Summer Term is back for its 140th season

Welcome to Summer Term 2025!

There’s always a special vibe to a University of Wisconsin–Madison Summer Term, but this year offers something even a little more special: We’re celebrating 140 years!

Summer coursework got its start at UW–Madison back in 1885, when fourteen students enrolled in a single six-week language program. In 2024, more than 10,000 undergraduates alone enrolled in summer courses in subjects ranging from accounting to zoology.

Today, with more than 1,000 courses offered in person and online, you have plenty of opportunities to:

• Make progress on degree requirements 
• Focus on a challenging course — or try a new elective
• Lighten your load for fall or spring
• Stay on track for graduation 

(Side note: You can still register for courses this summer!)

Learning on the go

With courses offered in 3-, 4- and 8-week sessions, Summer Term also provides the unique flexibility to work, travel, spend time with friends and family, or simply enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. 

And today’s students are no longer limited by campus geography when it comes to summer learning. Online courses allow students to complete their coursework from nearly anywhere in the world. And speaking of global education, many students also choose to study abroad over the summer or complete an international research project or internship. 

“Summer Term at UW–Madison started from humble beginnings and has grown into a globally accessible program centered on student needs,” said Keri Johnson, assistant dean and director for Summer Term. “As we celebrate 140 years, we continue to innovate and expand opportunities for students to learn, grow and prepare for their futures.”

Join the celebration!

This summer, we’ll be sharing stories of Summer Term past and present. We’ll delve into the archives to find photos of summers long past, and highlight stories of current UW–Madison students who are using Summer Term to plan for their futures. And fair warning: There may be a quiz!

You can be part of the 140-year celebration by using #MyBadgerSummer to share photos and stories about how you’re spending your summer. We can’t wait to see what you do, Badgers!