2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Wisconsin

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  3,402 reviews

Freshman: The student life here is amazing, and it's clear the university wants its students to feel comfortable on campus. TA's and professors have been mostly receptive to emails and eager to help out when needed. The location and surrounding resources are valuable and easy to take advantage of as a student. I wish professors were better equipped to use canvas or some other teaching website. Also, there should be a standardized attendance app or website that is used by all teachers rather than having to download two or three separate applications in a semester depending on which professors you have. Overall, a great experience!... Read 3,402 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $13,484

• SAT range 1320-1500

• Appleton, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  712 reviews

Sophomore: The best part about being at Lawrence is the ratio of students to professors. It makes it much easier to get the help you need to succeed. The staff is wonderful and always willing to help you, they don't want to see you fail either. The food is pretty good, I've always been able to find something to eat, they won't let you starve. The dorms are actually pretty nice, each res hall has a quality that is unlike the others. The students are kind and helpful. The tutor program is also wonderful. Lawrence is doing well with building a space for apartments that are downtown, so that is exciting for upper class-men. That is coming Fall 2024. And the campus is downright BEAUTIFUL. Just be aware of the river bugs come spring.... Read 712 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $24,804

• SAT range 1230-1460

• La Crosse, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  409 reviews

Freshman: Viterbo University is the most welcoming college I have visited! Everyone who I have been involved with made sure to be very thorough and understanding when explaining everything. I have visited twice so far and one of which was meeting the dance team. The dance team was very kind, bubbly, and made me feel as I was already apart of their team. Along with everyone being so welcoming, the campus is very beautiful! It is also a pretty small campus which makes it easy to get around. I made my final decision on a college about 3 weeks ago in which I chose to attend Viterbo University in the fall of 2023 to major in nursing and be apart of the dance team. The nursing program of Viterbo University is also known to be one of the best in Wisconsin. They are very involved with their students and have a very high passing rate with the NCLEX exam! Overall, Viterbo is amazing!... Read 409 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $20,512

• SAT range 920-1290

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  3,303 reviews

Junior: My time at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee started with my freshman year in the height of the pandemic. As an incoming freshman, I was weary about being in a heavily populated college during a time of troubled health. However, UWM provided most classes online in formats that best suited student engagement and learning. This also allowed me to stay home for my first year and save some money! My sophomore year began on campus and the transition to rural living to being in a city was quite the change, however UWM provided numerous ways to bring students together and feel comfortable on campus and in the city. My time academically here has been wonderful, as I am able to be fully immersed in my passions. I'm allowed an abundance of creative freedom and following feedback, preparing me for the real world.... Read 3,303 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $17,083

• SAT range —

• Kenosha, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  546 reviews

Senior: As a commuter biomed student who never really got into the social scene at parkside, I can’t complain much. I started online which wasn’t bad overall. My first year psych teacher was subpar and I had to drop biology because the teacher was non accommodating. Throughout my 3 years, about 90% of my teachers put noticeable effort into assuring they accommodated your schedule and spent time outside of class answering questions. Some were tough graders, but others made up for it for being excellent teachers with great personalities, engaging with students one-on-one, and frequently asked the class for feedback to improve their course/teaching style. As for the food, it’s okay. I usually stay on campus for 8 hours on my busy days. I’m gluten sensitive and they have a few options I can have a day as well as a Starbucks. The dinners are good. There are a decent number of clubs but I could rarely find one that interested me and worked with my schedule. It’s a safe and affordable option.... Read 546 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $10,531

• SAT range —

• Beloit, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  596 reviews

Junior: Beloit College is an excellent school with a really beautiful campus! I love walking around campus admiring the beauty, not just student life but nature itself. Living here is an experience in involvement and academic exploration. As for student life, I am also part of the Track and Field Team at Beloit College. The amazing support from Coach Bliese and Coach Ellie, the support from leadership captains and the overall sense of inclusion on the Track and Field Team as we push through practices and meets is such an amazing feeling. I recommend this school to everyone, and it's a great choice for those looking for an amazing education.... Read 596 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $18,294

• SAT range 1200-1390

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,131 reviews

Freshman: Caring people, lovely campus, and courses that grasp your interest! The core classes are perfectly geared to students that are reaching their potential as they bring out your best tendencies and serve their purpose without being as overbearing as typical 'gen-eds.' Another advantage of Marquette is the fact that the campus is located within the city of Milwaukee which is experiencing an unprecedented urban renaissance! The city atmosphere provides countless employment, cultural, and internship opportunities. The basketball program is also great to follow! The games are mental and the rallying atmosphere around the team brings campus together!... Read 2,131 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $33,566

