Gov. Scott Walker will be a regular feature at Milwaukee's Marquette University as the Wisconsin Republican is planning to complete his undergraduate degree that he left mid-way 24 years ago. Walker discontinued his studies in 1990 as a senior to accept a position with the local American Red Cross. He was triple majoring in political science, philosophy and economics, Politico reports.
Walker is hoping to get his college degree as soon as possible as he will be running for re-election against Democratic opponent Mary Burke this year. Also lack of a bachelor's degree could negatively affect his chances in the GOP presidential nomination. Walker is considered a potential candidate for the 2016 presidential elections. Harry Truman was the last elected president without a college degree.
The governor has decided to receive the remaining credits through the University of Wisconsin-System's online course offerings.
"Governor Walker would like to finish his degree through the UW FlexOption once they expand the degree offerings," Walker's press secretary, Laurel Patrick, said, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports.
Walker has strongly supported the UW FlexOption program since its launch in 2012. He said that it could help professionals like him with full-time jobs and kids to earn a college degree. During the inauguration of the online degree program, Walker explained the obstacles he faced while trying to find ways to finish his college education.
"I kept thinking I'd go back, got married, had one kid, had another kid, next thing you know. you're worrying more about paying for your kids' college education than you are for your own," Walker said, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports.
Currently the 46-year-old governor is waiting for the right degree program to be added to the existing list of UW FlexOption program. Currently, degrees in engineering, health care and information technology-related fields are being offered through the program.
"But at some point, hopefully by next school year, they might start offering other courses beyond those," Walker said. "None of those are in my area of expertise, but I'd love to in the future be one of the students."
Walker joked about sharing a ride with his two sons to Marquette University. One of his sons, Matthew, is currently chairman of the Wisconsin College Republicans.
