School Details
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is the original University of Wisconsin, created at the same time Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848. For 168 years, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been a catalyst for the extraordinary. As a public land-grant university and prolific research institution, students and faculty members partake in a world-class education and solve real-world problems. UW Madison operates with a mission to remain “…a preeminent center for discovery, learning, and engagement by opening new forms of access to citizens from every background; creating a welcoming, empowered, and inclusive community; and preparing current and future generations to live satisfying, useful, and ethical lives.”
UW Madison offers a comprehensive range of degrees and certificates. Other bachelor’s completion, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as some certificates, are available from UW Madison Online. These online programs are designed for students with some college credits who wish to prepare for dynamic careers in growing industries. Students benefit from dedicated coaches and advisors.
Accreditation & Licensing
University of Wisconsin-Madison is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
All Programs
Business
The online Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Professional Development program allows students to gain skills that are similar to earning an MBA, for half the time and cost. Students learn to:
- Deliver dynamic presentations
- Spot and analyze industry trends
- Lead teams
- Manage projects and change
- Negotiate effectively
- Understand legal, financial, and marketing concepts
Computer Science & IT
The online Graduate Certificate in Advanced GIS program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers students who already have GIS training the opportunity to take their skills to the next level and increase their marketability. The curriculum advances students' competency in:
- Map Design
- UX/UI Design
- Interactive Geovisualization
- Geocomputing
- Spatial Analysis
- Spatial Programming
The online Graduate Certificate in Analytics for Decision Making program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designed to provide students with the analytics and communication skills they need to become data-savvy, effective, and valuable managers. In this program, students:
- Formulate questions related to existing organizational goals and challenges, identify sources of data to answer those questions, and design and implement a data analysis plan to answer the questions
- Understand a range of data collection and analysis techniques and tools appropriate to organizational decision making and assessment, including data mining and visualizations
- Effectively communicate the rationale, results, and analysis of a data project across different types of media
- Articulate the value and limitations of data and analytics projects based on understanding of data quality, data availability, metadata functionality, and other data management issues
The online Graduate Certificate in GIS Fundamentals program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a solid foundation of GIS knowledge and skills, and allows graduates to:
- Switch careers to a high-demand, fast-growing industry
- Move into a higher paying and more interesting field
- Increase personal value to their employer
- Apply spatial analysis and visualization to their current field
The online Graduate Certificate in User Experience Design program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares students to make information systems more people-friendly across commercial, nonprofit, educational, government, and other sectors. In this program, students are able to:
- Learn theories, techniques, and tools of digital design
- Practice assessing user satisfaction with digital media
- Practice different prototyping techniques
- Collect and analyze data about users, user needs, and use environments
- Work to improve the usability, accessibility, and pleasure with which people interact with digital spaces over periods of time
The online MS in Cartography & GIS / GIS Development degree program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance their GIS careers and stay relevant for years to come. Courses cover topics such as:
- Programming
- Mobile App Creation
- Web Map Scripting
- Interactive Cartography & Geovisualization
- Graphic Design in Cartography
- Geocomputing
Education
The online MA in Library & Information Studies degree program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designed to provide students with the knowledge and training required to become innovative information professionals. With only three required courses, the curriculum allows students the flexibility to pursue five different concentration areas, including:
- Librarianship
- Digital Archives
- UX & Information Technology
- Data/Information Management & Analytics
- Organization of Information
The online Master of Science for Professional Educators / Educational Psychology degree program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designed to allow students to pursue specific interests within courses. All courses emphasize practical applications and strategies for education professionals, and are derived from three School of Education departments:
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis
- Educational Psychology
Engineering
You can learn to lead technical teams with the Graduate Certificate in Applied Engineering Management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online engineering management graduate program builds on your undergraduate engineering degree with practical management and business skills such as:
- Ethics
- Communications
- Project management
Through the online engineering management graduate certificate program, you gain in-demand expertise in leadership, economic analysis, and using data to drive decision-making. Students appreciate the networking opportunities with industry professionals, faculty, and student peers to leverage their learning beyond their coursework.
You can manufacture a better future with the internationally recognized Graduate Certificate in Polymer Processings & Manufacturing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online industrial engineering graduate program prepares you to work in the polymer industry with such skills as:
- Synthetic strategies for fabrication
- Analysis of material outcomes
- Evaluation of material issues
Through the online industrial engineering graduate certificate program, you have access to the school’s Polymer Engineering Center. This collaboration with industry and government advances polymer processing and engineering.
