The following majors are being offered during Grandparents University (GPU) 2026. Enjoy exploring the wide range of GPU majors taught by UW faculty, staff, and graduate students from disciplines across campus. You and your grandchild will stay together in the same major for the entire two-day program. Each child must be accompanied by an adult during the activities related to their major.

Please select majors based on your grandchild’s age, their physical activity level, and your physical activity level. Each major’s age range has been carefully determined based on the focus and scope of the activities. As a reminder, all majors are subject to a seniority-based placement process.

Levels of physical activity vary among majors and field trips, so please read the descriptions carefully and choose what best suits your group’s physical abilities:

We will make every attempt to honor accessibility requests made in advance.

Sessions: I, II
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Jen Maggio-Laack, program planning and outreach coordinator, Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center, UW–Madison Division of Extension Natural Resources Institute

Participants will become outdoor detectives investigating animal clues on UW–Madison’s campus. They will learn how to identify animal signs and observe the specialized adaptations of reptiles and amphibians. Students will also examine macroinvertebrates from the Wisconsin River to better understand the role different animals serve in their habitat and what their presence can teach us about our ecosystems. Students will use what they have learned to create and share their own unique creature!

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: Participants should come dressed for the weather with closed-toe shoes. There will be walking between multiple locations outside on Thursday.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: A’ha Vuong, Academic Advisor, Art Department

Leave your pencils at home and bring your imagination as we explore the wonderful world of drawing! Using inspiration from artworks in the Chazen Museum of Arts’ permanent collection, we’ll experiment with fabric, thread, and printmaking to see where our minds — and hands — can take us. No experience with art or drawing is necessary, but a willingness to play is required!

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Activities will involve working with various art media. Participants should wear an art shirt or apron to protect their clothing.

Session: II
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Scott A. Rankin, professor and chair, Departments of Food Science and Nutritional Sciences

Work with Babcock Dairy plant staff on crafting your own unique flavors of ice cream to taste and even take home a gallon or two (or five or six). We will judge and have prizes for the best ice creams in various categories.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: This major takes place in a manufacturing facility with numerous hazards — moving parts, chemicals, electricity, steam, and so forth. While we will have ample supervisory staff, all attendees are asked to take every caution as instructed at the event. Participants must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes — this will be strictly enforced. No jewelry or hanging clothes; keep hair tightly restrained. Hair nets and disposable lab coats will be provided. We will be working in a wet, often messy environment … all in preparation to make some great ice cream! Bring your ideas!

Session: II
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Liz Jesse ’98, science outreach specialist, UW Biotechnology Center

How can you use DNA knowledge and molecular biology techniques to solve problems? Imagine that your boat has landed on a desert island filled with dinosaurs (and a high-tech lab), and your job is to figure out what they like to eat so you can lure them back to their side of the island. We will use a variety of techniques ranging from DNA isolation to gel electrophoresis to help solve a “Jurassic size” problem.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Kelsey Brannan ’14, director of student radio, WSUM, School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Check, check! This major is your chance to learn what it’s like to work at a radio station. Learn communication skills while you record your own interview in WSUM studios.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Note to participants: You will be wearing headphones and using microphones.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Xiaoyi Sun MA’09, PhD’18, senior instructor of Chinese, Madison College

Go on a journey to experience Chinese pinyin, tones, and characters through games, music, and other hands-on learning activities. You’ll also immerse yourself in Chinese culture through activities such as Chinese calligraphy, songs, and festivals.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Elizabeth McCrank, community leadership development specialist, UW–Madison Division of Extension

Discover how you can improve real-life communities by designing solutions in a creative virtual world. You’ll apply creativity and collaboration in an interactive digital environment to explore civic engagement and community involvement.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Note to participants: Participants will not be playing Minecraft on computers during this session, but we will be mapping out projects and plans for trying out in Minecraft and IRL (in real life) when they get home!

