Campus Connection

UWL is second best public university in Wisconsin on 2025 Best Colleges list 

UW-La Crosse (UWL) has been ranked the second-best public university in Wisconsin in Niche’s 2025 Best Colleges list, an increasingly influential annual ranking of universities nationwide. 

This year’s list includes over 1,500 colleges and universities, ranked based on a number of factors across the college experience. To develop its ranking, Niche blends key statistics from reliable sources like the U.S. Department of Education and the National Science Foundation, as well as millions of reviews from actual students. Niche’s rankings are widely used and increasingly influential in guiding prospective college students in their decisions. 

In the state of Wisconsin, UWL earned the No. 2 spot among public universities, behind UW-Madison. When considering both public and private institutions, UWL ranks third overall in the state, just behind UW-Madison and Marquette University, which secured the first and second spots, respectively. Wisconsin Lutheran College and Lawrence University round out the top five Wisconsin universities. 

“These rankings underscore UWL’s commitment to providing an outstanding experience for our students,” Chancellor James Beeby says. “We take great pride in the quality of our academic programs, the strength of our efforts to support and engage students, and the vibrancy of our campus community. All of these factors contribute to UWL’s reputation as a university of choice for students in Wisconsin and across the Midwest.” 

High marks for student life

In addition to its strong overall ranking, UWL excelled in specific categories, most notably in student life, where it ranked No. 2 in Wisconsin for “Best Student Life.” The ranking reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaging campus environment, where some of the top words students use to describe the school are “welcoming” and “friendly.” 

“Beyond academics, we place great value on extracurricular involvement, social connections, and community engagement,” says Graciela Engen, UWL director of Institutional Research, Assessment, and Planning. “We understand that a positive and inclusive campus life is essential to promoting student well-being and long-term success.” 

Student engagement and satisfaction 

Student satisfaction at UWL is also reflected in key statistics. A notable 92% of students say professors are passionate about the topics they teach, a testament to the university's focus on academic quality. UWL boasts a strong post-graduation employment rate, with 96% of graduates employed within two years of earning their degree. 

The university’s low student-to-faculty ratio —  currently about 20:1 — supports a personalized learning experience, and its high retention rate — at present nearly 87% of first-time, full-time students return for their sophomore year — speaks to the strong sense of community and academic support on campus.  

A campus of dedicated and motivated students 

The university's rankings reflect the dedication and enthusiasm of its students. UWL's students often describe their peers as "motivated" and "dedicated," with faculty members widely recognized as “approachable” and “helpful,” according to Niche reviews.  

"UWL attracts and retains motivated, high-achieving students who are passionate about education and eager to make a positive impact in the world," says Corey Sjoquist, UWL assistant vice chancellor for Admissions & Recruitment. “Once here, students are naturally drawn to UWL’s vibrant campus.” 

Situated amid the scenic bluffs and the Mississippi River, UWL offers a perfect setting for outdoor activities and fostering a sense of balance and well-being. The university's compact campus, embedded within the city of La Crosse, allows students to enjoy easy access to local amenities, most within walking or biking distance. Combined with a low student-to-faculty ratio, UWL fosters a personalized learning experience where students feel empowered to succeed and want to stay, explains Sjoquist. 

While rankings like those from Niche are a helpful starting point for prospective students, Sjoquist emphasizes that they only tell part of the story. 

“To truly understand what makes UWL so special, we recommend visiting campus and immersing yourself in the college tour, talking to current students, faculty, and admissions, and exploring our website along with our social media channels,” he says. “These experiences offer a deeper look into our welcoming community of talented and passionate individuals, helping students decide if UWL is the right fit for them.” 

For more information on UWL's ranking, visit the full list on Niche’s website.