University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
The Vibe Check
UW-Milwaukee feels like a vibrant urban campus where students are focused on practical, hands-on learning that connects directly to the city's industries. There's a gritty, ambitious energy, with students often balancing classes with internships at local businesses and exploring Milwaukee's neighborhoods. It's a place for self-starters who want a real-world education without the ivory tower isolation.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1090
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
Academically, UWM is a powerhouse in applied fields, particularly in Health Professions, Engineering, and Business, with strong ties to local employers. The university is classified as an R1 research institution, offering undergraduates genuine opportunities to collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research. Class sizes are manageable, especially in upper-level courses, and the teaching is focused on career-ready skills.
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 fantastic college town experience, known for its breweries, lakefront access, and a thriving summer festival scene that students can easily join. Students love hanging out at the lakefront, exploring the historic Third Ward, catching shows at the Pabst Theater, and enjoying the city's famous fish fries. The city's affordable cost of living and vibrant arts and music scene make it easy to have an active social life on a student budget.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,990):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is well-lit and has a significant campus police presence, but it's located in a dense urban area, so students must be aware of their surroundings. The university provides safety resources like a mobile safety app and shuttle services, but it's crucial to practice city smarts, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong ties to Milwaukee's business, healthcare, and engineering industries provide excellent internship and job placement opportunities.
- ✓ The university is a top-tier R1 research institution, offering undergraduate students access to meaningful research experiences.
- ✓ Significantly more affordable for in-state students compared to other major public universities.
- ✓ The urban campus location provides direct access to the city's cultural amenities, professional networks, and public transportation.
Cons
- ✗ The graduation rate is below the national average for public universities, which can be a concern for student outcomes.
- ✗ The urban setting can present safety challenges that require students to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
- ✗ Retention rates indicate that some students may struggle to connect with the university or adjust to the urban campus environment.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UW-Milwaukee is known for its strengths in applied and professional fields, particularly Health Professions, Business, Engineering, and Visual & Performing Arts. As an R1 research institution, it is also recognized for its contributions to research in areas like freshwater sciences and biohealth. Its location in Wisconsin's largest city provides a unique focus on urban issues and strong industry partnerships.
No, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is not considered a highly selective school. With an acceptance rate of 88.44%, it is generally accessible to students with a solid academic record. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1090, and successful applicants typically have a strong high school GPA, which is a more important factor than test scores in the admissions process.
Campus life at UWM is dynamic and integrated into the city of Milwaukee. Students can get involved in over 300 student organizations, including a large and active Greek life community. The campus is close to the city's lakefront, downtown entertainment, and neighborhoods, offering a mix of on-campus activities and off-campus urban exploration. With a large student body, it's easy to find your niche, but it requires initiative to build a strong social circle.
For in-state students, UWM offers a compelling financial value, with a low net price and median post-graduation earnings of nearly $55,000, suggesting a solid return on investment. The university's strong connections to local industries can lead to good job placement rates, particularly in the Milwaukee area. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the specific program and career goals, but it can still be a competitive option compared to more expensive public universities.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 21,431
- In-State Tuition $10,020
- Out-of-State $22,020
- Zip Code 53211
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
UWM provides an excellent value proposition, especially for in-state students, with a total cost of attendance under $20,000 per year. The 10-year median earnings of nearly $55,000 for graduates, combined with the relatively low net price, suggests a strong return on investment for a public university education. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition is a consideration, but it may still be competitive compared to flagship universities in other states.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.