Distance Education

Recent grad accelerates career through bachelor’s to master’s pathway

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Connor Trempe enrolled in UW-Platteville's Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Pathway, allowing him to graduate with two degrees in just five years and excel his career as a software engineer.


Jean Seely: PM alumna builds career to new heights as CEO

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

As the chief executive officer of the independent consultant firm, Seely Inc., Jean Seely is a professional of many interests. Wishing to further develop her skills, she returned to school in 2017, earning a master's in project management.


UW-Platteville celebrates 45 years of pioneering distance education

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has hit another milestone in its storied history as a pioneer in distance education. This year marks the 45th year the university has provided high-quality distance education to students across the globe.


‘Life-changing experience’: Reflecting on 2023 Short-Term Faculty-Led programs

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley and Wendy Pothour-Miller

Imagine a world where you can travel to another country, immerse yourself in its culture and earn college credits simultaneously. At UW-Platteville, this is a reality through the Short-Term Faculty-Led courses.


Veteran alumna leads with service

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Natalie Isensee's attraction to the military stemmed, in part, from the numerous leadership opportunities it presented. However, her time in service offered her much more than anticipated. Natalie has since utilized her skillset and experiences to give back to her fellow veterans, her community and the university.


Honor lists of undergraduate distance education students announced

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The Office of Professional Program Support proudly announces the undergraduate distance students who made their academic department's respective honors list this past spring.


Answering the call of duty: BSCJ student overcomes obstacles to better himself and community

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Dawson Keller is a current student in UW-Platteville's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Program, but as an officer with the McFarland Police Department, he is already making an impact in his community.


Pioneers' director of football operations selected to participate in NFL's Nunn-Wooten Scouting Fellowship

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville football team announces Director of Football Operations Kearstin Schweitzer has been selected to participate in the 2023 Nunn-Wooten Scouting Fellowship with the Pittsburgh Steelers.


M.S. Sport Administration preps graduates for immediate career success

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's newest master's program saw its inaugural class of graduates cross the stage this spring. But even before the first notes of pomp and circumstance played, many Master of Science in Sport Administration students had already realized career success.


Criminal justice alum’s educational journey is never finished

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Like many distance and graduate education alumni, Jeffrey Hole’s educational journey hasn’t followed a traditional path. His plan of earning a master’s degree started in high school and spanned decades as he served his country and community, raised a family and built a career.


Project Management master’s program named nation’s top value for third straight year

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

For the third straight year, the UW-Platteville Master of Science in Project Management program has been named the nation's top value by GreatValueSchools.org. The rankings were based on several metrics, prioritizing yearly tuition and graduation rate.


Improving the system: BSCJ student enacts positive change in several prison facilities

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Raelene Baker started as a passion project that is now on the verge of becoming a multi-state phenomenon. She serves as the director for the Minnesota Prison Doula Projects, a nonprofit organization that helps birth professionals train to become prison doulas for service in penitentiary institutes on the county, state and soon-to-be federal level.


MS Project Management alum named to prestigious AIMBE fellowship

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Alumnus Dr. Michael O'Connor continues to add to his highly decorated resume. On March 27, the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering inducted O'Connor into its College of Fellows.


Honor lists of distance education students announced

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The Office of Professional Program Support proudly announces the distance students who made their academic department's respective honors list this past fall.


Engineering Relationships: Alumni gain more than knowledge in online program

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

When Alex Walechka and Rebecca Koble enrolled in the online Master of Science in Engineering program in 2021, they went in with the expectation to attain an advanced degree in their area of specialty to improve their current careers and future job prospects, but they also found something more than advanced learning during their time in the program.


Fall 2022 distance education and master’s program graduates announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Staff at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville congratulate the fall 2022 graduates of its distance education and master's degree programs.


People and process: A project management alum’s formula for success

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

When you think of project management, you likely think about the processes required to complete a project successfully. But UW-Platteville alumnus Anthony Toglia knows that the people involved are just as crucial.


