What is BYU-Pathway Worldwide?
BYU-Pathway Worldwide is an online education program that lets students around the world earn certificates and university degrees at low cost, while working and living at home.
The short version
- It started in 2009 as PathwayConnect, run through BYU-Idaho, and became its own organisation in 2017.
- Your certificates and degrees are awarded by BYU-Idaho or Ensign College. BYU-Pathway provides the online access and student support.
- By the end of 2024 it had nearly 75,000 students in 180 countries, with 68% living outside the United States. The largest enrolments are in Nigeria, Ghana, and the Philippines.
- People of all faiths can apply. The program is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and religion courses are part of the degree.
How the program is structured
1. PathwayConnect
Most students begin with PathwayConnect, a one-year, reduced-cost set of foundational online courses. It prepares you for university-level study before you move into a degree.
2. Certificates
Each certificate is 13 to 15 credits focused on one area of study. Because certificates come first, you can earn a career-ready credential early and start using it at work while you keep studying.
3. Associate degree
An associate degree is 60 credits: two certificates plus general education and religion courses.
4. Bachelor's degree
A bachelor's degree is 90 to 96 credits: three certificates plus general education and religion courses. BYU-Pathway describes it this way: every course counts toward the degree, and you earn three certificates and an associate degree along the way.
Planning a master's abroad? A 90–96 credit bachelor's is shorter than a traditional US bachelor's. Read our guide for online graduates applying to master's scholarships before you choose programmes.
What studying looks like
- Seven-week terms. Terms are called blocks, and there are six block starts a year.
- Plan for 3–5 hours a week per credit. A typical 3-credit course takes about 9–15 hours a week during its block.
- Weekly gatherings. Students meet each week, online or at local church buildings, for learning and leadership activities.
- Fields of study include business, technology, communication, health, family studies, and professional studies.
What it costs
Tuition is charged per credit in US dollars and depends on the country you live in. Every student also receives a guaranteed tuition discount. See our full breakdown: How much does BYU-Pathway cost?
Keep reading
Is a BYU-Pathway degree recognised? →