Knowledgebase: General program information
Are UW–Madison Online programs accredited?
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…
Can I attend graduation?
Yes! We strongly encourage UW-Madison Online students to participate in their graduation ceremony if it's feasible. You’ll have the opportunity to celebrate your achievement in person alongside fellow…
Can I change my major if I don’t like a program?
Yes, you can change your major within the Wisconsin School of Business. If you are looking to change your major from business, you should speak with your advisor…
Can I do study abroad?
Study abroad opportunities are generally designed for on-campus students, and availability for online students may be limited. If you’re interested, we recommend connecting with an admissions advisor and…
Can I get credit for work experience?
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…
Can I live on campus?
No. UW–Madison Online programs are designed for fully remote study, and enrollment in an online degree does not include access to on-campus housing. If you want to live…
Do I get a student ID?
Yes, you are welcome to get a student ID (Wiscard) as a UW–Madison Online student, which gives you access to library resources as well as other select student…
Do I have access to rec facilities?
No. UW–Madison Online students do not automatically get access to campus recreation facilities. Access to gyms, pools and other on-campus rec resources is generally reserved for on-campus students…
Do I have access to UHS?
No. To use University Health Services, you must be a UW–Madison student who pays segregated fees, which online students don't pay as part of their tuition. If having…
How flexible is this program?
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…
How long will it take for me to finish my degree?
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…
I am debating between on-campus and online. Do you offer on campus visits?
Yes! While the UW–Madison Online degree itself is fully remote, you’re absolutely welcome to visit the main campus in Madison to get a feel for the environment, attend…
I live in southern Wisconsin. Can I participate in career fairs held in the School of Business?
Yes, online students can typically attend career fairs and networking events hosted by the UW–Madison School of Business, either virtually or in person. For in-person events, you would…
Is it clear that once you enroll and start a term in the online degree you can not switch to on campus?
Once you enroll and begin an online term, you cannot automatically switch to the on‑campus program. The online and on‑campus programs have separate admissions and enrollment processes. If…
What does a credit hour mean?
A credit hour represents the amount of work associated with a course. For most UW–Madison courses, one credit hour typically equals about 1 hour of class time and…
What does postponed admission mean?
Postposed admission means a university has not accepted or rejected an applicant but will re-evaluate their application during a future admission period.
What if I only want to take one online course?
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…
What is the Declaration of Intent?
The Declaration of Intent is a short form you submit to confirm that you plan to transfer to UW–Madison Online upon completion of your associate's degree. It informs…
What is the difference between associate, bachelor/undergrad, grad/masters degrees? How do I know which one I need?
An associate's degree is typically a two-year degree that provides foundational knowledge. A bachelor’s (undergraduate) degree is usually a four-year degree and is required for many professional roles…
What is the postponed student pathway to admission and how does it work?
A postponed student pathway to admission (or deferral) is a recommended action plan for a student whose admission is postponed, based on a holistic admissions review. An action…
What types of programs does UW–Madison Online offer?
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…
Will I still be able to walk in person at graduation?
Yes! We strongly encourage UW-Madison Online students to participate in their graduation ceremony if it's feasible. You’ll have the opportunity to celebrate your achievement in person alongside fellow…
Will my diploma say “UW–Madison Online?”
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…