University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Acceptance rate
75.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$17,429
In-state $8,270
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
3,184
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
21.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 40.1%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UW-Parkside) is a public university located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Established in 1968, the university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. One of the university's key features is its strong emphasis on experiential learning, which allows students to engage in real-world projects, internships, and community service, thereby enhancing their academic experience and preparing them for successful careers.
UW-Parkside is also recognized for its vibrant campus culture, which encourages student involvement in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic events. The university's motto, "Wisconsin's Gateway to the Arts and Sciences," reflects its dedication to fostering creativity and intellectual growth. With state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, students have access to the resources they need to thrive academically and socially. The university's commitment to student success is further exemplified by its supportive faculty, who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students throughout their educational journeys. Additionally, UW-Parkside has a strong track record of preparing graduates for the workforce, with many alumni achieving success in their respective fields, contributing to the university's reputation as a valuable educational institution.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The data reflects some critical trends at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, particularly regarding tuition, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates. Over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates. For instance, the tuition for in-state undergraduates rose from $7,316 in 2014 to $7,855 in 2024, marking a significant increase of approximately 7.4%. In contrast, out-of-state tuition saw an even steeper rise, from $14,889 to $16,497, which is about a 10.8% increase. This trend of rising tuition may be a concern for prospective students and their families, particularly as it outpaces inflation and could affect accessibility to higher education.
Student enrollment has been declining in recent years, with undergraduate numbers dropping from 4,564 in 2013 to 3,236 in 2023. This decline of approximately 29% raises questions about the university’s appeal and could be linked to the rising costs of education. Conversely, the graduate student numbers have shown variability, increasing from 167 in 2013 to 711 in 2023, suggesting that the institution may be becoming a more attractive option for graduate studies.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showing some improvement from 9.8% in 2013 to 15.3% in 2023. However, the 150% graduation rate reflects a more stable picture, increasing from 31.6% to 38.6% over the same period. This could indicate that while fewer students are enrolled, those who remain are increasingly likely to graduate, possibly due to improved support systems.
Retention rates experienced a peak in 2014 at 72.7% but have since declined, reaching 65.4% in 2022 before rebounding to 71.3% in 2023. This fluctuation suggests that while the university has made efforts to retain students, challenges remain, possibly exacerbated by the external economic environment and rising tuition costs.
In summary, while the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has seen some positive trends in graduation rates and a slight recovery in retention, the increasing tuition costs and declining undergraduate enrollment pose significant challenges that the institution must address to maintain its viability and attractiveness in the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Milwaukee, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Lynn D Akey (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 2625952345
- Address
- 900 Wood Rd, Kenosha, WI 53144
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 63.1%, women 67.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The admissions data from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside over the years reveals a notable shift in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2016, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants remained relatively high, hovering above 80%. However, a significant decline is observed from 2017 onwards, where the acceptance rates plummeted dramatically, with male acceptance dipping to approximately 62% in 2018 and further down to about 71% in 2023. This stark decrease suggests a more competitive admission process in recent years.
The enrollment figures also paint a concerning picture. The number of new students has decreased from a peak of 951 in 2009 to just 442 in 2023. Coupled with a rising number of denied applications, it indicates that the university may be struggling with attracting new students amidst a tightening admissions landscape. The increasing number of deferrals, particularly noticeable in 2022, could suggest that students are opting to postpone their enrollment, potentially due to broader economic factors or personal choices influenced by the pandemic.
Overall, these trends reflect the dynamic nature of higher education admissions, which are influenced by various external factors such as market demand, university reputation, and changing demographic patterns. The data suggests that University of Wisconsin-Parkside may need to reassess its recruitment strategies to remain attractive to prospective students in an increasingly competitive academic environment.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 29% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in ACT Score Submissions at University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The data from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside reveals a notable trend in ACT score submissions over the years. Analyzing the percentages of students submitting their ACT scores, we observe a peak in 2016, where 96% of applicants submitted their scores. This was followed by a gradual decline, with a significant drop to just 32% in 2023. This decline could reflect changing attitudes toward standardized testing, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions around the efficacy and equity of such assessments in college admissions.
Moreover, the number of students submitting ACT scores has also decreased significantly, from 785 in 2007 to a mere 141 in 2023. This drastic reduction suggests that prospective students may be increasingly opting to apply without submitting standardized test scores, potentially influenced by a growing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies.
Interestingly, while the submission rates have declined, the overall acceptance of a test-optional approach has gained traction in higher education, particularly post-pandemic. Many universities are recognizing that standardized tests may not fully capture a student's potential or readiness for college. This shift could be indicative of a broader movement towards more holistic admissions processes, which consider a wider array of student achievements and backgrounds.
