Wisconsin Lutheran College
Acceptance rate
78.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$36,110
$48,360 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
957
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
51.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 67.1%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) is a private liberal arts college located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Established in 1973, the college is affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod and aims to provide a Christ-centered education that promotes the development of students' intellectual capacities and spiritual growth. One of the college's core values is its commitment to academic excellence, which is reflected in its rigorous academic programs and dedicated faculty. WLC offers a variety of undergraduate programs, including Business Administration, Psychology, and Education, encouraging students to engage in critical thinking and ethical decision-making within their chosen fields.
The campus culture at Wisconsin Lutheran College is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students. The college’s motto, "Seek First the Kingdom of God," underscores its mission to integrate faith with learning and service. Students are encouraged to participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, student organizations, and service projects, promoting personal growth and leadership development. The college also boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and athletic spaces, providing students with the resources they need to succeed. With a commitment to service and faith, Wisconsin Lutheran College prepares its graduates for meaningful careers and lives of purpose in the community.
Trends in Tuition, Student Population, and Graduation Rates at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The data from Wisconsin Lutheran College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student demographics, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase from $24,770 in 2014 to $35,080 in 2024, reflecting a rise of approximately 42% over the decade. This increase in tuition may be a response to inflationary pressures and rising operational costs in higher education, which is a common trend across many institutions.
Despite fluctuations in enrollment numbers, the college has maintained a relatively stable undergraduate student population, averaging around 1,000 students per year. Interestingly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown some variation, with a slight increase in the male-to-female ratio in recent years. For instance, in 2023, males comprised approximately 45.6% of the undergraduate population, suggesting a shift towards a more balanced gender representation.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate reaching 50.9% in 2023, a notable increase from 42.5% in 2013. This upward trend in graduation rates could be an indication of improved student support services and academic resources, allowing students to complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates have remained relatively high, hovering around 77% to 80% in recent years, with a peak of 80.1% in 2022. High retention rates are crucial for student success and institutional stability, as they reflect students' satisfaction and engagement with their educational environment.
Overall, the data illustrates a dynamic educational landscape at Wisconsin Lutheran College characterized by rising tuition costs, stable student enrollment, improving graduation rates, and strong retention. These trends highlight the challenges and opportunities faced by the institution as it adapts to the evolving demands of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Milwaukee
- Nearest international airport
- General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 9 mi
- Also known as
- WLC, Wisconsin Lutheran
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
- President
- Daniel W. Johnson (President)
- Phone
- 4144438800
- Address
- 8800 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226-4699
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 86.3%, women 91.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The admissions data from Wisconsin Lutheran College over the years highlights some intriguing trends in both the acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate has experienced significant fluctuations, peaking at approximately 98% in 2022. This suggests that the college has become increasingly selective, potentially reflecting a growing applicant pool or a strategic shift in admissions policies. On the other hand, the female acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, consistently higher than that of male applicants, reaching about 98% in 2022 as well.
The total enrollment numbers have varied, with a noticeable increase in 2023, where 309 students were admitted. This could indicate a renewed interest in the college, perhaps influenced by factors such as its academic offerings or reputation. The number of applicants denied also provides insight into the competitive landscape, with a peak in denial numbers observed in 2014, where 317 applicants were turned away.
Interestingly, the number of deferred admissions has risen significantly in recent years, particularly in 2021 and 2022. This trend may suggest that the college is utilizing deferrals as a strategy to manage enrollment and maintain a balanced student body. Overall, Wisconsin Lutheran College appears to be navigating its admissions process dynamically, responding to changing demographics and educational demands, which is becoming increasingly important in today's competitive higher education environment.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 32% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores and Test Submission Rates at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The data from Wisconsin Lutheran College presents an intriguing overview of the trends in standardized test scores and the corresponding submission rates over the years. Starting from 2007 to 2023, the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores fluctuated, with the percentage of admitted students providing these scores generally remaining low, particularly for the SAT. For instance, in 2021, only 19% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, a peak compared to earlier years where the submission rate dropped as low as 1% in 2008.
The SAT reading and math scores showcased a gradual improvement in the 25th to 75th percentile range over the years, indicative of a potentially increasing academic caliber among admitted students. The scores for SAT reading and math began at 515 and 680 respectively in 2007 and saw variations, with the latest data for 2023 showing scores ranging from 500 to 600.