Engineering success: UW-Platteville programs earn plethora of top rankings

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

For more than a century, UW-Platteville has distinguished itself in the realm of engineering education, cultivating a widely respected reputation in the process. Recently, the university's prestige was bolstered by earning several top rankings from College Factual, an independent data analytics firm based in New York.


Flying high: Project management student excels both on the ground and in the air

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

As an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration, Donny Cone monitors and directs aircraft on the ground and in the air. It’s a job that’s taken him across the country – from West Virginia to Washington – in the span of 16 years, enabling him to build on his skillset with each new location.


Call to Serve: Alum's unique path leads to M.S. in Organizational Change Leadership degree

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

A call to serve has fueled Ray LaVoie his entire life. That need to help others has led the M.S. in Organizational Change Leadership graduate to support his country by working for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) – although his journey to this career has been unique.


M.S. Criminal Justice program named one of nation's best online master's degrees

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's Master of Science in Criminal Justice program was recently recognized as one of the Top 10 Online Criminal Justice Master's programs in the nation by Online Schools Guide. The rankings were based on affordability and reputation.


UW-Platteville named state's top university for online student services

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville is being recognized as offering the best online student services in the state by Intelligent.com.


Distance Education Alumni Board Scholarship winners announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Each year, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Distance Education Alumni Board provides two $300 scholarships to students in distance education programs.


Distance Education Scholarship Recipients Announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The UW-Platteville Office of Professional Program Support would like to congratulate the 2022-23 distance education scholarships winners. The scholarships help cover tuition costs for students in online distance education programs.


Graduate Students Receive Academic Excellence and Retention Scholarships

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Several students in online graduate programs at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville received Academic Excellence and Retention Scholarships for the 2022-23 school year.


Back to the past: UW-Platteville advising manager embarks on archaeological mission abroad

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

There’s more to Becca Bartusewich than meets the eye. In addition to being an instructor, most know her as the advising manager for the Office of Professional Program Support, but she is also an archaeologist at heart.


UW-Platteville Online advisor earns statewide recognition

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

For 20 years, Academic Advisor Joanna Muller has helped students reach their educational goals. On Sept. 29, that hard work will be officially recognized on the statewide stage when the Wisconsin Academic Advising Association (WACADA) awards Muller the Advising Excellence Award.


MSCJ grad uses degree to start mental health and substance abuse counseling program

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Tassie Crews knows there is power in words. As a licensed master social worker and certified alcohol drug counselor, she's seen first-hand how a conversation with the right person can change someone's entire life. Crews has worked hard to earn the education and training to be that right person.


No limits to learning

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

When Crystal Yang started UW-Platteville's Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership program in the fall of 2018, she was already leading a busy life. In addition to working full-time, she is mother to five children and adding graduate school while juggling the two wasn’t easy. 


Students fast-track academic careers with Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Pathways

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

To best position its students to succeed in the workforce, UW-Platteville offers the Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Pathway, expediting students seeking both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees through a process that takes less time than the more traditional route.


Spring 2022 distance education and master’s degree program graduates announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

UW-Platteville congratulates the spring 2022 graduates of its distance education and master’s degree programs. Spring 2022


Grad finds passion, career success with UW-Platteville MSISCM program

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Some career paths are easily navigated – with a clear, straight road ahead. However, for recent Master of Science in Integrated Supply Chain Management graduate Kristy Knautz, her career path included a sharp right turn.


Dean's List of distance education students announced

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The Office of Professional Program Support proudly announces the distance students who made their academic department's Dean's List this past spring.


Bringing the truth to light: MSCJ graduate makes a difference in his community

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

For Shar-Ron Buie, life isn’t about helping oneself, but enhancing the lives of others. This philosophy is evident in all three positions Buie holds.


Muller honored with Outstanding Professional Academic Advisor Award 

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Joanna Muller, an academic advisor in the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Office of Professional Program Support, has earned the 2022 Outstanding Professional Academic Advisor Award for exemplifying the best qualities of academic staff advisors. 


