Dual-Career Couple Assistance Program

We recognize that many faculty are part of dual-career couples and the decision to accept a university position often includes the availability of employment for a spouse or partner. At UW-Madison, we are committed to assisting spouses and partners find employment opportunities on campus or in the local community by offering information, networking, career resources, personal assistance and support.

We do not guarantee employment, but we do work closely with partners and spouses to offer personalized support to navigate the sometimes-complicated issues associated with finding employment in a new community.

The Dual-Career Couple Assistance Program is a partnership between the Office of the Provost, departments, deans and the broader campus community.

We encourage couples to ask for a referral to our program through their department or hiring committee chair. We do understand that prospective faculty may want to keep potential dual career issues confidential in advance of an offer. Consequently, we are available to talk with you about our program and our resources without needing a referral from a department or hiring committee chair.

Services and Resources

UW-Madison Positions

UW-Madison is one of our region’s largest employers and working here is a great option for many partners and spouses. The department or search committee chair of the faculty hire along with the Dual-Career Couple Assistance Program may be able to help identify and pursue campus positions. We encourage couples to utilize the Jobs at UW website to learn about the kinds of positions available on campus as well as to find current position openings. In some circumstances support may also be available through the Strategic Hiring Initiative.

Off-Campus Positions

The Dual-Career Couple Assistance Program is well connected in the local community and works to help spouses and partners network, and identify, and pursue opportunities in our area. In some cases, we refer partners and spouses to an external employment agency to help with employment counseling, advising and referrals.

Career and Job Search Advising

UW-Madison offers career and job search advising and support for people looking for new opportunities. Services include employment counseling, resume evaluation, skills inventory, and individual advising. Learn More

Non-Employment Issues

We understand that relocation usually means a lot of change. To make your transition easier, we not only provide career related support, but we are available to provide information about non-employment issues including local schools, day-care, recreational programs, housing information, and cultural organizations. If you would like to have a confidential discussion about any of these issues, please feel free to ask us.

Community Orientation

The Dual-Career Couple Assistance Program may be available to offer a community orientation tour for faculty and senior administrative staff candidates and their partners when they are in Madison in advance of relocation. Please inquire with Suzanne Swift for more information.