Professional Degrees and Certificates, University of Wisconsin-Madison

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON

Lifelong Learning: News & opportunities from the Division of Continuing Studies.

April 2026

Speaker at the Outstanding Returning Adult Student Awards

Meet the adult learners redefining what’s possible

The 2026 Outstanding Returning Adult Student Award honors two remarkable Badgers whose paths back to college were anything but ordinary. After a life‑changing illness, Michael Rozier found new purpose in research, equity and community‑focused leadership. For Leslie Wright, years of school board service revealed a calling to support youth mental health. Both returned to UW–Madison with determination and have thrived in their undergraduate program thanks to hard work and family support.

Their stories, along with those of other adult learners and scholarship recipients, will be highlighted at the April 30 Celebration of Outstanding Adult Students.

Opening doors to college readiness

For many teens, college feels like a big unknown. Precollege programs like UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege can change that by offering a supportive bridge that helps teens explore academic interests, build independence and gain the confidence they’ll need after graduation. With options across Wisconsin, these programs provide a meaningful head start on the college journey.

A leadership legacy shaped by experience

Jeff Russell’s 30‑year journey teaching continuing education courses in leadership reflects the power of seasoned instructors to transform how professionals lead. Known for his practical tools, collaborative teaching style and commitment to growth, Russell has helped countless learners strengthen their influence and navigate change. His retirement marks the end of an era and highlights the remarkable expertise that drives continuing education at UW–Madison.

Featured Continuing Education course

Certified Associate Coach Program

Aug. 2026–March 2027; apply through July 30 | Live online

For anyone seeking to guide, inspire and empower others to reach their potential and get real results. Our new Level 1 program teaches you the foundational coaching skills you need to start your journey as an associate certified coach and pursue the ACC credential. Learn more & register >>

Coming up

April 29	Odyssey Project Class of 2026 graduation ceremony
April 30	Celebration of Outstanding Adult Students
May 1	Application deadline for Badger Precollege summer academic programs
May 11	Community Resiliency Model: Back to Balance continuing education course
May 12	Webinar: UW–Madison online engineering graduate programs overview
May 15	Deadline to apply to UW–Madison Online 8-week summer session
May 15	Application deadline for Badger Precollege summer music and arts clinics
June 1	Priority application deadline for Odyssey Project Class of 2027
June 1	Priority application deadline for Badger Ready degree pathway program
June 25	Managing Time, Multiple Priorities and Interruptions continuing education course

From the archives

Former Division of Continuing Studies Associate Dean & Director Martin Rouse and Bucky share a smile at the 2013 Celebration of Outstanding Adult Students. Since 1981, the event has honored adults who have completed degrees while balancing work and family. Rouse retired this month.