Keep learning, keep growing

Education for every stage of life
Join a vibrant community of lifelong learners — from youth to retirees — for flexible, high-impact education that moves you forward. UW–Madison’s Division of Continuing Studies connects you with the skills, knowledge and people to grow in your career and in your life.
Whether you’re a high school student exploring academics, an adult returning to college, a professional seeking new skills and credentials, or an older adult interested in expanding your knowledge, we can help you take the next step on your learning path.
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Learner stories
Meet some of our lifelong learners and check out the variety of paths you can take to meet your goals through continuing studies.

Kristin
Coaching doctors to beat burnout

Jinghao
Leading health care research

Mirta
Sharing a passion for language
Learn MoreCristobal
Unlocking hope through education

Marge
Adult education trailblazer

Corey
Making history as a lawyer

Kristy
New confidence for career pivot

Manny
From degree to global career

Jimena
Summer study shaping her career

Donovan
A pathway back to college

Nathan
Sparked a passion for physics

Michael
A new love for learning
Featured story
How Summer Music Clinic changed a young musician’s life
The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Summer Music Clinic offers students an immersive experience that not only hones their musical talents but also fosters personal growth and lifelong connections.
Explore programs
The Division of Continuing Studies offers you hundreds of programs and courses that address your professional development and personal enrichment needs. Many programs are flexible or online so you can fit continuing studies into your busy life.

Summer Term
Taking UW Summer Term courses means you can get ahead in your studies and lighten your load during fall or spring
Learn MoreLanguages
Expand your world by learning a new language or improving an existing one
Learn MoreProfessional Coaching
Learn to guide and inspire others to reach their potential as an ICF-accredited coach
Learn MoreOnline Bachelor’s Degrees
Designed for students who have some college credits, UW–Madison Online offers a flexible format to fit around your goals, work and family
Professional certificates in a variety of fields to help you advance your career
Get ahead with a certificateAward-winning program for adults and youth facing economic barriers to college
Go beyond with UW Odyssey Project
Online and in-person programs for academically curious students ages 7-18
Explore Badger PrecollegeAdditional programs

Credit programs

University Special Student Services

Specialized learning

The UW–Madison Division of Continuing Studies celebrates 30 years in 2024, but the history of continuing studies at the university goes back more than 130 years.
From the first correspondence course at UW–Madison in 1892 to the first online graduate degree in 2015, and beyond, lifelong learners of various ages and backgrounds have come to the university searching for opportunities to meet their educational, career and life goals.
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