Sessions: II, III
Ages: 7–10

Instructors: Cole Nelson MS’23, teaching faculty, Department of Computer Sciences; Peter Kirschmann; K–12 outreach lead, Department of Computer Sciences

Power up your understanding of computer science and how it goes beyond the use computers and tap into how scientists solve problems using directions so precise that even a computer can follow the steps. In this major, you’ll log into some of the creative aspects of computer science, such as how to create your own interactive art, animated stories, and games in the Scratch programming environment.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Matt DeLong, associate director of instructional support, Department of Mathematics

Uncover the mathematical foundations of secrecy by exploring how cryptography has shaped history. You will investigate the shifting numerical patterns used to protect high-stakes messages, tracing the evolution from classic battlefield ciphers to the modern public key cryptography essential for today’s internet commerce. By mastering these techniques, you will see firsthand how the power of math is used to safeguard nations and secure your digital world.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–10

Instructor: Sabrina Bonine, Dance Department

Explore creative dance through playful movement activities. Participants will learn about making a dance and will work collaboratively to make their own dance to share with the class.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity: High

Note to participants: Participants of all physical abilities are welcome. While this major will have significant physical activity, all movement is guided by each participant’s comfort level and abilities. If a person is interested in participating but concerned about the physical activity, please reach out to Sabrina with any questions or concerns. Movement and dance is for every body.

Session: I
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Lennon Rodgers, director, Grainger Engineering Design Innovation Lab

We teach the practice of interdisciplinary design with a focus on prototyping and testing.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Session: II
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Mari Henderson, fellow, Department of Communication Arts

Capture the imagination after learning the essentials of good storytelling. By drawing upon moments in your family’s history, you’ll gain practice in using technology to record those memories and edit a podcast that shines a spotlight on a story that you develop.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Feng He MS’08, PhD’11, senior scientist, Center for Climatic Research, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies

What are the “big 10” events during Earth’s 4.5-billion-year history? What were the climates during these events? Journey back in time to explore the evolution of Earth’s environment and climate from its beginning to the human transformation of it.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, II
Ages: 7–10

Instructor: PJ Liesch MS’10, state entomology specialist, UW–Madison Division of Extension; director, Insect Diagnostic Lab, Department of Entomology

Bug out by going inside the world of insects. You’ll learn about the biology, ecology, diversity, and importance of the insects around us through several hands-on activities, field trips, and interactive mini lectures. Venture out on an insect-collecting expedition along the Lakeshore Path and create your own curated insect collection. Along the way, develop observation skills by keeping a scientific journal during the course.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: There will be an outdoor activity to collect insects that will require walking several blocks.

Sessions: II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Melissa Reusche ’13, MS’17, doctoral candidate, Department of Geology

Building on your introduction to geology at the Geology Museum, you will discover the geology and water resources of Wisconsin. You’ll enjoy digging into the rocks of our state and gaining an understanding of Wisconsin’s rich geologic past. Then explore the rocks that contain water and the connection between surface water and groundwater.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Session: III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Anne Moser MA’87, education coordinator and senior special librarian

Lake Mendota is the perfect place to spend a summer day and explore a freshwater ecosystem. As a limnologist, you will test the water for oxygen and temperature and take samples of the lake’s murky bottom aboard Limnos, a 28-foot research boat. You will join our Sea Grant experts to explore the ecology of our Great Lakes. You will also learn about Wisconsin’s groundwater and work with water chemists in our laboratory.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: You’ll take water samples and board a boat from a wooden-plank pier. Please wear appropriate footwear. There is no formal seating on the boat. You’ll be standing or sitting on the gunnels for approximately 90 minutes. There is some outside walking and climbing of stairs required. Be prepared for all weather: the boat will go out in all conditions except for lightning, including heat and rain. Be sure to cover for sun or rain and bring a hat. You will likely be in a room without air conditioning (but well ventilated, with fans and open windows or doors as possible).

