Frequently Asked Questions
We are a committed inclusive, collaborative, and positive online learning environment. From the moment you apply to the day you graduate; we are here to help you not only succeed but thrive. Learn more about frequently used support resources below.
All UW-Whitewater Online students receive identical diplomas stating that they are graduates of the program at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Both our online classes and traditional classes are held to the same high standard of quality.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC ).
No, the classes are completely asynchronous, so there is no mandatory time to log on. Instructors may have deadlines to complete assignments, but not a specific “class” time. This format allows you to consume lectures, readings and other materials at a time of day and week that works for you.
There is no required visit to campus for any of the UW-Whitewater Online degree programs. Students can complete a degree without ever setting foot on campus.
Courses are delivered through Canvas, a course management software. Instructors typically use textbooks, multimedia lectures, and Internet sources as learning tools.
Tuition and fees vary between Bachelor's, Master's and Certificate programs. And while the majority of online programs charge the same tuition for in-state, out-of-state and international students, there are exceptions. For more details or to request program-specific information, see Tuition for Online Degrees.
Students can readily connect with faculty by email, web conferencing, or phone.
Most Master’s and Graduate Certificate courses are offered as either 6-week summer courses or 8-week spring or fall courses. Thus, depending on offerings, a student can complete the full master’s degree in as little as 12-18 months, and a certificate can be completed in 4-6 months.
Bachelor’s courses are currently structured to coincide with the campus's normal schedule. Courses are fifteen weeks during Fall and Spring semesters, three and six weeks for Summer Session, and three weeks for Winterim Session.
Yes, UW-Whitewater Online classes can be taken from anywhere in the world as long as you have a computer that meets the minimum technical requirements. For more information on this process, please fill out the request more information form.
UW-Whitewater Online does not give credit for life experience. If you have acquired the knowledge of a bachelor's course, you can attempt to earn credit by examination.
Yes, you can apply to UW-Whitewater as a special student (no credentials). For more information on this process, please fill out the request more information form. Priority registration may be given to degree seeking students.
Exams are administered online. Some courses may require a proctor or other monitoring.
To access the online courses and lecture content, you need a computer with a high speed internet connection. You will also need a web camera, microphone, and speakers.
Minimum Technology Requirements:
- Windows 10 or macOS 10.13
- 2 Ghz dual-core processor
- 8 gigs of memory
- Latest version of Chrome and Firefox
- Current Windows/Mac updates and anti-virus
- If using a work computer, you must be granted local admin rights
Students may download MS Office and Symantec Antivirus for free.
Students may use a smart phone or tablet as a secondary device, but a Windows or Mac computer is required for the program. Additional software requirements may apply in some courses.
Instructors may require the use of Respondus Monitor and/or Respondus LockDown Browser for online quizzes and exams. Respondus Monitor requires use of a webcam. If you do not already have a webcam, they can be purchased through major online retailers for about $25.
Please note that Respondus products are not compatible with Chromebooks and are not guaranteed to work on a tablet, which is why a Windows- or Mac-based PC is recommended as the primary tool for accessing your online courses.
