University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
The Vibe Check
UW-Oshkosh feels like a vibrant hub of practical learning where students are grounded in Midwestern work ethic but encouraged to think bigger. The campus buzzes with a mix of traditional college spirit and a strong sense of community, nestled right in the heart of the city. It's a place where you'll feel supported by faculty while being pushed to get real-world experience before graduation.
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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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UW-Oshkosh is a powerhouse for students pursuing careers in health professions, business, and education, offering robust, career-focused programs. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research, particularly in its renowned environmental science and nursing departments. Small class sizes compared to other state universities allow for meaningful mentorship from professors who are deeply invested in student success.
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 Oshkosh
Life in Oshkosh revolves around the beautiful Lake Winnebago, offering students endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront festivals. The downtown area features a growing scene of local coffee shops, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants that cater to a student-friendly budget. The city hosts major events like EAA AirVenture, bringing a unique energy and thousands of visitors to the area each summer.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($55,548):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is considered very safe with a dedicated University Police department and well-lit pathways, though standard urban precautions are advised. Oshkosh is generally a safe, family-friendly city, but students should stay aware of their surroundings, especially in the downtown area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition for in-state students with strong financial aid opportunities.
- ✓ Renowned programs in Nursing, Environmental Science, and Business with hands-on learning.
- ✓ Prime location on Lake Winnebago offering unique recreational activities.
- ✓ Smaller class sizes compared to other UW system schools, fostering professor connections.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average, suggesting some students struggle to finish.
- ✗ Campus social life can be quieter compared to larger Big Ten universities.
- ✗ Limited diversity compared to major metropolitan university campuses.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UW-Oshkosh is particularly renowned for its College of Nursing, which is one of the largest in the state, and its Environmental Science & Policy program, benefiting from its proximity to Lake Winnebago. The university also has a strong reputation in Business and Education, emphasizing practical internships and community partnerships. It is known for being a 'hidden gem' in the UW System for value and hands-on learning.
No, it is not considered highly selective; the acceptance rate is 86.68%, making it accessible to a broad range of students. While it is not difficult to gain admission, applicants should still aim for the average SAT score of 1090 and a solid GPA to be competitive for scholarships. The university practices holistic review, so strong essays and extracurriculars can help offset slightly lower test scores.
Campus life is a mix of active student organizations, NCAA Division III athletics, and a strong sense of community. With over 7,600 students, the campus feels intimate yet lively, with easy access to downtown Oshkosh for dining and entertainment. Students often spend weekends enjoying the lake, attending Titan sports games, or participating in the many outdoor activities available in the Fox Valley region.
Yes, for many students, particularly Wisconsin residents, it offers excellent value. With an average net price of under $15,000 and median graduate earnings of $55,548, the ROI is strong for a public university degree. The affordability combined with high-demand majors like health professions and business makes it a financially sound choice compared to more expensive private or out-of-state options.
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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 14,942
- In-State Tuition $8,212
- Out-of-State $16,125
- Zip Code 54901
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,761 and affordable in-state tuition, UW-Oshkosh offers a solid return on investment, especially for Wisconsin residents. The 10-year median earnings of $55,548 suggest graduates are securing stable, well-paying jobs that outpace the cost of attendance. The high acceptance rate and value-driven education make it an accessible pathway to a degree without crippling debt.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.