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University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“"Excellence"”

1916
Founded
Public university
Type
8,995
Total Students
8,329
Undergrad
691
Graduate
$80M
Endowment
(2025)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$19K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
76%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Experience rigorous liberal arts education on Wisconsin's most beautiful campus.

The University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, nestled gracefully along the picturesque Chippewa River, embodies its motto of "Excellence" through a vibrant academic community. As a cornerstone of the University of Wisconsin System, UWEC is celebrated for its unique blend of rigorous undergraduate liberal education and distinctive professional and graduate programs. Students are welcomed to a stunning 333-acre campus, historically acclaimed as "Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Campus," providing an inspiring backdrop for profound learning and personal growth.

Founded in 1916 as the Eau Claire State Normal School, the institution initially dedicated itself to training teachers. Over the decades, it underwent significant transformations, broadening its educational scope to offer Bachelor of Arts and science degrees in liberal arts by 1951. This evolution brought substantial growth, the construction of modern facilities, and a reinforced commitment to serving the diverse educational needs of northwest Wisconsin's youth. The campus also holds a place in history, having hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1962 and serving as a center for peaceful student activism during the Vietnam War era.

Today, UW-Eau Claire continues to fulfill its enduring mission, offering a comprehensive array of bachelor's and master's degrees. The university cultivates a rich student experience, from its NCAA Division III Blugold athletic teams to extensive campus resources and student engagement opportunities. Recent investments in state-of-the-art facilities like the W.R. Davies Center and Centennial Hall reflect a continuous dedication to providing an innovative and supportive environment. With approximately 9,020 students, UWEC offers a dynamic academic journey, rooted in a proud history and driven by a forward-looking vision for the future.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1916 and offers bachelor's and master's degrees within the UW System.
  • ✦Known for its rigorous undergraduate liberal education and distinctive professional programs.
  • ✦Boasts a picturesque 333-acre campus on the Chippewa River, once dubbed "Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Campus."
  • ✦Serves approximately 9,020 students (as of Fall 2025 data).
  • ✦Affiliated with NCAA Division III, competing as the Blugolds.
  • ✦Endowment of $79.5 million (as of 2025).
  • ✦Hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1962.

Timeline

1916
Founded as the Eau Claire State Normal School.
1927
Renamed Eau Claire State Teachers College and began offering bachelor's degree programs.
1951
Renamed Wisconsin State College at Eau Claire and authorized to offer Bachelor of Arts and science degrees in liberal arts.
1962
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited the campus.
1964
Renamed Wisconsin State University – Eau Claire.
1971
Merged into the University of Wisconsin System, becoming the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire.
2012
The new W.R. Davies Center was completed.
2014
Centennial Hall opened for use.
2018
Adopted UW-Barron College as a branch campus.
🏛️
110 Years
of Excellence

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