University of Wisconsin-Parkside: A Catalyst for Transformation in the Heart of the Midwest

Nestled on nearly 700 acres of restored prairie and woodlands in Somers, Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UW-Parkside) stands as a vibrant public university with a bold mission: to transform lives. Founded in 1968, the university first welcomed its inaugural graduating class in 1970. As one of 13 baccalaureate degree-granting campuses within the esteemed University of Wisconsin System, UW-Parkside has grown into a comprehensive institution of higher education, serving a diverse community of approximately 4,000 students. Its location places it in the “epicenter of the mega region” between two of the Midwest’s most exciting cities, offering students unparalleled access to the cultural and professional opportunities of southeastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois.

The university’s commitment to academic excellence is rooted in its mission to provide high-quality educational programs, creative scholarly activities, and responsive services that benefit its diverse student population and the global community. Academically, UW-Parkside is organized into four distinct colleges: Arts & Humanities; Business, Economics & Computing; Natural & Health Sciences; and Social Sciences & Professional Studies. This structure supports a broad range of academic pursuits, offering 37 majors and 40 minors, as well as five master’s degree programmes. The university’s dedication to quality is reflected in its prestigious accreditations, including the Higher Learning Commission and, notably, the AACSB International accreditation for its business programs, a hallmark of excellence achieved by fewer than 5% of the world’s business schools. In the classroom, students benefit from a remarkably low 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio and the assurance that 100% of classes are taught by professors, not teaching assistants. This environment fosters close mentorship and provides numerous opportunities for students to work one-on-one with faculty on research—an experience often reserved for graduate students at other institutions. Buy fake diploma online.

Beyond the classroom, UW-Parkside is a hub of engagement and discovery. The campus itself is a living laboratory, with hundreds of acres of restored prairie and nature preserves available for study and research. The artistic and cultural life of the university is centered at “The Rita,” a facility that hosts theatrical productions, cinema showings, a music recital hall, and an art gallery. With over 50 student organizations, clubs, and intramural sports, the campus offers a rich, student-centered experience. The university’s deep-rooted commitment to civic engagement has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation, and its strong partnerships with educational, service, and business organizations enrich the region. The Parkside Rangers compete in NCAA Division II as the only university in Wisconsin to do so.

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UW-Parkside’s commitment to diversity is a defining characteristic, as it is the most diverse campus in the UW System and the only state university in Wisconsin recognized as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution. This diverse and inclusive environment is complemented by a focus on affordability and value, with the university consistently earning accolades for its return on investment. In 2024, Forbes named UW-Parkside the third-best online school in Wisconsin, and Niche.com ranked it the #6 Best College in Wisconsin for 2025.

From its breathtaking natural setting to its rigorous academics and its unwavering dedication to inclusion and community, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside is more than a place of learning. It is a transformative force, preparing students to become civically-engaged professionals and leaders who will make a meaningful impact on their communities and the world.