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University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

"Excellence"

Wikipedia
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

Discover excellence and a vibrant liberal arts experience on Wisconsin's most beautiful campus.

Nestled on the picturesque Chippewa River, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire stands as a beacon of academic excellence and a cornerstone of liberal arts education in the Midwest. Often celebrated as "Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Campus," UW-Eau Claire offers a dynamic environment where students pursue rigorous undergraduate liberal education alongside distinctive professional and graduate programs. This public university, part of the esteemed University of Wisconsin System, fosters intellectual curiosity and personal growth, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to the world.

From its founding in 1916 as the Eau Claire State Normal School, the university has evolved significantly. Initially focused on training teachers, it expanded its scope to offer a wide array of bachelor's and master's degrees, embracing the liberal arts tradition. Its history is marked by significant moments, including a visit from Martin Luther King Jr. in 1962 and peaceful student protests during the Vietnam War era. This commitment to critical thinking, social engagement, and continuous adaptation has shaped UW-Eau Claire into the comprehensive institution it is today.

For prospective students, UW-Eau Claire offers a vibrant student experience rooted in its "Excellence" motto. With approximately 9,020 students, the campus provides a close-knit community feeling within a small city setting. Students can engage in NCAA Division III athletics as the Blugolds, explore environmental research on forested lands, and utilize modern facilities like the W.R. Davies Center and Centennial Hall. The university's dedication to providing a holistic educational journey ensures that every student can find their path to success and fulfillment.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1916 with the enduring motto "Excellence."
  • Educates approximately 9,020 students across bachelor's and master's degree programs.
  • Features a stunning 333-acre campus on the Chippewa River, widely known as "Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Campus."
  • Rooted in a tradition of rigorous undergraduate liberal education, complemented by strong professional and graduate offerings.
  • Boasts an endowment of approximately $0.1 billion, supporting academic and student initiatives.
  • The Blugolds compete fiercely in NCAA Division III athletics.
  • Recent campus developments include the state-of-the-art W.R. Davies Center (completed 2012) and Centennial Hall (opened 2014).

Timeline

1916
Founded as the Eau Claire State Normal School.
1927
Renamed Eau Claire State Teachers College and began offering a bachelor's degree program.
1951
Authorized to offer Bachelor of Arts and science degrees in liberal arts; renamed Wisconsin State College at Eau Claire.
1962
Martin Luther King Jr. visited the campus.
1964
Achieved university standing and was renamed Wisconsin State University – Eau Claire.
1971
Merged into the University of Wisconsin System and renamed University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire.
2012
Park Elementary was demolished, and the new W.R. Davies Center was completed.
2014
Centennial Hall opened, marking the first building funded by state dollars in 30 years.
2018
Adopted UW-Barron College as a branch campus as part of a UW-System restructuring.
🏛️
110 Years
of Excellence

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