• SAT range 1180-1360

• Stevens Point, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,171 reviews

Sophomore: Stevens Point always feels like home! From students on campus, to faculty and staff, everyone is smiling and happy to make you comfortable. It is a very easy campus to navigate while also having a lot of different buildings and opportunities on campus. It is very easy to get involved and feel like you fit in with the various groups and clubs. Classes are very structured and professors are always willing to lend a helping hand. It is a wonderful college experience that I think everyone should have the opportunity to have.... Read 1,171 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $14,122

• SAT range —

• Kenosha, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,268 reviews

Senior: I loved my experience at Carthage, but as with many other things, it was much better before COVID hit. Things were more lively and there were more opportunities on campus, but I wouldn't go anywhere else. I met some of my best friends here and built strong connections with faculty. There were lots of issues with food on campus last year, but I had no such issues this year with living off campus!... Read 1,268 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $26,643

• SAT range 980-1200

• Waukesha, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,250 reviews

Alum: I was a music major at Carroll and I was pretty happy with the opportunities I had to perform and grow as a musician. Especially considering the fact that the University is largely focused on the DPT and Nursing programs. That being said, the music facilities could use some upgrades. A few renovations have taken place since I graduated, but the building itself is very old and needs some work. One of the biggest frustrations was the amount of times the music building is used for science lectures or other activities, when they just completed building 2 beautiful science buildings within the past couple of years. The small class sizes made it possible to develop close relationships with many of my professors, which was especially helpful when it came time to seek employment post-graduation. Don’t be scared away by the price tag either, there are various scholarships available for incoming students!... Read 1,250 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $24,050

• SAT range 1070-1290

• La Crosse, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,791 reviews

Freshman: The organizations available on campus are spectacular. They're a great way to get involved and meet new people, and with a diverse variety of options, everyone is bound to find something they're interested in. There are multiple different dining options on campus that take meal swipes, block meals, and dining dollars. So if you find that one doesn't float your boat, there are many others to choose from. There is also a very vibrant social culture, the student body is a cast of lively characters who love to party any day of the week. So, beware of noise complaints! The professors are highly educated on what they teach and are always willing to help. They make their office hours very clear and strongly encourage students to come to them, even if it is just to chat. The campus is walkable and beautiful. There's many study spaces from picnic tables to cozy chairs by the Student Union fireplace to trees to hammock in. Overall, UW-La Crosse is a welcoming school that includes everyone.... Read 1,791 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $12,904

• SAT range —

• Eau Claire, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,518 reviews

Junior: I have enjoyed my time here at UWEC and look forward to finishing out my college career here. I came here from California which was a large change from location, weather, time zone, family and friends, but it is beyond worth it. The atmosphere on the campus is light and fun and they do everything to engage you. There are many sports and clubs that cater to every one person on campus. The faculty and staff are all generous and understanding. The food on campus could be better, luckily though it is something that the school is actively working to improve! That being said, the school listens to their students and staff and do their best to make being on this campus better than any other.... Read 1,518 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $15,713

• SAT range —

• De Pere, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  755 reviews

Sophomore: So far, I love it here! As a senior in high school, St. Norbert wasn't a college that was originally on my list since its in my hometown and I was worried about being so close to home, but I made an impulse decision to sign up for a tour and see what happens and I fell in love. Being on campus with a completely different mindset as a prospective student changed my perspective and once the tour was over I didn't want to even look anywhere else. As someone who lives on campus despite being from the area, I can confidently say that once the school year starts you're so busy with classes, new experiences, and new friends that it feels like an entirely different world. I love St. Norbert because of its smaller size. Just in my first year, I've been able to form relationships with so many professors, make connections with different people in my field of study, and have personalized classroom experiences. I feel like making sure I receive the best possible education is truly a priority here.... Read 755 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $27,107

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Whitewater, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,417 reviews

Senior: The Professors there are actually really understanding and make the content easy to understand. I am a transfer student so this past year was my first year there. Comparing the studies and professors to the previous institution I attended, they have very professional and intelligent staff. The campus life is also very positive. There are many activities to do on campus such as bowling, movies, magic shows, and pool. There are many clubs and extra curricular options available so it is easy to have something to do! I would highly recommend this college.... Read 1,417 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $12,754

