5 things to know about UW–Madison Online on our 5th anniversary

In 2020, the University of Wisconsin–Madison launched UW–Madison Online to expand access to flexible online bachelor’s degrees for returning adult students.

Today, hundreds of students from all walks of life, across the state and around the U.S., have enrolled to earn a degree from the #13 top public university* on their terms — learning online while balancing work and life.

“The online format made a huge difference because I could access the computer at any time,” said Manny Avila, a 2024 UW–Madison Online graduate. “I’m a busy guy. I’m traveling and working full time. I’m a dad. I’m involved in my community. Being able to do school at my own pace and on my own time was huge. It’s so accessible, and it fit perfectly in my life.”

Degrees currently available through UW–Madison Online include bachelor of business administration programs in Human Resources, Marketing and Management from the prestigious Wisconsin School of Business.

To celebrate five years of flexible options, let’s count down what you need to know about these fully online degrees from UW–Madison.

5) Strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce

A strong workforce is the backbone of Wisconsin’s economy, and UW–Madison Online is helping build it — one graduate at a time. 

By providing students access to a top-notch education from wherever they live, UW–Madison Online can help keep talented professionals in the state. This ensures Wisconsin businesses have access to a highly skilled workforce.

“UW–Madison Online helps address the workforce needs of our state by providing students with career-ready skills in high-demand fields,” said Maya Evans, UW–Madison program director. “These degrees were designed in collaboration with industry leaders to ensure graduates are prepared for real-world challenges.” 

Wisconsin has been experiencing notable labor shortages across various sectors in recent years,** and UW–Madison Online graduates can help fill the gap.

4) Building pathways for student success

To meet the evolving needs of students and business leaders, UW–Madison Online teams up with technical and community colleges to create seamless transfer pathways. This means students can apply previously earned credits from an associate degree directly toward a UW–Madison bachelor’s degree.

“These degrees are going to prepare our graduates to strengthen our workforce, and they’re going to serve as additional resources for our employers,” said Nicolet College President Kate Ferrel.

Any technical and community college student can apply to earn a degree through UW–Madison Online, and a growing number of technical and community colleges now partner with us:

• Madison College
• Nicolet College
• Northcentral Technical College
• Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
• Waukesha County Technical College

“Through our transfer pathway program, students can maximize the credits they’ve already earned — saving time and money — while earning a degree from one of the nation’s top universities,” Evans said.

3) Taking a holistic approach 

At UW–Madison Online, we believe a top-tier education should be within reach for students, no matter their background or previous academic journey. That’s why we offer flexible admission pathways and personalized support to help students reach their goals.

“Whether you’re returning to school after a break, changing careers, or balancing multiple responsibilities, UW–Madison Online is designed to meet you where you are,” said Evans.

For students who may not initially meet admission requirements—perhaps missing a math or world language credit—our flexible pathway options provide an opportunity to complete necessary coursework in as little as one semester without having to fully reapply. Enrollment coaches work closely with prospective students to create a plan that makes their UW–Madison degree attainable.

Additionally, UW–Madison Online lowered tuition to $500 per credit hour, making it more affordable while maintaining the university’s rigorous academic standards.

“The bottom line is that every student’s journey is unique,” Evans said. “Our holistic approach ensures that no matter where you’re starting, you have the support and options to succeed.”

2) Centering student support

Speaking of support, from enrollment to graduation, UW–Madison Online students have access to individualized help from a dedicated team of enrollment coaches and academic advisors.

• Enrollment coaches can discuss financial aid options, assist with the application process, sort out credit transfers and help students learn how online degree programs can fit into busy lives.
• Academic advisors help map out course schedules and educational plans, connect students with other resources at UW–Madison, assist in developing a goal-based and action-oriented plan for success, and help navigate challenges and barriers.

We believe that learning online shouldn’t mean facing it alone, so we help keep students connected with each other as well as faculty and instructors. UW–Madison Online student Joey Nicgorski added, “Specific business professors have made a permanent impact on my future. And interaction with my peers, although done remotely, has been my favorite part of the online degree program.”

1) Carrying the value of a UW–Madison degree

Graduates of UW–Madison Online earn the same prestigious diploma as on-campus students — no asterisks, no distinctions. 

A UW–Madison degree is respected and recognized nationwide and across the world. Employers value the rigor, critical thinking skills and leadership potential that come with a UW–Madison education. 

Whether advancing in their current roles or pivoting to new careers, UW–Madison alums — 490,000+ strong — are achieving their goals, making an impact and supporting each other.

As we celebrate five years of UW–Madison Online and look ahead, we remain committed to expanding access, helping meet workforce needs and delivering world-class education to adult learners across Wisconsin and beyond.

Interested in learning more? Explore UW–Madison Online degrees or connect with an enrollment coach.