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2019 Best Value Colleges in WisconsinAbout this List

Explore the colleges that are the best value for your money based on net price, alumni earnings, graduation rates, and student debt using data from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews. The ranking compares the most affordable colleges with the best return on investment. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 45
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  1. Milwaukee School of Engineering

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 423
    #1 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Junior: Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) pushes students to do their best academically, but it pays off. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable and understand the fields they teach, which is really helpful to the students. On the downside, since the campus is so small and there are significantly less students than other universities, their athletic department lacks a bit. For example, there is no football team. However, because of the smaller school, students are better integrated and develop strong relationships with their peers. And, all buildings on the campus are within blocks of each other.
    Read 423 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Value
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,793 Net Price
    • 1150-1360 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. University of Wisconsin

    • 4 Year
    • Madison, WI
    • 3,006
    #2 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: There are so many great things about UW-Madison. There is always something to do on and off campus. UW ensures that there is a place and event for everyone. The education and educators are top noche; I have never loved learning so much. The campus and facilities are amazing and well kept. In their School of Human Ecology, they had design students design their bathrooms, creating a mystical place to go when nature calls! My only complaint is their high tuition cost. As most people know, the cost of education increases every year and it has made it difficult for people to go to college without needing to worry about debt. As an out of state student, my I have to pay full tuition which adds on to the stress of getting an education. Although the university does their best to provide scholarships for people in need to financial aid, I feel as if they lack the scholarships for people who don't come from low income families, but are paying for their education independently.
    Read 3,006 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Value
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,910 Net Price
    • 1280-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Marquette University

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 1,921
    #3 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: First semester of freshman year was an emotional struggle, with having to leave home for the first time ever, but Marquette helped make that transition so much better. It is a gorgeous campus in the middle of Milwaukee, so there is always something to do -- all MU students receive a Milwaukee Bus Pass, so there are always places to readily explore! There are also so many different, unique clubs that anyone who attends here will find their group. Marquette is an older university (because it has been around for a while), but its still improving itself, with a brand new dorm hall, The Commons, a new physical therapy building, and renovations always being looked in to for the other buildings (there's even rumor that they are building a new rec center in the middle of campus). Marquette is also home to amazing D1 athletic teams! The men's basketball games are always a great time, as well as all the others. Overall this is a great university, even though it is a bit on the pricier side.
    Read 1,921 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Value
    • 89% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,377 Net Price
    • 1130-1310 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  4. Sponsored

    Wisconsin Lutheran College

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 423

    Junior: Overall my experience as a student at Wisconsin Lutheran College has been incredible. It is clear that the professors on campus love what they do and care about the success of the students. They will ask about the students' lives outside of school to get to know them better and work to accommodate for issues that may arise in the students' lives in and outside of school. Many of the professors go above and beyond what is expected of them when a student needs special accommodations for a project or test ensuring that the student learns and grows in their class. This has been done by extending a deadline, allowing a student to take a test in the library instead of the classroom setting, or setting up an appointment with the student to go step-by-step through a project the student is struggling with. However, the professors also push students to excel and set high expectations for the assignments and classroom atmosphere.
    Read 423 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 90% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,365 Net Price
    • 1010-1280 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. St. Norbert College

    • 4 Year
    • De Pere, WI
    • 656
    #4 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Junior: The attitude and feel of community at Saint Norbert College is unlike any other. All faculty and staff live and breathe communio and truly go above and beyond for the students from the professors, the cafeteria workers, to the garbage men! Unfortunately this college is lacking when it comes to costs. SNC is incomparably over-priced. Not only that, as tuition continues to increase for students, their scholarship awards do not reflect the increase leaving students, especially those who pay their own way, suffering heavily.
    Read 656 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Value
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,980 Net Price
    • 1110-1230 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. University of Wisconsin - La Crosse

    • 4 Year
    • La Crosse, WI
    • 1,358
    #5 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: I am currently a Freshman at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse. So far, I remain very happy with my decision in this school being where I further my education. I have had great professors that care about their students and I have experienced meaningful courses that are beneficial to myself and my education. Since I am still a Freshman, I still live in the dorms and have not had any problems with the dorm environment, the people I've met and lived with, and the facilitates that come along with living on a college campus. I also really have enjoyed living in this area and definitely recommend for people to look for themselves at everything this area has to offer. I am excited to continue to further my education here!
    Read 1,358 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Value
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,045 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

