Central Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UW-Stevens Point) has been recognized once again among the best public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. The 2025 rankings place UW-Stevens Point at 12th among regional public universities in the Midwest, which includes 12 states.

The university was noted for its graduation and first-year retention rates, peer assessment rating, as well as higher earnings and lower median debt for graduates. It is also rated among the best value schools in the Midwest, considering academic quality relative to price and need-based financial aid distribution. Additionally, UW-Stevens Point is acknowledged as a top performer in promoting social mobility by successfully graduating federal Pell Grant students from lower-income families.

“UW-Stevens Point is dedicated to finding students more pathways to an affordable education through lower tuition, scholarships and grants,” said Chancellor Thomas Gibson. “This, combined with our engaging programs, experiential learning, innovative research opportunities and dedicated faculty and staff, offers students an excellent return on investment.”

Recently, the university launched the NextGen Scholarship Portal to streamline the process of applying for campus scholarships. Students can fill out one application to be matched with approximately 700 scholarships based on their responses and academic data such as major, GPA, year in college, and financial need as reported on the FAFSA.

UW-Stevens Point also improved its ranking for undergraduate business programs. The Sentry School of Business and Economics has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business since 2016. It offers career-focused experiences through initiatives like the Anderson Classroom to Career Center and a partnership with Sentry Insurance. Students have the opportunity to begin earning their master of business administration degree while still undergraduates.

“The Sentry School is reinventing the business degree, offering a more personalized, mentor-based approach that empowers students to become capable, confident leaders,” said Gibson. “This program is another outstanding example of the value of a UWSP education.”

Additionally, UW-Stevens Point improved its rank on the list of Best Colleges for Veterans in the Midwest. As a silver-rated Military Friendly School for 2024-25, it is certified for the GI Bill and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

For further details on these rankings, visit www.usnews.com/best-colleges.

Established in 1894, UW-Stevens Point is situated on a 400-acre campus in Central Wisconsin. It offers over 100 program options at various levels across disciplines such as arts, natural resources, business, healthcare, education, humanities, and sciences. Approximately 8,260 students attend UW-Stevens Point's main campus which features a 280-acre nature reserve within a city recognized among the Best College Towns nationally. The university also has branch campuses in Marshfield and Wausau. More information can be found at www.uwsp.edu.