Alverno College
The Vibe Check
Alverno College offers an intimate, empowering, and intensely supportive environment focused on student growth. The campus feels like a tight-knit community where every student is known and mentored personally. It is a place where practical skills and self-reflection are prioritized over traditional competitive grading.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Alverno is renowned for its ability-based learning model, which focuses on demonstrating eight core abilities rather than accumulating credits. The college excels in Health Professions, Education, and Biology, offering high-quality, personalized teaching with strong ties to Milwaukee's healthcare and education sectors. Research opportunities are hands-on and integrated directly into the curriculum, often involving real-world community projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers a vibrant mix of lakefront activities, breweries, and a thriving food scene, all accessible from campus. Students enjoy exploring the Historic Third Ward for boutiques and cafes, catching concerts at the Pabst Theater, or attending festivals like Summerfest. The city provides the amenities of a major metro area with a friendly, manageable midwestern feel.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($53,145):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Alverno College is located in a safe, residential neighborhood on Milwaukee's south side with campus security present 24/7. The campus is well-lit and maintains a secure environment, though students should remain aware of their surroundings as with any urban setting.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unique ability-based learning model that focuses on skill mastery rather than traditional grading
- ✓ Highly personalized academic support and mentorship due to small enrollment numbers
- ✓ Strong placement in top fields like Health Professions and Education within the Milwaukee area
- ✓ Substantially lower average net price compared to the sticker tuition cost
Cons
- ✗ The 51.5% graduation rate is below the national average, which may be a concern for retention
- ✗ The single-sex identity may not appeal to all students, though the curriculum is open to all
- ✗ Milwaukee's urban setting requires students to be proactive about navigating city life and safety
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Alverno College is best known for its innovative ability-based learning model, which assesses students on eight core abilities rather than traditional letter grades. It is a premier institution for women's education (though it admits men to select programs) with strong national reputations in Nursing, Education, and Social Work.
No, Alverno College has a high acceptance rate of 93.1%, making it generally accessible to applicants. While admissions are not highly selective, the college looks for students who demonstrate potential for growth and alignment with their mission of empowering students through practical skills.
Campus life at Alverno is intimate and community-focused due to the small enrollment of around 724 students. Students benefit from a supportive, close-knit environment with strong faculty mentorship, though the social scene is quieter than large state universities. Many students commute, but resident students often engage in campus ministry, athletics, and community service initiatives.
For many students, particularly those pursuing nursing, education, or social work, Alverno offers good value. The average net price of $16,722 is manageable, and the 10-year median earnings of $53,145 indicate that graduates can earn a solid return on their investment. However, prospective students should actively utilize financial aid to minimize debt.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 961
- In-State Tuition $32,794
- Zip Code 53234
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high Pell Grant rate of nearly 50%, Alverno demonstrates a commitment to access for students from diverse economic backgrounds. The average net price of $16,722 is significantly lower than the sticker price, and the 10-year median earnings of $53,145 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for those entering the college's strong health and education fields.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.