History of continuing education
The UW–Madison Division of Continuing Studies celebrates 30 years in 2024, but the history of continuing education at the university goes back more than 130 years.
Continuing education at UW–Madison is a story of tenacious, curious, resilient lifelong learners, eager for access to education that allows them to gain skills, advance in their careers, enrich their lives and improve their communities.
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.
Scroll to see historical photos and a timeline or read about our history project.
Follow along while we share the history of Continuing Studies and continuing education at UW–Madison, with focus on our lifelong learners.
How did continuing education get its start at UW-Madison?
Check out our lifelong learning milestones through the years
Tell us about your history with continuing education and get involved
Thanks to our students, faculty and staff, partners and the Center for Campus History for all their help in telling stories from the Division of Continuing Studies!