Top Wisconsin Colleges: Which Are Considered the Best?

I'm considering applying to colleges in Wisconsin and want to know which ones are the best in terms of overall reputation and programs. Any particular strengths or unique opportunities at these schools?

When examining the top colleges in Wisconsin, a few consistently emerge as being among the best. These include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, and Lawrence University.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is the flagship school of the UW system and has a strong reputation nationally and internationally. Known for its research programs, UW-Madison has renowned programs in fields such as business, engineering, and biology. Beyond academics, the school has vibrant Greek life, D1 athletics, and is situated in a lively college town that offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities.

Marquette University, located in Milwaukee, is a private Jesuit university that is particularly known for its programs in business, health sciences, and journalism. Marquette combines a liberal arts and professional education with a strong commitment to community service, aligning with its Jesuit mission. The university is in the heart of the city, providing students with ample internship and professional opportunities.

Lawrence University, on the other hand, is a small liberal arts college located in Appleton, which is known for its music-conservatory. The college is especially renowned for its personalized instruction approach, with a low student-to-faculty ratio, and a unique Freshman Studies program that provides a broad foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Lawrence also implements a trimester system, allowing for in-depth exploration in courses.

In terms of unique opportunities, UW-Madison ranks consistently among the top 15 American universities in research expenditure, a testament to opportunities for undergraduate and graduate research. Each summer, Marquette runs a student-led business program called the Marquette Enterprise, which gives students hands-on experience running a small business. And at Lawrence, the Conservatory of Music offers five-degree programs, and often collaborates with the academic side of the university for unique interdisciplinary programs.

Remember it's not just about the standing of a school but finding a good fit for you personally, so it could be beneficial to visit these campuses if you have the opportunity, and taking time to reflect on what you want from your college experience could be helpful too.