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University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI

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Quick Facts

1956
Founded
Public research university
Type
16,762
Total Students
18,445
Undergrad
4,492
Graduate
$323M
Endowment
(2023)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$22K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
6-year
72%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Milwaukee's leading urban research university, pioneering in freshwater science and architecture.

The University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (UWM) stands as a prominent public urban research university, recognized as the largest in the Milwaukee metropolitan area and classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution. It holds the distinction of being one of only two doctorate-granting research universities within the University of Wisconsin System, signifying its robust commitment to advanced scholarship and innovation.

UWM offers an impressive array of over 200 degree programs across 14 diverse schools and colleges. Its academic profile is particularly distinguished by several unique offerings, including the United States' only graduate school of freshwater science, Wisconsin's first CEPH-accredited dedicated school of public health, and the state's sole school of architecture. These specialized programs provide students with exceptional opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and make significant contributions to critical fields.

The university's rich history dates back to 1885 with the opening of the Wisconsin State Normal School, evolving through various pivotal stages such as the Milwaukee State Teachers College and the Wisconsin State College–Milwaukee, before its official establishment as the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 1956. This legacy reflects a continuous dedication to educational excellence and a dynamic adaptation to the needs of its students and the broader community.

Beyond its strong academic foundation, UWM fosters a vibrant student experience, proudly supporting the Milwaukee Panthers athletic teams. Competing in NCAA Division I, the Panthers have achieved considerable success, including seven Horizon League all-sports championships since 2000, 133 Horizon League titles, and 40 NCAA tournament appearances as of 2016. With an enrollment of nearly 23,000 students, including over 18,400 undergraduates, UWM provides a comprehensive and engaging environment that blends rigorous academics, impactful research, and competitive athletics.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
  • Home to the U.S.'s only graduate school of freshwater science.
  • Features Wisconsin's first CEPH accredited dedicated school of public health.
  • Offers the state's only school of architecture.
  • Supports nearly 23,000 students, including over 18,400 undergraduates (as of 2023).
  • Boasts an endowment of $323 million (2023).
  • Milwaukee Panthers compete in NCAA Division I, winning 7 Horizon League all-sports championships since 2000.

Timeline

1885
Wisconsin State Normal School opened.
1919
Moved to its current lakefront location, with Mitchell Hall completed.
1927
Renamed Wisconsin State Teachers College-Milwaukee.
1951
Empowered to offer liberal arts programs; became Wisconsin State College–Milwaukee.
1956
Established as the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.
🏛️
70 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

🔬

Graduate School of Freshwater Sciences

The only graduate school of freshwater science in the U.S.

🏛️

School of Public Health

Wisconsin's first CEPH accredited dedicated school of public health.

🏫

School of Architecture

The state's only school of architecture.

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