School for Workers is the original university-based labor education program in the United States. Starting in 1925 as one of the first operational components of the Wisconsin Idea, the school has a long tradition of evolving alongside the current needs of working people, labor organizations, and community partners. Today, the tradition continues, as School for Workers carries our mission forward throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
On-demand institutes
Registration is always open!
On-demand institutes are comprehensive, non-credit courses developed by university faculty at the affordable tuition rate of $99 per course. The course is divided into units with various readings, short videos, and supportive documents to explore a set topic. Participants can access the course 24/7, for up to six months after registration, to explore and complete the course material.
Courses now available:
- Essentials for Union Stewards
- Fundamentals of the Family Medical Leave Act
School for Workers news
Our news
Labor Forward presses pause for summer break
Labor Forward, a monthly live-stream interview series hosted by School for Workers, will not be scheduled during the summer. The free program will return in September 2023.
May 22, 2023
Steward Training series in Madison – Registration extended!
In three Thursday night sessions, you will sharpen and deepen your stewardship skills and improve your effectiveness as a leader. Class topics will include: The role of a union steward Using the contract to represent …
May 5, 2023
Labor Forward on May 17th with Peter Rickman
Wednesday, May 17th at noon (CT) Register Join us for the next Labor Forward Forum featuring Peter Rickman, President of MASH (Milwaukee Area Service and Hospitality Workers Organization). Professor Don Taylor and Peter will discuss …
April 27, 2023- More School for Workers news
In the news
Stop Stock Buybacks
An article written by Dr. Ericka Wills about the aviation unions’ No Stock Buybacks campaign, the issues the unions are standing up for, and where airlines’ record profits have been going. Stop Stock Buybacks | …
May 26, 2023Beat The Heat
Professor Michael Childers speaks with Planet Magazine about the dangers of heat stress for workers. Beat the Heat | Planet Magazine Interviews: Micahel Childers Read the article
May 15, 2023- More articles and interviews
National Labor College Legacy Institute
School for Workers is proud to be recognized as a National Labor College (NLC) Legacy Institute. As a Legacy Institute, the Board of Trustees of NLC recommends School for Workers to all members of the labor movement as an institute where they can access high-quality labor education offerings.