MADISON (WKOW) -- Wisconsin's universities are getting more changes beyond their recent rebranding. Most notably, they're planning on admitting students before they've even applied, according to Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman.
Universities of Wisconsin -- recently renamed from the University of Wisconsin System -- aims to grow its number of graduates from 37,000 to 40,000 each year.
To make this goal more achievable in a time of lower college enrollment, Rothman says the universities are launching a direct admissions system.
The system will admit students "capable of succeeding" before they even apply in a hope to encourage some students who may have otherwise not gone to college.
Rothman says the universities are also looking into dual enrollment, which will allow students to get college credits while in high school.
The universities are also working to address structural deficits, solve the problems facing branch campuses and address diversity, equity and inclusion to prepare students for an "increasingly multicultural workplace."
Rothman also mentioned the need to "continue to promote free speech and civil dialogue" on their campuses.
"So, yes, we have a new name and identity – the Universities of Wisconsin," Rothman said. "But a closer look reveals much more change at our 13 public universities, all in service to improving lives and communities, being strong financial stewards, and helping Wisconsin win the War for Talent."
