It’s called eCampus. The University of Wisconsin System President Kevin Reilly says it’s part of a strategic effort to increase the number of degree holders in the state by 30% by the year 2025. “So through this portal that eCampus offers we will be offering students a really unique value proposition, I think, incorporating both the convenience of online learning and the UW System’s world class academic reputation.”
Reilly says they’ve taken a lot of “top shelf” high-quality degree programs and put that content all in one place. He says eCampus is designed as a gateway to more than 70 online degree and certificate programs offered across the UW System’s accredited campuses. Online learning presents an opportunity for nontraditional students to access college courses and degree programs that might otherwise be difficult, due to jobs, family obligations, or other life commitments.
Unlike the rash of fake online degrees being promoted to potential students, David Schejbal, Dean of Continuing Education, Outreach and E-learning with UW Extension, says eCampus students can be confident they are receiving a credible education. “This is a real degree; it’s a real UW degree; and it’s taught by real UW faculty.”
Schejbal stresses it’s not a watered down version of a UW degree. It’s the same accredited, first-class education. He says this is just the beginning, calling it “eCampus 1.0.” As online degree enrollments see a 16% growth nationally, he expects this site to expand and evolve.
The UW System eCampus offers online access to certificates, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctorates.
The announcement comes during National Distance Learning Week, a week dedicated to creating greater awareness and appreciation for online learning.