Sessions: II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Ashley Tarcin ’24, graduate research assistant, Animal and Dairy Sciences

Have you ever wondered why chicken nuggets are so tasty? In this major, you will have a chance to be a meat scientist and a meat processor. It’s a unique opportunity for you to cut up meat and make (and eat) chicken nuggets while learning about the science of meat processing every step of the way!

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Bring a coat/sweater as we will be in a 50-degree Fahrenheit room. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for the second day.

Session: III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: David Mikolajczyk ’12, MS’22, researcher II, Space Science and Engineering Center

Meteorology covers both weather and climate. We will talk about what weather is, different types of severe weather, and climate. We will also talk about how we measure different weather variables from the surface all the way to space.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: There will be one day when we launch the balloon that will be outside on the rooftop, which is accessible by stairs only.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–10

Instructor: Jamie Henke ’85, PhD’89, distinguished teaching professor, UW–Madison Division of Continuing Studies and Mead Witter School of Music

Let the music take control when you explore the structure of the blues and the three chords that make up the blues and how they are organized into a pattern. Then feel the rhythms of scat singing and create your own chants. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy tuning into UW Marching Band favorites.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Session: III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Britta Lothary, clinical faculty, School of Nursing

Examine the critical role nurses play in patient care, explore places where nurses work, and learn more about what nurses really do. During this interactive major, you’ll practice basic nursing skills using human-patient simulators in our skills lab at the School of Nursing. You’ll also play computer games designed to teach medical terms and learn how nurses keep patients safe.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: All participants must wear closed-toe shoes both days as you will be in our lab setting for various activities

Session: III
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Sharon Gartland, clinical professor and program director of occupational therapy, Department of Kinesiology

Learn about the exciting health care profession of occupational therapy (OT). In this major, you will discover how OT helps people of all ages regain their ability to participate in meaningful life tasks after an injury, illness, or disability.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Participants should wear closed-toe shoes (such as sneakers) and comfortable clothing.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Edward Portillo ’10, PharmD’14, associate professor, School of Pharmacy

Explore the world of pharmacy — visit several interactive stations as you learn about the role of pharmacists and the science behind helping people live better, healthier lives. You’ll also discover how to identify certain medications, how custom medication is made, how best to communicate with patients, and how to prepare and distribute medicines safely. Plus, enjoy the chance to make your own candy gummy bears — that you can eat — and take home your own lab coat.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Closed-toe shoes are required in the laboratory.

Session: III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Anne Pearce ’10, MS’16, education program manager, UW–Madison Arboretum

Put on your sleuthing hat and investigate the UW Arboretum’s Native Plant Garden, Curtis Prairie, and Teal Pond Wetland to learn about plant and animal habitats. Through these investigations and close observations of Wisconsin native plants and insects, you will learn about pollination, invasive species, the importance of restoring lands to native habitats, and research being done at the Arboretum.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: Be prepared for the weather and mosquitoes. Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat. Bring a raincoat if rain is in the forecast. On Friday, wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Ryan Dostal, outreach specialist, Allen Centennial Garden, Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences

Learn how the Allen Centennial Garden’s gardening practices are helping to mitigate the effects of urban life and climate change by connecting people to plants. In this major, you will get your hands dirty and leave with a newfound appreciation for plants.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: This major will be outside unless there is severe weather. There is a one-mile walk on the second day.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 9–14

Instructor: Heidi Spalitta ’25, graduate student and teaching assistant, Department of Computer Sciences

Come meet a robot! In this major, you’ll learn how researchers are developing social robots for our everyday lives. Plus, you’ll study the social cues that these robots use to interact more easily with humans. And don’t miss an opportunity to learn how to program a robot to emulate some of these characteristics.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Session: II
Ages: 7–14

Lead Instructor: Alisa King-Klemperer, communications manager, Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center

Join us for a hands-on exploration of IceCube, the biggest and strangest telescope in the world. Learn about the lives of researchers who are working in the extreme South Pole environment to develop new ways to explore the universe. You’ll learn about neutrinos — the mysterious cosmic messengers detected by IceCube — and what they tell us about the composition of matter, cosmic explosions, and more.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Low

