A course or program that delivers the same learning at a faster pace and in a shorter amount of time than the traditional version. Accelerated courses or programs have a more intense workload in order to meet the condensed timeline.

An in-person course or program that meets only in the evenings and/or on weekends. Unless otherwise noted, evening and weekend classes take place on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus.

A course or program that is delivered entirely or mostly face-to-face. Unless otherwise noted, our in-person classes take place on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus.

A course or program that is delivered via both in-person and online formats. Unless otherwise noted, our in-person classes and programs take place on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. The online portion may be delivered synchronously, asynchronously or a combination of the two. See the course page for more information about course delivery and how you can expect to learn.

A degree awarded upon the completion of an academic program that requires four to five years of full-time equivalent preparation. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for acceptance into a graduate program.

The highest level of academic degree, awarded upon the completion of a PhD program, which takes, on average, four to seven years to complete. A doctorate degree is typically a basic threshold for certain professional roles, including the licensed practice of medical care, professorship or professional research.

Graduate-level certificates, called capstone certificates at UW–Madison, generally focus on professional skills and certification in a particular discipline, and typically take a year to complete. This type of certificate helps individuals advance in their current field or obtain an advanced position in another field.

A degree awarded upon the completion of a graduate program where students specialize in an area of study; typically takes one to two years to complete. Depending on the field, graduates may qualify for work in an advanced or executive-level position.

A specialist degree is an advanced graduate degree that provides deeper education and training in a particular area of study. Traditionally earned after a master’s degree but before or in lieu of a doctorate, a specialist degree may include practical field work or an internship.

A course provides information and/or skills in a particular area(s) and may be used to demonstrate specific training or knowledge. Course completion varies by program; see your program of interest for more information.

A badge is a uniquely valuable digital credential that demonstrates a learner’s mastery of a particular set of knowledge or skills through evaluation by a qualified professional. How you earn a badge varies by program; see your program of interest for more information.

Certificates can be earned through the successful completion of one comprehensive program or a collection of courses or badges that demonstrate your mastery of skills and knowledge. How you earn a certificate varies by program; see your program of interest for more information.