UW-Platteville graduate certificate programs offer digital badges to highlight professional skills

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Students who take advantage of UW-Platteville's graduate-level certificate programs will now begin receiving a digital badge following the successful completion of the program.


Distance Education Alumni Board names officers

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

In addition to welcoming several new members in 2022, the Distance Education Alumni Board elected new officers earlier this year – Mark Sidote and Shilo Wilkinson.


Going the distance on and off the field: Head football coach credits online Project Management program for helping career

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

When one hears the words “project management,” some may envision a profession embedded in the construction, business or supply chain fields. These assumptions wouldn’t be wrong, as project management professionals play pivotal roles in each of these industries, but they wouldn’t form the full picture either.


UW-Platteville to offer free PMI® memberships to students

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Starting this May, UW-Platteville will participate in the Group Student Membership plan offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI®). This collaboration provides free PMI memberships for all degree-seeking students in the Master of Science in Project Management program, and all other non-MSPM students enrolled in PROJMGT-prefixed courses. 


M.S. in Organizational Change Leadership program renews multiple transfer agreements

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership program has reaffirmed its commitment to providing multiple avenues for students to join and thrive in the online master’s program. In April, the university renewed agreements on accepting professional credit transfers from multiple industry leaders. 


Joslynn Day: Marine, mom, master’s student

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Joslynn Day leads a busy life. As a supply officer in the Marine Corps and a member of the Department of State, she spends her days coordinating medevacs for U.S. personnel in foreign countries, which include politically-turbulent regions such as Afghanistan and, most recently, Ukraine.


UW-Platteville Reaffirmed as PMI Global Accreditation Center University

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

To demonstrate that UW-Platteville is preparing students for the rapidly growing and highly demanded field of project management, the Master of Science in Project Management program has been reaffirmed by the Project Management Institute Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC) through 2027.


M.S. in Integrated Supply Chain Management program renews credential transfer agreements

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The Master of Science in Integrated Supply Chain Management program has renewed agreements on accepting professional credits transfers from two industry leaders in supply chain management certifications. The agreements affirm the quality of these certifications and allow another avenue for students to join UW-Platteville’s online master’s program.


UW-Platteville M.S. in Organizational Change Leadership program producing healthcare leaders

Authored on: , Written by: Dr. Linda Bay

The Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership program is designed to cultivate leadership skills, preparing individuals to navigate the ever-changing business environment. Healthcare systems are known for rapid change, and there is certainly more to come in the post-pandemic world.


M.S. in Criminal Justice program renews credential transfer agreements

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin -Platteville Master of Science in Criminal Justice program is pleased to announce its renewal of two transfer agreements which ensure students will have advanced placement with professional credentials in UW-Platteville’s highly-regarded online graduate program.


MSOCL student appointed as Chief Deputy Director of DPOR by Virginia Governor

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Learning while doing will be the new motto for Kishore Thota. The UW-Platteville Master's of Science in Organizational Change Leadership student was recently appointed by the Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin, to serve as the chief deputy director of the Department of Professional Occupation Regulation, or DPOR. 


Fall 2021 distance education and master’s degree program graduates announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville congratulates the fall 2021 graduates of its distance education and master’s degree programs. Fall 2021 commencement, which took place Dec. 11, 2021, was the first to be held in person on campus since fall 2019, due to COVID-19. The fall ceremonies included both summer and fall 2021 students.


UW-Platteville to host its first Pioneer Pitch: Master’s Showcase competition

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

This spring, UW-Platteville will host its first Pioneer Pitch: Master's Showcase competition. The competition is open to all graduate students completing a seminar, capstone or thesis course, and will give them the opportunity to share their exciting research and projects to a wider community. 


UW-Platteville grad student uses education to prepare for life after military

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Christopher Gordon knows the importance of preparing for a mission – his 18-and-a-half years in the military ensured that. Now, he's training for a mission that will take him outside of his comfort zone – life as a civilian.


