Frequently Asked Questions

BYU-Pathway Worldwide
updated 3/14/2017

On February 7, 2017, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the creation of a new organization within the Church Educational System (CES) called BYU-Pathway Worldwide, with the current PathwayConnect program (formerly called Pathway) being one of its core programs. More information is available at pathway.lds.org.

General Questions

What is PathwayConnect?

PathwayConnect is a one-year, low-cost educational program that mixes the flexibility of online academic courses, religious education, and the benefits of weekly face-to-face gatherings with other students. (On February 7, 2017, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf announced the creation of a new organization within the Church Educational System called BYU-Pathway Worldwide, with the PathwayConnect program being one of its core products.) PathwayConnect helps students develop confidence, become self-reliant, and build leadership experience — all of which enhance students’ prospects for further education, employment, church service, and/or leading and supporting families. After students complete PathwayConnect, they may continue working toward a degree by enrolling in a BYU-Idaho online degree program, attending a local school, entering the workforce, or pursuing a variety of other goals.

Two program versions are available: Standard (for native English speakers) and L (for non-native English speakers). To learn more about PathwayConnect, visit pathway.lds.org.

When was PathwayConnect created?

PathwayConnect began in 2009 with 50 students in three United States locations: Nampa, Idaho; Mesa, Arizona; and Manhattan, New York. The first international locations were opened in 2011 in Puebla, Mexico; and Christiansborg, Ghana.
 

How many locations does PathwayConnect operate in?

Visit our Facts & Stats page for current program data.

How many students are enrolled in PathwayConnect?

Visit our Facts & Stats page for current program data.

How is PathwayConnect able to offer education at such a low cost?

Because cost is the primary barrier that keeps people from pursuing higher education, PathwayConnect is committed to keeping tuition costs reasonable and affordable. Following are some of the ways PathwayConnect is able to keep tuition costs low:

  • Volunteers: Individual PathwayConnect locations are facilitated by service missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This volunteer service saves PathwayConnect millions of dollars in overhead costs.
  • Donations: Generous philanthropists donate millions of dollars to PathwayConnect each year.
  • Courses: PathwayConnect courses are delivered online.
  • Facilities: Weekly PathwayConnect gatherings are facilitated at buildings owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and PathwayConnect is able to use them free of charge.

View current tuition rates.

What is the role of volunteer service missionaries in PathwayConnect?

Each PathwayConnect location volunteers who encourage, motivate, and care for the students. This volunteer service is often provided by one or more service missionary companionships. These volunteers inform prospective students about PathwayConnect, guide applicants through PathwayConnect’s enrollment process, and mentor students throughout their PathwayConnect experience.

How do I request an interview or get a comment from PathwayConnect?

Contact Pathway’s Communication team.

How can I get photos or videos related to PathwayConnect?

Visit our Photos & Videos page to view and/or download a variety of media assets. If you need something that isn’t available online, contact Pathway Communications.