You can build your engineering skills with the Graduate Certificate in Power Conversion & Control from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online electrical engineering graduate program offers specialized expertise in drives, electronics, and controls.
Through the online electrical engineering graduate certificate program, you learn the skills demanded by employers. Your online studies provide such benefits as:
- Developing technical skills
- Networking with leading engineering employers
- Opportunity to continue your education with the MS-Electrical Engineering program
You can gain expertise in engine-electric hybridization with the Graduate Certificate in Powertrain Electrification from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online mechanical engineering graduate program benefits mechanical engineers who want to build on their skills with the following:
- Develop control systems
- Analyze system components
- Drive cycle analysis by understanding energy flows and losses
Through the online mechanical engineering graduate certificate program, you develop systems-based thinking of both the vehicle and the drive cycle. Senior faculty and industry professionals lead your innovative distance learning program to provide a worthy educational experience to advance your career.
You can train to tackle environmental challenges with the Master of Engineering in Civil & Environmental Engineering / Environmental Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online environmental engineering master’s program develops such skills as:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Project management
Through the online environmental engineering graduate program, you study the most pressing topics determined by employers and working engineers. The interactive online courses provide daily interactions with your cohort and allow access to world-class faculty within the department.
You can gain expertise in internal combustion engines with the Master of Engineering in Engine Systems from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online mechanical engineering master’s program provides skills in such areas as:
- Combustion
- Controls and vibrations
- Engine design and performance
- Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer
Through the online mechanical engineering graduate program, you can opt for electives in professional development. Some options include coursework in professional presentations, writing for professionals, or ethics.
You can gain expertise in the high-demand field of plastics with the Master of Engineering in Engineering / Polymer Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online industrial engineering master’s program provides a competitive edge to advance your career in such fields as:
- Electronics
- Biomedical
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmaceutical
Through the online industrial engineering master’s program, you can maintain your family, life, and work schedule with their flexible distance education program. Coursework mirrors the challenges of the real world, allowing for immediate application in your current work.
You can drive positive change on a global scale with the Master of Engineering in Engineering / Sustainable Systems Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online environmental engineering master’s program harnesses your passion for healthy economies, societies, and environments to improve our planet. Your online interdisciplinary studies cover such subjects as:
- Engineering
- Sustainability
- Environmental science
Through the online environmental engineering graduate program, you learn to lead the innovation of systems relating to sustainable human issues. You will find the structure and support needed to keep you on track to earn your degree and advance your career.
You can learn the entire flow of data with the Master of Engineering in Engineering Data Analytics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online software engineering master’s program integrates such topics as:
- Software
- Data architecture
- Data visualization
- Sources and sensors
Through the online software engineering graduate program, you deepen your leadership and project management skills. Faculty provide support to keep your studies on track while you maintain your work—life responsibilities.
You can take the path to engineering leadership with the Master of Engineering in Engineering Management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online engineering management master’s program teaches you to:
- Drive change and innovation
- Use data-driven management methods
- Communicate across engineering and business management
- Position yourself for career success in high-growth industries
Through the online engineering management graduate program, you will elevate your managerial expertise and your technical knowledge. Graduates emerge as highly confident and competent leaders who find success.
You can gain expertise in new technologies with the Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering / Power Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online electrical engineering master’s program provides skills in such areas as:
- Drives
- Sensors
- Actuators
- Motion control and more
Through the online electrical engineering graduate program, you earn an education respected in the industry and rated as a top department worldwide. Your online studies follow the on-campus courses with recorded lectures, email assignments, and online access to instructors.
You can gain business and technical skills with the Master of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online manufacturing engineering master’s program delivers such skills as:
- Drive process and product improvement
- Learn advanced manufacturing techniques
- Master supply chain management
- Enact innovative solutions
Through the online manufacturing engineering graduate program, you learn to drive quality, productivity, and supply chain effectiveness for maximum efficiency. The interdisciplinary study offers project-based courses with high levels of interaction with the prestigious faculty.
