UWL is Wisconsin’s top-ranked regional public university — U.S. News & World Report

UWL is Wisconsin's top-ranked regional public university - U.S. News & World Report

UW-La Crosse continues to earn recognition as one of the Midwest's top universities, standing out for its academic quality, exceptional value and track record of student success.

UWL is the No. 1 public regional university in Wisconsin and the No. 2 public regional university in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report's ranking of the best colleges for 2027. Among public regionals in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois, UWL is also ranked No. 1, cementing its status as students' top public choice in the three-state region.

"This ranking underscores what we have always known from experience: UWL is a destination university that students and families from all over the state, region and country want to be a part of," Chancellor James Beeby says. "UWL is truly a special place. From our beautiful campus and vibrant community, to our high-quality programs, to the dedicated staff and faculty who support our students, we offer a transformative experience that is difficult to match. This is why so many of our students say they feel at home the moment they arrive on our campus, and why they ultimately leave with the tools they need to build successful lives and careers."

A leader in student success

UWL excels in a number of metrics reflecting student achievement and institutional quality. It has the highest six-year graduation rate (71%) among public regional universities in the Midwest as well as the highest first-year retention rate (86%) among the same cohort.

"Graduation rates are one of the best indicators of an institution's effectiveness because they reflect a university's ability to help students succeed from enrollment through degree completion," says Grace Engen, director of Institutional Research, Assessment & Planning at UWL. "Our graduation rate reflects the dedication of our students, the quality of our academic programs, and the commitment of our faculty and staff to provide the support students need to reach their goals."

Beyond traditional metrics, UWL earned recognition for the high-impact learning experiences it provides for undergraduate students. Opportunities for research, creative activity and close faculty mentorships continue to set the university apart, with U.S. News ranking UWL the No. 2 school for undergraduate teaching among all regional universities in the Midwest, public and private.

Strong return on investment

At a time when the cost of college presents a barrier to many students, UWL continues to deliver exceptional value.

Among all regional universities in the Midwest, U.S. News ranked UWL the No. 1 school for value for in-state students.

A UWL degree also carries high earning potential. Students who are working and no longer enrolled earn a median salary of $60,378 10 years after first enrolling at UWL.

"Students and families are seeking a university that is not only affordable but that prepares students for what comes next in their lives and careers," says Corey Sjoquist, assistant vice chancellor for Admissions & Recruitment at UWL. "The affordable cost to attend UWL, coupled with the salaries of our graduates, demonstrates our excellent return on investment. When speaking with UWL alumni, they quickly share how their UWL experience led them to professional success."

About the rankings

The 2027 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges ranking evaluated more than 1,700 U.S. colleges and universities using up to 17 measures of academic quality, graduate success and institutional outcomes. Metrics include graduation and retention rates, graduate earnings, borrower debt, student-to-faculty ratio and more.

Explore the full rankings and methodology at USNews.com .

Apply to UWL or visit campus

Prospective students can apply for fall 2027 at www.apply.wisconsin.edu. Campus visits are available year-round and can be scheduled at www.uwlax.edu/visit.