Online university doesn't offer 'real college education'

THE Legislature is considering a proposal to turn Western Governors University, a private online institution, into a state university. While the bill's supporters claim that WGU provides greater access to working citizens, there are serious drawbacks that deserve consideration.

First, we have so many worthy private nonprofit colleges and schools in our state that it seems wrong to give public sanction to a school from Utah when local institutions have a history of reaching out to our citizens. Granting WGU recognition may also dissuade other colleges from establishing an online presence, reducing competition and innovation.