WKU Independent Learning, a Unit of the Division of Extended Learning and Outreach

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About Us

Independent Learning is a unit of the Division of Extended Learning & Outreach (DELO) at Western Kentucky University.

Download Our Brochure

The WKU Independent Learning brochure summarizes our courses, policies, and how to register.

Mission

Independent Learning recognizes the needs of individuals to pursue educational experiences outside the traditional college classroom due to personal situations unique to each individual.

History

A Great Tradition: Est. 1919

Independent Learning has a long history as part of the WKU community and 86 years of experience assisting students and providing independent learning opportunities.

Western Kentucky University was established in 1906 as "Western Kentucky State Normal School." 2006 marked WKU’s celebration of A Century of Spirit.

On December 30, 1919, President H. H. Cherry and the Board of Regents of the Western Kentucky State Normal School held a special meeting in the Red Room of the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, KY. At this meeting they authorized many improvements for the school. Among those was the following: "The establishment of an Extension Course of study at the State Normal School."

On November 18, 1920, The Correspondence and Extension Courses of Study was fully and successfully organized and deemed one of the school’s most successful achievements. The Board of Regents stated in this meeting that this program "enabled self-reliant students to secure an education that they would not otherwise secure."

The students enrolled in correspondence courses had proven themselves according to the Board of Regents report on April 2, 1926. "These classes of students are made up of those who are ambitious and persevering. They have fully appreciated the advantages offered and the services extended."

Through the years, Independent Learning has remained devoted to the success of its students. Self-paced independent learning courses have provided many students with educational opportunities that would have otherwise been out of their reach.

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