University Without Walls Program at UMass Amherst Feted By Prominent Legislators at 50th Anniversary Celebration

The University of Massachusetts’ University Without Walls (UWW) celebrated its 50th anniversary with an in-person event today at the university’s Old Chapel. 

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The event included a program of remarks by Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy, U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, and U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern. The keynote address was delivered by Kate Hogan ‘88, UWW alumna and speaker pro tempore of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Founded in 1971 as a revolutionary concept in higher education, UWW has become a national model for continuing education, lifelong learning, and access and innovation. By integrating in-person and remote educational experiences, UWW offers undergraduate, graduate, certificate and training programs and courses designed to meet the needs of students at every stage of their professional and educational lives.

UWW’s signature offering is its Interdisciplinary Studies program, one of the oldest, most respected bachelor’s degree completion programs in the U.S., providing the flexible options and credit for experience that non-traditional students need to be successful.

Subbaswamy noted that in today’s rapidly changing world, students expect an educational experience that is both excellent and truly flexible. As it did 50 years ago, UWW is answering the call, challenging the status quo, and leading the change.

“UWW is responding to this evolving higher education landscape by building on its pioneering mission and its national and international reputation for excellence,” Subbaswamy said. “Broadening opportunities for flexible learning, UWW has once again channeled that original experiment in democratizing education and expanded access with new approaches to acquiring degrees, skills, and credentials.