Knowledgebase: General program information

The University of Wisconsin–Madison has been regionally accredited since 1913 by the Higher Learning Commission, and this includes UW–Madison Online. Through UW–Madison Online, you can achieve your goals of earning a bachelor’s degree from a highly regarded institution.

UW-Madison does not award credit for prior work experience. However, your work experience can provide a foundation and perspective to build on while in your UW–Madison Online courses. Your work experience can enrich your online classroom experience, therefore enriching your current skills and knowledge.

Yes! You can attend UW–Madison Online from wherever you are and however you have access to your online course(s) and materials.

With UW–Madison Online, you have five sessions in which to enroll throughout the year. You can enroll in consecutive sessions or take a session off to give yourself a break if needed to re-energize for the next session. With five different sessions, you may take one course at a time or multiple courses.

The time it takes to finish your degree depends on how many credits you transfer, how many credits apply to your remaining degree requirements, how many credits you take per session, course availability and/or if you take time off in between sessions. With five different sessions, you may take one course at a time or multiple courses at a time, depending on what works for you.

Before you register for classes, you will meet with a UW–Madison Online academic and career advisor to review how your transfer credits apply to your degree requirements and how many credits you have left. Your advisors will help you plan your time to finish your degree; they will help make sure you take the right courses that you need at the right time.

Apply as a nondegree special student for any term. Please note that not all classes are available to special students. Connect with a special student advisor for guidance and questions.

We currently offer bachelor’s degrees online in the areas of business administration and nursing. Explore the program details for each degree offered. Be sure to check back for program updates!

When you finish your degree through UW–Madison Online, your diploma and your final transcript will note that you graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. When you graduate, you are part of the UW–Madison alumni community.