University of Wisconsin Colleges Online

Madison, Wisconsin, United States · Est. 1998 · Public University

100% online Associate of Arts and Sciences degree from the University of Wisconsin System.

  • Established 1998 as University of Wisconsin Colleges Online; now part of UW Extended Campus
  • Public institution, part of University of Wisconsin System
  • Located in Madison, Wisconsin; fully online delivery
  • Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
  • Partnership of 5 UW campuses: UW-Eau Claire, UW-Parkside, UW-River Falls, UW-Stevens Point, UW-Whitewater
  • Offers Associate of Arts and Sciences degree and individual courses for transfer credit

Academics

The program offers a 100% online Associate of Arts and Sciences (AAS) degree providing a broad liberal arts foundation. Courses fulfill transferable general education requirements at Universities of Wisconsin schools and most other four-year institutions. The curriculum is delivered through three terms: Spring, Summer, and Fall. Students can pursue the full degree or take individual courses to supplement their studies or complete prerequisites. The program uses Desire2Learn as its course management system.

Admissions & Student Pathways

The program serves two main student populations: degree-seeking students pursuing the full AAS degree, and special students taking individual courses. Degree-seeking students must have a high school diploma or GED, meet specific college prep credit requirements (17 credits with distribution across English, social science, math, and natural science), and provide official transcripts. ACT or SAT scores are required for students under age 22 (optional through 2026-27). Starting Fall 2026, the program pauses admission of new degree-seeking students, though current students may continue and special students can enroll in general education courses. No application fee for most applicants (except UW-Eau Claire's $25 fee).

Online Learning & Support

All instruction is delivered online with no physical campus requirement. Students select a home campus from five partner institutions, which provides financial aid, advising, career services, and the diploma. The program offers success coaching, capstone projects, and multiple online learning formats. International students are welcome to participate remotely; online students do not qualify for F-1 visas. English language proficiency documentation may be required for international applicants.

Accreditation & Institutional Context

The program is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools) and approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents. It represents a collaboration of all 13 Universities of Wisconsin campuses, extending the Wisconsin Idea of lifelong learning to Wisconsin residents and beyond.

Founded
1998
Type
Public University
Courses
3
Total intake
Not yet verified
AffiliationUniversity of Wisconsin System
Websitehttp://online.uwc.edu/
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
3
Avg career outcomes
Not yet verified
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources