It provided statewide access to university system's resources and research to Wisconsin residents of all ages.
The Division of Continuing and Online Education, offered credit, noncredit, professional development, and personal enrichment programs through the 26 UW System campuses and online courses and programs throughout the world.
The online Bachelor of Science degree in sustainable management was added in 2009 in partnership with UW–Parkside, UW–River Falls, UW–Stout, and UW–Superior.
The educational, consulting, and research services focus on improving the overall quality of Wisconsin business startups and developing high-potential companies.
On November 9, 2017, the UW Board of Regents voted to proceed with a proposal that splits UW–Extension's divisions between UW-Madison and the University of Wisconsin System administration.