As you stock up on pencils and backpacks for your kids this fall, you might find yourself wondering—should I go back to school, too?
If you’re a parent who has considered more education but is juggling work, kids, and life, UW Flexible Option offers you a realistic way to earn your degree without having to take time away from your job or your family activities.
Here are four reasons why UW Flexible Option works for parents:
- You can start any month.
Unlike traditional on-campus programs that require you to start in the fall or spring, there’s no wait to begin your education. UW Flexible Option is built on three-month subscription periods that you can begin any month. Fall is an especially popular time for working parents to start—after you’ve gotten your kids settled into their school routines, you can focus on your own education. - Complete courses at your own pace.
You can take courses as quickly – or as slowly – as you need. UW Flexible Option uses a competency-based educational format, which lets you move forward as soon as you’ve mastered a skill. If you’ve already learned certain skills on the job or through prior college coursework, you may be able to move faster. Some students earn a bachelor’s degree in under a year; others take their time. You control the schedule. - Skip the drive and be present for your kids.
Say goodbye to driving across town or missing your child’s big game so you can get to class. UW Flexible Option programs are 100% online, so you can attend soccer practice, music recitals, or school events—without sacrificing your education.
Mellissa Shilts, a recent graduate of the UW-Milwaukee Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences: Health Sciences, balanced her courseload with three kids and two jobs.
“We have three boys,” she says. “We have a 13-year-old, an 8-year-old, and a 6-year-old. I work full time as a certified medical assistant in orthopedics. I also teach part time in the medical assistant program. When I do have free time, I’m taking my boys to their multiple sports and all of that fun stuff.”
The key to her success was making a schedule–and the most of her free time. Her motto was “no zero days,” which meant she had to do at least one thing each day toward her end goal.
“I looked at how many things I was required to submit,” she says. “I made sure I still had time to breathe and focus on my kids. There were weeks where it was tough. But if you want it, it’s worth working for.”
- You’ll get dedicated support.
Going back to school is easier with a guide. From day one, you’re paired with a Success Coach who understands you’re busy. Your success coach can help you come up with a schedule that not only balances your coursework, but allows time for family and work. You’ll also have access to resources like financial aid, tutoring, and much more.
Mellissa appreciated all the times her coach checked in with her: “It was just enough to know that somebody was out there watching, having that extra set of eyes and that extra person who wants you to succeed.”
She also frequently checked in with her instructors when she had questions, and said they were always happy to help.
The Bottom Line
UW Flexible Option is built for parents who need flexibility, support, and results. With an online environment that fits your life, you can turn study time into family time. Don’t just send your kids back to school this fall – join them by starting your own educational journey.
Ready to Start This Fall?
Call 1-877-895-3276 or email flex@uwex.wisconsin.edu to learn how you can earn a degree on your schedule.