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Upper Iowa University Launches uiuElevate to Expand Access to Professional and Continuing Education

New online learning platform creates flexible opportunities for individuals, educators and organizations

Fayette, IA (08/20/2026) — Upper Iowa University (UIU) announced the launch of uiuElevate, a new learning platform designed to make professional development, continuing education, and specialized learning opportunities more accessible to individuals and organizations.

uiuElevate expands UIU's educational offerings beyond traditional degree programs by providing a convenient way for learners to discover and enroll in specialized courses and training opportunities. Initial offerings will include continuing education opportunities for educators and specialized courses developed in response to workforce and organizational needs. Future plans include additional microcredentials and potential non-credit programming.

"uiuElevate represents another way Upper Iowa University is responding to the changing needs of today's learners and workforce," said Dr. Billie Cowley, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Upper Iowa University. "Learning doesn't always need to lead to a degree to make a meaningful difference in someone's career or community. Through uiuElevate, we can provide focused, accessible educational opportunities that help individuals build new skills, meet professional requirements, and continue growing throughout their careers."

The new platform reflects UIU's longstanding commitment to accessible education and lifelong learning. The University's 2026-27 Enrollment Plan emphasizes expanding workforce-aligned opportunities and credentials that respond to student and employer demand as part of its broader enrollment strategy.

Through uiuElevate, UIU can also respond to the specific educational and training needs of businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations. For example, the University has identified opportunities to provide specialized training requested by external organizations, including conservation management training and continuing education credit for teachers.

The uiuElevate storefront provides a streamlined experience where learners can explore available opportunities, register, and access their learning experience online. The platform is powered by D2L Course Merchant and integrates with UIU's Brightspace learning environment. The system is designed to accommodate both standalone courses and courses with multiple session options.

"uiuElevate also gives us the flexibility to listen to employers and community partners and develop learning opportunities around emerging needs," Cowley added. "As those needs evolve, we want UIU to be a place people can turn to throughout their careers-not only when they are pursuing a degree, but whenever they are ready to learn something new."

The launch of uiuElevate supports IMPACT 2028, Upper Iowa University's strategic plan, and its focus on innovation, accessibility, and sustainable growth. UIU's mission emphasizes providing quality educational opportunities through varied delivery methods to inspire success and empower lives, while its vision calls for continual innovation in student-centered learning.

Individuals and organizations interested in exploring available learning opportunities can visit uiuElevate.UIU.EDU.

About Upper Iowa University

Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its residential campus in Fayette, Iowa, and flexible online and distance education options. UIU is committed to providing quality educational opportunities through varied delivery methods to inspire success and empower lives.

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