Purdue Global’s School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies accepting proposals for 2026 Virtual General Education Conference

The Purdue Global School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies is thrilled to invite you to the 18th annual Virtual General Education Conference, taking place from April 21-23, 2026. This year’s theme, “Be the Change: Innovation and Inspiration in General Education,” celebrates our collective mission to provide adult learners with access to high-quality, world-class online education while inspiring creativity, leadership and forward-thinking in teaching and learning.

Proposals for this year’s conference are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on Feb. 1. We welcome faculty, staff and administrators from across the university to contribute their insights and expertise. This is your opportunity to showcase innovative practices, research and strategies that advance general education and foster student success.

Conference tracks

We encourage all proposals to connect to general education topics, be research-based, and include scholarly references or attestations for creative works. Submissions for Lightning Sessions are also welcome! Please refer to the Proposal and Session Guidelines for complete details.

• Research, Scholarship and Skills in General Education:
  Share research, scholarship and essential skills development connected to general education disciplines and/or interdisciplinary studies that highlight the core disciplines underpinning general education and demonstrate continued relevance even as academia evolves.
• Evidence-Based Practices in General Education:
  Highlight instructional strategies, interventions and teaching methods grounded in research and data. Presentations can focus on teaching methods that are effective, equitable and adaptable to diverse student needs, promoting both academic success and inclusivity in the classroom.
• Leadership and Strategic Planning:
  Explore research and practical applications of leadership strategies, policy formulation and strategic planning in higher education. Presentations may address how higher education leaders and faculty can cultivate student success in an increasingly interconnected global environment.
• Innovation and Future Trends in Higher Education:
  Investigate contemporary issues, problems and trends in higher education via research connected to general education courses and the integration of general education topics throughout the curriculum. Topics may include innovations in course design, technology, AI and design thinking.
• Enhancing Inclusivity Within Higher Education:
  Showcase research and strategies that celebrate and highlight the importance of inclusivity, equity and belonging in higher education. Presentations might include curriculum design initiatives, student and faculty support systems, and best practices for supporting diverse and multifaceted populations.
• Lightning Sessions:
  These fast-paced, high-impact presentations are perfect for previewing technology, sharing research snapshots, showcasing best teaching practices or presenting original creative works. Engage your audience with a concise and dynamic approach that invites questions and encourages discussion.

This year, the conference features special preconference sessions in celebration ofEarth Day. Join us April 20 for a special Earth Day preconference session, “Sow the Seeds of Change: Earth Day Every Day.” This day of learning will feature presentations and activities centered around sustainability in education and beyond. Faculty, staff, students and administrators are encouraged to submit proposals and participate. Visit the Earth Day page on our conference site for details.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to engage with colleagues, share innovative ideas and contribute to the future of general education.

Submit your proposal by Feb. 1 and join us in inspiring innovation and driving change in general education!