20 Best Value Colleges And Universities In Wisconsin

Ripon may populate its campus with only about 1,000 students each year, but it's not for lack of popularity! The school's 67% acceptance rate rivals that of some of the large state schools, but it offers an entirely different academic experience. High-achieving learners choose Ripon for its friendly campus, serious scholarly attitude, and historic location. The city - also named Ripon - has been called "the birthplace of the Republican party" and features quaint, century-old buildings and an authentic family-friendly feel. Students feel safe and protected in the comforting embrace of this small town - but make no mistake - life in Ripon isn't boring! But if you're really itching for adventure, there are plenty of larger cities within traveling distance.

Would you rather be a small fish in a big pond, or a big fish in a small pond? There's no one right answer to that question, but they way you respond says a lot about the type of college you should choose. This Wisconsin college is a "big fish, small pond" school, one where you will garner name recognition and a lasting identity with classmates and faculty alike. Lakeland is also one of the most affordable colleges in Wisconsin financial aid packages that average 24,000 a year (and free shuttle services, fitness centers, and laundry facilities don't hurt!).

If you're looking for creativity, diversity, and intellectual curiosity, this Wisconsin college should absolutely be at the top of your list. The school offers students unparalleled freedom to choose their curriculum and pick majors that fuel their passions. Its faculty are among the most accessible in the country, according to The Princeton Review, while the student body includes members of more than 40 countries. But perhaps the most unique aspect of Beloit is the fact that no more than 10% of any graduating class shares the same major; unlike targeted engineering or art schools, Beloit is one of the best universities in Wisconsin for students who want course variety and an eclectic mix of classmates.

The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration founded Viterbo University back in 1890, and the university maintains this everlasting positivity even 125 years later. Professors genuinely care about their students and lead small classes that give everyone an equal opportunity to participate. Inspired by its religious roots, this top university in Wisconsin encourages students to excel not just academically or spiritually, but culturally and socially as well. And people tend to make good use of this supportive environment; even a brief conversation with a Viterbo student will likely include discussion of the academic credit they received for studying abroad, their participation in the annual "Scholar's Day" for research, and their pending internship in nearby La Crosse - or even Washington, D.C.!

This Wisconsin univeristy is a unique standout among institutions in American higher education. The CU system operates much like a state public school network, in that each campus shares the same basic name and resources but operates with its own administration. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod controls each of the ten campuses (which are spread across the entire country), and religion is an important part of the curriculum. CU Wisconsin is no exception; students attend daily chapel services, and 62% report regularly engaging in spiritual activities (twice the national average). But while Concordia is clearly a top college in Wisconsin for religious study, it's not narrow-minded. Nearly two-dozen NCAA athletic teams, 60+ liberal arts degree programs, and recreation activities in nearby Mequon provide plenty of secular relief.

The University of Wisconsin Stout has a nearly identical score to its Platteville sibling, but its identity is all its own. Dubbed "Wisconsin's Polytechnic University," this affordable Wisconsin college offers modern facilities, high-tech course offerings, and enviable career prep. Its programs include numerous degrees in applied mathematics and computer science, as well as engineering, business, manufacturing, technology, and vocational subjects. With so many career-oriented options in some of the most in-demand fields of the 21st century, it's no surprise Stout boasts a 20-year ROI of more than $380,000 - the third highest in the entire UW system!

This Wisconsin university is the fastest-growing school in the UW system. Why is Platteville such a popular choice for residents of this northern state? Although it doesn't have quite the same name recognition as Madison, Platteville has plenty to offer - 821 acres of campus space, including a research farm; 200+ student organizations; and more than 400 qualified faculty (no teaching assistants!). UW Platteville also has some great collaborative programs, including an engineering partnership with local community colleges and a National Student Exchange, which lets you spend an entire semester studying at another NSE university in North America.

This Wisconsin college is a religious institution built on Franciscan Catholic principles, but that doesn't mean the atmosphere is stuffy or the curriculum rigid. In fact, many students choose SLC because the learning environment is dynamic, open-minded, respectful, and friendly. Whether you want to major in business or theology, biology or choral music, you'll enjoy equal support at this northern campus. In short, Sliver Lake is one of the best colleges in Wisconsin for those who seek an equal balance between secular studies and their faith. Just take a look at the calendar of student events - you could attend a student academic symposium one week and take a Franciscan Pilgrimage the next!

Lawrence University isn't just any liberal arts college. In addition to its function as a traditional residential school, Lawrence also hosts a full-fledged conservatory of music and is entirely devoted to undergraduate education. The campus population is small - a mere 1,500 students - but that doesn't mean you'll be bored. Lawrence intentionally seeks to attract "intellectually curious, diverse, multi-interested students" from all over the world, and you'll be surprised at how many different people you'll meet on the quaint 425-acre campus. This top Wisconsin college is also an advocate of engaged learning, which means that classrooms frequently include debates, research, performances, and creative projects rather than passive lectures.

Cultivating the ideal academic environment requires a careful balance - students should feel challenged but supported, engaged but reflective. This Wisconsin college is up to the task, and it works to foster a spirit of self-discovery and reflection within a "culture of high expectation." Students may feel pressure to get good grades, but they won't sacrifice their love of learning as a result. Carthage also strikes an ideal balance when it comes to location. Its 80-acre campus is spotted with trees and green spaces and offers a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, but that doesn't mean you'll be confined to rural living. Chicago and Milwaukee are both close enough to inspire weekend trips and serve as a treasure trove of internships and networking opportunities.