The Division of Continuing Studies supports the mission of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea by providing educational resources to nontraditional students, lifelong learners and the community. Led by the Vice Provost for Lifelong Learning and Dean of Continuing Studies, the Division includes two academic departments providing continuing education programming, and collaborates with other continuing education units. The Continuing Studies’ mission is to advocate for and engage lifelong learners through high-quality and innovative programs and services.
Continuing Studies has several goals that can only be met through the generosity of our supporters.
- Division of Continuing Studies Annual Fund
This fund provides an annual source of revenue to provide a breadth of educational programs for the community.
- Adult and Nontraditional Student Scholarships
The Adult Career and Special Student Services (ACSSS) office within the Division of Continuing Studies has opened doors to thousands of adult learners throughout Wisconsin, the nation and the globe. ACSSS staff provide adults with an extensive array of services, including career counseling, workshops, group programs, academic advising, admissions to the university and financial assistance. ACSSS distributes more than $70,000 in financial support to returning adult students, single parents and other nontraditional students.
Adult Student Scholarship
Contributions to this fund help make education at UW-Madison accessible for returning adult students who are juggling multiple responsibilities and roles as they work toward a degree.
- Arts and Humanities Fund
Continuing Studies exemplifies the Wisconsin Idea by providing continuing education, outreach, service and scholarship related to personal enrichment and professional development. Activities supported by the arts and humanities fund and the professional development fund covers program registration/fees to keep our programs accessible to a broad audience, support of direct program costs to keep registration fees competitive and affordable, program development and marketing costs.
- Professional Development Fund
Through classes, noncredit certificate programs, workshops and conferences, Continuing Studies helps professionals hone their skills, earn professional credits and stay current on the latest research and best practices in their field.
- Odyssey Project College Fund
The UW Odyssey Project changes lives for adults unable to attend college. Founded in 2003, this inspirational project has empowered more than 300 low-income adults to find their voices and get a jumpstart at earning college degrees they never thought possible. Graduates of the program have journeyed from homelessness to UW-Madison degrees, from incarceration to meaningful work in the community.
- Open Educational Content Fund
The Open Educational Content fund at the University of Wisconsin-Madison supports the development of free and accessible educational content that is available to the public. This content, which is often science-themed, will be short and available to lifelong learners of all ages in the form of digital activities, short videos and podcasts.
