While stocking up on school supplies for your kids, you might wonder whether it’s time to go back to school yourself. What makes the UW Flexible Option a realistic solution for busy, working parents who wish to earn a respected, in-demand degree? Read on!
1. You can start any month.
Yes, any month. The UW Flexible Option is built around three-month subscription periods that you can begin at the start of any month. No need to wait for fall or spring semester. For parents who are in the midst of preparing for the busy back-to-school season, no worries. October is a very popular time for parents to get started with UW Flexible Option, maybe because moms and dads can finally take a deep breath and reflect on their own needs.
Get a UW Flexible Option Degree Guide
Download an introductory guide (PDF) to the self-paced, competency-based UW Flexible Option programs, including details about costs, admission requirements, and more.
2. You can work at your own pace.
Fast or slow, you decide what works for you. Every student’s UW Flexible Option schedule is different, because it’s based on your schedule, your life. UW Flexible Option uses an innovative higher education model, called competency-based education, that’s transforming the way people can earn a degree. Once you’ve mastered a set of skills on a certain topic, you move on. Some of our students earn a bachelor’s degree in 11 months; others choose to take up to three years. You’re in control of your education.
3. No classrooms.
None. No driving to campus, no hunting for a parking space, and best of all, no missing your child’s soccer game just so you can make it to class on time. You have a busy life, and you need a degree program that respects that. Parents, whose schedules constantly change between music lessons and carpool duties, will find that the UW Flexible Option truly is flexible. You can be where you need to be, whether that’s a dance recital, a t-ball game, or your child’s school. You can still be a great mom or dad while you complete your own education.
4. A “concierge” service.
Going back to school can be a challenge for any adult but especially for parents. That’s why parents will appreciate the dedicated student support they receive from someone who understands the challenges they face. From your first day in the program, the UW Flexible Option pairs you with an Academic Success Coach (ASC). Because of this one-on-one relationship, your ASC is the person who knows where you would like to go and how to help you get there. Your ASC knows your education goals, your career desires, and in time, if you prefer, may learn your children’s names! Your ASC will take into consideration all your priorities when helping you manage your time between work, family, and your education. For instance, if you volunteer to coach your child’s hockey team, your ASC can recommend the ideal number of competency sets to take during hockey season. And when you need it, your Academic Success Coach will connect you to valuable campus resources, such as financial aid, veterans services, and tutoring.
These are just a few of the features that make UW Flexible Option a good fit for you this fall. Add to this list things such as weekend tech support, the ability to prepare for assessments after you’ve put the kids to bed, the online environment . . . and more. This kind of flexibility is hard to find, but it’s what you can expect from your UW Flexible Option experience.
Fall is the perfect time to start earning your degree. If you’re exploring going back to school, call or email us today at 1-877-895-3276 or flex@uwex.wisconsin.edu.