UW regents approve UW-Extension business degrees

MADISON— The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents has given the system's adult education arm the authority to grant business degrees.

The regents unanimously approved changes to UW-Extension's mission statement Friday allowing it to grant business certificates, associate degrees and bachelor's degrees in businesses through the UW System's Flex Option. That program allows adult students to earn credits by demonstrating real-life experience.

Right now UW-Extension doesn't offer any degrees. Extension officials say the move will help nontraditional students who need professional degrees. They hope to begin offering the degrees next year.

The regents also unanimously adopted a resolution ordering Extension to obtain accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.