As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, it will be crucial for institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Parkside to adapt their strategies and policies to ensure they are attracting a diverse and capable student body, while also being responsive to the changing preferences of applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,649 applicants in 2025, 75.4% admitted
1,997 admitted 652 not admitted Yield 26.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's226 (7% international)
- Information Technology · Master's20 (50% international)
- Communication, General · Master's19 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's19 (5% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's10 (0% international)
- Sustainability Studies · Master's7 (14% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The graduation data from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside for 2023 reveals intriguing trends in various academic disciplines. Notably, the fields of Business Administration and Management, as well as Psychology, stand out with significant numbers of graduates. Business programs produced a substantial number of master's degree recipients, totaling 203 graduates, alongside a smaller count of international students earning bachelor’s degrees. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating a strong demand for business-related skills in the job market, further supported by the rise of globalization and digital transformation.
In stark contrast, the field of Psychology, while yielding 82 bachelor’s graduates, lacks any master’s recipients, which could suggest a saturation in entry-level positions or a shift in interest towards applied psychology fields.
Moreover, the health professions consistently show demand, with graduates in related clinical sciences and health information management. This reflects the ongoing emphasis on healthcare education in response to the growing need for healthcare professionals, particularly in the post-pandemic era where mental health and wellness have gained more visibility.
Interestingly, programs in arts and humanities also had notable participation, evidenced by the graduates in Drama and Music, suggesting a continuous interest in creative fields despite economic uncertainties that often prioritize STEM disciplines.
Overall, these statistics illustrate a diverse academic landscape at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, highlighting both traditional and emerging areas of study that resonate with current societal needs and trends. The data underscores the importance of adapting educational offerings to align with workforce demands while fostering a rich educational environment across various disciplines.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $87,031 | |||
| Accounting. | $57,072 | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | $55,265 | |||
| Information Resources Management. | $55,265 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $54,943 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $34,088 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $63,689 | |||
| Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator. | $63,689 | |||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - | |||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | $43,271 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $39,913 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $39,913 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $41,954 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $43,496 | |||
| Molecular Biology. | - | |||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $38,852 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Geography. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $44,280 | |||
| Sociology, General. | $34,005 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | $42,215 | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
3,925 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 68.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,992
- First-year undergraduates 487
- Graduate students 741
- Transfers and others 705
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,184)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at University of Wisconsin-Parkside in 2023
The 2023 data from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside reveals interesting trends in student demographics. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 442, with a gender distribution showing that 44.6% are male and 55.4% are female. This indicates a slightly higher proportion of female students among newcomers, which is consistent with broader trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
Among the continuing undergraduate students, the figure rises significantly to 2,203, with males representing 44.1% and females 55.9%. This continued trend of higher female enrollment may suggest an ongoing shift in academic interest and gender dynamics in higher education, potentially influenced by social factors and programs aimed at encouraging female participation in various fields.
The data also indicates that there are 324 transfer students, with a balanced gender ratio of 45.4% male and 54.6% female. This shows that transfer students maintain a similar pattern to the overall undergraduate population.
Graduate students number 711, with 46.7% being male and 53.3% female. This relatively balanced ratio reflects the increasing presence of women in graduate studies, a trend that is supported by various studies showing a growing number of women pursuing advanced degrees.
Overall, the data highlights a consistent trend of female students outnumbering male students across all categories at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. This demographic shift could have significant implications for university policies, support programs, and future recruitment strategies, helping to foster an inclusive environment that caters to the diverse needs of its student body.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The age distribution of students at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside reveals interesting insights into the demographics of its student body. The largest age group, comprising those aged 18-21, highlights the university's appeal to traditional college-age students. Specifically, students aged 18-19 represent approximately 23% of the total student population, while those aged 20-21 account for about 25%. This suggests that the university is successful in attracting younger students, which is typical for many institutions of higher education.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students appears to increase with age, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 age groups, indicating that many students are pursuing further education shortly after their undergraduate studies. The age group of 22-24 has a total of 804 students, accounting for about 29% of the total enrollment, while the 25-29 age group follows closely with 477 students, representing roughly 17%.
Moreover, the data reveals a trend of an increasing number of students in older age brackets, such as 30-34 and 35-39, which may reflect the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to education later in life. This demographic shift is important as it showcases the university's inclusive environment that accommodates diverse student needs.
However, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment for those aged 50 and above, which may indicate barriers that older adults face in pursuing higher education. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, universities must consider strategies to better support older learners. Overall, the age composition at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside highlights a vibrant mix of traditional and non-traditional students, contributing to a rich educational experience.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
58 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016
39 in 2025 · 17.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The data from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside reveals notable trends in international student enrollment over the years. Since 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has remained relatively low, fluctuating around 1% to 2%. This indicates a consistent yet limited presence of international students in the undergraduate population. The peak was observed in 2014, with 1.80% representation, but this figure has since stabilized around 1.40% in recent years.