    • 4 Year
    • Eau Claire, WI
    • 1,299
    #6 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Alum: My time at UWEC was the best of my life! There is not very much room in the dorms, and it is mostly freshman and sophomores who live on campus but it is a great place to meet new people and friends. There are plenty of off campus options that students can rent, close enough to walk to campus! Class and professors are great! I was in the marching band, that was a great experience. I highly recommend joining clubs. Lots of fun bars for the 21+ crowd, be careful for underage and house parties, I've heard the police have cracked down a lot more in recent years. The campus is beautiful and the town of Eau Claire has such a great atmosphere. Overall it is a great place to go to school for four years! I miss it!
    Read 1,299 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Value
    • 76% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,398 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  9. University of Wisconsin - Platteville

    • 4 Year
    • Platteville, WI
    • 998
    #7 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Alum: UW-Platteville was the perfect college for me to attend. I was from a small town growing up and the thought of going to a big city for college was frightening. I graduated in a high school class of 50. A large university was daunting. UWP was the perfect site with the perfect class sizes. The professors knew me by name and I didn't feel like "just a number. " I received an excellent education in Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology, and am so happy I chose UWP for my education. I got into a Master's program after college and completed my degree to become a Physician Assistant. I have been working for 7 years now in this field and loving it. I have decided to return to school this fall to complete my Doctor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree and hope to some day become a faculty member at a PA Program. I would not be doing my current career without UWP- it opened my eyes to how awesome a degree in science and medicine could be!
    Read 998 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,363 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. University of Wisconsin - Stout

    • 4 Year
    • Menomonie, WI
    • 943
    #8 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: The University of Wisconsin Stout was not my first choice of schools, but it ended up being the one that I fell in love with. The professors I have had so far have been incredibly caring for my well-being on top of caring about my school work. That was a huge help on my well-being knowing that I had multiple people checking up on my mental health while being so far from home. The facilities are above average and are being renovated for future student use in nearly all aspects-- dorms, dining hall, gym, you name it! The campus itself is extremely beautiful and full of history. Along with the history of the college, the city of Menomonie is a treasure to explore! The Mabel Tainter Center is by far my favorite building to have been given the privilege to tour. The city is truly a gem in my eyes, although I have not have a lot of time to explore it yet, I still have three years left to do so! I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year here at Stout!
    Read 943 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 87% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,971 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Lawrence University

    • 4 Year
    • Appleton, WI
    • 663
    #9 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: Lawrence is the most incredible private school, offering everything that you could hope for. The academics are rigorous and pristine with the trimester system allowing for students to achieve more. The liberal arts education is incredibly valuable in crafting well-rounded individuals. In terms of catering to interests, Lawrence's countless clubs, athletics, and musical opportunities provide something for everyone. A prestigious, impressive, invigorating, and rewarding school, Lawrence University is the greatest option for intelligent, multi-interested students who want to be treated as individuals, not just as a face in a crowd or pit class.
    Read 663 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,180 Net Price
    • 1220-1460 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Wisconsin Lutheran College

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 423
    #10 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Junior: Overall my experience as a student at Wisconsin Lutheran College has been incredible. It is clear that the professors on campus love what they do and care about the success of the students. They will ask about the students' lives outside of school to get to know them better and work to accommodate for issues that may arise in the students' lives in and outside of school. Many of the professors go above and beyond what is expected of them when a student needs special accommodations for a project or test ensuring that the student learns and grows in their class. This has been done by extending a deadline, allowing a student to take a test in the library instead of the classroom setting, or setting up an appointment with the student to go step-by-step through a project the student is struggling with. However, the professors also push students to excel and set high expectations for the assignments and classroom atmosphere.
    Read 423 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 90% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,365 Net Price
    • 1010-1280 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. Edgewood College

    • 4 Year
    • Madison, WI
    • 513
    #11 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Alum: Loved my experience at Edgewood College. Just 8 short blocks from the Madison campus it was fun to be involved in many of the same activities that the UW students were as well. However, at Edgewood College we were able to get a lot of one on one attention from our professors and advisors, due to the smaller class sizes. I also was a student-athlete, and their academics were very helpful when working with you for scheduling conflicts. I received a well rounded education at Edgewood College and would recommend it for many majors.
    Read 513 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 71% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,042 Net Price
    • 1060-1220 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. Ripon College

    • 4 Year
    • Ripon, WI
    • 511
    #12 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: Ripon College is a really great school to attend if you're planning on continuing your education after high school. It's a really small school which allows you to build relationships with your professors and meet lots of new people. The professors really push you to work hard and think critically about many topics. The college places a large emphasis on including innovation, critical thinking, writing, and a few other really important skills in their curriculum since these skills are so sought after in the job market. The coaching staff is also really good with getting the most out of their players and care a lot about the academics of the students. The coaches constantly check in on their players to be sure they are staying up to date with their coursework and getting help if they need it. There have not been very many unsafe incidents occur at Ripon College since I arrived if there have been any at all. The campus is really small as well so everything is within walking distance.
    Read 511 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 68% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,151 Net Price
    • 1040-1260 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Carroll University

