University of Wisconsin-Madison: A Demographic Overview
The University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison), a public land-grant research university and the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System, boasts a rich history and a diverse student body. Founded in 1848, when Wisconsin achieved statehood, UW-Madison is organized into 13 schools and colleges. With a tradition of research, teaching, and service known as the "Wisconsin Idea," the university strives to extend its influence throughout the state, applying research to solve problems and improve the lives of all citizens.
Enrollment and Demographics
In 2023, UW-Madison had a total enrollment of 49,605 students, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate programs. A significant majority, 90.6%, were enrolled full-time, totaling 44,928 students, while 4,677 students attended part-time.
The university's student population exhibits a diverse racial and ethnic composition:
- White: 57.3% (28,432 students)
- Asian: 9.26% (4,591 students)
- Hispanic or Latino: 7.82% (3,880 students)
- Two or More Races: 4.39%
- Black or African American: 2.68%
- American Indian or Alaska Native: 0.266%
- Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander: 0.0564%
Breaking down the full-time student population further, White females constitute the largest group within undergraduate programs (34.4%), followed by White males (26.4%) and Asian males (5.2%). In graduate programs, White females also represent the largest group (28.2%), followed by White males (21.2%) and Hispanic or Latino females (3.66%).
Admissions and Acceptance Rate
UW-Madison is considered a "more selective" institution. In 2023, the university received 63,505 undergraduate applications, marking a 5.47% increase from the previous year. Of these, 27,529 students were accepted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 43.3%. This acceptance rate is lower than the 49.1% recorded in 2022. The university's enrollment yield, the percentage of accepted students who choose to enroll, was 28.9% in 2023.
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For the class entering in Fall 2021, UW-Madison implemented test-optional admissions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a policy that has been extended through Fall 2024. Additionally, admission is need-blind for domestic applicants.
Graduation Rates
In 2023, UW-Madison awarded 19,153 degrees across all undergraduate and graduate programs. Women received 55.7% of these degrees, while men received 44.3%. The most common race/ethnicity among degree recipients was White, accounting for 12,400 degrees, significantly higher than the next closest group, Asian, with 1,411 degrees.
The graduation rate, defined as the percentage of full-time, first-time students who receive a degree or award within 150% of the "normal time" to completion, varies among demographic groups. The student demographic with the highest graduation rate in 2023 was Asian females (94.1%).
Costs and Financial Aid
The median undergraduate tuition at UW-Madison in 2023 was $9,644, substantially lower than the national average for Doctoral Universities ($31,004). After factoring in grants and loans, the average net price for students was $14,216.
In 2023, 42% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants, while 22% received aid through loans. This represents a decline of 12.5% compared to 2022, when 48% of undergraduates received financial aid.
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The average yearly cost of room and board at UW-Madison was $12,894 in 2023, a 2.76% increase from the previous year. The average yearly cost of books and supplies remained constant at $1,150.
Academic Programs and Outcomes
UW-Madison offers a wide array of academic programs, including 136 undergraduate majors, 148 master's degree programs, and 120 doctoral programs. In 2023, the most common bachelor's degree concentration was General Computer & Information Sciences, with 864 degrees awarded.
The university is known for its specialized majors. In 2023, the most specialized majors across all degree types were Cultural & Gender Studies (708 degrees awarded), Natural Resources & Conservation (531 degrees), and Language & Linguistics (457 degrees).
In terms of career outcomes, the most common industries for graduates with degrees in the 5 most specialized majors are Elementary & secondary schools, Uninformed, Colleges, universities & professional schools, including junior colleges, Computer Systems Design, and Management, scientific & technical consulting services.
Campus and Traditions
The main campus of UW-Madison is situated on the Madison Isthmus, between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. The campus spans 933 acres, with the entire campus, including research stations, covering over 10,600 acres. The campus boasts four National Historic Landmarks and many buildings designed by prominent architects.
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The Memorial Union, located on the shore of Lake Mendota, serves as a central hub for campus life. Known for its scenic terrace and the Rathskeller, the Union provides a space for socializing, political debates, and artistic expression.
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