Destination education: 69-year-old graduates with summa cum laude honors

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Education has been the vehicle to a better life for Mickey Peasley. Last month, the soon-to-be 70-year-old earned her bachelor's degree in business from UW-Platteville. It's a journey that has spanned decades and is far from finished.


UW-Platteville Online recognized for 10 top programs in the U.S.

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's online and graduate programs are ranked amongst the best, according to Intelligent.com. The rankings are based on flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation.


Graduate program alumni receive 2021 Outstanding Alumni awards

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Two alumni of UW-Platteville graduate programs were honored with a 2021 Outstanding Alumni Award. In addition to their master's degrees, both recipients also earned bachelor's degrees at UW-Platteville.


2021 Distance Education Alumni Board Scholarship winners announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The Distance Education Alumni Board selected students Luis Cano and Wara Pirzada as the 2021 recipients of its scholarship. The scholarship was created by the board in 2016 to help provide additional financial support to distance education students as they complete their degree.


UW-Platteville named one of nation's top online universities

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville online programs have earned national recognition once again. This month, the university was named one of the 50 Top Online Colleges by CollegeValuesOnline.com.


O’Connor receives PMI® Eric Jenett Award for Excellence

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

UW-Platteville announces another milestone achievement for one of its distinguished alumni. Dr. Michael O’Connor, a 2006 graduate of the Master of Science in Project Management program, was recently recognized as a winner of the 2021 Project Management Institute’s Eric Jenett Project Management Excellence Award.


UW-Platteville instructor attends seminar as keynote speaker

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Shawn Belling, project management instructor, regularly shares his expertise with organizations, including his most recent engagement at the PMI© Michigan Chapter’s Professional Development Day, which he attended as the keynote speaker. 


M.S. Integrated Supply Chain Management program honored for quality and affordability

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's Master's of Science in Integrated Supply Chain Management program has a reputation of providing students with the skills to succeed in a constantly evolving market. Now, the highly-respected degree program is recognized as one of the most affordable in the nation by GreatBusinessSchools.org.


Project management alumna shines spotlight on special education field

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

With patience, passion and hard work, amazing things can happen. Estela DePaz discovered this fact recently when, against steep competition, her thesis paper won PMI’s ® prestigious Snyder International Student Paper of the Year award—an accolade that rewards excellence in the development of original project management concepts.


Organizational Change Leadership graduate ushers in change thanks to accelerated program

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Change is always constant. For most people this statement rings true, but it’s a way of life for Jonathan Yancy. While many simply accept and react to change, Yancy is one who optimizes it – channeling change into progress on a daily basis.


Spring 2021 distance education and master’s degree program graduates announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville congratulates the spring 2021 graduates of its distance education and master’s degree programs.


Office of Professional Program Support announces distance students Dean's List

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The Office of Professional Program Support is proud to announce the distance students who made their academic department’s Dean’s List this past spring.


Master's degree candidates inducted into S.A.L.U.T.E. Veterans National Honor Society

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Three University of Wisconsin-Platteville student veterans will complete their college careers with more than a diploma. In addition to earning their master’s degrees this spring and summer, they will also graduate as members of the S.A.L.U.T.E. Veterans National Honor Society.


Sign up for UW-Platteville’s Alumni Mentorship Program

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

We all know earning a degree is important for enhancing one’s career, but it’s not the only step students can take to better position themselves for success. Knowledge of the workplace and the ability to make strong connections can prove just as valuable, which is why the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is pleased to offer the Alumni Mentee-Mentor Program—a resource for those seeking additional support outside of their studies.


UW-Platteville to offer two new graduate-level online certificates this fall

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville, in partnership with UW Extended Campus, will offer two new online certificates starting in September 2021. The graduate-level, semester-based certificates in Applied Bioinformatics and Senior Living and Services Leadership were intentionally designed to align with industry needs and high-growth occupations. 


UW-Platteville Online named a top Tech Savvy university

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's reputation as a destination for online learning has been bolstered again. The school has been recognized as one of the top five Technology Savvy Online Schools in 2021 by Online Schools Center.