Sessions: I, III
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Allison Bender, outreach program manager, Wisconsin Energy Institute

Become an energy expert and learn how researchers are working together to advance the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. How can we make the best windmill? Can prairie plants replace petroleum in our cars and trucks? Everybody is needed — from engineers to artists to politicians. Join us to learn why renewable energy is so exciting and put your new knowledge to work with hands-on activities.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Please wear closed-toe shoes for being in the lab, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather.

Session: II
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Stephen Tabor, teaching faculty, Department of Theatre and Drama

Discover the full spectrum of theatre by exploring how performance, design, and space come together to tell stories onstage. This major offers a hands‑on introduction to primary theatrical components — including acting, costume design, scenic design, lighting design, and more. Through creative exercises, design projects, and guided exploration of UW–Madison’s theatre spaces, you’ll gain a practical understanding of how artists collaborate to bring a production to life.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: Our classroom space requires that shoes be removed upon entry, so be prepared to work in socked or bare feet. Alternatively, you may bring a separate pair of slippers or shoes that are not worn outside. Please wear closed-toed shoes during our tour of the theatre spaces.

Session: III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Doug Soldat ’01, MS’03, professor, Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences

Focus on understanding soils and grasses as living systems! Explore how soils are formed, how nutrients and water move through them, and how different grasses grow and interact with their environment. This major blends biology, earth science, and hands‑on investigation to better understand the land surfaces we use and depend on every day.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: One day will be outside, so be prepared for weather; there will be walking between locations.

Session: III
Ages: 7–10

Instructor: Karen Hershberger DVM’10, assistant teaching professor, Department of Pathobiological Sciences

See your love for animals grow as you work with live animals to learn the basics of physical examination and handling. You’ll explore comparative anatomical features, drawing on knowledge of the human form, and the basics of health and well-care in our veterinary patients. Then, discover the depth and breadth of the veterinary profession through many fun, hands-on activities.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to participants: Participants must wear closed-toed shoes. Caution regarding chemical sensitivity: anatomical specimens are fixed with formalin. Caution regarding animal allergies: we may handle live animals (dog, horse, cow). No travel outside the country or contact with farm animals within two weeks of the program.

Session: I
Ages: 11–14

Instructor: Megan Spurgeon, assistant professor, Department of Oncology

UW–Madison is a world-renowned academic research institution known for cutting edge research into viruses and their role in human disease. Some viruses, called tumor viruses, contribute to different forms of human cancer. Scientists at the Institute for Molecular Virology, UW Carbone Cancer Center, and McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research study how tumor viruses infect cells, manipulate their hosts, and ultimately lead to cancer. This basic research is essential to developing new and better therapeutic strategies for virus-associated cancers. In this major, you will learn about viruses and how they contribute to the molecular and cellular basis of cancer.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium

Note to Participants: Participants should wear closed-toe shoes.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 7–14

Instructor: Jamie Nack MS’02, senior wildlife outreach specialist, UW–Madison Division of Extension, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology

Take a walk on the wild side! In this major, you’ll learn about dozens of Wisconsin’s fascinating wild animals, from ruby-throated hummingbirds to black bears. Then, pick up the basic techniques of bird identification and birdwatching. Finally, test your new skills by going on a scavenger hunt around campus in search of wildlife and the clues they’ve left behind.

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: High

Note to participants: The program is outdoors, rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather. If you have binoculars, please bring them with you.

Sessions: I, II, III
Ages: 9–14

Lead Instructor: Haddie McLean, outreach program manager, Department of Physics

Get ready to “ooh” and “aah” while learning about the wonders of physics during a fun — and delicious — series of experiments! You’ll first pick up some physics basics before putting those new skills to the test!

Anticipated Activities:

Physical Activity Level: Medium