University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has a high affordability score and reasonable in-state tuition, but its ROI score of 36 suggests a moderate return on investment when considering median debt and earnings.

The graduation rate at the University of Wisconsin-Stout is 53.6%.

UW-Stout scores a 90 on affordability, indicating it is highly affordable, particularly for in-state students, due to its low tuition rates.

Ten years after entry, the median earnings for University of Wisconsin-Stout graduates are $58,084.

No, the University of Wisconsin-Stout has an admission rate of 87.7%, indicating it is not highly selective.

University of Wisconsin-Stout has a relatively high admission rate of 87.7%, indicating that it is an accessible institution for a broad range of students. This suggests that while academic achievement is valued, the university aims to provide opportunities to many who meet general admission criteria. To get in, prospective students typically need a high school diploma or GED. While specific GPA or standardized test score cutoffs are not always strictly enforced due to the high acceptance rate, maintaining a solid academic record in high school is always beneficial. Strong performance in core subjects like math, science, and English can strengthen an application. For students whose academic profiles might be borderline, demonstrating strong extracurricular involvement, leadership experience, or a compelling personal essay can also positively influence the admissions decision. UW-Stout encourages applicants to submit transcripts and potentially ACT/SAT scores (though test-optional policies may apply), allowing the admissions committee to review a holistic profile. The high acceptance rate means that while admission is not guaranteed, the barriers to entry are lower than at more selective universities, making it a viable option for many aspiring students.

Yes, University of Wisconsin-Stout is generally considered worth the money, particularly for in-state students. The median 10-year earnings for graduates stand at $58,084, which is a strong figure relative to the median student debt of $23,000. This suggests a healthy return on investment, with graduates likely able to pay off their loans within approximately 3-5 years. The in-state tuition of $10,701 per year makes the overall cost of a degree quite manageable. Even for out-of-state students paying $19,265 annually, the earning potential still provides a solid ROI, albeit with a longer debt repayment period. UW-Stout's career-focused curriculum, strong internship programs, and connections with regional employers in fields like manufacturing, technology, and design contribute significantly to graduate employability and earning potential. The university's ROI score of 36 further supports its value proposition. While not a top-tier research institution, for students seeking practical skills and direct entry into the workforce with good earning prospects, UW-Stout offers excellent financial value.

University of Wisconsin-Stout excels in majors that align with its career-focused mission, particularly in technology, manufacturing, and design. Highly recommended majors include Manufacturing Engineering Technology, which prepares students for roles in optimizing production processes and managing manufacturing operations, often leading to positions at companies like Generac or 3M. Graphic Design and Interactive Media is another strong program, leveraging Stout's reputation for visual arts and technology, feeding into industries like advertising, digital media, and web development. Hospitality and Tourism Management is also a popular and successful major, given the strong presence of the hospitality industry in Wisconsin and beyond, with graduates finding roles in hotel management, event planning, and food service leadership. Other notable programs include Construction Management, Supply Chain Management, and Computer Science, all of which have direct ties to in-demand industries and offer strong post-graduation employment prospects and competitive salaries.

Student life at UW-Stout in Menomonie is characterized by a close-knit campus community and a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and career development. As a smaller public university, Stout fosters a friendly and accessible atmosphere. The campus is known for its vibrant student organizations, including numerous clubs related to academic programs (e.g., engineering societies, design clubs), cultural groups, and recreational activities. Traditional college experiences like sporting events, concerts, and campus-wide activities are part of the social fabric. Given its location in Menomonie, students also have access to outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, and water activities on nearby lakes. While it may not offer the bustling nightlife of a large city, UW-Stout provides a supportive environment where students can engage academically, develop professionally through internships and projects, and build lasting relationships within a community that values practical application and career success.

University of Wisconsin-Stout offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. This includes federal aid like Pell Grants and federal student loans, as well as state grants specific to Wisconsin residents. UW-Stout also provides institutional aid in the form of scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit, specific program interests, or other criteria. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 85% of full-time undergraduate students received financial aid. The average financial aid package included a combination of grants, scholarships, and loans. The average debt load for graduating students is around $23,000, which is relatively moderate compared to national averages. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible to be considered for all eligible federal, state, and institutional aid. The university's financial aid office is available to assist students in navigating the application process and understanding their aid options.

