University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) vs UW Oshkosh

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh?

  UW-Milwaukee (UWM) is a large, urban research university located in Wisconsin's largest city, offering a wide array of programs, including doctoral degrees and a strong focus on research. UW-Oshkosh (UWO) is a mid-sized, comprehensive university in a smaller city, known for its strong undergraduate programs, particularly in nursing, business, and education, with a more community-focused atmosphere.

• Which university is larger, UW-Milwaukee or UW-Oshkosh?

  UW-Milwaukee is significantly larger than UW-Oshkosh. UWM typically has a total enrollment of around 24,000 students, while UWO's enrollment is closer to 14,000. This difference in size impacts class sizes, campus atmosphere, and the breadth of available programs.

• How do the academic programs compare between UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh?

  UWM offers a broader range of academic programs, including doctoral programs and specialized research opportunities not available at UWO. UWO excels in undergraduate programs, particularly in nursing, business, and education. Both universities offer strong programs in the liberal arts and sciences, but UWM has a greater emphasis on graduate-level research and professional programs.

• What is the campus environment like at UW-Milwaukee versus UW-Oshkosh?

  UWM has an urban campus environment, integrated into the city of Milwaukee. This provides students with access to a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities. UWO has a more traditional, self-contained campus in Oshkosh, fostering a stronger sense of community and a more focused academic environment.

• How do the costs of attending UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh compare?

  Tuition costs are generally comparable between UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh for in-state students. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors such as housing, transportation, and personal expenses. Milwaukee's urban setting may lead to higher living expenses compared to Oshkosh.

• What are the admission requirements for UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh?

  Admission requirements are similar for both universities, typically including a high school diploma, a strong academic record, and standardized test scores (ACT or SAT). However, UWM may have slightly more competitive admission standards due to its larger size and broader range of programs. Check each university's website for the most up-to-date requirements.

• Which university is better for students interested in research?

  UW-Milwaukee is generally considered a better choice for students interested in research, particularly at the graduate level. As a designated research university, UWM offers numerous research opportunities across various disciplines, with state-of-the-art facilities and funding opportunities. While UWO also offers research opportunities, they are typically more focused on undergraduate research.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Both UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh offer career services and internship opportunities to their students. However, UWM's location in Milwaukee provides access to a larger and more diverse job market, potentially leading to a wider range of internship and career opportunities. UWO benefits from strong relationships with local businesses and organizations in the Oshkosh area.

• What student life and extracurricular activities are available at each university?

  Both universities offer a wide range of student life and extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports, and cultural events. UWM's urban location provides access to Milwaukee's vibrant arts and culture scene, while UWO offers a more close-knit campus community with a strong emphasis on student involvement.

• Which university is known for specific academic programs?

  UW-Milwaukee is known for its architecture, engineering, film, and public health programs. UW-Oshkosh is well-regarded for its nursing, business, and education programs. Consider your specific academic interests when making your decision.

• Do both universities offer online programs?

  Yes, both UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh offer a variety of online programs and courses, providing flexible learning options for students. The specific programs available online may vary between the two universities, so it's best to check their respective websites for details.

• How does the student-faculty ratio compare between UW-Milwaukee and UW-Oshkosh?

  UW-Oshkosh generally has a lower student-to-faculty ratio than UW-Milwaukee. This can lead to smaller class sizes and more personalized attention from professors at UWO. While UWM also has dedicated faculty, the larger class sizes may result in less individual interaction.