    • 4 Year
    • Waukesha, WI
    • 1,120
    #13 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: Carroll university is a smaller school, which is a turnoff for some people, but should really be seen as a perk! I used to think that saying a small school with close faculty contact used to be something that people would say almost as a consolation prize. But now, it is something that I would not trade for the world. Each of your professors are invested in your future and success, and are devoted to helping you learn what you need to learn, and provide you with the resources that you will need to succeed. Not to mention that man times they will be able to help you get connected professionally.
    However, Carroll is very slow about getting renovations done, and often they need to be nagged before a building gets renovated or something gets fixed.
    Read 1,120 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 71% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,492 Net Price
    • 980-1210 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. Beloit College

    • 4 Year
    • Beloit, WI
    • 531
    #14 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Alum: Definitely not the school for everyone, but for me, it was perfect. I graduated as a philosophy major and the small class sizes and the tight-nit academic community was exactly what I needed to succeed. The thing I loved most about going here was that the learning didn’t stop after class was over. In the dorms, at commons, on walks in between classes, students discussed and debated the class material non-stop. Such a wonderful academic environment. If you’re looking for a good party scene or fun local culture, don’t go to Beloit. But for me, my friends and academics made it worth it.
    Read 531 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,976 Net Price
    • 1065-1370 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. Viterbo University

    • 4 Year
    • La Crosse, WI
    • 385
    #15 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Alum: Coming from a small high school in a little rural town, Viterbo was the perfect fit. I knew my professors personally, whether they were in the nursing program or not. The professors cared about my learning and were accommodating to unexpected life events. The coursework was rigorous but prepared me to be an excellent, compassionate nurse. I met amazing friends and was able to be very active in a variety of clubs on campus. Doing my nursing synthesis in Alaska was the icing on the cake!
    Read 385 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,457 Net Price
    • 1020-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. University of Wisconsin - Whitewater

    • 4 Year
    • Whitewater, WI
    • 1,234
    #16 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: UW-Whitewater has one of the most beautiful campuses of any I'd visited. It's also a good size to get from one end to the other, unlike some of the
    large campuses I'd seen. The grounds are well-lit, clean, and pretty. There are a number of housing options once you decide you're done with dorm life, including many homes for rent in the area. I like that we are taught by the professors and not aides. I appreciate that we don't have to be entered onto a waiting list for entry into specialized studies pertaining to our majors. I do feel that Whitewater athletics should be recognized more statewide, as we have some of the best athletes/teams around! The student enrollment is diverse, allowing interactions with people not only from around the US but the world! And tuition is more affordable than some of the other state universities, yet we get the same (or better) educational offerings. My experience with UWW has been very enjoyable.
    Read 1,234 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 70% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,422 Net Price
    • 890-1110 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Cardinal Stritch University

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 473
    #17 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Graduate Student: The professors are interesting, fair, and brilliant. I also love the Franciscan atmosphere. There are Franciscan-oriented extracurricular programs and beautiful artwork of St. Francis of Assisi. The Franciscan spirit is tangible on this campus, and I truly appreciate this. The coursework is challenging and brings enlightenment and much growth. The campus has a very diverse population and is a true representation of Milwaukee and our surrounding communities. The campus is easy to navigate and parking is ample at any time of day or night. It is a campus that feels safe; it's quiet, conducive to contemplation, conversation, and study.
    Read 473 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Value
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,154 Net Price
    • 910-1160 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

    • 4 Year
    • Stevens Point, WI
    • 1,001
    #18 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: Steven's Point WI is a charming small town that is just the right size to give a homey feel while still having plenty to do. The University is gorgeous and surrounded by nature, including its own reserve, Schmeekle. The class sizes are smaller and more personal, and the professors there are very invested in your academic future than other schools. The campus is known for its diversity and variety of majors and interests as well as student organizations! My personal favorite is the ukulele tree-climbers club.
    Read 1,001 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 84% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,935 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Mount Mary University

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 418
    #19 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: Within the first semester of attending Mount Mary, I've already fallen head over heals for the school. It's a very welcoming environment that is diverse and empowering for young women looking to attain their career goals. So far, there isn't anything I would change about the school, there is so much to love about it!
    Read 418 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 56% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,793 Net Price
    • 663-878 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. Marian University - Wisconsin