Healthcare
The online OTD degree program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designed to prepare students for advanced-level practice, leadership, and the application of research in occupational therapy. Students build the skills and practical training to become managers, advanced practitioners, entrepreneurs, policy advisors, or faculty in teaching colleges. Courses cover topics such as:
- Advanced Outcome Measurement in Occupational Therapy
- Using Information to Optimize Practice
- Communicating OT to Inter-Professional Audiences
- Current Trends Shaping OT Practice
Advance your career in Athletic Training with this online kinesiology degree. Featuring a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum, this program prepares students for the national Board of Certification exam. Learn to collaborate with physicians in order to provide:
- Preventative services
- Emergency care
- Clinical diagnosis
- Therapeutic intervention
- Rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions
Courses also improve your skills in communication, decision-making, research, and various clinical skills.
This is an online degree, allowing students to successfully balance their educations with other responsibilities.
The online Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition program is focused on core nutrition, clinical nutrition, professional skills, and electives that allow students to focus on their interests. The program is ideal for students with strong backgrounds in clinical nutrition, confidence working at the graduate level, and commitments to become leaders in clinical nutrition and dietetics. The curriculum prepares students to translate research; recognize and formulate responses to evolving developments in clinical nutrition practice, policy, and research; and lead and mange professional teams to design nutrition related services.
Prepare for a career in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries with the Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences, a pharmacy degree online. Gain knowledge and skills that are directly applicable to your goals while choosing between two degree options, the Applied Drug Development option or the Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation option.
The Applied Drug Development program is designed for the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists, with courses that examine various facets of the drug development process. Courses cover a broad range of disciplines, including the pharmaceutical sciences and the pharmaceutical industry, followed by a project-based internship that combines all the components of the program.
The Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation program is geared toward the discovery, development, and clinical application of psychoactive drugs as therapeutic agents. Instead of careers in a pharmacy, graduates of this program will work in such fields as industry/academia research, government, nonprofit, or healthcare.
Math & Science
You can learn to innovate solutions in biotechnology with the Graduate Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online biotechnology graduate program provides a solid foundation in data analysis tools and methods. Your online studies cover such topics as:
- Bioinformatic inquiry
- Python for bioinformatics
- Application of bioinformatics
- Experimental design and data analysis
Through the online biotechnology graduate certificate program, you learn how to make critical decisions around security, health, and biotechnology information issues. As the volume of data increases, so do career opportunities for those with credentials in this rapidly growing area.
This online program is offered through the University of Wisconsin Extend Campus. UW Extended is a partnership of campuses within the University of Wisconsin System to offer collaborative online programs. Applicants apply to their school of choice and complete an accredited degree program.
You can gain management and leadership skills with the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This online biotechnology master’s program offers a choice of tracks such as:
- Business management
- Research and development
- Quality assurance and compliance
Through the online biotechnology graduate program, you study ethics, research, communications, product development, and regulatory and compliance practices. Your distance education uses an interactive learning environment to maximize your education.
This online program is offered through the University of Wisconsin Extend Campus. UW Extended is a partnership of campuses within the University of Wisconsin System to offer collaborative online programs. Applicants apply to their school of choice and complete an accredited degree program.
Nursing
The online Doctor of Nursing Practice program from the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares nurses to become experts in a specialized area of focus. This degree track provides students with the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to work in Population Health.
Students in this online nursing degree learn how to lead population health improvement across healthcare, public health, and community systems. The program emphasizes the values of the nursing profession. Courses explore health determinants, coordinating care across providers and locations, collaborating with other professionals, and advocating for individuals and groups.
The curriculum includes studies of:
- Critical social theories in population health
- Healthcare and public policy
- Data-driven healthcare
- Health program planning, evaluation, and quality improvement
Aspiring nurse leaders can pursue an online Doctor of Nursing Practice focusing on Systems Leadership and Innovation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. UWM offers a cohort model, allowing students to progress as a group, strengthen relationships, and build on shared experiences.
This online nursing administration degree supports the development of advanced practice nursing leaders who understand the complexities of the healthcare system and opportunities for improvement and innovation. Understanding the system as a whole allows nurse professionals to address gaps, anticipate barriers, build alliances, and find pivot points for change. Graduates will be prepared to design and lead new models of care delivery in a variety of settings.
Topics of study include:
- Business concepts in nursing
- Evaluation of health informatics solutions
- Healthcare and public policy
- Leadership and organizational decision-making in healthcare