Graduates from the University of Wisconsin-Stout can expect competitive salaries, particularly in fields aligned with the university's strengths. The median earnings for UW-Stout alumni 10 years after graduation are reported at $58,084. However, salaries can vary significantly by major. For instance, graduates from the Manufacturing Engineering Technology program often command starting salaries in the $60,000-$75,000 range, with potential for rapid growth into six-figure incomes in management or specialized engineering roles. Similarly, graduates in Supply Chain Management and Construction Management typically see strong starting offers, often between $55,000 and $70,000, due to high demand. Those in Computer Science and Information Technology fields can also expect competitive starting salaries, often in the $60,000-$80,000 bracket, depending on specialization and location. Even majors like Graphic Design and Hospitality can lead to solid mid-career earnings, with alumni reporting salaries that allow for comfortable living and debt repayment within a reasonable timeframe, reflecting the university's success in preparing students for well-compensated careers.

UW-Stout offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to support student success and community building. The university typically requires first-year students to live on campus, providing a structured transition into college life. Housing options include traditional residence halls with shared rooms and common bathrooms, as well as suite-style living arrangements where students share a common living area and bathroom within a smaller group. Popular residence halls often include those with modern amenities and community lounges. Each hall usually has resident advisors (RAs) to provide support and programming. Dorm rooms are generally furnished with a bed, desk, chair, and closet space for each student. Common areas often include study lounges, kitchens, laundry facilities, and recreational spaces. The overall atmosphere in the dorms is geared towards fostering a sense of community, encouraging academic collaboration, and providing a safe and convenient living environment for students as they adjust to university life and academic demands.

University of Wisconsin-Stout is primarily recognized as a polytechnic university with a strong emphasis on applied learning, undergraduate research, and hands-on projects rather than extensive, large-scale graduate-level research typical of major research universities. While it may not be a primary destination for students seeking to lead groundbreaking, federally funded research projects at the undergraduate level, it does offer significant opportunities for students to engage in research within their disciplines. Many faculty members conduct research and actively involve undergraduates in their work, providing valuable experience in data collection, analysis, and presentation. Stout's focus on technology and engineering means that research often involves practical applications, product development, and problem-solving within industry contexts. Students can participate in faculty-led research, present findings at university symposia, and even at regional or national conferences, gaining critical research skills that complement their technical education and enhance their career prospects.

UW-Stout is often compared to other public universities in the Midwest with a strong focus on technology, engineering, and applied sciences. Realistic peers include institutions like Iowa State University (though larger and more research-intensive), Michigan Technological University (similar engineering focus), and other University of Wisconsin System schools like UW-Milwaukee or UW-Platteville that offer strong technical programs. Compared to these peers, UW-Stout often stands out for its specific niche in career-focused programs like manufacturing engineering technology and graphic design, which are highly regarded. Its smaller size can foster a more intimate learning environment and stronger faculty-student relationships than larger universities like Iowa State. While UW-Madison might offer broader academic prestige and research opportunities, UW-Stout provides a more direct, hands-on path to specific careers, often with more accessible tuition than some private or out-of-state options. Its graduation rate is a point of comparison where it may lag behind some more established flagship universities, but its career outcomes and ROI are competitive within its tier.

Employers generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, particularly those in fields where the university has a strong reputation, such as manufacturing, technology, and design. Companies that actively recruit from UW-Stout, like 3M, Generac, and Ashley Furniture Industries, value the practical skills, hands-on experience, and strong work ethic that Stout graduates typically possess. The university's emphasis on internships and applied projects means that graduates often enter the workforce with relevant experience, making them attractive candidates. Employers appreciate that Stout graduates are often well-prepared for specific job functions and require less on-the-job training in technical areas. The career services department at UW-Stout also plays a role in building these employer relationships, ensuring that the university's programs remain aligned with industry needs. While UW-Stout may not have the same broad name recognition as a large flagship university, its specialized strengths create a strong brand value within its target industries and regions.