About the School of Extended Studies

Divisions

About the School of Distance Learning and Outreach

Overview

The School of Distance Learning and Outreach provides access to educational opportunities to diverse groups and individuals utilizing a variety of teaching and learning modalities. We serve individuals who may not be able to physically attend one of Western’s two campus locations. As a leading comprehensive university, our obligation is to provide access to educational opportunities both regionally and nationally.

We welcome your inquiries whether for credit courSES to obtain a bachelor’s degree or non-credit courSES for professional development, workforce education, corporate partnerships, summer youth programs or personal enrichment courSES. Western Illinois University (WIU) is an institution of higher learning with exceptional academic programs. We can provide students with various types of instruction from on-line to face-to-face courSES. Our face-to face courSES are offered at off-campus locations as well as at convenient times, such as evening and weekends. Our flexible scheduling makes our courSES highly suited to adult students who have other responsibilities and require a manageable course load and to traditional students who are interested in pursuing an affordable and challenging undergraduate degree program. We provide programs and courSES at locations throughout western Illinois. In other words, we come to your place. We utilize technology, such as our two-way audio-video and telecourSES, to further extend educational opportunities to those in educationally underserved areas.

Mission Statement

The School of Distance Learning and Outreach will advance the mission of Western Illinois University and have a profound impact on our changing and diverse world through the use of technology in the instructional process, commitment to public service and outreach, acknowledging that learning is a life-long pursuit, and providing high quality programs impacting the lives of youth through mature adults.

Our Vision

Western Illinois University School of Distance Learning and Outreach will be a leading comprehensive school in the Midwestern United States in providing high quality life-long and enriching learning opportunities.