This post features the top colleges in Wisconsin. These schools have been selected for their strong academics, vibrant campus life, and ability to prepare students for meaningful careers.
So, what makes a college truly “good”? A good college provides quality academic programs, supportive faculty, opportunities for personal growth, and a campus environment where students feel engaged and motivated. It should also help students prepare for the real world through internships, hands-on experiences, and career services.
When putting this list together, we considered all these factors and relied on several respected rankings and credible resources. By combining these insights, we identified the colleges in Wisconsin that stand out for students. Explore the list below!
Best Colleges in Wisconsin
1. University of Wisconsin–Madison
UW–Madison is a large, powerful public research university that offers a huge variety of programs, from engineering and business to education and public health. Through its “UW Flexible Option,” working professionals can take non-credit certificates and micro‑credentials at their own pace, such as leadership in healthcare or agile project management.
For more traditional degree paths, the UW System offers over 200 fully online programs via Wisconsin Online, covering everything from associate to doctoral levels. Their online master’s programs are particularly strong: for example, UW‑Madison’s online education master’s was ranked #3 by U.S. News, and its engineering master’s programs also placed in the top 20 nationally.
The Flexible Option and online UW programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
2. Marquette University
Marquette University is a private Jesuit school in Milwaukee, known for combining strong academics with meaningful service and community engagement. Its College of Health Sciences is very active: it offers professional programs like Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Occupational Therapy (OT), and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies.
These programs are quite competitive and include hands-on clinical training, giving students real-world experience. For students already in nursing, Marquette offers an MSN and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and its nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Marquette’s nursing programs are CCNE-accredited.
3. Lawrence University
Lawrence University in Appleton is a small, private liberal arts college that prides itself on a tight-knit, intellectually rich environment. Students can major in a range of liberal arts disciplines, from English and history to psychology and environmental studies, and there’s also a Conservatory of Music, where you can study performance, composition, or music education.
One special thing is the dual-degree program: students can graduate with a music degree and a non-music major after five years. Lawrence is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and its music conservatory is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
4. University of Wisconsin–La Crosse (UW–La Crosse)
UW–La Crosse is a public university known for its strong programs in health sciences, education, business, and the arts. The campus is located along the Mississippi River, giving students a mix of natural beauty and city access.
It offers more than 130 undergraduate programs and a variety of graduate programs, including education, health care, and business. Students benefit from small class sizes in many courses, hands-on learning opportunities, and internships that prepare them for careers after graduation.
The university emphasizes student wellness and engagement, with active clubs, sports, and research opportunities. UW–La Crosse is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
5. University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire (UW–Eau Claire)
UW–Eau Claire, often called “the Blugolds,” is a public university that focuses on liberal arts, education, business, and health sciences. It offers more than 80 undergraduate programs and several graduate degrees.
The campus encourages experiential learning through research, internships, and service projects, giving students practical skills alongside academic knowledge. UW–Eau Claire is also known for its strong student support services, active student life, and vibrant arts programs.
The university balances rigorous academics with opportunities for personal growth and leadership. UW–Eau Claire is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
6. University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (UWM)
UWM is a large public research university serving a diverse student population. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across business, engineering, health sciences, arts, and social sciences.
UWM is recognized for its research initiatives and partnerships with local industries, giving students opportunities to gain real-world experience. The campus offers cultural events, student organizations, and leadership opportunities.
UWM emphasizes innovation, diversity, and preparing students for careers in a rapidly changing economy. UWM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Colleges in Wisconsin
1. Which colleges in Wisconsin are considered the best overall?
The University of Wisconsin–Madison, Marquette University, and Lawrence University often top the lists. UW–Madison is known for research and a wide range of programs, Marquette for professional programs and Jesuit education, and Lawrence for liberal arts and music. These schools offer strong academics, good student support, and opportunities for career growth.
2. What programs tend to lead to high-paying jobs after graduation?
Some of the most lucrative programs in Wisconsin schools include business, engineering, computer science, nursing, and health sciences. For example, UW–Madison graduates in engineering or computer science often start with salaries well above the state average. Professional degrees, like Marquette’s Doctor of Physical Therapy, also offer high earning potential.
3. How competitive is admission at these colleges?
Admissions vary by school. UW–Madison is highly competitive, accepting about 50% of applicants. Marquette and Lawrence have moderate acceptance rates, with a focus on strong academic records and extracurricular involvement. Smaller schools like Lawrence also consider essays and interviews as part of the admissions process.
4. Are there statistics on student outcomes in Wisconsin colleges?
Yes. For example, UW–Madison has a graduation rate of around 85% and an average starting salary of $60,000 for bachelor’s graduates. Marquette graduates report a similar job placement rate within a year of graduation. These stats show that attending a top Wisconsin college often leads to strong career outcomes.
5. Do these colleges offer programs beyond traditional bachelor’s degrees?
Yes. Many schools provide graduate programs, certificates, and professional training. UW–Madison and UW-Milwaukee offer master’s and doctoral programs, while Marquette has professional degrees in health sciences, law, and business. Lawrence University offers dual-degree programs combining music and other liberal arts fields.