This trend reflects a broader national conversation regarding the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions. Many institutions are reevaluating their reliance on these scores, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a significant number of colleges adopting test-optional policies. These shifts could explain the declining percentage of students submitting test scores and suggest a potential move towards a more holistic admission process focusing on other aspects of a student’s profile.
Overall, the data from Wisconsin Lutheran College encapsulates the evolving landscape of college admissions, where standardized test scores play a diminishing role, and the focus may increasingly shift towards a more comprehensive evaluation of student qualifications.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,575 applicants in 2025, 78.2% admitted
1,231 admitted 344 not admitted Yield 20.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's7 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's1 (0% international)
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The graduation data from Wisconsin Lutheran College reveals significant trends across various fields of study for the 2023 academic year. Notably, the Registered Nursing program emerges as a leading discipline, producing 22 graduates, with 4.5% being international students. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, a trend that has been accentuated by the ongoing global health challenges.
In the realm of business, the Business Administration and Management program graduates 15 students, with a modest representation of international students. This reflects a stable interest in business education, which remains a popular choice among students. Interestingly, the Accounting program has a lower graduation rate, suggesting potential shifts in student interest towards more versatile business degrees.
The education sector shows a varied performance, with the Educational Leadership and Administration program yielding 13 graduates at the master's level, indicating a robust preparation for leadership roles in education. This is particularly relevant considering the increasing focus on educational reform and quality in teaching amid the pandemic's impact on learning environments.
Furthermore, disciplines in the arts and humanities, such as English Language and Literature and History, have lower graduation numbers, indicating potential challenges in attracting students to these fields compared to STEM and health-related programs.
Overall, the data showcases a clear preference for practical and career-oriented programs, mirroring national trends in higher education where students are increasingly seeking degrees that promise employability and direct application in the workforce.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $63,046 | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,771 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $45,771 | ||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $45,771 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $45,771 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $60,984 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $60,984 | ||
| Accounting. | $67,040 | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | - | ||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,106 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,332 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,027 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 72.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 666
- First-year undergraduates 249
- Graduate students 70
- Transfers and others 42
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (957)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Wisconsin Lutheran College (2023)
The student demographic data from Wisconsin Lutheran College for the year 2023 reveals an interesting mix of undergraduate and graduate students, highlighting the gender distribution and racial diversity within the student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 309, with 54.4% being male and 45.6% female, demonstrating a relatively balanced entry-level gender ratio. However, as students progress to their sophomore year, the trend shifts, with a higher female representation at 59.8% among the 656 returning undergraduates, indicating a potential pattern of retention that favors female students.
The data for transfer students shows a different dynamic, with only 25 students, of which 60% are male. This could suggest that male students are more likely to transfer into the institution compared to their female counterparts, though the small sample size makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
Graduate students, numbering 83, have a significant female majority of 68.7%. This aligns with broader educational trends where women increasingly pursue higher education degrees, reflecting a societal shift towards greater female participation in academia.
Racially, the data illustrates a predominance of white students across all categories, which is consistent with many institutions in the Midwest. However, the data also hints at the presence of a diverse student body, although specific figures for other racial groups are not fully disclosed in the available data.
Overall, Wisconsin Lutheran College appears to be fostering an environment that supports a diverse and inclusive student body, with notable trends in gender representation across different academic levels. This ongoing demographic evolution can provide insights for future recruitment and retention strategies aimed at enhancing diversity within the institution.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The age distribution data from Wisconsin Lutheran College indicates a predominantly young student body, with the majority of undergraduates aged 18-21. This age group represents a significant portion of the total enrollment, highlighting the college's appeal to traditional college-age students. Specifically, there are 232 male undergraduates and 264 female undergraduates in the 18-19 age range, and 172 male undergraduates and 226 female undergraduates in the 20-21 age range. This suggests a balanced gender representation among younger students.
As students progress into their early twenties and beyond, the numbers begin to decline sharply. For instance, in the 22-24 category, the total number of students drops to 78, with only a handful of male and female graduates. This trend continues with older age groups, where participation drops significantly, indicating that Wisconsin Lutheran College primarily attracts younger students, which is consistent with broader trends in higher education where traditional-aged students dominate enrollment figures.