MS Project Management grad takes career to outer space

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

It's fair to say Scott Upton's head has always been in the clouds – or rather – above them. A passion for aerospace was sparked as a youth and has driven his career and educational journey. He received a degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Minnesota before earning a Master of Science in Project Management degree from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. He currently works for Blue Origin, a company Upton said is "paving the road to space."


Highway to success: Project management and civil engineering alumni work together to build solid team foundations

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

It's not often two alumni from the same university but different fields find themselves working together, yet this is exactly the case for Jeff Busch and Jane Traffalis.


Learning more about UW-Platteville’s Organizational Change Leadership program and its Safety Risk Control emphasis

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership is a relatively new degree program offered at the UW-Platteville, but its curriculum addresses a growing trend to prepare future leaders amidst rapidly changing business environments. UW-Platteville offers four emphasis areas to help students reach their individual career goals. Of particular note is the Safety Risk Control emphasis, introduced in 2018, which focuses on producing safety and risk control measures for businesses and their teams.


Organizational Change Leadership alumna credits education for new high-level position

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Wishing to sharpen both her change and project management skills, Kat Damiano enrolled in the Master’s in Organizational Change Leadership program in 2018. She is now a business change manager with SoCalGas in Los Angeles, California, and works as an internal consultant on the SCG enterprise change management team, overseeing a five-year, 300-plus stakeholder initiative.


Pioneers supporting Pioneers: The Distance Education Alumni Board leaves impact on alumni, students

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Since its creation in 2006, the Distance Education Alumni Board has been committed to supporting alumni and students of UW-Platteville’s distance education programs.


Engineering alumna and professional doubles as children’s book author

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

As a continuous improvement analyst at Ortho Molecular Inc., a nutraceutical company, Laucke works as a project manager in company teams, trying to reduce waste in core processes. Yet there’s more to Laucke besides an impressive STEM career. In addition to being an accomplished project manager and engineer, she’s also a self-published author of the children’s book, “Arabian Horses at Play, I Could Watch Them Every Day.”


M.S. Organizational Change Leadership program earns another top value recognition

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership program is once again recognized as one of the best and affordable master's degree programs in the nation, according to the 2021 


Pioneer Spotlight: Nicole Ruchotzke

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

After growing up in rural Sabula, Iowa, Nicole Ruchotzke attended UW-Platteville, earning a degree in biology. From there, she went on to earn her master’s in public health at Concordia University before returning to her alma mater in 2017, where she joined the Office of Professional Program Support as an advisor.  


M.S. Project Management online program named nation’s best value

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's Master’s of Science in Project Management is recognized as the best value in the country in 2021, according to BestValueCollege.org.


M.S. Engineering student part of Daytona 500 winning team

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The win in NASCAR's biggest race came down to a few key seconds for lead engineer Chris Yerges and his team at Front Row Motorsports. But behind each of these winning seconds were countless hours of precise preparation and planning days before the rubber ever met the pavement. The work was certainly worth it for the UW-Platteville Master of Science in Engineering student, as driver Michael McDowell finished first at the Daytona 500.


UW-Platteville’s distance education programs reach 3,000 graduates

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Forty-two years after its first correspondence course was introduced and administered via postal mail, UW-Platteville's distance education programs surpassed 3,000 graduates.


Q&A with Dr. Carrie Keller

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

In 2018, Dr. Carolyn Keller joined UW-Platteville as the director of Academic Assessment. As a result of some recent university restructuring, Keller has additionally become the interim assistant provost. It’s a position that oversees many areas, including the Center for Distance Learning, now re-named the Office of Professional Program Support.


Engineering alumnus reaches new heights as satellite mission director

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

While an undergraduate student at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Christopher Jefferson fell in love with the thought of working in the space launch industry. This simple idea would launch his academic and professional career to outstanding heights.


Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology student part of COVID-19 response

Authored on: , Written by: Kristie Reynolds

Ashley Pratt has had an educational experience many would say isn’t standard. After earning her bachelor's degree while working full-time, she is now earning her Master of Applied Biotechnology degree, while working for a company that has a significant role in the COVID-19 response.


M.S. Organizational Change Leadership program ranked fourth nationally

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The UW-Platteville Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership program is ranked as the fourth best value in the country, according to the 2021 BestValueCollege.org ratings.


Dr. Susan Hansen, interim dean of the Division of Professional Studies retires

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The UW-Platteville community offers a fond farewell to Dr. Susan Hansen, interim dean of the Division of Professional Studies, who retired from her position on Jan. 31.


After 22 years, alumna returns to excel in criminal justice program

Authored on: , Written by: Ruth Wendlandt

“I had always wanted to go back to school, but it was always either life, distance or motivation that prevented me from taking those steps,” said alumna Sara Booth. However, in 2016, Booth made the leap and returned to UW-Platteville after 22 years to complete her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, ending her final semester with a 4.0.


Project management alumnus reinvests in others’ education

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Dion Shaw is a strong believer in developing your mind – even as the UW-Platteville graduate fights a disease that’s attacking his. In 1991, Shaw was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but that didn’t stop him from living an active life and giving back to others.


New Name, Same Mission for UW-Platteville Distance Education in 2021

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The change of the calendar will also mean some changes for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. As part of a larger restructuring taking place at the university, the Center for Distance Learning will now have a new name: Office of Professional Program Support.


Online M.S. Project Management program recognized as a top value

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville's online Master of Science in Project Management program was ranked as a Top 25 Best Value Online Graduate Programs for 2021 by Value Colleges. The ranking is based on the cost of the program and student-to-faculty ratios.


Pioneer Spotlight: Alison Thompson

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Alison Thompson, an instructional designer for the Office of Professional Program Support, began her career in higher education after starting at a local community college in the Chicago area. Here, Thompson began assisting faculty in course design and quickly found that instructional design allowed her to combine her interests in teaching, design, and technology to help create powerful learning experiences for students.


UW-Platteville reaches credit transfer agreement extensions with UCLA

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville has reached credit transfer agreement extensions with the University of California-Los Angeles. The partnership extension ensures UCLA Extension students will continue to have the opportunity to join one of UW-Platteville’s highly-regarded online graduate-level programs.


UW-Platteville announces graduate-level credit for SHRM certificates

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announces it will now award graduate-level credits for certificates earned through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).


Criminal Justice Instructor Chris Polzer wins 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

Two-time UW-Platteville graduate and Criminal Justice Instructor Chris Polzer was named one of the university’s 2020 Distinguished Alumni. Recipients of the honor, which is presented by the Alumni Association, are chosen for their contributions to and recognition in their professions and communities, and continued engagement with the university.


UW-Platteville continues to be a pioneer in distance education

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

UW-Platteville is known as the Pioneers, but the moniker is much more than a nickname. The university has been a pioneer and industry leader in distance education since 1978, when it began offering degrees through its print-based program.


2020 Distance Education Scholarship winners announced

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The Center for Distance Learning is proud to announce the 2020 winners of the Dawn Drake Excellence in Distance Education Scholarship, Gary Apperson Memorial Scholarship, and Ruth Miller Challenge Scholarship. The scholarships, which are awarded each year to students enrolled in distance education programs, were created to provide additional financial support for UW-Platteville students.


Pioneer Spotlight: Clint Nemitz

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

As the lead admissions specialist for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for Distance Learning, Clint Nemitz works with his team to connect prospective students with their desired academic programs.


Alumnus and PM instructor speaks about remote technology’s role amid the pandemic

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Shawn Belling, like so many others, had to make some adjustments when the Covid-19 pandemic unfolded last March. Between Belling’s responsibilities as a project management instructor, professional speaker, consultant, and as the Chief Information Officer at Madison College, however, this new task wasn’t without some difficulty—yet Belling was more than up for the challenge.