• SAT range 890-1110

• River Falls, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  694 reviews

Alum: I had an absolutely amazing experience at UWRF! From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed and supported. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and always available to help me with any questions or concerns I had. The coursework was occasionally difficult, but I never felt overwhelmed thanks to the resources available to me, such as tutoring and academic advising. In addition to the academics, UWRF had a ton of extracurricular activities to get involved in. I joined a club and made some great friends through that experience. The campus itself was beautiful, with green spaces to relax and study, as well as modern facilities like a state-of-the-art gym and recreation center. Overall, I am so grateful for the time I spent at UWRF. It was an amazing time that helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I feel well-prepared to take on the next chapter in my life. I would highly recommend UWRF to anyone considering higher education.... Read 694 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $14,318

• SAT range —

• Green Bay, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  850 reviews

Freshman: I love Green Bay! The campus is tucked away, surrounded by green space, so you can hear the woods instead of busy city life. The student population is very tightly knit, the professors are so kind, and the buildings are very full of windows and full of natural light. Each dorm comes with their own bathroom, so no communal showers or toilets. Laundry is free, food is good. There's a cute coffee shop on campus that is the best place to study. The library is huge and beautiful, and the athletics always have some type of game or something to go to and be involved in something.... Read 850 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $11,291

• SAT range —

• Oshkosh, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,435 reviews

Alum: I LOVED UW Oshkosh. From the size of campus to the school’s size to its incredibly affordable price, UWO is a fantastic choice for a college experience. The staff and professors were incredibly supportive and helpful. I worked on campus for 3.5 years, and it helped me advance my skills socially, academically, and professionally. The student amenities (rec center, Horizon Village, student support center, LGBTQ+ center, alumni welcome center) were incredible too. I was inspired constantly to thrive here. Also, there were an incredible amount of scholarships available, especially for out of state students. The only thing I would change is a more expansive College of Education building since it’s an incredibly large major and program like business and nursing. Overall, I would and do recommend this to any student looking for a medium-sized, affordable, and supportive public university.... Read 1,435 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $12,975

• SAT range —

• Superior, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  288 reviews

Junior: So far through my college journey, it has been a struggle figuring out this temporary lifestyle as a first generation student. However, the University of Wisconsin-Superior has been accommodating to it's furthest extent when providing resources. I have had a difficult time venturing my way through college as it feels I am on my own. One resource UWS provides is called the TRIO Student Support Services. I have always been slow to asking for help when I need it. TRIO Student Support Services has made that easier as I have a mentor I can check in with. When I notice myself getting into a slump, I know who I can turn to with no shame or fear. Someone that understands what I am going through and can help me in the best ways they can. Providing more services than the ones they offer to make sure I have what I need to succeed. This school has made a safe space for me where I hope to show my true potential.... Read 288 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $12,120

• SAT range —

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  576 reviews

Freshman: Edgewood is a great school if you are looking to go somewhere where you can feel connected to you peers and professors. Class sizes are small enough where your professors know you by your first and last name and get to know you as a person rather than just a number in a large lecture hall. This is a main reason why I decided to go to Edgewood because most major universities are not like this. The community is very welcoming, and all the staff is right there to help you succeed. And of corse the campus is beautiful as it is right along the lake!... Read 576 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $27,679

• SAT range 950-1210

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  478 reviews

Junior: Overall 5/5, Pros: It's a small campus in Tosa. It's a safe and intimate setting; most classes only have 30 people or less. Labs only have about 15 or fewer people. The campus is small, but not crowded. (across campus in less than 10 min) I love that the professors are available nearly 24/7, along with TAs (Tutors). This campus also encourages you to build professional relationships not only with your professors but also with peers. Activities are posted daily throughout campus. Housing is 6/5! Freshman and Sophomore housing are usually 2 people for 1 bathroom. (PLENTY of room for housing.) Cons: Due to the placement in Wauwatosa, you can't do much without a car. Having a car is HIGHLY encouraged. Milwaukee is exciting! Take advantage of the culture nearby. The food is also a 4/5, there isn't much diversity, and it doesn't cater well to those with food allergies/ diseases (like Crohn's). The Party scene is nonexistent on campus, but Marquette, UWM, and MSOE are close by.... Read 478 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $21,761

• SAT range 1010-1170

• Ripon, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.37 out of 5  538 reviews

Sophomore: The campus is very small and the community is well-knit. Although the student population is much smaller compared to other schools, the professors care deeply about each individual student, and you develop close relationships with the professors. They genuinely care for your future and your time at Ripon College. The class sizes are much smaller so the learning is much more personal, and you are able to get extra help or ask questions from professors all the time. However, some of the buildings are older (as it is a historic campus). But the athletic building is extremely nice and a great place to hang out. The food is ok, but there are not really any options besides the main "commons" area and one other place called "The Spot."... Read 538 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $21,734

• SAT range 940-1160