    • 4 Year
    • Fond du Lac, WI
    • 235
    #20 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: Marian is a wonderful university to attend. The professors are not lying when they say that they will go above and beyond to help students, they really do! The professors and the rest of the staff are very kind and very helpful. Marian offers many opportunities for students like study abroad, clubs and organizations and so much more! The small campus is perfect and you pretty much get to know everyone! The professors know your name, and it feels like home there! I love it!
    Read 235 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 68% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,650 Net Price
    • 980-1070 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. University of Wisconsin - River Falls

    • 4 Year
    • River Falls, WI
    • 578
    #21 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: Being a first generation college student and a freshman starting her first year at UW-River Falls, I was a little unsure about how adjusting to college life would be for me. I'm pleased to say it has went above & beyond my highest expectations. Besides a few hiccups down the road, my experience has been amazing. The academics are challenging, but very interesting. They have a phenomenal College of Agriculture, Food, & Environmental Sciences, including my major of Animal Science. It's a very affordable, fairly small, agricultural based college in a small town. The campus and scenery is beautiful, & everyone is welcomed with open arms, no matter what. It's very inclusive and I personally have found my niche with lifelong friends. The professors really do care about their students, & you literally are set up for success. Besides the occasional cold showers, bland college dinners & loud neighbors, UW-River Falls was the right choice for me!
    Read 578 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,064 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. Alverno College

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 947
    #22 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: I came to Alverno as a transfer student. My first overall impression was that it was only for crazy outgoing people. However, now going into my third semester, I love it! The community around Alverno, along with the staff and women who attend this school are amazing and supportive. Alverno does not have grades, we have a pass or fail system. At first it was scary with that grading system,however, I really like it because the professors provide lengthy feedback on every assignment. The feedback tells us what we did well on and how we can improve our skills. With the professors giving indivial feedback, it provides us with a chance to form a better relationship with them rather then being defined by a grade.
    Read 947 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,028 Net Price
    • 770-1050 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. Concordia University - Wisconsin

    • 4 Year
    • Mequon, WI
    • 804
    #23 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Sophomore: I love how invested every professor is in my education. They do everything in their power to help make sure that I am succeeding in everything that I do. There is no better campus in Wisconsin than Concordia's campus, it is so breathtaking. I felt at home the first time I stepped foot there. I am from small-town Door County, so coming to a smaller school made the transition to college so easy. The helpfulness of the professors helped A LOT as well. I have nothing but amazing things to say about Concordia's academic program!
    Read 804 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,849 Net Price
    • 898-1156 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. Carthage College

    • 4 Year
    • Kenosha, WI
    • 1,060
    #24 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Junior: My review might be different than the average college student since I am also a parent of a current college student. I love attending Carthage! They have an amazing campus, good food options for people who have to eat there, and the staff is outstanding! I have had some excellent teachers.
    Read 1,060 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 68% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,874 Net Price
    • 1040-1300 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 3,039
    #25 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

    Freshman: UW- Milwaukee has been the best fit I could find for myself. The location is great, and right near downtown. The bus system stops in front of the residence halls and many buidlings which makes it easy to get around. Classes are great, especially when undecided. They give you an opportunity to find what you're really interested in! Dorm life is convenient for first and second year students. Meal plans and proximity to campus makes life much easier!
    Read 3,039 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Value
    • 72% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,445 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Alverno College

    • 4 Year
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 947

    Sophomore: I came to Alverno as a transfer student. My first overall impression was that it was only for crazy outgoing people. However, now going into my third semester, I love it! The community around Alverno, along with the staff and women who attend this school are amazing and supportive. Alverno does not have grades, we have a pass or fail system. At first it was scary with that grading system,however, I really like it because the professors provide lengthy feedback on every assignment. The feedback tells us what we did well on and how we can improve our skills. With the professors giving indivial feedback, it provides us with a chance to form a better relationship with them rather then being defined by a grade.
    Read 947 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,028 Net Price
    • 770-1050 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    Viterbo University

    • 4 Year
    • La Crosse, WI
    • 385

    Alum: Coming from a small high school in a little rural town, Viterbo was the perfect fit. I knew my professors personally, whether they were in the nursing program or not. The professors cared about my learning and were accommodating to unexpected life events. The coursework was rigorous but prepared me to be an excellent, compassionate nurse. I met amazing friends and was able to be very active in a variety of clubs on campus. Doing my nursing synthesis in Alaska was the icing on the cake!
    Read 385 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,457 Net Price
    • 1020-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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