UW Flexible Option welcomes special students to enroll in one or more classes without earning a college degree. If you need to take an online course to fulfill a prerequisite, supplement your studies in another degree program, or for professional development, the UW Flexible Option is for you.
UW Flexible Option offers nearly 150 online courses year-round, so you won’t have to wait for the next semester to start to begin your studies. You may also complete your courses at a pace that works for you.
Before You Apply
Before applying as a Special student, be sure to:
- Review how the unique competency-based features of the UW Flexible Option will work for you.
- Select a funding plan based on your tuition rate:
- Tuition rates are based on the number of courses you plan to take during a subscription period.
- You may enroll in a single course for $1,125, or pay a flat rate of $2,250 for two or more courses.
- The single-course rate is not available through UW-Parkside.
- Special Students are NOT eligible for financial aid.
- Students enrolled at another UW institution should check with their home campus about a consortium agreement.
- Determine which course(s) you want to take through the UW Flexible Option program:
NOTE – If you intend to earn credit to fulfill degree requirements at another campus, make sure you confirm with your home campus that the course(s) transfer towards your degree requirements. If you are currently enrolled at UW-Milwaukee or UW-Parkside, please consult with your advisor about your course enrollment options.
How to Apply
Submit your application via the application portal (there is no application fee)
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- Select “No” that you are not applying as a degree-seeking student.
- Select that you plan to take “Undergraduate” classes.”
- select “UW Flexible Option” under the Campus drop-down menu options for UW-Milwaukee or UW-Parkside
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a 15-minute orientation video and a Special Student Enrollment Form via email from the Admissions Office. Fill out the form to specify your intended courses.
Nursing Specials
Enrollment in nursing courses as a Special requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher AND enrollment in the final year of an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program or an undergraduate nursing diploma. In addition, Nursing Specials must submit unofficial or official transcripts from all previous institutions attended for evaluation.
Note:
- If you intend to seek admission to the UW Flexible Option Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program in the future, we advise Specials to submit official transcripts as they will be required for admission to the BSN program.
- Transfer credit from previous colleges attended must be accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Nursing Course Options – Nursing Specials are eligible to enroll in any nursing courses except the Capstone. There is no limit on the number of courses you can take as a Special; but please note that Specials are not eligible for financial aid.
Term Start Dates
New classes start every month. The deadline to apply as a Special student is the 15th of the month prior to your intended start term.
After You Are Admitted
Shortly after being admitted, you will receive an introductory email from your Success Coach (SC). Your SC will assist you with registering for your courses. If your course requires a prerequisite or placement testing, your SC will identify any required documentation.
- Review the Orientation Packet you received via email.
- If you have any questions, contact your SC by email asc@uwex.wisconsin.edu or call (608-262-2011).
- If your enrollment plans change, please submit the Application Cancellation Request form.
Helpful Links
| UW-Milwaukee Student Email |
UW-Milwaukee Student Information System |
Access your Coursework |
| UW-Parkside Student Email |
UW-Parkside Student Information System |
Access your Coursework |