploma. As well, part of my the background check was verifying my academic records. No, it was not an entry-level position. At that time, I've been in IT field for 8 years working for the prime defense contractor.

petedude

518 wrote: »

According to the enrollment counselor I spoke with, first 2 attempts are included. You pay for 3rd and 4th, but I'm not sure what happens if you still fail the 4th attempt. The enrollment counselor never mentioned about 5th retake.

My mentor actually shared with me that some students will pay the retakes out of their own pocket to avoid having those show up on their transcript.