In contrast, the graduate student body has shown more significant fluctuations. The percentage of international students in graduate programs reached a remarkable 20.49% in 2009, demonstrating a strong appeal of the graduate programs to international applicants. However, this percentage has drastically decreased in the years following, with a particularly steep drop noted in 2021 at just 4.69%. This decline may reflect broader trends in international student mobility, influenced by factors such as immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data suggests that while the undergraduate international student population remains stable yet minimal, the graduate programs at the university have experienced more variation. The decline in recent years raises concerns about the university's ability to attract and retain international talent, which is critical for fostering a diverse academic environment and enhancing global perspectives on campus. Addressing the challenges faced by international students and implementing supportive measures could be beneficial in reversing this downward trend.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$26,179
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,429
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,270
- Room and board
- $8,750
- Graduate tuition
- $20,811
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 14% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 13%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$77.9M
Expenses$82.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 121 | 69 |
| Soccer | 31 | 28 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Wrestling | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | 5 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 97 | 73 |
| Soccer | 32 | 29 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 10 | 3 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 98 | 69 |
| Soccer | 26 | 30 |
| Wrestling | 32 | - |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Marquette UniversityMilwaukee · 27.3 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 27.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Wisconsin--MilwaukeeMilwaukee · 29.7 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 42.2 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 45.8 mi
U.S. News #121
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 54.5 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 54.6 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 55.2 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 57.6 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Wisconsin-Parkside:
-
Northwestern University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Northwestern is a prestigious private research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Chicago - With a ranking of 12th, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty. It is a private research university located in Chicago, Illinois, and is particularly famous for its economics and law programs.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - Ranked 35th, UW-Madison is a major public research university known for its vibrant campus life and diverse academic offerings. It is located in Madison, Wisconsin, and is one of the leading institutions in the state.
-
Marquette University - This private university is ranked 86th and is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Marquette is known for its strong emphasis on service and community engagement, along with a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, Loyola is a private Jesuit university located in Chicago. It offers a strong liberal arts education and is known for its commitment to social justice and community service.
These institutions represent a mix of research universities and liberal arts colleges, each with unique strengths and offerings.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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 the University of Wisconsin-Parkside
The crime statistics at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside reveal a notable downward trend in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students over the past decade. From a peak of 13.76 in 2014, the average has gradually decreased to 3.80 in 2023. This decline in crime rates could indicate improved safety measures on campus, increased awareness among students, or a more engaged campus community.
A closer examination of specific offenses shows fluctuations in various types of crimes. The most concerning trend remains in gun-related arrests, which peaked in 2014 and have seen sporadic occurrences since. However, the data suggests that incidents of more severe crimes such as assault and robbery have remained relatively low in recent years, which is a positive sign for campus safety.
Furthermore, the significant drop in alcohol-related arrests and incidents of domestic violence over the years signals a potential shift in student behavior and the effectiveness of educational programs aimed at reducing substance abuse.
Overall, while the statistics indicate a positive trend towards a safer campus environment, it is crucial for the university to continue investing in crime prevention strategies and student support programs to maintain and further this decline. Continued vigilance and community cooperation will be essential in fostering a secure educational atmosphere.
For more information on calculating crime rates, please visit: crime rate calculation method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Wisconsin-Parkside include Jimmy Banks (Soccer defender with the Milwaukee Wave), Darren Elkins (Former UFC featherweight mixed martial artist) and Abdul Jeelani (Professional basketball player).
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Jimmy Banks 1964–2019
Soccer defender with the Milwaukee Wave
-
Darren Elkins 1984–
Former UFC featherweight mixed martial artist
-
Abdul Jeelani 1954–2016
Professional basketball player
-
John Nunn 1978–
Race walker who competed at the 2004 Olympics
-
Laurie Bembenek 1958–2010
Former policewoman convicted of murder
-
Robert Wirch 1943–
Wisconsin state senator
-
Benjamin T. Cable 1853–1923
Businessman and U.S. Representative from Illinois
-
Kim Merritt 1955–
Former American marathon runner
-
John Nichols 1959–
Journalist, executive editor of The Nation
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Charles B. Green 1955–
Retired Air Force lieutenant general and Surgeon General
-
Robert L. Turner 1947–
Wisconsin State Assembly member from Racine
Arts and media
-
Jason Paul Collum 1973–
Horror film director and LGBTQ rights activist
Sports
-
Carlos Contreras 1991–
Honduran footballer and midfielder
-
Rasheed Bello 2003–
Basketball player for Virtus Bologna
-
Anna May Hutchison 1925–1998
AAGPBL pitcher and catcher
-
Tim Seaman 1972–
Race walker, two-time Olympian
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.