Time Management Tips from Your Student Advisory Board

Authored on: , Written by: CDL Student Advisory Board

When it comes to managing time and balancing coursework, different things work for different people. The members of your Student Advisory Board would like to share some tips and ideas that work for us, and we hope it will spark some ideas for you.


Job Opportunities Abound for Graduates of Online Cybersecurity Master’s Program

Authored on: , Written by: Joshua Yue, Ph.D.

As we continue to navigate through the challenging times posed by COVID-19, it’s not hard to notice the lessons we can learn from a viral pandemic as it relates to prevalent cyber-attacks. Just as a real virus can spread among people, cyber viruses can easily spread between computers and systems in today’s interconnected digital world, which has given rise to exponential growth in cyber-attacks every year.


UW-Platteville Online Advisor Earns Award for Excellence

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

Nicole Ruchotzke may be one of the newest advisors to join the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for Distance Operations, but she’s already left her mark. This week, Ruchotzke will officially be awarded the Advising Profession Impact Award by the Wisconsin Academic Advising Association.


Criminal Justice program recognized as one of the country's best online master's degrees

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's reputation as a leader in distance education has been cemented again, as Online School Report recognizes the criminal justice program as one of the <


Pioneer Profiles: Amy Foley

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Amy Foley is the Student Affairs Manager for the Center for Distance Learning, where she works to promote student development and the university community. She is also the latest participant of the Division of Professional Studies’ Pioneer Profiles—a series of Q&A’s with members of the division’s dedicated staff.


UW-Platteville announces new partnership; offers nine new courses to California childhood educators

Authored on: , Written by: Stephen Kelley

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announces a new partnership with the California Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP). The partnership recognizes that UW-Platteville’s curriculum meets the high standards of the CAP, allowing California’s early childhood educators to take advantage of UW-Platteville’s innovative and engaging online courses.


Winners of the 2020 Distance Education Alumni Board Scholarship selected

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

The Distance Education Alumni Board selected students Maria Hutmacher and Isaac Dolan as the 2020 recipients of its scholarship. Created by the board in 2016 to help provide financial support to distance education students as they complete their degree, it provides two $300 scholarships each year.


Make a difference and advance your career with a UW-Platteville Criminal Justice master’s degree

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

In 1997, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville started its multidisciplinary Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree program. Now in its 23rd year, the program has proven to be a vital and essential part of graduate education at UW-Platteville, with more than 400 students graduates and counting.


Spring 2020 graduates of distance education and graduate programs announced

Authored on: , Written by: Paul Erickson

This spring, the Division of Professional Studies celebrated 155 graduates of distance education and graduate programs. Among them were the first two students to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's online Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program.


Sign up for UW-Platteville’s Alumni Mentorship Program

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

We all know earning a degree is important for enhancing one’s career, but it’s not the only step students can take to better position themselves for success. Knowledge of the workplace and the ability to make strong connections can prove just as valuable, which is why the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is pleased to offer the Alumni Mentee-Mentor Program—a resource for those seeking additional support outside of their studies.


Pioneer Profiles: Clint Nemitz

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

As the lead admissions specialist for the Center for Distance Learning, Clint Nemitz works with his team to connect prospective students with their desired academic programs.


Accelerate your career with a UW-Platteville Organizational Change Leadership master’s degree

Authored on: , Written by: Michael Sullivan, Ph.D., M.S., M.A.

What does it take to lead change in the 21st century workplace?  I remember my first time being trained on how to lead change while working for a U.S. automobile manufacturer.


Q&A with Michelle Zasada

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

This June, Michelle Zasada assumed the role of interim executive director for the Center for Distance Learning, a department she’s worked in for 13 years.


Recipient Selected for Outstanding Business Student of the Year Award

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for Distance Learning is pleased to announce Jesse Ruegsegger as this year’s Outstanding Business Student of the Year.


