Students can advance their degrees and careers in Summer Term

Summer Term at UW-Madison is a one-of-a-kind experience, with music on the Terrace and sailboats on Lake Mendota. It also gives students a chance to make progress in their academic and professional careers.

Gina Lehrer, a junior studying forest and wildlife ecology and life science communication, works at the UW Arboretum last summer (photo by Jeff Miller/UW-Madison). Above: Bruce Allison (right), an adjunct professor in the forest and wildlife ecology department, teaches students how to assess the stability of trees on Observatory Hill (photo by Bryce Richter). — Gina Lehrer, a junior studying forest and wildlife ecology and life science communication, works at the UW Arboretum last summer (photo by Jeff Miller). Above: Bruce Allison (right), an adjunct professor in the forest and wildlife ecology department, teaches students how to assess the stability of trees on Observatory Hill (photo by Bryce Richter).

In three-, four-, or eight-week courses, they can focus on difficult classes without having to worry about juggling a full load, as in fall or spring. They can also gain a competitive edge, earning the credits and grades they’ll need to get into their preferred areas of study.

“Taking a course during the summer allowed me to focus my energy on a single class and freed up opportunities during the academic year, all while helping me stay on track to graduate in four years,” says Logan Reigstad, a student in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Any students concerned about graduating in four years — for example, those who’ve participated in semester-long study abroad programs, internships, or co-ops — can take advantage of Summer Term’s accelerated courses. They offer a way to avoid an extra semester or two on campus, saving money on tuition and rent.

Summer Term students study at Union South. — Summer Term students study at Union South (photo by Jeff Miller).

The faster students earn their degrees, the more quickly they can move into their careers. Summer Term features a wide range of career-oriented courses so students get the training they need to find a job after graduation. For example, anthropology students can take a field course in archeology, where they gain hands-on practice at a dig. A political science course offers an internship program in Washington, D.C., where students can work in a legislative office. And a service learning course gives art students valuable experience in organizing community events

Summer scholarships

Summer Term also offers more than 100 online courses, geared toward students not planning to stay in Madison and those who need flexible educational options that can fit into their summertime work or vacation schedules.

Relaxing on Bascom Hill (photo by Jeff Miller).

“Taking an online Summer Term course was one of the best academic decisions I made,” says Sage Bladow, who’s pursuing a double major in chemical engineering and vocal performance. “It offered me flexibility to take a class on campus while also working full time. Being able to tailor my education to my needs allowed me to succeed both academically and professionally.”

Students often cite finances as a barrier to participating in Summer Term, so this year the university is offering $250,000 in summer scholarships, up from $25,000 last year. The scholarships will help eligible students cover tuition and fees.

Enrollment for Summer Term opens in March. Check here to learn more about courses, programs, fees, housing options, and summer jobs. Students can also attend a Make the Most of Your Summer Resource Fair on March 15, from 4-6 p.m. at Union South. Twenty campus groups will be on hand to provide information and answer questions, including the Office of Financial Aid, Career Services, Housing, and Undergraduate Advising.