Interestingly, while there are a few older students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, they comprise a small fraction of the total student population. This could reflect the college's focus on undergraduate education rather than graduate programs, as the number of graduate students is limited compared to undergraduates.
Overall, this age distribution may reflect societal trends where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school, while older adults may be seeking alternative forms of education or re-entering the workforce. The data suggests a vibrant, youthful campus environment at Wisconsin Lutheran College, but also raises questions about the inclusivity of non-traditional students in its academic offerings.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The data from Wisconsin Lutheran College reveals significant trends in international student enrollment over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a notable increase in the early years, reaching a peak of 2.71% of the total undergraduate population in 2012. However, this percentage has decreased sharply in the following years, dropping to 0.48% by 2021, the lowest recorded figure during this period.
This decline might reflect broader trends affecting international student mobility, such as changes in immigration policies, global crises, or even shifting perceptions of the United States as a study destination. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is particularly evident in the data, as the number of international students fell dramatically in 2020 and 2021, mirroring a trend seen across many U.S. institutions during that time.
On the graduate level, while the data is less comprehensive, there was a peak of 163 graduate students in 2019, with international representation reaching 0.61%. The lack of subsequent data on graduate enrollment raises questions about the stability of this program.
In conclusion, Wisconsin Lutheran College's international student enrollment trends highlight the challenges facing higher education institutions in attracting and retaining international scholars. Moving forward, it will be essential for the college to evaluate its strategies for recruitment and support for international students to stabilize and potentially grow these numbers in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,360
- Undergraduate tuition
- $36,110
- Room and board
- $12,250
- Graduate tuition
- $10,440
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$38.2M
Expenses$36.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference
Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 90 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | 35 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 35 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 22 |
| Basketball | 24 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Volleyball | 15 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 12 |
| Golf | 14 | 12 |
| Tennis | 6 | 7 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 112 | - |
| Soccer | 42 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 38 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 38 | 22 |
| Basketball | 25 | 18 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Cross Country | 24 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 22 |
| Golf | 10 | 11 |
| Tennis | 10 | 11 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 26 |
| Soccer | 38 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 26 |
| Basketball | 25 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 23 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Softball | - | 32 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 13 |
| Tennis | 12 | 12 |
| Golf | 7 | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Marquette UniversityMilwaukee · 4.8 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Wisconsin--MilwaukeeMilwaukee · 7.7 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Concordia University WisconsinMequon · 15.9 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 55.3 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Beloit CollegeBeloit · 62.9 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison · 69.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 70.4 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 74.0 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 80.7 mi
Liberal Arts #57
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Wisconsin Lutheran College:
-
Marquette University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Marquette University is a comprehensive university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It offers a wide range of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on service and community engagement.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - As a comprehensive university ranked 35th in the nation, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a leading research institution known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life.
-
Northwestern University - This prestigious university is ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, Illinois, and is renowned for its strong programs in various fields, including journalism, business, and law.
-
Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, this comprehensive university is known for its commitment to social justice and community service, offering a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Chicago - With a ranking of 12th, the University of Chicago is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape surrounding Wisconsin Lutheran College.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Wisconsin Lutheran College
The crime rate data from Wisconsin Lutheran College reveals some concerning trends over the years. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students fluctuated significantly. Notably, the year 2014 saw the highest recorded rate of 19.02, which raises questions about campus safety during that period. In contrast, 2018 experienced the lowest rate at 6.46, suggesting an improvement in safety protocols or student behavior.
Interestingly, the data indicates varying trends in specific types of offenses. For instance, incidents of gun-related arrests and drug-related arrests appear to be significant contributors to the overall crime statistics. The presence of these offenses is alarming, as they can have long-lasting impacts on the campus community's sense of security. The rates of alcohol-related offenses, while lower than those of gun and drug offenses, also suggest that substance abuse remains a concern among students.
The increase in reported incidents in 2023, with a rate of 13.08, suggests that the college may need to reassess its safety measures and support systems. This could involve enhancing campus security, providing education on substance abuse, and promoting a culture of reporting and prevention.
Overall, while the data shows some fluctuations, it highlights the ongoing challenges that Wisconsin Lutheran College faces regarding campus safety and crime prevention. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For further insights into crime rate calculations, visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.