UW-Platteville continues to grow in online education; celebrating 42 years of experience

Authored on: , Written by: Ruth Wendlandt

For more than 40 years, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville has been an institutional leader in distance education. In 1978, UW-Platteville started a print-based program and then in 1999 the institution became the first public university in Wisconsin to offer degrees online. This experience in leadership helped make a smooth transition when the university and the branch campuses went into alternative delivery mode in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.


Hansen looks forward to leading Professional Studies

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

On May 12, Dr. Susan Hansen stepped into the role of interim dean for the Division of Professional Studies, which together is comprised of Continuing, Distance, and Online Graduate offerings. Previously, Hansen served as the associate vice chancellor of Academic Affairs at UW-Platteville, among other leadership roles.


Why a master’s degree in supply chain management from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is a good investment in your future

Authored on: , Written by: Xiaotong Liu, Assistant Professor, School of Business

From small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, supply chain is the beating heart of a company's operations and is essential for its success.


Distance student overcomes obstacles to be elected valedictorian

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

Over a decade ago, Jesse Ruegsegger found himself at the lowest point of his life, but a journey of recovery ended with him receiving not only the strength to forgive himself, but also academia’s highest honor.


Veteran credits support from UW-Platteville staff as he makes his mark at Michelin

Authored on: , Written by: Megan Hinderman

Eason Sharpe is used to working under pressure. While in the U.S. Air Force, he coordinated the movement of weapons all over the world. This piqued his interest in logistics and got him thinking about his next steps. He found the Master of Science in Integrated Supply Chain Management from UW-Platteville in a review from U.S. News and World Report, and though intrigued, he was a little nervous.


Education, experience, and aptitude lead to success for UW-Platteville Online grad

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange

It was an early calling to serve his community and country that led Master of Science in Criminal Justice alumnus Eduardo Jany on his career path, an intermingling of service and education.


Introducing the Division of Professional Studies

Authored on: , Written by: UW-Platteville Continuing Education

Distance and Continuing Education at UW-Platteville are undergoing a transformation. After months of consideration and research, Alternative Delivery Systems is being renamed and rebranded as the Division of Professional Studies.


Organizational Change Leadership graduate leads to serve others

Authored on: , Written by: UW-Platteville Distance Education

Over the course of his career, service and leadership have been common threads for Buck Robertson, a Deputy Sheriff Sergeant with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.


An engineer’s paradise: student works and learns on island home

Authored on: , Written by: Eric Herbst

On the other side of the world, Travis Spaeth spends his days working as an environmental engineer on the island of Saipan. He is also enrolled in the online Master of Science in Engineering program at the UW-Platteville.


Always learning, scholarship winner builds on experience

Authored on: , Written by: Megan Hinderman

Matt Halambeck is always looking for the next opportunity. He started college in the 1980s, but when he was offered a management position at the restaurant where he worked, he jumped at the chance. This decision led him on a successful path in the foodservice and retail industries.


Bouncing forward: a new OCL instructor’s unique career path

Authored on: , Written by: Megan Hinderman

Ever since Michael Sullivan took a high school history class, he has been passionate about education.


First dean of distance, continuing, and graduate education chosen

Authored on: , Written by: Dan Wackershauser

Dr. Craig Wilson will be the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s first dean of distance, continuing, and graduate education. Following a national search by an internal committee, Wilson will officially join UW-Platteville on Monday, Jan. 22, 2018.


Deaf culture shapes student's career path

Authored on: , Written by: Cheryl Lange and Megan Hinderman

Our students often tell us they are motivated to work in criminal justice because they want to serve their communities and use their talents and skills to make a difference. Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice student Emily Hamstra has that same passion, but also brings a unique skill to her service—she is a registered American Sign Language Interpreter.


From UCLA to UW-Platteville, pieces fall into place for ISCM student

Authored on: , Written by: Megan Hinderman

Kelvin Akehurst often marvels at the complexities that make up a successful supply chain. Any number of processes and procedures must take place to advance the products, goods, and services that are a part of our everyday lives. Over the years, Akehurst has used his experience and education to understand and steadily improve these intricate practices.