Marquette University logo

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI Private ยท Urban Est. 1881 www.marquette.edu
Accept Rate
87.44%
Grad Rate
81.3%
Enrollment
7,238
Avg SAT
1306
Tuition
$48,700
Median Salary
$78,257
Overall Grade
C
A-
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C+
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Marquette offers a vibrant, tight-knit Jesuit community feel where students are driven by a 'spirit of cura personalis'โ€”care for the whole person. The campus buzzes with school spirit, anchored by the striking St. Joan of Arc Chapel, creating a blend of historic reverence and modern ambition.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

87.44%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 130675th Pctl
11901360
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2875th Pctl
2631
1122436

Admissions Tips

Emphasize your commitment to service and leadership in your application essays to align with Marquette's Jesuit mission. Since the school is test-optional, focus on a strong GPA and rigorous coursework, but submit your SAT score (around 1306 average) if it meets or exceeds the average to strengthen your profile.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1306
40080012001600
School range: 1190โ€“1360

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academic life is anchored by powerhouse programs in Business, Engineering, and Health Professions, offering a rigorous, values-based education. Students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentorship, with strong research opportunities through partnerships with Milwaukee's medical and corporate sectors.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
20.9%
Biology & Biomedical
17.4%
Engineering
12.4%
Health Professions
10.9%
Social Sciences
9.5%
Communications
6.8%
Psychology
5.5%
Computer Science
3.9%
Education
3.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
2%
Multidisciplinary Studies
1.7%
English & Literature
1.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

81.3%
Graduation Rate
91.3%
Retention Rate
7,238
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$48,700
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$29,237
After financial aid
Total Cost
$63,233
Cost of attendance/year
18.8%
Receive Pell Grants
40.3%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Milwaukee

Milwaukee offers a lively student experience with the lakefront, breweries, and a thriving arts scene just a short walk or bus ride from campus. Students enjoy summer festivals like Summerfest, sports games at the nearby Fiserv Forum, and exploring the city's diverse food scene.

Local Rent Check

$979 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Milwaukee
Explore Milwaukee

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$194,800
$0Est. 4 Years: $194,800

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($78,257):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is well-lit with robust security patrols, though it is located in a busy urban area where students should remain aware of their surroundings. Milwaukee's East Town neighborhood offers a mix of city energy and residential comfort, with university shuttles enhancing safety.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong alumni network in business and healthcare fields
  • โœ“ High retention rate (91.3%) indicating strong student satisfaction
  • โœ“ Excellent internship opportunities in a major Midwestern city
  • โœ“ Beautiful, historic campus with a tight-knit community feel

Cons

  • โœ— Tuition is high with no in-state discount
  • โœ— Urban location requires vigilance regarding personal safety
  • โœ— Winters in Milwaukee can be harsh and long

Notable Alumni

Jimmy King
Member of the original 1992 USA Basketball 'Dream Team' and former NBA player.
John Norquist
Former Mayor of Milwaukee and influential urban policy advocate.
Kay Koplovitz
Founder of the USA Network and Syfy, a pioneer in cable television.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marquette is widely known for its excellent programs in Business, Engineering, and Health Professions, as well as its strong Jesuit identity that emphasizes ethics and service. It is also recognized for its campus beauty, anchored by the historic St. Joan of Arc Chapel, and its spirited student body.

No, Marquette is considered moderately selective with an acceptance rate of 87.44%. However, admitted students typically have strong academic profiles, with an average SAT score of 1306 and a solid GPA, so applicants should still present a competitive application.

Campus life is active and communal, with a strong emphasis on school spirit, particularly around basketball season. Students enjoy a mix of urban access and traditional campus activities, with over 200 student organizations and a deep-rooted Jesuit tradition of service and reflection.

For many students, yes. The 10-year median earnings of $78,257 and the high graduation rate (81.3%) suggest a solid return on investment. The value is further enhanced by strong career placement in high-demand fields like business and healthcare.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Northwestern Mutual Milwaukee Tool Aurora Health Care ManpowerGroup Rockwell Automation
Smart Start Score
82

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded 1881
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 7,927
  • In-State Tuition $48,700
  • Zip Code 53233

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 44.2% โ™€ 55.8%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $29,237 after aid, the degree is a significant investment but can offer strong returns, given the 10-year median earnings of $78,257. The high graduation and retention rates suggest a supportive environment that maximizes the value of your tuition dollars.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Pace University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $48,700
Housing (12 mo) $11,748
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $67,648
With avg financial aid:
$29,237/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.