University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The Vibe Check
University of Wisconsin-Parkside feels like a tight-knit, accessible community where students can easily navigate campus and get to know their professors. It has a practical, no-frills atmosphere focused on getting students career-ready, set against the backdrop of a suburban campus with plenty of green space. You'll find a diverse student body commuting from the Chicago and Milwaukee areas, creating a blend of local flavor and broader Midwestern ambition.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1090
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UW-Parkside is known for strong, career-oriented programs in Business & Marketing, Computer Science, and Health Professions, with a notable strength in Visual & Performing Arts. Class sizes are generally smaller than at larger universities, fostering more direct interaction with faculty who are focused on teaching rather than just research. While research opportunities exist, they are more undergraduate-focused and practical, often tied directly to your major field.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Kenosha
Kenosha offers a laid-back city life with a beautiful lakefront, a popular downtown area with restaurants and shops, and a historic streetcar system. Students enjoy the outdoors at Petrifying Springs Park or head to the nearby Six Flags Great America for thrills. Being situated between Milwaukee and Chicago, students also have easy access to major city attractions via the Metra train line.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,129):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own police department and well-lit pathways, though standard campus safety precautions are always advised. The surrounding Kenosha area is a typical Midwestern city, and students should be aware of their surroundings, especially when commuting or going into downtown.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to less debt.
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible professors in the suburban setting.
- ✓ Strong connections to major employers in the Milwaukee and Chicago corridors.
- ✓ Diverse array of top majors including a well-regarded Arts program.
Cons
- ✗ Lower graduation and retention rates compared to other UW system schools.
- ✗ Campus life can feel limited for students seeking a large, traditional 'college town' experience.
- ✗ Requires a commute or car to fully access entertainment and amenities in Kenosha and nearby cities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UW-Parkside is known for its strong, career-focused academic programs, particularly in Business & Marketing, Computer Science, and Health Professions. It also has a notable reputation for its Visual & Performing Arts department, offering robust programs in theater, music, and digital arts. The university is recognized for providing a practical, accessible education with small class sizes.
No, University of Wisconsin-Parkside is not hard to get into, with an acceptance rate of 72.62%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1090. Applicants with grades and test scores near or above this average have a very strong chance of admission.
Campus life at UW-Parkside is more subdued and commuter-focused compared to large party schools, but it fosters a close-knit community feel. Students can get involved in over 100 student organizations, including arts groups and professional clubs. The campus's location near parks and Lake Michigan provides opportunities for outdoor activities, while its proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago offers off-campus urban options.
Yes, for many students, especially Wisconsin residents, UW-Parkside offers excellent value. With an in-state tuition of $7,855 and an average net price of $10,044, it is one of the more affordable options in the UW system. The 10-year median earnings of $51,129 for graduates, combined with low tuition, provides a solid return on investment and allows students to graduate with less debt.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 3,920
- In-State Tuition $7,855
- Out-of-State $16,497
- Zip Code 53144
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of around $10,000 and significantly lower in-state tuition, UW-Parkside presents a strong financial value, especially for Wisconsin residents. The 10-year median earnings of $51,129 are solid for a public university at this price point, suggesting a positive return on investment. For students utilizing the 34% Pell Grant rate, the affordability makes it a practical choice to minimize debt and enter the workforce.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.